Easy Sausage and Apple Stuffing

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Warm, hearty, and full of comforting flavors, Easy Sausage and Apple Stuffing is a holiday classic that brings together savory sausage, crisp apples, and aromatic herbs in one perfect bake. The golden-brown top gives way to a soft, flavorful interior that’s both rich and balanced. This dish doesn’t just complement a roast turkey — it often steals the show.

With chunks of rustic bread soaking up all the delicious juices from the sausage and apple mixture, each bite delivers a satisfying mix of texture and flavor. The sweetness of apples cuts through the savory sausage, while rosemary, thyme, and sage lend the stuffing a traditional touch that tastes like home. Whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving feast or looking for a cozy dinner side, this recipe delivers heart and soul in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Sausage and Apple Stuffing

• A perfect balance of sweet and savory
• Crunchy top with a soft, moist center
• Easy to prepare and scalable for crowds
• Ideal for holiday meals or hearty weeknight dinners
• Can be made ahead for stress-free hosting

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment)

To get the best results with this stuffing, you’ll need a few kitchen staples. A large skillet is essential for browning the sausage and softening the vegetables. A sharp chef’s knife helps with dicing apples and chopping herbs efficiently. Mixing bowls are useful for tossing the ingredients together before baking. And finally, a sturdy baking dish (preferably ceramic or glass) ensures even baking and a golden crust. Don’t forget a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula for stirring everything together evenly.

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Preparation Tips

Start with day-old bread or toast your bread cubes in the oven until golden — this ensures they’ll absorb the broth and flavors without turning mushy. Cook the sausage until browned but not dry, and sauté the onions and celery just until softened to bring out their sweetness. Add the apples last to keep their texture slightly firm. Fresh herbs really elevate the flavor, but if you’re using dried versions, reduce the quantities. Mix everything gently to avoid breaking down the bread too much, and bake uncovered for a crisp top or cover with foil for a softer finish.

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Ingredients for Easy Sausage and Apple Stuffing

• 1 lb (450g) ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 10 cups day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (French bread or sourdough works great)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a sweet-tart flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried)
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 large eggs
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

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Step 1: Prepare the Bread Base

Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes, tossing halfway through, until lightly crisped. This helps the bread absorb flavors without becoming soggy.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sausage and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside, leaving some of the fat in the pan for added flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables and Apples

To the same skillet, add olive oil or butter if needed. Sauté the onion and celery for about 5-6 minutes until soft and fragrant. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the diced apples and cook for 2-3 minutes until just slightly softened but still firm.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, cooked sausage, and sautéed vegetables and apples. Add the herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage) and season with salt and pepper to taste. In a separate bowl, whisk together the broth and eggs, then pour over the stuffing mixture. Toss gently until the bread is evenly coated and starts absorbing the liquid.

Step 5: Bake the Stuffing

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. For a crisp top, bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes. For a softer texture, cover with foil for the first 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden on top.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Once baked, let the stuffing rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or additional herbs for a pop of color and freshness.

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Notes

For the best texture and flavor, always use day-old or toasted bread. It holds up better to the moisture without becoming mushy. If using pre-seasoned sausage, you may want to reduce the amount of added salt and herbs. This dish can be easily customized — try adding dried cranberries, chopped pecans, or mushrooms for a twist. Also, if you prefer a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using fresh bread: Fresh bread can turn the stuffing soggy. Always use stale or oven-dried bread cubes.
• Overmixing the stuffing: Stirring too much can break down the bread, resulting in a dense texture.
• Not tasting for seasoning: Always taste the mixture before baking to adjust salt and herbs.
• Skipping the rest time: Letting the stuffing rest before serving helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to slice and serve.
• Undercooking sausage: Make sure the sausage is fully browned and cooked through before mixing.
• Too much broth: Adding too much liquid can make the stuffing overly wet. Start with less and add gradually.

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Storage Instructions

Allow the stuffing to cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil to retain moisture, for about 15–20 minutes. For freezing, pack tightly in a freezer-safe container and store for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as directed.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 310 kcal
• Protein: 13g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 580mg
• Sugar: 4g
• Fiber: 2g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of bread works best for stuffing?

Crusty bread like French bread, sourdough, or even cornbread works well because it holds its structure and absorbs flavor without falling apart.

Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the stuffing a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh before serving.

What apples are best to use?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples provide the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, plus they hold their shape when baked.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Peeling is optional. Keeping the peel adds a bit of texture and color, but peeling makes the stuffing softer.

Can I add other ingredients?

Yes! Dried cranberries, nuts, or even mushrooms can be added for extra flavor and texture.

What if my stuffing turns out dry?

Add a bit of warm broth and cover it with foil while reheating to restore moisture.

Can I cook this stuffing inside a turkey?

While you can, it’s safer and more reliable to bake stuffing separately to ensure it reaches the proper temperature.

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Conclusion

Easy Sausage and Apple Stuffing is a comforting, flavorful side that’s perfect for the holidays or any hearty dinner. Its balance of savory sausage, sweet apples, and fragrant herbs makes it a crowd-pleaser every time. With options to prep ahead, customize, and store with ease, this dish is as practical as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it at a grand holiday feast or enjoying leftovers the next day, it’s sure to bring warmth and flavor to your table.

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