Apple Sausage Stuffing

Sharing is caring!

Stuffing is one of those beloved side dishes that instantly brings warmth and comfort to any meal, especially during festive gatherings or cozy family dinners. This Apple Sausage Stuffing recipe is a delightful twist on the classic, combining the savory flavors of sausage with the sweet, crisp notes of fresh apples. It’s a perfect balance of hearty and fresh, making it a crowd-pleaser that complements poultry and roasted meats beautifully. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday feast or a simple Sunday supper, this recipe offers a delicious way to elevate your meal with minimal effort.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Apple Sausage Stuffing stands out because it marries the juicy, spiced goodness of sausage with the natural sweetness and texture of apples. The bread cubes soak up the flavorful juices, creating a moist and tender stuffing packed with layers of taste. Unlike some stuffings that can be dry or overly dense, this recipe uses fresh herbs and a touch of broth to keep everything light and fluffy, yet satisfying.

What also makes this recipe special is its versatility and ease. You don’t need to prepare complicated elements or hunt for obscure ingredients. It’s straightforward, approachable, and uses simple pantry staples with a few fresh ingredients to make something truly memorable. Plus, it’s made without any pork—using chicken sausage instead—making it suitable for a wider range of dietary preferences.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Apple Sausage Stuffing recipe invites you to bring something new and delicious to the table without stress or fuss.

Ingredients

• 6 cups of cubed, day-old bread (white, whole wheat, or a mix)
• 1 pound ground chicken sausage (choose a mild or sage-flavored variety)
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried sage)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

How To Make Apple Sausage Stuffing

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Cubes

Begin by cutting your day-old bread into roughly 1-inch cubes. Spread them out on a baking sheet and toast them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are dry and slightly golden. This step ensures the bread absorbs the broth without turning mushy. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken sausage and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pan.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables and Apples

In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Then, add the diced apples and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the apples to slightly soften but still retain some texture.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir in the fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Add the toasted bread cubes and gently toss everything together.

Step 5: Add Broth and Mix

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring as you go, until the bread is moist but not soggy. You might not need all of the broth, so add it gradually to reach the desired consistency.

Step 6: Bake the Stuffing

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to get a golden, slightly crispy top.

Step 7: Serve

Allow the stuffing to cool for a few minutes before serving. This Apple Sausage Stuffing pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, turkey, or even as a hearty vegetarian side if you omit the sausage and use vegetable broth.

Expert Tips

• Use day-old bread for the best texture. Fresh bread can make the stuffing too mushy.
• Don’t skip toasting the bread cubes; it helps them absorb the broth perfectly.
• Adjust the broth quantity based on how moist you prefer your stuffing.
• For extra flavor, sauté the herbs with the vegetables to release their aromas.
• If you want a crispier top, sprinkle some additional bread crumbs or chopped nuts before baking uncovered.
• Let the stuffing rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to set up and make serving easier.

Variations and Customizations

• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Fruit Twist: Swap apples for pears or add dried cranberries for a tart contrast.
• Herb Boost: Experiment with rosemary, marjoram, or even a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice note.
• Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread and ensure your broth and sausage are gluten-free.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use a spicy chicken sausage variety.

How to Store Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftover stuffing to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffing in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, though the oven method helps maintain the texture better.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffing. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as described above.

FAQ

Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to serve, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

What type of apples work best in this stuffing?

Tart and firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal because they hold their shape during cooking and provide a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.

Can I use turkey sausage instead of chicken sausage?

Yes, turkey sausage is a great substitute and will provide similar flavor and texture. Just make sure to choose a plain or mild-flavored sausage to not overpower the other ingredients.

Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?

Fresh herbs add brightness and vibrant flavor, but dried herbs can be used as a substitute. Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Conclusion

This Apple Sausage Stuffing is a delicious, comforting side that brings a perfect harmony of savory and sweet flavors to your table. Its simple preparation and wholesome ingredients make it a fantastic choice for any occasion, whether it’s a festive holiday or a casual family meal. The combination of juicy chicken sausage, crisp apples, fresh herbs, and tender bread cubes creates a dish that’s both satisfying and memorable. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll likely find it becoming a new favorite in your cooking repertoire. Happy cooking!