Name: Sausage Southern Cornbread Stuffing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 pound ground pork sausage; 1 large onion, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 0.5 cup unsalted butter; 4 cups crumbled cornbread; 3 cups cubed bread; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 eggs, beaten; 2 teaspoons fresh thyme; 1 teaspoon rubbed sage; Salt and black pepper, to taste

If you’re dreaming of a hearty, comforting side dish that tastes like home, this Sausage Southern Cornbread Stuffing is exactly what you need. Rich with savory sausage, tender vegetables, and golden cornbread, it brings Southern warmth to every bite. Whether it’s gracing your Thanksgiving table or adding cozy vibes to a weeknight dinner, this stuffing is the kind of dish everyone asks for seconds of.

Cornbread stuffing is the soul food of side dishes. It carries rustic, down-home charm while letting you dress it up or keep it simple. Add-ins like fresh herbs, broth, and butter make it rich and flavorful, but it’s the crumbled sausage that gives this stuffing its signature depth.

What Kind of Cornbread Should I Use?

For the best texture, go with a homemade Southern-style cornbread that’s slightly crumbly and not too sweet. Day-old or slightly dried-out cornbread holds its shape better and absorbs the broth without turning mushy. Avoid using overly moist or cake-like versions—you want something hearty enough to soak up all that sausage-y goodness!

Ingredients for the Sausage Southern Cornbread Stuffing

1 pound ground pork sausage (mild or spicy)
1 large onion, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1/2 cup unsalted butter
4 cups crumbled cornbread (preferably day-old)
3 cups cubed bread (white or sourdough, toasted)
2 cups chicken broth (plus more if needed)
2 eggs, beaten
2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
1 teaspoon rubbed sage
Salt and black pepper, to taste

How To Make the Sausage Southern Cornbread Stuffing

Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Veggies

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and crumbled. Transfer to a bowl, reserving some of the drippings in the skillet. Add butter, then sauté the onions and celery until soft and translucent.

Step 2: Combine the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread and toasted bread cubes. Add the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, thyme, sage, and a good pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 3: Moisten and Mix

Pour in the chicken broth and beaten eggs. Stir gently until everything is well combined and the bread is moistened but not soggy. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to soak in the liquid.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spoon in the stuffing mixture. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.

How to Serve and Store Sausage Cornbread Stuffing

Serve warm straight from the oven, ideally alongside roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or pork. It’s perfect for holiday meals but also makes a fantastic leftover topper for casseroles or stuffed vegetables.

To store, let the stuffing cool completely, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of broth to restore moisture. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep everything and store it unbaked in the fridge overnight. Let it come to room temperature before baking.

What if my stuffing seems too dry?

Just drizzle in a bit more warm chicken broth until it reaches your preferred texture.

Can I use store-bought cornbread?

You can, but make sure it’s not too sweet or cake-like. Southern-style or skillet-baked cornbread works best.

Is this stuffing spicy?

That depends on the sausage. Use mild sausage for a classic flavor, or go spicy if you want a kick.

Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely. Chopped apples, pecans, cranberries, or mushrooms can all add delicious depth.

Want More Comfort Food Side Dish Ideas?

If this Southern stuffing is your jam, don’t miss out on these other cozy favorites:

Funeral Potatoes for the ultimate cheesy, creamy potato bake.
Corn Pudding Recipe when you want something sweet and savory.
Cheesy Cabbage Casserole for a buttery, veggie-forward option.
Oven Roasted Root Vegetables with caramelized edges and earthy goodness.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts if you’re pairing with a protein-rich main.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s ready when stuffing cravings strike: Nina Dishes on Pinterest.

Did you toast your bread cubes extra long? Toss in mushrooms? I love hearing your tweaks—drop a comment below and share your delicious results!

Sausage Southern Cornbread Stuffing

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 8 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Sausage Southern Cornbread Stuffing is a savory, hearty, and cozy side dish made with golden cornbread, crumbled sausage, and herbs. Perfect for holidays or any day you want that classic Southern flavor.