This warm and hearty sausage, apple, and sage stuffing brings the best flavors together! The savory sausage pairs perfectly with sweet apples and fragrant sage, making it truly special.
I love how this stuffing adds a cozy touch to any meal. Plus, who can resist that tasty smell wafting through the kitchen? Trust me, your family will be heading back for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: A rustic or sourdough bread works best for this stuffing. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free bread cubes available in stores. I like to use day-old bread as it soaks up the flavors better!
Sausage: You can use either mild or spicy sausage, depending on your taste. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken or turkey sausage is a great substitute. Veggie sausage is also a good option for a meatless version.
Apples: Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness, while Honeycrisp provides sweetness. You can swap these for any firm apple, like Fuji or Braeburn. Just make sure it holds its shape when cooked!
Fresh herbs: Fresh sage is key here for the classic flavor, but if you can’t find it, dried sage will do. You can also use rosemary or parsley for a different twist. I sometimes add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth!
How Can I Ensure My Stuffing Isn’t Soggy?
The key to avoiding soggy stuffing is all about moisture control. Start by using well-dried or toasted bread cubes. They soak up the broth without turning into mush.
- As you mix the broth with the bread, add it gradually. You can stop adding when the mixture feels just moist enough.
- Another tip is to bake the stuffing uncovered for the last part of cooking. This allows any excess moisture to evaporate and gives you that perfect crispy top!
Sausage, Apple & Sage Stuffing Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 10 cups cubed bread (preferably a rustic or sourdough bread), dried or toasted
- 1 lb (450g) sausage (mild or spicy Italian or breakfast sausage), casing removed
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves, chopped (or about 1 tablespoon dried sage)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (more as needed)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (sage and thyme sprigs) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful stuffing takes about 45 minutes total. You’ll spend about 15 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 30 minutes baking to get that perfect golden crust. It’s a great make-ahead dish, too—just prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread Cubes:
If your bread isn’t already dried, cut it into 1-inch cubes and toast them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 20 minutes until they are lightly dried and golden. This gives the stuffing a great texture. Once done, set aside to cool.
2. Cook the Sausage:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Once ready, transfer the sausage to a large mixing bowl, leaving the drippings in the pan for extra flavor.
3. Sauté the Vegetables and Apples:
In the same skillet, add the butter to the sausage drippings. Once it’s melted, toss in the chopped onion and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then add in the minced garlic and diced apples. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the apples are just tender.
4. Add Herbs and Seasoning:
Now, stir in the chopped fresh sage and thyme leaves (if using). Season this mixture with salt and pepper to your taste. Remove the skillet from the heat.
5. Combine Stuffing Ingredients:
Pour the cooked vegetable and apple mixture into the bowl with the sausage. Then, add the toasted bread cubes and gently toss everything together to combine well.
6. Add Broth and Eggs:
In a separate bowl, whisk the chicken broth together with the beaten eggs. Gradually pour this mixture over the bread and sausage mixture, tossing gently as you go. Keep adding broth until everything feels evenly moist but be careful not to make it too soggy.
7. Bake the Stuffing:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the stuffing mixture to a buttered casserole dish or baking pan. Cover it with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.
8. Serve:
Once done, you can garnish with fresh herbs like sage and thyme sprigs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this rich, savory stuffing alongside your roast poultry or at your festive gatherings!
This stuffing is filled with warm autumn flavors, making it a perfect addition to your holiday table. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Stuffing?
Absolutely! While rustic or sourdough bread is preferred for its texture, you can use any type of bread you like. Just make sure it’s dried or toasted to prevent sogginess. Gluten-free bread can also work well if needed!
How Can I Make This Stuffing Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or mushrooms. You can also add more vegetables like diced bell peppers or carrots to enhance the flavor and texture!
Can I Prepare This Stuffing in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day ahead! Just follow the recipe up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture. Enjoy your delicious stuffing again! 🍽️
