Thanksgiving and other holiday gatherings wouldn’t be complete without a delicious stuffing on the table. If you’re looking for a stuffing recipe that’s both savory and a little sweet, this Cranberry Apple Sausage Stuffing will be your new go-to. The combination of apples, sausage, and cranberries offers the perfect balance of flavors, and the fresh herbs elevate the dish to something truly special. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or just because you love the flavors, this stuffing will never disappoint.
This stuffing recipe is easy to make, and it can be prepared ahead of time to reduce the hassle on the big day. It’s packed with hearty ingredients like sausage, fresh apples, and cranberries that are seasoned with rosemary, sage, and parsley. The bread cubes bring everything together with a lovely, slightly crispy texture. Plus, it’s made in the oven, so it’s perfect to bake alongside your turkey or ham.
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Apple Sausage Stuffing
Balanced Flavors: The tartness of cranberries and the sweetness of apples perfectly complement the savory sausage and fresh herbs.
Versatile Recipe: Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this stuffing is a crowd-pleaser that suits every palate.
Easy to Make: With a simple list of ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is a breeze to prepare, even if you’re new to cooking.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance, store it in the fridge, and just bake it on the day you’re serving it—making your holiday meal even easier.
Ingredients for Cranberry Apple Sausage Stuffing
Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients you’ll need to make this savory stuffing:
Bread Cubes: Choose dry, unseasoned bread cubes. While store-bought bread cubes are convenient, you can also use fresh bread and let it dry out in the oven for a few hours.
Sausage: Pork sausage adds a rich and savory flavor. You can also try using turkey sausage for a lighter version.
Fresh Apples: Use a tart apple variety like Granny Smith or a sweet apple like Honeycrisp, depending on your preference.
Cranberries: Dried cranberries add a burst of sweetness that balances the savory sausage.
Fresh Herbs: Sage, rosemary, and parsley give the stuffing its signature holiday flavor. Fresh herbs are key to achieving that traditional stuffing taste.
How to Make Cranberry Apple Sausage Stuffing
Making this stuffing is as easy as it is delicious. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create the perfect Cranberry Apple Sausage Stuffing. Whether you’re preparing it ahead of time or making it fresh on the day, these simple steps will guide you through the process.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread Cubes
If you’re using store-bought dry breadcrumbs, you can skip this step. If you’re using fresh bread, slice the bread into cubes and place them on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the bread is dried out and slightly golden.
2. Sauté the Vegetables and Sausage
In a large sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and celery, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Add 1 pound of sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Cook until the sausage is fully cooked through and browned.
3. Add Fresh Herbs and Apples
Stir in 1 teaspoon of minced fresh sage, 2 teaspoons of minced fresh rosemary, and 2 tablespoons of chopped flat-leaf parsley. Let these herbs cook with the sausage for about 2 minutes to release their flavor.
Add the diced apples and ¾ cup of dried cranberries to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the apples begin to soften.
4. Combine the Stuffing Mixture
In a large bowl, add the dry bread cubes. Pour the sausage mixture over the bread cubes, making sure everything is evenly mixed.
Gradually add 2 cups of turkey or chicken stock to the mixture, stirring gently until the bread cubes have absorbed the liquid. The stuffing should be moist but not soggy.
5. Prepare for Baking
Grease a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray. Transfer the stuffing mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.
Drizzle 4 tablespoons of melted butter over the top of the stuffing for added richness and a golden, crispy top.
6. Bake the Stuffing
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes to allow the top to become golden brown and slightly crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once the stuffing is golden and crispy on top, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This stuffing is perfect as a side dish for your Thanksgiving turkey, Christmas ham, or any holiday meal.
Recipe Tips for Success
Bread Selection: Use sturdy bread that can hold up well to the liquids. Rustic sourdough, hearty whole grain, or even a fresh baguette works well in this recipe. Avoid soft sandwich bread, as it will turn too mushy.
Customizing the Apples: You can use any apple you like, but tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet ones like Honeycrisp work best. Adjust based on your sweetness preference.
Herb Substitutions: If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about 1/3 of the amount called for in the recipe.
Freezer-Friendly: This stuffing can be made ahead and frozen. Just prepare it up to the baking stage, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Variations and Substitutions for Cranberry Apple Sausage Stuffing
This Cranberry Apple Sausage Stuffing is already delicious on its own, but there are endless ways to customize it to your taste. Whether you’re looking to cater to dietary restrictions or just want to try something new, here are some variations and substitutions that will help you tailor this recipe to suit your needs.
Variations to Try
1. Vegetarian Cranberry Apple Stuffing
Substitute the Sausage: Replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a savory, meaty texture. You can also use lentils or chickpeas for added protein.
Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to the mix for extra flavor and nutrition.
2. Gluten-Free Cranberry Apple Sausage Stuffing
Use Gluten-Free Bread: Swap the regular bread cubes for gluten-free bread. Many stores carry gluten-free bread that is perfect for stuffing, and you can use it just like the regular bread cubes in the recipe.
Ensure Gluten-Free Stock: Double-check that your turkey or chicken stock is labeled gluten-free, as some varieties may contain gluten.
3. Cranberry Apple Sausage Stuffing with Nuts
Add Nuts for Crunch: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds into the stuffing for a delightful crunch and added depth of flavor.
Flavor Profile: The nuts pair beautifully with the cranberries and apples, giving the stuffing a nutty richness that’s perfect for special occasions.
4. Spicy Cranberry Apple Sausage Stuffing
Add Spice: If you enjoy a little heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or 1 chopped jalapeño when sautéing the onions and celery. The spice will complement the sweetness of the apples and cranberries for a dynamic, flavorful dish.
Sriracha or Hot Sauce: For an added kick, drizzle some Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce over the top of the stuffing before serving.
5. Apple-Cranberry Sausage Stuffing with Cheese
Cheesy Variation: For a creamy, cheesy stuffing, sprinkle in 1/2 to 1 cup of shredded cheese (like sharp cheddar or gruyere) either in the stuffing mixture before baking or on top before the final few minutes of baking. The cheese will melt beautifully into the bread, adding richness to the dish.
Substitutions for Cranberry Apple Sausage Stuffing
You can also swap out ingredients to better suit your preferences or what you have on hand:
Sausage Substitutes:
Ground turkey or chicken sausage is a lighter option if you want to reduce the fat content but still retain a meaty flavor.
Vegetarian sausage or mushrooms can replace the meat entirely for a plant-based stuffing.
Bread Substitutes:
Use day-old French bread or sourdough instead of regular bread cubes for a tangier flavor.
If you prefer a softer texture, use soft dinner rolls instead of bread cubes.
Stock Substitutes:
Use vegetable broth if you need a vegetarian version of this stuffing.
Low-sodium stock is a good option if you want to reduce the salt content of your dish.
Herb Substitutes:
If fresh herbs aren’t available, use 1/3 of the amount of dried herbs in place of the fresh ones.
Thyme can be used instead of rosemary if you prefer a different herbal flavor.
Storing and Reheating Cranberry Apple Sausage Stuffing
If you have leftovers (or simply want to make the stuffing ahead of time), here’s how you can store and reheat this dish for later.
Storing Leftovers
Cool Down: Allow the stuffing to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation from making the stuffing soggy.
Airtight Storage: Store the leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Leftovers: To store for longer, freeze the stuffing in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Make sure to allow it to cool before freezing to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating Leftovers
Oven Method: To reheat the stuffing, place it in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the top.
Microwave Method: If you’re in a hurry, microwave the stuffing in a microwave-safe container for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through. Stir and continue heating until hot.
Slow Cooker Method: You can reheat the stuffing in a slow cooker on low heat for about 2-3 hours, adding a little extra stock if it seems dry.
FAQs On Cranberry Apple Sausage Stuffing
How to make apple and cranberry stuffing?
To make apple and cranberry stuffing, start by sautéing onions, celery, and sausage in olive oil. Once the sausage is browned, add fresh herbs, diced apples, and dried cranberries. Mix the sausage mixture with dry bread cubes, and then pour in stock to moisten. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, drizzle with melted butter, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden.
Can I add dried cranberries to my stuffing?
Yes, you can definitely add dried cranberries to your stuffing! Dried cranberries provide a sweet and tart contrast to the savory flavors of the sausage and herbs. They also add a burst of color and texture to the dish. You can add them along with other ingredients like apples and herbs for a balanced and flavorful stuffing.
What makes stuffing taste better?
To make your stuffing taste better, use fresh herbs like sage, rosemary, and thyme for aromatic depth. Adding a variety of ingredients like sausage, apples, and cranberries will enhance the flavor profile, balancing savory, sweet, and tart elements. Don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic for extra flavor. For richness, drizzle melted butter over the top before baking, and add stock to ensure the stuffing is moist but not soggy.
How to make stuffing with sausage meat and apple?
To make stuffing with sausage meat and apple, sauté diced onions, celery, and sausage in a pan. Once the sausage is browned, stir in fresh herbs and diced apples. Combine this mixture with dry bread cubes in a bowl. Pour in stock to moisten the bread, and then transfer everything to a baking dish. Drizzle melted butter over the top and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes, uncover, and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the top is crispy and golden.
What does adding egg to stuffing do?
Adding an egg to stuffing helps bind the ingredients together, making the stuffing more cohesive and giving it a slightly denser texture. The egg helps absorb some of the liquid from the stock, keeping the stuffing from becoming too soggy while ensuring it holds together when served. It also contributes to the overall richness of the dish, enhancing the flavor and texture.
Cranberry Apple Sausage Stuffing Recipe
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
1 pound sausage (pork, turkey, or vegetarian sausage)
1 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon fresh sage, minced
2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, minced
2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
1 large golden delicious apple, cored and diced
¾ cup dried cranberries
2 cups turkey or chicken stock
6 cups dry unseasoned bread cubes
4 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Sauté Vegetables and Sausage: In a large sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and celery, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Cook the Sausage: Add 1 pound sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Continue cooking until the sausage is browned and fully cooked. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Stir in 1 teaspoon minced fresh sage, 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary, and 2 tablespoons chopped parsley. Let the herbs cook for about 2 minutes.
Add Apples and Cranberries: Stir in the diced apples and ¾ cup dried cranberries. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the apples start to soften.
Combine with Bread Cubes: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry bread cubes with the sausage and vegetable mixture. Add 2 cups turkey or chicken stock, stirring to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid. The mixture should be moist but not soggy.
Prepare for Baking: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Transfer the stuffing mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Drizzle the top with 4 tablespoons melted butter for added richness.
Bake the Stuffing: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
Serve and Enjoy: Let the stuffing rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it as a perfect side dish to your holiday meals!
Notes:
Bread Choices: You can use any bread for this recipe, but it works best with a hearty, rustic bread. If using fresh bread, let it dry out in the oven before using it in the recipe.
Herb Substitutes: If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs (about 1/3 the amount of fresh herbs).
Make-Ahead: This stuffing can be made up to 2 days ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just bake it on the day you’re serving it, but give it extra time in the oven as it will be cold from the fridge.
Nutritional Facts (per serving – 1 cup):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 8g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 25mg |
| Sodium | 450mg |
| Potassium | 200mg |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 10g |
| Vitamin A | 10% of Daily Value |
| Vitamin C | 8% of Daily Value |
| Calcium | 3% of Daily Value |
| Iron | 6% of Daily Value |
Recipe Details:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Servings: 8
Calories: 250 (per serving)
Yield: 8 servings
