Print

Classic Moist Sausage Stuffing with Sage and Apple

A spoonful of homemade sausage stuffing with browned bread cubes and ground meat being lifted from a white baking dish.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This reliable sausage stuffing recipe delivers a moist interior and a crisp top, perfect for your holiday table. It uses classic herbs and a touch of apple for balanced flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound bulk pork sausage
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 large Granny Smith apple, peeled and diced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 6 cups dried bread cubes (sourdough or French bread work well)
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken or turkey broth
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off excess grease.
  3. Add the chopped onion and celery to the skillet with the sausage. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  4. Stir in the diced apple, fresh sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 more minutes until fragrant. Remove the skillet from the heat.
  5. In a very large bowl, combine the dried bread cubes with the sausage and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to distribute evenly.
  6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and eggs. Pour this mixture over the bread and sausage. Toss everything until the bread cubes are evenly moistened. Do not overmix.
  7. Transfer the stuffing mixture to the prepared baking dish.
  8. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is heated through. For extra crispiness, you can bake uncovered.

Notes

  • For a make-ahead stuffing, combine all ingredients except the eggs and broth. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Before baking, mix in the eggs and broth, then proceed with baking.
  • If you prefer stuffing balls, form the mixture into 1.5-inch balls and bake on a sheet pan for 20-25 minutes.
  • Use sourdough bread cubes for a slightly tangier flavor that pairs well with the sausage.

Nutrition