Nana Bessie's Sausage Stuffing, A Crockpot Recipe

Nana Bessie's Sausage Stuffing: A Crockpot Thanksgiving Tradition

Thanksgiving. The word itself conjures up images of family gathered around a table laden with delicious food, the aroma of roasted turkey filling the air, and the comforting warmth of shared stories and laughter. For me, Thanksgiving wouldn't be complete without Nana Bessie's Sausage Stuffing. It's a recipe passed down through generations, a culinary heirloom that holds a special place in my heart, and in the hearts of my family.

Nana Bessie, my grandmother, was a remarkable woman. A whirlwind of activity, she managed to juggle the demands of a large family, a bustling home, and a seemingly endless supply of delicious baked goods and comforting meals. Her sausage stuffing was always a highlight of our Thanksgiving celebrations. It was the kind of dish that disappeared quickly, leaving behind only happy sighs and requests for seconds (and thirds!). I remember watching her, her hands moving with practiced ease as she sautéed the onions and celery, the savory aroma filling the kitchen. The careful blending of herbs and spices, the gentle stirring of the ingredients, it was all a labor of love that resulted in a truly unforgettable dish.

This isn't just a recipe; it's a connection to my family history. It's a way to honor Nana Bessie's memory and to share a piece of her with those I love. Making this stuffing every Thanksgiving brings back a flood of memories – the laughter, the warmth, the togetherness. It’s more than just food; it's a taste of home, a taste of family, a taste of love.

The best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust it to your liking. Want to add more sage? Go for it! Prefer a different type of sausage? Feel free to experiment! The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. It’s a blank canvas upon which you can paint your own culinary masterpiece.

But more than the flexibility, I love how easy this recipe is to make in a slow cooker. On Thanksgiving Day, when time is of the essence and the kitchen is a whirlwind of activity, the crockpot becomes my best friend. It allows me to focus on other aspects of preparing the feast without sacrificing the deliciousness of Nana Bessie's sausage stuffing. The slow cooking process enhances the flavors, creating a depth and richness that simply can't be replicated with any other method.

So, whether you're a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, I encourage you to try this recipe. It's simple, it's delicious, and it’s guaranteed to become a Thanksgiving staple in your own home. As you savor each bite, I hope you'll find yourself transported back in time, experiencing the warmth and love that Nana Bessie poured into every dish she made.

And as you’re enjoying the rich flavors of this stuffing, remember it’s not just about the food itself, but the memories and traditions it represents. The simple act of cooking and sharing this dish with loved ones creates a powerful bond, forging memories that will last a lifetime.

This year, as you gather around your Thanksgiving table, I invite you to create your own traditions and cherish the moments shared with family and friends. Let the aroma of Nana Bessie's Sausage Stuffing fill your home, and may your Thanksgiving be filled with love, laughter, and the warmth of cherished memories.

Ingredients You'll Need:

• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1 large onion
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 stick butter (1/2 cup)
• 1 bundle of celery
• 2 lbs sausage (I use Jimmy Dean sage sausage)
• 1 tsp sage
• 1 1/2 tsp rosemary
• 2 packages dressing
• 1-2 cans chicken broth
• 1 dozen eggs

Happy Thanksgiving!

Step-by-step

• Slice Celery and chop the Onion, set aside.
• Melt Butter in large pan.
• Add Onion and Celery and saute until Onion starts to become translucent.
• Add Sausage and Seasonings.
• Continue to cook until the Sausage is browned.
• In a large bowl, beat the Eggs.
• Add Dressing and stir until it is all moistened.
• Add the Sausage and mix thoroughly.
• Add 1 can of Chicken Broth, a little at a time, while mixing.
• Stuff turkey and/or put in a large, greased, Crockpot on low.
• Cook on low for 4 hours stirring occasionally.
• Add the second can of Chicken Broth, just a drizzle at a time, over that 4 hours to keep the stuffing from drying out.