Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spread the softened butter in a medium baking dish or gratin dish.

Step 2

Toss the cubed bread with 2 tablespoons olive oil and the Italian seasoning in a large bowl. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake until crispy, about 10 minutes.

Step 3

Heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil and the sausage. Cook the sausage, stirring and breaking up the meat, until brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Turn the heat to medium and add the onion, carrots and celery and cook until the vegetables are tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, then add the rosemary and sage and cook for 1 more minute. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4

Combine the toasted bread, sausage, vegetable mixture and raisins in a large bowl. Combine the stock and egg in a medium bowl and whisk until well blended. Add the stock mixture to the bread mixture and fold together.

Step 5

Transfer the stuffing to the prepared baking dish and bake until the top is crispy and hot through the center, 35 to 45 minutes.