When it comes to the quintessential American holiday feast, turkey stuffing with sausage is a dish that has become synonymous with the Thanksgiving table. This flavorful combination of savory turkey meat and rich, spicy sausage creates a mouthwatering stuffing that is both comforting and indulgent. In this article, we will explore the history, preparation, and variations of this classic holiday dish, ensuring that you have all the knowledge you need to make a perfect turkey stuffing with sausage for your next festive gathering.

The tradition of stuffing a turkey with a mixture of bread, herbs, and spices dates back to ancient times, with early European settlers bringing their own versions of this dish to the New World. Over the years, the recipe has evolved, and adding sausage to the stuffing has become a popular twist that adds a delightful depth of flavor.

To prepare a turkey stuffing with sausage, you will need the following ingredients:

– 1 pound of ground turkey
– 1 pound of Italian sausage (CASING REMOVED)
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of celery, chopped
– 1 cup of carrots, chopped
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon of dried sage
– 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups of stale bread, cubed

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the meat is browned and crumbly, then remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, dried thyme, sage, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed stale bread with the cooked turkey and sausage mixture. Mix well until all the bread is evenly coated with the savory ingredients. If the mixture seems too dry, add a bit more chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Stuff the turkey with the bread mixture, ensuring that it is evenly distributed. Place the stuffed turkey in the oven and bake for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the turkey is fully cooked and the stuffing is hot and steamy.

Serve your turkey stuffing with sausage alongside your roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and all the other delightful dishes that make up a traditional Thanksgiving meal. This dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and a cherished part of your holiday celebrations.