There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of savory sausage and herby stuffing, especially when it’s all baked together into one delicious casserole. This Savory Sausage and Stuffing Breakfast Casserole (Made with Stove Top!) is a fantastic dish that works just as well for a hearty brunch as it does for a holiday side. It’s simple, uses familiar ingredients, and delivers on that classic, homemade flavor we all crave.
The secret here is using a box of Stove Top stuffing mix, which saves a ton of time without sacrificing taste. It’s one of those brilliant shortcuts that makes getting a flavorful meal on the table so much easier. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a reliable addition to your collection of comforting Stuffing Casserole Recipes.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Honestly, what’s not to love? This recipe is the definition of comfort food. It’s warm, savory, and incredibly satisfying. The mild Italian sausage provides a rich, meaty flavor that pairs beautifully with the aromatic herbs from the stuffing mix, fresh sage, and thyme. The whole dish gets baked until it’s golden brown and crispy on top, with a moist and tender center. It’s a texture and flavor combination that’s simply delightful.
It’s also incredibly versatile. While I’m calling it a breakfast casserole, it’s truly a standout side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any big family dinner. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead option, which is a lifesaver during busy holidays. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser; kids and adults alike will be coming back for a second scoop. This recipe really is one of the best Boxed Stuffing Recipes Ideas you can try!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to gather to make this amazing casserole. The list is straightforward, relying on pantry staples and easy-to-find items.
- 1 (12 ounce) box stuffing mix (like Stove Top)
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 Tablespoon large onion, diced
- 3 Tablespoons celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound mild Italian sausage
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 Tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- 1 Tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-By-Step Instructions
Ready to put it all together? Let’s walk through the simple steps to create this wonderful dish.
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it lightly. Then, empty the box of stuffing mix into a large mixing bowl and just set it aside for a few minutes.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large sauté pan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and celery and cook until they become soft and translucent, which should take about 5-6 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Once done, scrape all those flavorful veggies into the bowl with the stuffing mix.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage
Using the same pan (no need to create extra dishes!), add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the mild Italian sausage. Cook it until it’s browned all over and cooked through, using a spoon or spatula to break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess grease and then add the cooked sausage to the bowl with the stuffing and vegetables.
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
Now for the fun part! Add the remaining ingredients—the chicken stock, beaten eggs, chopped sage, thyme, and parsley—to the large bowl. Give everything a thorough mix until it’s all well combined. This is a good time to season with a bit of salt and black pepper to your liking. Once mixed, transfer the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for about 60-70 minutes. You’re looking for the top to be a beautiful golden brown color and delightfully crispy. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
How To Store Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, storing them is easy. Just let the casserole cool down completely to room temperature. Once cool, you can cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer the leftovers into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for a minute or two. For a crispier top, I recommend reheating it in the oven. Just place it in an oven-safe dish at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through.
Conclusion
This Savory Sausage and Stuffing Breakfast Casserole (Made with Stove Top!) is more than just a recipe; it’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. It proves that you don’t need complex ingredients to create something truly delicious. By using a simple box of stuffing mix and pairing it with fresh herbs and savory sausage, you get a meal that feels special enough for a holiday but is easy enough for a weekend brunch. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do. It’s one of those fantastic Stovetop Stuffing Recipes that you’ll come back to again and again.
FAQ
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be starting from cold.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, feel free to customize! Hot Italian sausage would add a nice kick, or you could use a breakfast sausage for a more classic morning flavor. You could even use ground turkey or chicken sausage if you prefer a leaner option.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
You can definitely make a vegetarian version. Omit the sausage and consider adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even some plant-based sausage crumbles for a hearty texture. You’ll also need to swap the chicken stock for vegetable stock.
Can I freeze this stuffing casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. You can freeze it either baked or unbaked. For a baked casserole, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F until heated through.
