This cozy stuffing combines savory sausage, sweet apples, and fragrant sage for an amazing dish. It’s perfect for any gathering and will remind you of warm family meals.
You can’t go wrong with this stuffing! I love how the apples add a nice sweetness that balances the savory sausage. It’s a tasty twist that everyone will enjoy! 🍏🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Sausage: You can choose mild or spicy based on what you like. If you’re avoiding pork, try turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage for a similar texture and flavor!
Bread: Stale bread is best as it absorbs liquid without getting soggy. I prefer crusty French or sourdough bread, but any hearty bread will do. Gluten-free bread works as well for a gluten-free version!
Apples: Granny Smith apples bring a nice tartness. If you want it sweeter, you could use Honeycrisp or Gala apples instead. Consider mixing varieties for a more complex flavor!
Sage: Fresh sage is ideal for its vibrant taste, but you can substitute with dried sage. Use about one teaspoon for every tablespoon of fresh. This adjustment keeps the flavor in check.
Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth can replace chicken broth for a vegetarian version, keeping the flavors rich and satisfying. For a lower sodium option, use low-sodium broth.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Vegetables for Stuffing?
The sautéing process is crucial for developing flavor in your stuffing. Start by heating your butter in a skillet over medium heat. This helps to build a delicious base. Follow these steps:
- First, add onions and celery, cooking them until softened (about 5-7 minutes). This step releases their natural sweetness.
- Next, incorporate your sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks. Make sure it gets browned, as this will provide depth to your stuffing.
- Finally, when you add the apples and sage, let them cook for about 3-4 minutes. The apples should soften a bit but still hold their shape.
This careful cooking will ensure each ingredient shines through in every bite of your stuffing!
Delicious Sausage, Apple & Sage Stuffing Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 1 pound (450g) pork sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 10 cups (about 12 ounces) crusty bread cubes, preferably a day or two old
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh sage leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2-3 cups chicken broth (adjust for desired moisture)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
How Much Time Will You Need?
This stuffing recipe takes about 20 minutes to prep and about 1 hour to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, spread the bread cubes out on a baking sheet. Bake them for about 10-15 minutes until they’re lightly toasted and dry but not browned—this helps them soak up all the yummy flavors!
2. Cooking the Veggies:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, sautéing them together until they’re softened and translucent, which takes around 5-7 minutes. This is where the base flavor starts to build!
3. Browning the Sausage:
Next, add the pork sausage to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Continue cooking until the sausage is browned and fully cooked through. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen—enjoy it!
4. Adding Apples and Seasoning:
Now, stir in the diced apples, chopped sage, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Let everything cook together for another 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on the apples; they should begin to soften but still hold their shape.
5. Mixing Everything Together:
In a very large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the sausage and apple mixture. Mix them gently to ensure the flavors blend well.
6. Moistening the Stuffing:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and beaten eggs. Gradually pour this mixture over the bread and sausage combination, tossing gently as you go. You want everything nicely moistened but not soggy—you might not need all the broth!
7. Preparing for Baking:
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, about 9×13 inches in size. Spread it out evenly for even cooking.
8. Baking:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the top is golden and crisp. This will give it a delightful texture!
9. Serving:
Once done, you can garnish with extra fresh sage leaves if you’d like. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty stuffing that’s perfect for holiday meals or any comforting dinner!
This Sausage, Apple & Sage Stuffing is a true crowd-pleaser, balancing savory and sweet flavors beautifully. Enjoy every bite! 🍏🌿
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage if you prefer. Just consider the flavor profile and spice level you’d like in your stuffing!
Can I Make This Stuffing Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply switch the pork sausage for a vegetarian sausage or omit it altogether. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’ll still have a delicious stuffing.
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffing?
Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to moisten if needed.
Can I Prepare This Stuffing in Advance?
You can prepare the stuffing ahead of time, combining all ingredients and storing it in the fridge before baking. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before baking, or add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
