This Sausage, Apple & Sage Stuffing is a tasty mix of savory sausage, sweet apples, and fragrant sage. It’s a perfect side dish that adds flavor to any meal!
Honestly, the combo of juicy sausage and juicy apples is a match made in heaven. I can’t help but go back for seconds! Serve it warm, and watch it disappear faster than you can say “yum!”
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: Whether you choose mild or sweet sausage, it brings great flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey sausage works well! For a spicy kick, consider using hot Italian sausage.
Bread: Rustic or sourdough bread is the way to go for best texture. If you’re gluten-free, try using gluten-free bread or cornbread as a substitute. Just make sure it’s slightly stale or toasted!
Apple: A tart apple like Granny Smith adds a nice contrast to the savory sausage. If you want a sweeter flavor, Honeycrisp or Fuji apples are good alternatives!
Sage: Fresh sage really brightens up the dish. If you can’t find it, dried sage can work, but use less—about 1 teaspoon should do. It won’t be as vibrant, but it’ll still taste great!
How Do I Perfectly Sauté the Aromatics?
Sautéing your aromatics—onions, celery, and garlic—is crucial for flavor. Start them off in the same skillet you used for the sausage to build depth. Wave goodbye to bland stuffing!
- Heat your skillet over medium heat before adding butter and a bit of oil. This prevents sticking and promotes even cooking.
- Add the onions and celery first, as they take longer to soften. Stir them until they’re translucent, around 5-7 minutes.
- Finally, add the garlic and sauté for just 1-2 minutes. Garlic burns quickly, so be mindful!
By properly sautéing these ingredients, you’ll set a solid flavor foundation for your stuffing.
Sausage, Apple & Sage Stuffing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 1 pound (450g) Italian sausage (mild or sweet), casings removed
- 8 cups (about 12 ounces) of cubed day-old rustic bread or sourdough bread
- 1 large apple (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves, finely chopped (plus a few whole leaves for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 2 cups (480ml) chicken or turkey broth (preferably low sodium)
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for sautéing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stuffing takes about 30 minutes to prepare and 45-60 minutes to bake. You’ll be ready to enjoy your warm and hearty dish in about 1.5 hours, including prep and cooking time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread Cubes:
If you don’t have day-old bread, cut fresh rustic bread into 1-inch cubes and toast them on a baking sheet in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until dry and lightly golden. Allow them to cool and set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving some drippings in the pan for extra flavor.
3. Sauté the Aromatics and Apple:
In the same skillet, add the butter along with a small drizzle of olive oil if needed. Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic, sautéing over medium heat until softened and translucent, around 5-7 minutes. This will create a flavorful base for your stuffing.
4. Add the Apples and Herbs:
Add the diced apple, chopped sage, and thyme leaves (if using). Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the apples are slightly softened and well combined with the other ingredients.
5. Combine the Stuffing Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, cooked sausage, and sautéed apple-vegetable mixture. Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
6. Add Broth and Eggs:
In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken or turkey broth and eggs until well combined. Pour this mixture over the stuffing and gently toss until the bread has absorbed the liquid but is not soggy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake the Stuffing:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the stuffing mixture into a buttered or oiled baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes to help set the flavors.
8. Crisp the Top:
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp. This step is key for that delicious texture!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, let the stuffing rest for a few minutes before serving. Feel free to garnish with fresh sage leaves for an added touch of flavor and color.
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This stuffing perfectly balances savory sausage with sweet apple chunks, all accented by the lovely aroma of fresh sage. It’s the perfect dish for holidays or any hearty meal—enjoy it warm and watch it disappear!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage for a leaner option or even pork or chicken sausage based on your preference. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned to keep flavor intact!
How Do I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the stuffing mixture a day in advance! Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven.
Can I Freeze Leftover Stuffing?
Yes, you can freeze any leftovers! Just let the stuffing cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Should I Serve with This Stuffing?
This stuffing pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes! It’s perfect alongside roast turkey or chicken. For a complete meal, consider serving it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
