Stuffing is a beloved holiday side dish, but this Sausage, Apple, and Cranberry Stuffing takes it to the next level. With a savory base of sausage, the sweetness of apples, and the tartness of cranberries, this recipe balances flavours beautifully. It’s hearty, festive, and sure to impress at Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
Awesome Sausage, Apple, and Cranberry Stuffing:
The combination of textures makes this stuffing irresistible. Soft bread cubes soak up the sausage juices, apples add a gentle crunch, and cranberries bring a burst of flavour. Whether you bake it inside the turkey or in a casserole dish, this recipe delivers richness and comfort in every bite.
History of Stuffing:
Stuffing has been part of feasts for centuries, with records dating back to Roman times. In America, stuffing became a Thanksgiving tradition, often prepared with bread, herbs, and vegetables. Over time, regional variations added unique ingredients like sausage, fruit, and nuts. This version, with apples and cranberries, reflects both New England flavors and holiday cheer.
Subscribe to our youtube channel Kitchenpedia for more delicious recipes and hit the like button if you enjoyed this youtubevideo. Share it with your friends and Family.
Awesome Sausage, Apple, and Cranberry Stuffing
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground sausage
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 apples, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 10 cups cubed bread (day-old works best)
- 2 cups chicken or turkey stock
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tsp poultry seasoning
- 1 tsp dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook sausage in a skillet until browned, then remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté onion and celery until softened.
- Stir in apples and cook 2–3 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, sausage, vegetables, apples, and cranberries.
- Add seasonings, melted butter, and stock. Toss until bread is moistened.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake another 15–20 minutes until golden brown.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- Day-old bread works best to absorb flavours.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for balance.
- Fresh or frozen cranberries can replace dried ones.
- Adjust stock to get the desired moistness.
- Can be baked inside turkey or separately.
Tips for Cranberry Stuffing:
- Toast bread cubes for extra flavour.
- Use chicken sausage for a lighter option.
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Prepare ahead and refrigerate, then bake before serving.
- Double the recipe for large gatherings.
FAQ’s for Awesome Sausage, Apple:
Q:Can I make this stuffing vegetarian?
Yes, skip the sausage and use vegetable broth.
Q:Can I prepare it the night before?
Yes, assemble ahead and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Q:What bread is best?
French bread, sourdough, or cornbread work well.
Q:Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze for up to 2 months and reheat in the oven.
Q:Can I use fresh cranberries?
Yes, chop and add them for a tart flavour.
Conclusion:
This Sausage, Apple, and Cranberry Stuffing is a perfect blend of savoury, sweet, and tangy. It’s hearty, flavourful, and makes a standout addition to any holiday meal. Easy to prepare and full of seasonal ingredients, it’s guaranteed to become a family favourite at your Thanksgiving or Christmas table.