Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish: Sausage & Apple Stuffing! The combination of savory sausage and sweet apples creates a flavor explosion that’s just too good to resist. Honestly, every bite is like a warm hug on a chilly day. This stuffing is perfect for Thanksgiving, but don’t let that limit you! I whip it up for family dinners, potlucks, and holiday gatherings—it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s super versatile; you can make it with or without sausage for a delightful vegetarian option. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it for every occasion!

Ingredients List

1 pound sausage (feel free to use your favorite type, or skip it for a vegetarian version)
4 cups bread cubes (I love using a mix of sourdough and white for great texture)
1 cup diced apples (choose sweet or tart, depending on your taste)
1 cup onion, chopped (adds a lovely sweetness when cooked)
1 cup celery, chopped (for that perfect crunch)
2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth if you’re going meatless)
1 teaspoon sage (it’s an absolute must for that cozy flavor)
1 teaspoon thyme (brings a nice depth to the dish)
Salt to taste (don’t be shy, season to your preference!)
Pepper to taste (a little kick never hurt anyone!)

How to Prepare Sausage & Apple Stuffing

Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making this Sausage & Apple Stuffing! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because we want our stuffing to bake perfectly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until it’s browned and crumbled nicely. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. The smell will be heavenly!
Add the chopped onion and celery to the skillet and cook until they’re soft, about 3-4 minutes. This adds such a lovely flavor.
In a big mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes, diced apples, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
Next, mix in the sausage mixture from the skillet. Make sure it’s well incorporated—this is where all the flavors come together!
Now, pour the chicken broth over the mixture and gently stir until everything is moistened. Don’t go overboard; you want it moist but not soggy.
Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. It’s ready for the oven!
Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. You’ll know it’s done when it looks deliciously inviting!

And there you have it! A delightful stuffing ready to complement any meal. Enjoy every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s super quick and easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or holiday feasts.
The combination of savory sausage and sweet apples creates a flavor profile that’s out of this world!
You can easily customize it to fit various diets; just leave out the sausage for a delicious vegetarian option!
This stuffing is a great make-ahead dish—prep it in advance and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
It pairs beautifully with roasted meats, making it a versatile side for any meal.
Leftovers (if there are any!) are just as tasty the next day, making it a great choice for meal prep.

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s talk about how to take your Sausage & Apple Stuffing to the next level! First off, don’t skimp on the seasoning—taste as you go! A little extra sage or thyme can really enhance the flavor.

If you want to mix things up, try adding some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for that delightful crunch. Dried cranberries or raisins also make a fantastic addition, bringing a sweet contrast to the savory stuffing. And if you’re feeling adventurous, swap out the chicken broth for apple cider for a unique twist!

Lastly, let your stuffing sit for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps it firm up a bit, making it easier to serve. Trust me, these little tweaks will make your stuffing the star of the show! Enjoy!

Variations of Sausage & Apple Stuffing

Oh, the possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing your Sausage & Apple Stuffing! If you want to switch up the herbs, try adding rosemary or parsley for a fresh twist. You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance that warm, cozy flavor.

Feeling adventurous? Toss in some chopped nuts like pecans or hazelnuts for an extra crunch. Dried fruits like apricots or cherries can add a delightful sweetness. And if you’re looking for a little zing, a splash of balsamic vinegar just before baking can elevate the entire dish! Have fun making it your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After you’ve enjoyed your delicious Sausage & Apple Stuffing, you might find yourself with some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). To store them, simply transfer the stuffing to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll keep well for about 3-4 days, so you can savor those flavors throughout the week!

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is a breeze. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), spread the stuffing in a baking dish, and cover it with foil to keep it moist. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through. If you like a little extra crispiness on top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking. Enjoy those comforting flavors all over again!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this delicious Sausage & Apple Stuffing! Keep in mind that the nutrition facts can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use. But generally speaking, a serving size of about 1 cup contains approximately 250 calories, with 10 grams of fat and 10 grams of protein. You’ll also find around 30 grams of carbohydrates and 2 grams of fiber. It’s a hearty dish that packs a flavorful punch while still being mindful of your dietary needs. So, whether you’re indulging or keeping it light, this stuffing fits right in!

FAQ Section

Can I make Sausage & Apple Stuffing ahead of time?
Absolutely! This stuffing is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and then just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’ll be going in cold.

What can I substitute for the sausage?
If you’d like to skip the sausage, no worries! You can use mushrooms or lentils for some heartiness. Adding extra spices or smoked paprika can also help enhance the flavor, making it just as satisfying.

Can I use different types of bread?
Yes, indeed! Feel free to mix it up with different types of bread. Stale bread works great, so use whatever you have on hand—baguette, challah, or even cornbread can add a unique twist to your stuffing!

How do I know when my stuffing is done baking?
Your Sausage & Apple Stuffing is done when it’s golden brown on top and the edges are crispy. You can also check by inserting a fork—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!

Can I freeze leftovers?
Definitely! Just let your stuffing cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned earlier. Enjoy the deliciousness all over again!

Sausage & Apple Stuffing: 7 Comforting Secrets to Love

Author: [email protected]
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A savory stuffing with sausage and apples, perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Cook the sausage in a skillet until browned.
Add onion and celery; cook until soft.
In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, apples, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Mix in the sausage mixture.
Pour chicken broth over the mixture and stir.
Transfer to a baking dish.
Bake for 30 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

This can be made without sausage for a vegetarian option.
Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Sausage & Apple Stuffing, Stuffing, Side Dish, Thanksgiving

Spread the love