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Sausage and Herb Stuffing with Apples and Cranberries

Sausage and Herb Stuffing with Apples and Cranberries

Sausage and Herb Stuffing with Apples and Cranberries is a comforting and flavorful side dish combining savory Italian sausage, fresh herbs, crisp apples, and tart dried cranberries. This stuffing offers a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tart flavors, ideal for holiday feasts, family dinners, or as a hearty stuffing for poultry and vegetables. With warm spices, vibrant colors, and layers of taste, it’s a festive side that will delight everyone at the table.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Sausage and Vegetables

  • 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Fruits and Herbs

  • 2 medium apples, chopped (preferably tart varieties like Granny Smith)
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Base and Liquids

  • 8 cups fresh bread cubes (preferably day-old, use gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 1/2 to 2 cups warm chicken broth
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the bread cubes: Cube the fresh bread and spread it out on a baking sheet to dry slightly. This step ensures the stuffing soaks up flavors without becoming mushy, creating the perfect texture.
  2. Cook the sausage and vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and crumbly. Remove excess fat if necessary. Add the diced onion and celery, then sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Add apples, cranberries, and herbs: Stir in the chopped apples, dried cranberries, and fresh herbs such as sage and thyme. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to meld flavors and slightly soften the apples.
  4. Combine stuffing ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage and vegetable mixture with the dried bread cubes. Pour in the warm chicken broth and melted butter. Toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Bake until golden: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.

Notes

  • Use day-old bread for better texture and to prevent sogginess.
  • Fresh herbs significantly enhance the aroma and flavor compared to dried.
  • Choose tart apple varieties like Granny Smith to balance richness.
  • Add broth gradually to avoid overly wet stuffing.
  • Let the stuffing rest a few minutes after baking for easier serving.
  • For vegetarian variation, substitute sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based alternatives.
  • Nutty additions like chopped pecans or walnuts add extra crunch.
  • To spice it up, add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne.
  • Use gluten-free bread cubes for a gluten-free diet option.
  • Extra fruity twist can be achieved by adding dried apricots or fresh pears.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: sausage stuffing, herb stuffing, stuffing with apples, cranberry stuffing, holiday side dish, gluten free stuffing, savory stuffing