Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
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 festive, flavorful side dish that perfectly balances savory Italian sausage, aromatic herbs, sweet apples, and tart cranberries. This comforting recipe combines toasted day-old bread cubes with a blend of vegetables, fresh herbs, and juicy fruits to create a textured and aromatic stuffing perfect for holiday meals or cozy family dinners.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Meat

  • 1 pound Italian sausage

Produce

  • 2 medium fresh apples, chopped
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 cup diced onions
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Bakery

  • 8 cups day-old rustic bread cubes (French or sourdough)

Dairy

  • 4 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces

Liquids

  • 2 cups warmed chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Cut day-old bread into bite-sized cubes and spread evenly on a baking sheet. Toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until lightly dry but not browned, ensuring the bread holds up well when mixed with wet ingredients.
  2. Cook the Sausage and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside. Add diced onions and celery to the same pan and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook briefly to deepen flavor.
  3. Combine Fresh Ingredients: Add chopped apples and dried cranberries to the skillet with the cooked vegetables. Stir and cook for a few minutes to release their flavors. Mix in fresh herbs—sage, thyme, and rosemary—for aromatic earthiness.
  4. Mix Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, cooked sausage, and vegetable-fruit-herb mixture. Gradually pour in warmed chicken broth while stirring gently until the bread is moistened but not soggy. Dot the mixture with butter pieces for richness.
  5. Bake the Stuffing: Transfer the stuffing mixture to a buttered baking dish. Cover loosely with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and crisp.

Notes

  • Use day-old bread to absorb flavors without becoming mushy.
  • Season gradually with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to avoid over-seasoning.
  • Toast the bread cubes to add texture and prevent sogginess.
  • Fresh herbs provide a more vibrant flavor but dried herbs may be used in a pinch, using one-third the amount.
  • Let the stuffing rest a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  • Choose good-quality sausage for the best flavor profile.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free bread)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: stuffing, sausage stuffing, holiday stuffing, apple stuffing, cranberry stuffing, herb stuffing, Christmas side dish, Thanksgiving side dish