Apple Sausage Stuffing is a flavorful and hearty side dish that combines savory sausage, sweet apples, and aromatic herbs, making it a perfect addition to any fall or holiday meal. The crumbled sausage provides richness, while the apples add a touch of sweetness and freshness. Seasoned with sage, thyme, and onion, this stuffing is a balance of comforting flavors and textures. Whether served alongside turkey, chicken, or pork, Apple Sausage Stuffing is sure to become a crowd favorite, offering a delightful twist on the traditional stuffing recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of bread (preferably a rustic white or sourdough), cubed (about 8 cups)
- 1 pound ground sausage (pork or turkey)
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced (preferably a sweet variety like Honeycrisp or Gala)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden and crisp. Set aside to cool.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and apples. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the apples start to caramelize. Stir in the garlic, sage, thyme, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Combine the Stuffing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, cooked sausage, and sautéed vegetable-apple mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring gently to moisten the bread. Stir in the beaten egg and season with salt to taste.
- Bake the Stuffing: Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
- Serve: Garnish the stuffing with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm alongside your favorite main dishes.
Apple Sausage Stuffing is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that makes any holiday meal feel special. The apples and sausage create a unique twist on traditional stuffing, and its rich taste and comforting texture will have everyone coming back for seconds!
