This savory sausage and apple stuffing is a delightful twist on the classic holiday side dish. Combining the richness of sausage with the sweetness of apples, it’s a dish that brings together diverse flavors and textures, making it a favorite at Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings. The blend of spices, herbs, and bread cubes creates a comforting and hearty accompaniment to any main course, and it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of the year.
Servings: Serves 8 people.
Appliances/Utensils:
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb sausage (pork or turkey), casings removed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 medium apples, cored and diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Cut the loaf of bread into 1-inch cubes using sharp knives on a cutting board.
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Cook the sausage in a large frying pan over medium heat, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon and spatula, until it is browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
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Melt the butter in the same large frying pan and add the diced apples, onion, and celery. Sauté until they are softened, about 5 minutes.
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Add the minced garlic, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the pan, and cook for an additional minute.
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Combine the cooked sausage, apple mixture, and bread cubes in a mixing bowl.
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Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the mixture, add the chopped parsley, and then stir in the beaten eggs until everything is well combined.
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Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it out evenly.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crisp.
Tips and Suggestions:
- For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth.
- Add a handful of dried cranberries or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste; more herbs can enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve alongside roasted turkey or chicken.
- Garnish with additional fresh parsley for a burst of color.
Estimated Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour