This Sausage, Apple, and Cranberry Stuffing is a must-have for Thanksgiving feasts! Packed with turkey sausage, fresh apples, dried cranberries, and savory herbs, this recipe brings together the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and hearty flavors. Whether you’re stuffing a turkey or serving it as a side dish, this stuffing is guaranteed to impress your guests and elevate your holiday table.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Additional Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 10
Key Ingredients for Sausage, Apple, and Cranberry Stuffing
This recipe uses simple, high-quality ingredients to create a memorable holiday side dish:
Ingredients:
- 3¾ cups cubed white bread: Forms the hearty base of the stuffing.
- 1½ cups cubed whole wheat bread: Adds a nutty flavor and texture.
- 1 pound ground turkey sausage: A healthier alternative to pork sausage.
- 1 cup chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth.
- ¾ cup chopped celery: Provides crunch and freshness.
- 2½ teaspoons dried sage: Delivers a classic stuffing flavor.
- 1½ teaspoons dried rosemary: Adds an aromatic, earthy note.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Enhances the savory herb profile.
- 1 Golden Delicious apple, cored and chopped: Adds natural sweetness and freshness.
- ¾ cup dried cranberries: Provides a tangy, fruity contrast.
- ⅓ cup minced fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with a fresh herbaceous touch.
- 1 cooked turkey liver, finely chopped: Optional for extra richness.
- ¾ cup turkey stock: Keeps the stuffing moist and flavorful.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and binds the ingredients.
Step-by-Step Directions for Sausage Apple Cranberry Stuffing
This easy Thanksgiving stuffing recipe comes together in just a few steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Cubes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the white and whole wheat bread cubes in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until evenly toasted. Transfer the toasted bread cubes to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the turkey sausage and chopped onions, stirring and breaking up the sausage into crumbles. Cook until the sausage is browned and fully cooked (6-8 minutes). Add the celery, sage, rosemary, and thyme, and cook for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 3: Combine the Stuffing Ingredients
Pour the sausage mixture over the toasted bread cubes in the mixing bowl. Stir in the chopped apple, dried cranberries, minced parsley, and cooked turkey liver (if using).
Step 4: Add Moisture
Drizzle the mixture with turkey stock and melted butter, stirring gently to combine. Ensure the bread cubes are evenly moistened but not soggy.
Step 5: Cool and Prepare for Stuffing
Allow the stuffing to cool completely before using it to stuff a turkey. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish for baking separately.
Step 6: Bake (Optional)
If baking separately, cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crisp.
Tips for Perfect Sausage Apple Cranberry Stuffing
- Use day-old bread: Slightly stale bread works best as it absorbs the liquid without becoming mushy.
- Customize the fruits: Swap cranberries for raisins, dried cherries, or chopped apricots for a different flavor.
- Add nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts add crunch and depth.
- Make ahead: Prepare the stuffing up to the baking step and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
FAQs
Can I make this stuffing vegetarian?
Yes! Omit the sausage and turkey stock. Substitute vegetable broth for the stock and add mushrooms or sautéed tofu for a meaty texture.
Can I bake the stuffing instead of using it to stuff a turkey?
Absolutely! Follow Step 6 for baking instructions.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the stuffing?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
What’s the best way to reheat stuffing?
Reheat in a covered baking dish in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. Add a splash of stock to keep it moist.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 236
- Total Fat: 12g (15% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 5g (25% DV)
- Cholesterol: 80mg (27% DV)
- Sodium: 548mg (24% DV)
- Total Carbohydrate: 22g (8% DV)
- Dietary Fiber: 2g (8% DV)
- Total Sugars: 9g
- Protein: 13g (25% DV)
- Vitamin C: 9mg (10% DV)
- Calcium: 47mg (4% DV)
- Iron: 3mg (17% DV)
- Potassium: 268mg (6% DV)
Conclusion
This Sausage, Apple, and Cranberry Stuffing is the perfect side dish for your Thanksgiving or holiday feast. With its hearty bread base, flavorful turkey sausage, sweet apples, and tangy cranberries, it offers a delicious balance of savory and sweet. Whether you bake it inside the turkey or on its own, this stuffing is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it for your next holiday gathering and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish!