If you are craving a hearty, comforting dish that warms the soul and delights the palate, this Vegan Sausage Stuffing with Sage Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the rustic charm of crusty bread with savory vegan sausage, fragrant sage, and a medley of herbs, it transforms simple ingredients into a dish that sings with flavor and texture. Perfect for holiday tables or any cozy dinner, this stuffing manages to feel indulgent yet wholesome, making it a standout vegan side that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Vegan Sausage Stuffing with Sage Recipe. Each component plays an important role, from the crunchy toasted bread adding texture to the fresh herbs infusing a burst of earthy aroma. Together, they create a balance that’s satisfying and full of character.
- Day-old crusty bread (about 10 cups): Using day-old bread helps it soak up flavors without turning mushy.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps soften the veggies.
- Medium onion, finely chopped: Provides a sweet and savory base flavor.
- Celery stalks (2), finely chopped: For a subtle, fresh crunch and classic stuffing flavor.
- Garlic cloves (3), minced: Boosts the savory notes with a mild pungency.
- Vegan sausage (12 oz), crumbled or sliced: The star protein source, giving that meaty texture and bold flavor.
- Fresh sage (2 tbsp), chopped (or 1 tsp dried): Brings an unmistakably warm and aromatic herbiness.
- Fresh thyme (1 tbsp) or dried (1/2 tsp): Adds another layer of herbal depth.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Adds a gentle kick without overwhelming.
- Vegetable broth (1 1/2 to 2 cups, low-sodium): Moistens the bread and brings everything together.
- Vegan butter (2 tbsp) or extra olive oil: Optional richness that makes the top golden and delicious.
How to Make Vegan Sausage Stuffing with Sage Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Bread Cubes
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cubed day-old bread evenly on a baking sheet and toast it for about 10 to 15 minutes. You want the bread to be golden and dry, providing that perfect sturdy base that will soak up all the wonderful flavors without turning mushy.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
While the bread is toasting, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and celery, cooking until soft and fragrant, which usually takes around 5 to 6 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for just one more minute—this careful cooking unlocks deep, savory flavors essential for the stuffing’s character.
Step 3: Cook the Vegan Sausage
Add the crumbled or sliced vegan sausage to the skillet, cooking it for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s nicely browned and beginning to crisp. Breaking it up as it cooks helps mimic that classic stuffing texture, creating little pockets of savory goodness throughout the dish.
Step 4: Season with Herbs and Spices
Stir in the freshly chopped sage and thyme along with salt and black pepper. These herbs infuse the filling with a vibrant, aromatic punch that is soul-satisfying. Once everything is combined and fragrant, take the skillet off the heat to let the flavors settle.
Step 5: Combine Bread and Mixture
Transfer the toasted bread cubes to a large mixing bowl. Pour in your sausage and herb mixture, then gradually add 1 1/2 cups of the vegetable broth, tossing gently to evenly coat the bread. The goal is moist, not soggy, so add more broth only if needed to get the right consistency for baking.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the stuffing mixture inside. For an extra touch of richness and a golden crust, dot the top with vegan butter or drizzle with additional olive oil if you like.
Step 7: Bake the Stuffing
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes to steam the stuffing gently. Then uncover and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the top is beautifully golden and crisp. This final step adds a delightful crunch that takes this Vegan Sausage Stuffing with Sage Recipe to the next level.
Step 8: Rest Before Serving
Let the stuffing cool slightly so it firms up just enough to hold its shape when served. This pause also helps the flavors meld perfectly, making every bite a comforting celebration of herbs, sausage, and bread.
How to Serve Vegan Sausage Stuffing with Sage Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh sage leaves or a few thyme sprigs on top just before serving can elevate the look and add a refreshing herbal aroma. For a hint of color and crunch, toasted pecans or walnuts make excellent garnishes too, adding texture contrast and nutty notes that complement the stuffing.
Side Dishes
This vegan sausage stuffing pairs beautifully with dishes like roasted Brussels sprouts, maple-glazed carrots, or a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Its hearty, rustic profile balances well with lighter sides, making your meal feel thoughtfully complete and exciting for the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this stuffing inside hollowed-out acorn squash or bell peppers for a festive presentation. Another fun idea is to use it as a filling for stuffed portobello mushrooms or atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for an indulgent vegan twist that dazzles guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Vegan Sausage Stuffing with Sage Recipe to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, making it a convenient option to enjoy throughout the week.
Freezing
For longer storage, this stuffing freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the stuffing in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. For a crispy top, remove the foil in the last 5 minutes. Alternatively, microwave leftovers covered for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to warm evenly.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the crusty bread for your favorite gluten-free bread. Just be sure it’s somewhat sturdy so it toasts well and holds up when mixed with broth.
What can I use instead of vegan sausage?
If you can’t find vegan sausage, crumbled tempeh or chopped mushrooms sautéed with a bit of smoked paprika and soy sauce can provide a similar savory depth.
Is fresh sage necessary or can I use dried?
Fresh sage gives the brightest flavor, but dried sage works just fine if that’s what you have on hand; just remember to use less since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How moist should the stuffing be before baking?
The bread should be moist enough to hold together without any dry patches but not so wet that it’s soggy. It’s best to start withholding some broth, adding it a little at a time until the perfect texture is reached.
Can I make this Vegan Sausage Stuffing with Sage Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the stuffing and keep it refrigerated overnight. Then bake it fresh the next day to enjoy that crispy, golden top and warm, flavorful filling.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a dish that unites simple ingredients into a celebration of flavor, and this Vegan Sausage Stuffing with Sage Recipe does just that. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy weeknight, this stuffing is sure to become one of your go-to favorites. Give it a try and watch it steal the spotlight on your dinner table—you won’t regret it!
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Vegan Sausage Stuffing with Sage Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Vegan Sausage Stuffing with Sage is a delicious and hearty plant-based side dish perfect for holiday meals or any comforting dinner. It combines crunchy toasted bread cubes with savory vegan sausage, aromatic fresh herbs, and a flavorful vegetable broth, all baked until golden and crispy on top. Easy to prepare and full of classic stuffing flavors without any animal products.
Ingredients
Bread
- 1 loaf (about 10 cups) day-old crusty bread, cubed
Sauté Mix
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 oz vegan sausage (crumbled or sliced)
Herbs and Seasoning
- 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 1 1/2–2 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium)
- 2 tbsp vegan butter or more olive oil (optional, for richness)
Instructions
- Toast the Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cubed bread evenly on a baking sheet and toast for 10–15 minutes until the cubes are golden and dry. This step ensures the bread absorbs the broth without becoming soggy. Set aside once toasted.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and celery, sautéing for 5–6 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.
- Cook Vegan Sausage: Add the crumbled or sliced vegan sausage to the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon and allowing it to brown slightly for deeper flavor.
- Add Herbs and Seasoning: Stir in fresh sage, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly, then remove the skillet from heat to keep the herbs vibrant.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the sausage and vegetable mixture. Pour 1 1/2 cups of vegetable broth over the mixture and toss gently to coat evenly. Add more broth as needed until the mixture is moist but not soggy to achieve the perfect texture.
- Prepare to Bake: Transfer the stuffing mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. If desired, dot the top with vegan butter or drizzle with additional olive oil to enhance richness and browning.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This helps the stuffing steam and soften while cooking through.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes to allow the top to become golden and crisp for a delightful texture contrast.
- Serve: Allow the stuffing to cool slightly before serving. This hearty side dish pairs perfectly with your favorite holiday mains or as a comforting meal on its own.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the bread with gluten-free bread cubes.
- You can prepare the stuffing a day ahead and refrigerate; bake as directed before serving.
- Adjust the amount of vegetable broth to get your preferred stuffing moisture level.
- Using fresh herbs enhances flavor but dried can be used in smaller amounts.
- Vegan sausage brands vary; choose your favorite for best taste.
- Optional vegan butter or olive oil on top adds richness and helps browning but can be omitted for a lighter dish.
