If you are searching for a comforting centerpiece side dish that will instantly brighten up your holiday table or cozy family dinner, this Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe is exactly what you need. It perfectly balances savory, sweet, and herbaceous flavors, combining mild Italian sausage with crisp apples, tender celery, and aromatic herbs. The texture is a delightful mix of moist bread cubes softened with chicken broth and eggs, contrasted with juicy bites of apple and the rich crispness of browned sausage. This stuffing isn’t just a side; it’s a celebration of classic flavors with a fresh twist that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might look straightforward, but each one plays an essential role in creating that perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and aroma that this Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe is known for. From the savory sausage to the juicy apples, every component matters.
- 1 lb. mild Italian sausage: Adds a savory, herb-infused flavor and juicy texture that forms the backbone of the stuffing.
- 12 cups dried/stale sourdough bread cubes (about 1 loaf): Provides a sturdy, tangy base that soaks up all the delicious juices without becoming mushy.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Brings a subtle sweetness and depth that complements both sausage and apple beautifully.
- 3 stalks celery (diced): Adds a fresh, crisp bite that balances the richness of the sausage and butter.
- 1 large apple (cored and diced): Offers a burst of natural sweetness and a juicy contrast that brightens each bite.
- 2-3 cups chicken broth: Moistens the bread and ties all ingredients together with a savory, comforting base.
- ½ cup salted butter (melted): Infuses richness and helps browning for that irresistible golden crust.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the natural flavors while balancing the sweetness of the apple.
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle spicy kick to cut through the richness.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers a warm, hearty note without overpowering the dish.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the onion flavor seamlessly throughout.
- ⅛ teaspoon dried ground thyme: Offers a subtle earthiness that elevates the stuffing’s complexity.
- 2 large eggs (beaten): Bind the ingredients together and ensure a luscious, moist texture.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (if desired): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness when serving.
How to Make Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Vegetables
Start by heating your skillet over medium heat and cooking the mild Italian sausage along with diced celery and yellow onion. This step is crucial because it renders the sausage’s fat and flavors, while softening the vegetables just enough to develop sweetness without losing their texture. The aroma escaping the pan at this point is pure comfort.
Step 2: Combine Bread Cubes and Sausage Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the dried sourdough bread cubes with the cooked sausage, celery, onions, and diced apple. Tossing these together ensures the apples are evenly spread throughout, contributing their juicy sweetness to each forkful. The bread cubes serve as a fluffy sponge, ready to soak up the flavorful broth.
Step 3: Prepare the Broth Mixture
Whisk together chicken broth, melted butter, sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and beaten eggs in a separate bowl. This liquid mixture is the heart of the stuffing’s moist and rich texture, infusing every bite with savory depth while gently binding everything together when baked.
Step 4: Moisten the Bread Mixture
Pour the broth mixture over the bread and sausage bowl and toss to combine. It’s essential to distribute the liquids evenly without making the bread soggy. Add broth gradually if needed until the bread cubes are nicely moistened but can still hold their shape.
Step 5: Bake Covered
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Cover it with foil and bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes. During this time, the apples soften, the flavors meld, and the stuffing cooks through. Keeping it covered keeps the moisture sealed in, allowing the bread to absorb all the goodness.
Step 6: Finish with a Crispy Top
For that irresistible golden brown crust, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. This step adds texture contrast with crispy edges while keeping the interior soft and savory—a classic hallmark of a perfectly executed Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley over the stuffing to add a burst of color and an herbal note that brightens the flavors and presentation.
How to Serve Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is simple yet transformative, offering a vibrant green contrast and a fresh, herbaceous kick. For an extra touch, consider a light drizzle of browned butter or a few toasted pecans on top for crunch and richness.
Side Dishes
This stuffing shines alongside classic roasted turkey or baked chicken, but it also pairs wonderfully with roasted root vegetables or a crisp green salad. The balance of sweet, savory, and herbaceous notes complements earthy veggies while adding warmth to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the casserole dish: you can serve this stuffing inside hollowed-out baked apples for a stunning presentation, or even as individual portions baked in ramekins for a more elegant touch. Using fresh herbs as edible decoration or adding small apple slices on top can make your dish look as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover sausage and apple stuffing should be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, and the flavors often deepen as it sits, making it even better the day after.
Freezing
This stuffing freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep the texture intact and avoid excess moisture.
Reheating
To reheat, place the stuffing in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. For a crispy top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating. You can also microwave individual servings, but the oven method preserves texture best.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage in this stuffing?
Absolutely! While mild Italian sausage is recommended for its seasoning balance, you can substitute with spicy sausage for extra heat or even turkey sausage for a lighter option. Just adjust the seasoning to taste if needed.
Is it necessary to use stale bread?
Using dried or stale bread is ideal because it absorbs the broth better without turning mushy. If you only have fresh bread, you can dry it in a low oven for 15-20 minutes until slightly crisp.
Can I make this stuffing vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding sautéed mushrooms or nuts can help add umami and texture to keep it satisfying.
How do I know when the stuffing is cooked through?
The stuffing is done when it is hot in the center and the apples are tender. The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp if you finish it uncovered, usually after about 40 minutes covered and an additional 15-20 minutes uncovered at 350°F.
Can I prepare this stuffing in advance before baking?
Definitely! You can mix everything together and refrigerate the unbaked stuffing overnight. Before baking, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed. This makes holiday meal prep much easier.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe that combines traditional comfort with a touch of bright sweetness. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table and invites smiles with every bite. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving or simply craving a warm, flavorful side, I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own. You won’t regret adding this deliciously savory and sweet stuffing to your cooking repertoire!
Print
Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A savory and slightly sweet sausage and apple stuffing recipe combining mild Italian sausage, sourdough bread cubes, apples, and aromatic spices, baked to a golden crispy topping, perfect as a comforting side dish for holiday meals or family dinners.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 lb. mild Italian sausage
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 1 large apple, cored and diced
Base
- 12 cups dried or stale sourdough bread cubes (about 1 loaf)
Liquids and Binding
- 2–3 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup salted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ⅛ teaspoon dried ground thyme
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Sausage Mixture: Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the mild Italian sausage along with diced celery and yellow onion until the sausage is browned and the vegetables are tender and cooked through.
- Combine Bread and Sausage Mixture: Transfer the cooked sausage, onions, and celery into a large bowl. Add the dried sourdough bread cubes and diced apple, tossing everything together to mix thoroughly.
- Mix Liquids and Seasonings: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of chicken broth, melted butter, sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and beaten eggs until fully combined.
- Moisten the Stuffing: Pour the liquid mixture evenly over the bread and sausage mixture. Toss to distribute the liquid so the bread is moistened uniformly but not soggy. Add additional chicken broth in small amounts if necessary to achieve the right moisture level.
- Transfer and Bake: Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish and transfer the stuffing mixture into it. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the stuffing to cook through.
- Crisp the Top: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes to develop a golden brown, crispy top layer.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- Using stale or dried bread cubes helps to absorb the liquid better, resulting in perfect stuffing texture.
- You can adjust the amount of chicken broth to achieve your preferred stuffing moisture—less for drier stuffing, more for moist and soft texture.
- If you want a spicier flavor, consider substituting mild Italian sausage with spicy Italian sausage.
- The recipe serves 8, making it ideal for a large family or holiday gathering.
- This stuffing can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated before baking to save time on the day of serving.
