Breakfast Sausage Dressing Holiday Side

When it comes to holiday meals, the sides often steal the show, and dressing is no exception. This sausage dressing recipe highlights the savory appeal of Hickory Nut Gap Breakfast Sausage combined with warm herbs, a hint of freshness, and the perfect blend of textures. Made as a casserole dish, it pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or even on its own as a hearty centerpiece. 

But first—what exactly separates dressing from stuffing? Traditionally, “stuffing” refers to a mix of bread, herbs, and aromatics cooked inside a bird, drawing its flavor from the meat juices as it cooks. “Dressing,” on the other hand, is baked in a separate dish, allowing more control over texture and seasoning. This delightful dish embraces the dressing method, ensuring a crisp, golden crust and fluffy interior that’s as comforting as it is delicious. 

For locals in Fairview, it’s worth noting that homemade chicken or turkey broth works wonderfully in this recipe and adds incredible depth of flavor. You can find high-quality broth at the Hickory Nut Gap Farm Store.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe 

• Perfect Texture: A balance of crisp edges and tender, flavorful bites in every serving. 
• Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: Pairs well with any main dish or shines as a centerpiece with all the holiday sides. 
• High-Quality Ingredients: Hickory Nut Gap’s pasture-raised sausage and locally sourced broth make this dish feel extra special. 

Ingredients for Sausage Dressing 

To create this unforgettable dressing, gather the following ingredients:

Base Ingredients 

• 12 ounces Hickory Nut Gap Breakfast Sausage
• 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 4 celery stalks, chopped
• 16 cups (2 pounds) bread, cubed into ½-inch pieces (stale bread works best)

Herbs and Seasoning 

• 3 tablespoons fresh thyme, leaves picked
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, cut into ribbons
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 2–3 teaspoons dried parsley)

Liquids 

• 2.5 cups chicken or turkey broth (homemade preferred)
• 2 large eggs, beaten

Optional Garnish 

• Additional parsley or a sprinkle of fresh thyme for serving. 

Step-by-Step Instructions 

Creating your sausage dressing is simple and rewarding. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a perfect texture and savory flavor. 

1. Prepare Your Ingredients 

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 3-quart baking dish generously with butter to prevent sticking and add flavor to the crust. 

2. Sauté the Aromatics and Sausage 

• Melt 6 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. 
• Add the Hickory Nut Gap sausage to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until nearly browned, about 5–7 minutes. 
• Add the chopped onions, celery, thyme, and sage. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the sausage is fully browned. 

3. Combine Bread, Herbs, and Broth 

• Place the cubed bread in a large mixing bowl. 
• Pour the cooked sausage mixture over the bread, including all the melted butter. 
• Sprinkle with parsley, salt, and pepper, then toss to combine evenly. 

4. Mix in Liquids 

• Whisk the eggs and chicken or turkey broth together in a separate bowl. 
• Slowly pour the liquid mixture over the bread and sausage, gently tossing until the bread is well-coated but not soggy. Ensure everything is evenly distributed for a uniform bake. 

5. Assemble and Bake 

• Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. 
• Dot the top with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter for a golden finish. 
• Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. 
• Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 20–30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp. 

6. Cool and Serve 

Allow the dressing to cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. This resting period enhances flavor and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme if desired. 

Serving Suggestions 

This sausage dressing makes a fantastic side dish for any holiday spread. Pair it with these ideas to complete your meal: 

• Roasted Turkey & Giblet Gravy: Classic pairings never go out of style! 
• Glazed Ham: The savory-sweet combination of ham and dressing is irresistible. 
• Holiday Veggies: Serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts, green bean casserole, or honey-glazed carrots. 
• Cranberry Relish: A fresh cranberry relish adds a welcome pop of color and tangy flavor. 

Tips for Success 

1. Choose the Right Bread: Stale bread absorbs liquid better, giving the dressing its signature texture. Use a mix of hearty options like sourdough, baguette, or whole grain for added flavor. 
2. Don’t Skip the Broth: Homemade chicken or turkey broth enhances the savory richness—find top-quality broth at the Hickory Nut Gap farm store for an added boost. 
3. Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping vegetables, cubing bread, and browning the sausage the day before. Assemble just before baking for stress-free cooking. 
4. Customize the Flavor: Add diced apples or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness, or increase thyme and sage for more herbal notes. 
5. Watch the Bake: Covering the dish ensures a moist interior, while uncovering near the end creates a perfectly crisp topping. 

Why This Recipe Works 

By combining high-quality Hickory Nut Gap Breakfast Sausage with thoughtful seasonings and a well-balanced method, this dressing creates the ultimate holiday side dish. Its warm, familiar flavors and appealing textures make it a must-have for gatherings, building a sense of tradition with every bite. 

Plan to make this dish for your next celebration or weeknight dinner, and enjoy the comforting connection it brings. Don’t forget to visit Hickory Nut Gap farm store if you’re local to Fairview for the best ingredients, and tag us with #hngrecipes when you share your creation!