If you are on the lookout for a comforting, flavorful, and hearty dish to elevate your holiday table or any cozy meal, this Vegan Sausage Stuffing with Sage Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. Packed with earthy sage, savory vegan sausage, and perfectly toasted bread cubes, this recipe delivers all the nostalgic warmth of traditional stuffing, fully plant-based and absolutely delicious. Every bite is a celebration of textures and herbs that blend effortlessly, making it an irresistible side dish that everyone at the table will enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There is something truly special about how simple ingredients, when thoughtfully combined, create magic in this recipe. Each component plays a crucial role—whether it’s the rustic tang of the sourdough bread, the aromatic freshness of sage, or the rich, savory notes from the vegan sausage—every ingredient adds layers of flavor and texture that make this dish shine.
- Day-old rustic or sourdough bread, 1 loaf (about 14 oz) cubed (about 8 cups): Stale bread absorbs moisture perfectly without becoming mushy, giving the stuffing its ideal texture.
- Olive oil, 2 tablespoons: Adds richness and helps soften the veggies with a gentle fruity flavor.
- Medium onion, diced: Builds a sweet and savory base essential for depth.
- Celery stalks, 2 diced: Contributes crunch and a subtle, refreshing bitterness.
- Garlic cloves, 2 minced: Packs a punch of aromatic intensity that elevates the whole dish.
- Vegan sausage, 1 (14 oz) package, crumbled: Provides the meaty, hearty element that makes this stuffing satisfying.
- Fresh sage, 1 tablespoon chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried): The star herb that brings earthiness and a wonderful herbal warmth.
- Dried thyme, 1 teaspoon: Adds subtle nuances of mint and lemon to balance the savoriness.
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Enhances and harmonizes all the flavors.
- Black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon: Adds mild heat and a touch of spice.
- Vegetable broth, 1 1/2–2 cups: Moistens the bread cubes perfectly and infuses subtle umami.
- Vegan butter or olive oil, 2 tablespoons melted (for drizzling): Creates a golden, crispy crust that feels indulgent but dairy-free.
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): Offers a fresh, bright contrast to the earthy herbs.
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 in the oven for about 10 to 15 minutes. This step ensures the bread becomes lightly crisp, providing a perfect texture to soak up the flavorful broth without turning soggy later on.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
While the bread is toasting, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking them slowly for 5 to 6 minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness. Toss in the minced garlic last and sauté for another minute so it doesn’t burn but becomes fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Vegan Sausage
Add the crumbled vegan sausage into the skillet with the softened veggies. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the sausage browns nicely, developing those savory, caramelized bits that add depth to your stuffing.
Step 4: Season with Herbs and Spices
Stir in fresh chopped sage, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. These herbs transform the mixture with their earthy, aromatic qualities and quintessential holiday flavors that are truly the heart of this Vegan Sausage Stuffing with Sage Recipe.
Step 5: Combine Bread and Sausage Mixture
Transfer the toasted bread cubes into a large mixing bowl and pour the sausage and vegetable mixture over them. Gradually add the vegetable broth while tossing gently, making sure the bread is evenly moistened but still holds its shape—aiming for a perfect balance between soft and slightly crispy.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and drizzle melted vegan butter or olive oil evenly over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the top turns beautifully golden brown and delightfully crisp.
How to Serve Vegan Sausage Stuffing with Sage Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley right before serving adds a lovely pop of green and a bright contrast to the warm, savory stuffing. It enhances the dish visually and adds a hint of freshness with every bite.
Side Dishes
This vegan sausage stuffing pairs wonderfully with main dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a plant-based roast. The hearty texture and rich flavors make it a standout side that complements a range of holiday or everyday meals.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try stuffing this mixture into hollowed-out bell peppers or portobello mushrooms and bake them for an individual presentation. Alternatively, serve the stuffing inside vegan puff pastry for a unique handheld treat that combines flakiness with savory goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover vegan sausage stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before reheating, add a small splash of vegetable broth to refresh the moisture and maintain that deliciously soft texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the stuffing either baked or unbaked. Place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Frozen stuffing will keep well for up to 2 months, making it perfect for preparing in advance during busy holiday seasons.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the stuffing in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Remove the foil toward the end to crisp the top again. You can also gently warm it in a skillet on the stovetop with a bit of broth added, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure the gluten-free bread you choose holds up well when toasted and moist, as some gluten-free varieties can crumble more easily. Day-old gluten-free bread cubes work best for a sturdy stuffing.
Is there a substitute if I can’t find vegan sausage?
If vegan sausage isn’t available, you can use seasoned crumbled tofu, lentils, or mushrooms mixed with your favorite spices to create a similar texture and flavor profile that complements the sage and herbs beautifully.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced vegan chorizo sausage to the mixture. Freshly ground black pepper can also be increased to taste, infusing the stuffing with some delightful heat without overpowering the sage’s herbaceous notes.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
This recipe is naturally nut-free. Just ensure that the vegan sausage and any store-bought broth or butter substitutes you use do not contain nuts if you have a severe allergy.
What’s the best way to keep the stuffing moist but not soggy?
The key is to add vegetable broth gradually while tossing until the bread is evenly moistened but not soaked. Using day-old bread cubes and toasting them first also helps prevent sogginess and ensures a perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the comforting hug of a well-seasoned stuffing, and this Vegan Sausage Stuffing with Sage Recipe truly delivers that experience with a plant-based twist. Whether it’s the centerpiece of your holiday feast or a tasty side for any meal, you’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how deeply satisfying the flavors are. I can’t wait for you to try making this wholesome dish that’s as welcoming as it is delicious—get your ingredients together and make some magic in your kitchen today!
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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 flavorful, plant-based alternative to traditional holiday stuffing. Featuring rustic bread cubes toasted to perfection, savory vegan sausage, fresh herbs, and a touch of garlic, this side dish combines comforting textures and vibrant tastes. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering, it’s entirely vegan, dairy-free, and easy to make ahead.
Ingredients
Bread and Broth
- 1 loaf (about 14 oz) day-old rustic or sourdough bread, cubed (about 8 cups)
- 1 1/2–2 cups vegetable broth
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Vegan Sausage and Seasonings
- 1 (14 oz) package vegan sausage, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Finishing Touches
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter or olive oil (melted, for drizzling)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Toast the Bread Cubes: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes until they are lightly crisp. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, sautéing for 5 to 6 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute to release its aroma.
- Cook Vegan Sausage: Add the crumbled vegan sausage to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned evenly. Stir in fresh sage, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to combine the flavors.
- Combine Stuffing Mixture: Transfer the toasted bread cubes into a large mixing bowl. Add the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture. Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while tossing gently, ensuring the bread is evenly moistened without becoming soggy. You may not need the full amount of broth.
- Prepare for Baking: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the stuffing mixture into it. Drizzle the melted vegan butter or olive oil evenly over the top. Cover the dish tightly with foil to retain moisture during baking.
- Bake the Stuffing: Bake covered for 25 minutes in the preheated oven. Then remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the top turns golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Optional – sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm as a delicious vegan side dish perfect for holiday meals or everyday dinners.
Notes
- This stuffing can be prepared a day in advance. Refrigerate before baking and add a splash of broth before reheating to keep it moist.
- Use your preferred vegan sausage variety—mild or spicy versions both work wonderfully.
