Transform your holiday table with our Savory Sausage and Apple Stuffing. This classic dish combines the hearty flavors of Italian sausage with the sweet crunch of apples, all enveloped in a rich, herbed stuffing. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion, this recipe will delight your guests and become a cherished tradition.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 8
- Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 700mg
Ingredients
- 450g (1 lb) Italian sausage, casing removed
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 200g (7 oz) stale bread, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 500ml (2 cups) chicken broth
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Method of Preparation
- Prepare the Bread Cubes: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and let cool.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and apples. Cook until the vegetables are soft and the apples are slightly caramelized, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, cooked sausage, and sautéed vegetables. Add the fresh sage, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and beaten eggs, and stir until well combined.
- Bake the Stuffing: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy the stuffing hot, alongside your favorite main course.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Use stale bread for the best texture; fresh bread can become too mushy.
- Choose a sweet-tart apple variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor.
- Adjust the amount of chicken broth based on the dryness of your bread cubes; the mixture should be moist but not soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make this stuffing ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving.
- Can I use a different type of sausage? Absolutely! Feel free to use turkey sausage or a mild breakfast sausage.
- Is it possible to make this stuffing vegetarian? Yes, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the stuffing in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Add a touch of warmth and comfort to your holiday meals with our Savory Sausage and Apple Stuffing. Each bite offers a perfect blend of savory and sweet, making it an unforgettable addition to your festive table. Share the joy of this delightful dish with your loved ones and create lasting memories.