As the holidays approach, many of us start to think about the delicious meals we can prepare for our friends and family. One dish that truly stands out is the Awesome Sausage, Apple, and Cranberry Stuffing. It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. Let’s dive into this fantastic recipe and learn how to create a stuffing that will be the star of your holiday table!
Awesome Sausage, Apple and Cranberry Stuffing
This stuffing is not only savory but also has a hint of sweetness from the apples and cranberries, making it irresistible. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this dish will surely impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sausage (Italian or breakfast, your choice)
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 2 cups diced apples (preferably Granny Smith for tartness)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cups bread cubes (preferably a mix of white and whole grain)
- 2 to 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth (adjust for desired moisture)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the sausage to the skillet, breaking it into small pieces. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Stir in the thyme, sage, salt, pepper, apples, and cranberries. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the apples begin to soften.
- In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes with the sausage mixture. Pour in the broth gradually, mixing gently until the bread is moistened but not mushy.
- Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep moisture in.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to achieve a golden-brown top.
This Awesome Sausage, Apple, and Cranberry Stuffing is a perfect side dish for any holiday feast, providing a comforting, flavorful accompaniment to roasted meats. Enjoy this dish with your loved ones and create wonderful memories over shared meals!