Name: Easy Sausage and Apple Stuffing
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground sausage; 2 medium apples, chopped (such as Granny Smith); 1 large yellow onion, diced; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 8 cups day-old bread cubes; 2 cups chicken broth; 4 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and black pepper to taste

Golden, savory, and just a little sweet, this Easy Sausage and Apple Stuffing is the ultimate sidekick to any holiday feast or cozy weeknight dinner. The crispy edges of cubed bread, the sweet-tart bite of apples, and the juicy savoriness of sausage all come together with fragrant herbs to make a dish that feels both rustic and elegant. It’s hearty enough to be a meal on its own and easy enough to whip up without any stress.

This stuffing isn’t just for Thanksgiving—it’s your go-to comfort food all year round. Whether it’s a potluck favorite or a weeknight indulgence, each forkful gives you a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Plus, it makes your kitchen smell absolutely divine.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Sausage and Apple Stuffing

Perfect harmony of flavors: The sweet crunch of apples complements the savory sausage for a well-rounded taste.
Texture goals: Crispy on top, tender in the middle, with juicy bites throughout.
Versatile dish: A great stuffing for turkey, pork, or a main dish all by itself.
Meal prep-friendly: You can prep it ahead of time and bake when ready.
Crowd-pleaser: From picky eaters to foodies, everyone asks for seconds.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this comforting dish, having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable:

Large skillet: Essential for browning the sausage and sautéing aromatics evenly.
Cutting board & sharp knife: Needed for chopping apples, onions, and herbs.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl helps mix the bread cubes, sausage, and veggies together efficiently.
9×13 baking dish: The ideal size to get those perfectly crisped edges and soft center.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for gently folding ingredients without crushing the bread.

Each of these tools plays a crucial role in delivering that irresistible texture and flavor this stuffing is known for.

Ingredients for the Easy Sausage and Apple Stuffing

Ground sausage: Adds rich, savory depth and protein to the stuffing.
Apples (firm like Granny Smith): Their tart-sweet flavor contrasts beautifully with the sausage and adds a fresh crunch.
Yellow onion: A must-have aromatic that brings a savory backbone to the dish.
Celery: For added crunch and subtle bitterness to balance sweetness.
Garlic: Enhances all the savory notes and adds warmth.
Day-old bread cubes: The foundation of the stuffing that soaks up all the flavorful juices.
Chicken broth: Keeps the stuffing moist without being soggy.
Butter: Adds richness and helps crisp the top.
Fresh rosemary and thyme: Bring woodsy, herby aroma to make it feel festive and comforting.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring everything together.

How To Make the Easy Sausage and Apple Stuffing

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and crumbled. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add chopped onion and celery. Cook until soft, then stir in garlic and chopped apples. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss the bread cubes with the sausage, cooked vegetables, and herbs. Add broth gradually until the mixture is moist but not soggy.

Step 4: Season and Transfer

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer everything into a greased 9×13 baking dish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.

How to Serve and Store This Stuffing

Serve this stuffing hot straight from the oven alongside roasted turkey, pork loin, or enjoy it solo with a drizzle of gravy. Garnish with extra herbs for a fresh touch.

To store leftovers, let the stuffing cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave. You can also freeze it for up to a month—just thaw and reheat before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the stuffing a day in advance, cover it, and store in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve.

What kind of bread works best?

Day-old French bread or sourdough are ideal. They hold their shape and absorb flavor well.

Can I use a different meat?

Absolutely. Try ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage for a lighter or meat-free version.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Nope! Leaving the peel adds texture and color, but feel free to peel them if you prefer a softer bite.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute with gluten-free bread and ensure your sausage and broth are gluten-free.

How do I keep stuffing from getting soggy?

Gradually add the broth and stop once the bread is moist but still holds shape. Also, bake uncovered to allow the top to crisp up.

Want More Stuffing & Comfort Food Ideas?

If you love this sausage and apple stuffing, try out these other comforting favorites:

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole for hearty flavors.
Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta for indulgent weeknight comfort.
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole if you’re craving cheesy layers.
Hearty Italian Sausage Soup for cold-weather coziness.
Simple Cheesy Potatoes to round out any meal.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s always within reach when the craving hits!

Check out more comforting favorites on my Pinterest – Kitchen By Kate.

And if you give this stuffing a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you go classic, or make it your own with extra mix-ins? Let’s swap ideas and make every bite better together.