Bob Evans Sausage Stuffing is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and flavor to any holiday table. Known for its savory blend of seasoned sausage and hearty bread, this recipe captures the essence of traditional stuffing with a delicious twist. It’s the perfect side dish to complement turkey, chicken, or even a simple weeknight dinner.
We love how easy it is to make this stuffing from scratch while still delivering that rich, homemade taste. Whether you’re preparing for a festive feast or craving a cozy meal, this recipe offers a satisfying balance of spices and textures that everyone will enjoy. Let’s dive into making Bob Evans Sausage Stuffing that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
To create the classic Bob Evans Sausage Stuffing that delivers rich flavor and comforting texture, we start with a foundation of quality ingredients. These components combine to produce that iconic savory and hearty stuffing we all love.
Main Ingredients
We need the following essentials for the Bob Evans Sausage Stuffing Recipe:
- 1 pound Bob Evans Original Pork Sausage (for that authentic savory base)
- 8 cups cubed day-old bread (white or a mix of white and whole wheat for a hearty texture)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning (the key spice blend enhancing the stuffing’s flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (adjust as needed for moisture)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Bob Evans Original Pork Sausage | 1 pound | Crumbled |
| Day-old bread | 8 cups (cubed) | White or mixed |
| Onion | 1 medium | Finely chopped |
| Celery | 2 stalks | Diced |
| Unsalted butter | 3 tablespoons | Melted |
| Poultry seasoning | 2 teaspoons | |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Freshly ground |
| Chicken broth | 2 1/2 cups | Low-sodium |
Optional Ingredients for Variations
To customize and enhance our stuffing, we can add:
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (for a bright herbal note)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts for crunch)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (adds a touch of sweetness and complexity)
- 1 teaspoon sage (to deepen traditional herb flavors)
- 1 cup sautéed mushrooms (for an earthy, umami boost)
These variations allow us to tailor the Bob Evans Sausage Stuffing to different tastes and occasions while maintaining its wholesome character.
Equipment Needed
To prepare the Bob Evans Sausage Stuffing perfectly, having the right equipment on hand streamlines the process and ensures consistent results. Below is a detailed list of the essential tools we recommend using.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | To combine bread cubes, sausage, veggies, and seasonings evenly |
| Skillet or Sauté Pan | For browning the Bob Evans Original Pork Sausage and sautéing onions and celery |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | To measure poultry seasoning, salt, pepper, and chicken broth accurately |
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | For dicing onions, celery, and optional fresh herbs |
| Cutting Board | Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients |
| Wooden Spoon or Spatula | To mix the ingredients thoroughly without crushing the bread cubes |
| Baking Dish (9×13 inches recommended) | For baking the stuffing to golden, bubbly perfection |
| Aluminum Foil | To cover stuffing during part of the baking process, preserving moisture |
We find that using these essential tools allows us to balance the savory sausage and herb-infused bread with precision, giving the dish its classic texture and flavor. Ensuring your equipment is prepped and ready encourages a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience.
Preparation
Let’s begin by preparing the key components that make Bob Evans Sausage Stuffing irresistibly flavorful. Following these step-by-step instructions will ensure each element contributes the perfect texture and taste to our classic dish.
Preparing the Bob Evans Sausage
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 pound of Bob Evans Original Pork Sausage to the pan.
- Break the sausage into small crumbles using a wooden spoon or spatula.
- Cook thoroughly until browned and no longer pink, about 7 to 10 minutes.
- Drain excess fat if desired to prevent greasiness but retain some for flavor.
- Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any remaining grease.
Pro tip: Cooking the sausage evenly with moderate heat locks in the savory juices that give the stuffing its signature richness.
Preparing the Bread Cubes
- Use 8 cups of cubed day-old bread for the optimal texture.
- Cut the bread into uniform 1-inch cubes using a sharp chef’s knife and cutting board.
- Spread bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet.
- Optionally toast the cubes in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10 to 15 minutes until lightly golden and crisp.
- Allow the bread cubes to cool completely before mixing with other ingredients.
Toasting the bread cubes prevents sogginess and helps them absorb the delicious sausage and broth without becoming mushy.
Chopping Vegetables and Herbs
| Ingredient | Preparation | Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Medium Onion | Finely chopped | 1 |
| Celery Stalks | Finely chopped | 2 |
| Fresh Parsley* | Chopped (optional for garnish) | 2 tablespoons |
| Sage* | Finely chopped (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
- Peel and finely chop 1 medium onion.
- Wash and finely chop 2 celery stalks.
- If using herbs, finely chop fresh parsley and sage to add vibrant flavor.
- Combine the chopped vegetables in a bowl and set aside for sautéing with the sausage drippings and butter during the next step.
Chopping vegetables uniformly ensures even cooking and enhances the stuffing’s aroma and flavor balance.
Optional ingredients like parsley and sage allow us to tailor the stuffing to our personal taste or holiday traditions, adding layers of fresh herbal notes.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these precise steps to create the perfect Bob Evans Sausage Stuffing. Each phase builds flavor and texture, so let’s master them one by one.
Cooking the Sausage
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 pound of Bob Evans Original Pork Sausage.
- Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked through — approximately 8 minutes.
- Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan for flavor enhancement.
Tip: Retaining a small amount of fat intensifies the stuffing’s savory depth.
Sautéing the Vegetables
- In the same skillet with sausage fat, add:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- Optional: 1 cup sliced mushrooms for extra umami
- Sauté over medium heat until vegetables become translucent and tender — about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to avoid browning.
“Softened vegetables blend seamlessly into the stuffing, creating a balanced texture.”
Mixing the Stuffing Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl combine:
- Cooked sausage
- Sautéed vegetables
- 8 cups cubed day-old bread (toasted)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional add-ins:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries or chopped nuts (for texture and sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon dried sage for herbal notes
- Mix gently but thoroughly until bread cubes absorb moisture evenly.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Bob Evans Sausage | 1 pound | Savory protein base |
| Bread cubes (day-old, toasted) | 8 cups | Main stuffing structure |
| Unsalted butter | 1/4 cup (melted) | Moisture and richness |
| Chicken broth (low-sodium) | 1 cup | Moistening agent |
| Poultry seasoning | 1 teaspoon | Classic herb blend |
| Onion (medium, chopped) | 1 | Aromatic foundation |
| Celery (chopped) | 2 stalks | Crunch and flavor |
| Fresh parsley (optional) | 1/4 cup (chopped) | Fresh herb brightness |
| Dried cranberries or nuts | 1/3 cup | Sweetness and texture |
| Dried sage (optional) | 1 teaspoon | Earthy herbal note |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | Enhances overall flavor |
Pro tip: Toasting bread cubes prevents sogginess and helps achieve that signature stuffing texture.
We recommend mixing just before transferring to a baking dish to maintain the best balance of moist and crisp components.
Assembly
Assembling the Bob Evans Sausage Stuffing involves carefully combining all prepared ingredients to balance flavor and texture perfectly. This step ensures every bite delivers that classic savory goodness we’ve been aiming for.
Combining Ingredients
We start by placing the cooked Bob Evans Original Pork Sausage in a large mixing bowl. Next, we add the sautéed onions, celery, and optional mushrooms for those bold layers of flavor. Then, the toasted bread cubes join the mix, acting as the hearty base that absorbs all the savory elements. Finally, we fold in the melted unsalted butter to enrich the stuffing with buttery smoothness, enhancing both taste and mouthfeel.
Adding Broth and Seasonings
Proper moisture and seasoning are vital. We pour in the low-sodium chicken broth gradually, stirring consistently to allow the bread cubes to absorb the liquid evenly without becoming soggy. Then, we sprinkle the poultry seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the mixture, distributing them thoroughly to ensure each forkful bursts with balanced seasoning.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Bob Evans Original Pork Sausage | 1 pound | Protein and rich sausage flavor |
| Sautéed onions & celery | 1 medium + 2 stalks | Aromatics and texture |
| Toasted bread cubes | 8 cups | Base and absorbent element |
| Melted unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | Adds richness and moisture |
| Low-sodium chicken broth | 1 to 1.5 cups | Moistens and binds stuffing |
| Poultry seasoning | 1 teaspoon | Classic herb blend |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Enhances overall flavor |
Tip: We recommend adding the broth in small increments while mixing to achieve the ideal moist yet firm stuffing consistency.
By meticulously combining and seasoning the components, we ensure that the Bob Evans Sausage Stuffing reaches its full flavor potential before transferring it to our baking dish.
Baking Directions
To complete our Bob Evans Sausage Stuffing Recipe, precise baking ensures a perfect balance of crispy edges and moist interior. Follow these baking directions carefully for the best results.
Preparing the Baking Dish
We recommend using a 9×13 inch baking dish to accommodate the stuffing evenly for consistent cooking. Start by lightly greasing the dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and promote browning.
Next, transfer the mixture gently into the prepared dish. Press it down slightly to create an even layer without compressing too much, preserving the stuffing’s texture.
If desired, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to retain moisture during the initial baking phase—this prevents premature drying.
Baking Time and Temperature
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C), which is ideal for cooking the stuffing through while developing a golden crust on top.
Bake the stuffing covered for the first 25-30 minutes. Removing the foil in the last phase allows the top to crisp beautifully.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial bake (covered) | 350°F | 25-30 minutes | Retains moisture for even cooking |
| Final bake (uncovered) | 350°F | 15-20 minutes | Develops crispy, golden top |
Checking for Doneness
Proper doneness is key to enjoying Bob Evans Sausage Stuffing at its best. We look for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure the sausage and bread mixture is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Use a meat thermometer inserted in the center of the dish to check the temperature.
Visually, the stuffing should be:
- Golden brown and crispy on top
- Firm but moist inside without being soggy
- Edges slightly caramelized for texture contrast
If needed, bake for an extra 5-10 minutes uncovered until these criteria are met.
Tip: Let the stuffing rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This allows flavors to settle and improves slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Bob Evans Sausage Stuffing as a centerpiece side dish, we recommend pairing it with classic holiday or everyday mains that complement its rich, savory flavors.
Ideal Main Courses to Pair With
- Roast Turkey: The traditional companion. The stuffing’s hearty texture contrasts wonderfully with tender, juicy turkey meat.
- Baked Ham: Sweet and savory ham balances the savory sausage and herb notes in our stuffing.
- Roast Chicken: A lighter alternative; roasted chicken enhances the stuffing without overpowering it.
- Pork Tenderloin: The juicy, mild flavor of pork tenderloin pairs well, allowing the stuffing’s spice and texture to shine.
Complementary Side Dishes
Enhance the meal experience by serving the stuffing alongside:
- Cranberry Sauce: Adds a sweet and tangy touch that complements the savory sausage.
- Green Bean Almondine: Offers a fresh crunch and nutty flavor balancing the moist stuffing.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness and crisp texture enhance the meal’s complexity.
- Mashed Potatoes with Gravy: Creamy potatoes and rich gravy provide the perfect base for our sausage stuffing.
Serving Tips for Best Presentation
- Serve the stuffing warm, ideally rested for 10 minutes after baking, to deepen the flavors and stabilize the texture.
- Use a rustic serving dish to emphasize its homestyle appeal.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of chopped nuts to add visual interest and a boost of freshness.
| Pairing Type | Recommended Dish | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Main Course | Roast Turkey | Traditional, hearty |
| Baked Ham | Sweet-savory | |
| Roast Chicken | Light, savory | |
| Pork Tenderloin | Mild, juicy | |
| Complementary Sides | Cranberry Sauce | Sweet and tangy |
| Green Bean Almondine | Fresh, nutty crunch | |
| Roasted Brussels Sprouts | Slightly bitter, crisp | |
| Mashed Potatoes & Gravy | Creamy, rich |
“Pairing our Bob Evans Sausage Stuffing with these dishes brings out the very best in flavor and texture, creating a memorable dining experience every time.”
We recommend customizing your plate by mixing and matching these suggestions to reflect your occasion and taste preferences.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Storing Bob Evans Sausage Stuffing properly is essential to maintain its flavor and texture for later enjoyment. After baking, allow the stuffing to cool completely at room temperature, but no longer than 2 hours to avoid bacterial growth. Transfer to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
| Storage Method | Duration | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3-4 days | 40°F (4°C) | Reheat covered at 350°F (175°C) until warm |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | 0°F (-18°C) | Use freezer-safe container, thaw overnight |
Make-Ahead Preparation
We recommend preparing the stuffing mixture up to 1 day in advance. Follow these steps for best results:
- Complete steps through mixing all ingredients without baking.
- Place the mixture into the baking dish.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate.
- Bake directly from the refrigerator. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time and check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Freezing Tips
For long-term storage, freeze the uncooked stuffing mixture:
- Pack the mixture in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Reheating Instructions
To preserve the moistness and texture when reheating:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover stuffing with foil to retain moisture.
- Heat for 20-25 minutes if refrigerated; 30-40 minutes if previously frozen.
- Remove foil during the last 5-10 minutes for a crisp top crust.
Conclusion
Bob Evans Sausage Stuffing offers a delicious way to bring warmth and flavor to any meal. Its simple preparation and customizable ingredients make it a reliable go-to side dish that fits perfectly with a variety of main courses.
By following the steps and tips we’ve shared, you can create a stuffing that’s moist, flavorful, and full of comforting textures. Whether for a holiday feast or a cozy dinner, this recipe promises to become a staple in our kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Bob Evans Sausage Stuffing?
You need Bob Evans Original Pork Sausage, day-old bread cubes, onion, celery, unsalted butter, poultry seasoning, salt, black pepper, and low-sodium chicken broth. Optional ingredients include fresh parsley, nuts, dried cranberries, sage, and sautéed mushrooms for added flavor.
What equipment do I need to make this stuffing?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl, skillet or sauté pan, measuring cups and spoons, a sharp knife, cutting board, wooden spoon or spatula, a 9×13 inch baking dish, and aluminum foil.
How do I prepare the sausage and vegetables for the stuffing?
Cook the sausage in a skillet until browned, drain excess fat but keep some for flavor. Sauté onion and celery until tender, optionally adding mushrooms for extra taste.
How should I mix the stuffing ingredients?
Combine cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, toasted bread cubes, melted butter, and seasonings in a large bowl. Gradually add chicken broth in small amounts to reach the perfect moist yet firm consistency.
What is the best way to bake the stuffing?
Bake covered with foil at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, then uncovered for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it tightly covered in the fridge. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
How should I store leftover stuffing?
Cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
What are some good main dishes to pair with this stuffing?
Great pairings include roast turkey, baked ham, roast chicken, and pork tenderloin. These complement the stuffing’s rich and savory flavors nicely.
What sides go well with Bob Evans Sausage Stuffing?
Try cranberry sauce, green bean almondine, roasted Brussels sprouts, or mashed potatoes with gravy to round out your meal.
How do I reheat leftover stuffing to keep it moist?
Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain moisture.