If you’re searching for a dish that combines warm, hearty flavors with a touch of sweet and savory magic, then you must try this Crockpot Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing side that’s incredibly easy to prepare yet impressively delicious. Juicy sausage, tender apples, and aromatic herbs mingle perfectly with buttery toasted bread, all slow-cooked to cozy perfection. This recipe promises to elevate your holiday dinners or weekend meals with a delightful balance of textures and irresistible flavors that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this dish is surprisingly simple, but each one plays an important role in crafting the perfect stuffing. From the savory ground sausage to the crisp apples, every element adds depth and character to this classic comfort food.
- 1 lb ground sausage: Provides rich, savory flavor and juicy texture that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the apples.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic base to the stuffing.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Contributes a fresh crunch and classic stuffing texture.
- 2 apples, peeled and chopped: Brings in a delightful crispness and a hint of natural sweetness to balance the savory notes.
- 8 cups cubed bread, toasted: The essential stuffing base that soaks up all the flavors, forming a tender yet hearty bite.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Moistens the bread cubes perfectly and infuses the stuffing with savory richness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds luscious richness and helps create a beautifully moist stuffing.
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that brings the classic stuffing flavor every bite deserves.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all other flavors.
How to Make Crockpot Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Sauté the Veggies
Start by browning the ground sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until fully cooked and slightly caramelized. Then, add the chopped onion and celery, cooking them until soft and fragrant. This step builds the savory foundation of the stuffing and infuses it with deep flavors.
Step 2: Mix in the Apples
Next, stir in the peeled and chopped apples. Cooking them just until tender helps to release their natural sweetness, which beautifully complements the savory sausage mixture without overpowering it.
Step 3: Combine Bread and Seasonings
In a large bowl, toss the toasted bread cubes with the poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. This ensures every piece of bread is perfectly seasoned and ready to soak up all the flavorful ingredients that will come next.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Add the cooked sausage mixture to the seasoned bread cubes. Pour in the chicken broth and melted butter, then gently mix everything until well combined. The bread will absorb the broth and butter, resulting in a moist, flavorful stuffing.
Step 5: Cook in Your Crockpot
Transfer the mixture to your crockpot, spreading it evenly. Cover and cook on low for about 3 hours, or until the stuffing is cooked through and the flavors have melded wonderfully. Leaving it in the crockpot ensures it stays warm and moist, perfect for serving right when you need it.
How to Serve Crockpot Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe
Garnishes
For a special touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving. Adding a few toasted pecans or chopped sage leaves can bring a lovely extra layer of aroma and texture, making your stuffing even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This stuffing is a perfect companion to roasted turkey, baked ham, or grilled chicken. Pair it with steamed green beans or a crisp autumn salad for a well-rounded and satisfying meal that will delight everyone at the table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive flair, serve this Crockpot Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe inside hollowed-out acorn squash or mini pumpkins. Alternatively, you can bake it in individual ramekins for personalized portions that look as charming as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover stuffing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it an excellent make-ahead side or a convenient way to enjoy your favorite flavors in the days following your meal.
Freezing
To freeze, place cooled stuffing in a freezer-safe container or bag. It keeps well for up to two months, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish anytime you crave it without starting from scratch.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers either in the microwave or in a covered dish in a 350°F oven until warmed through. If the stuffing seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth to restore its moist texture before serving.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a wonderful lean alternative and will still provide great flavor, just make sure to choose a variety with good seasoning to maintain that savory punch.
Do I have to toast the bread cubes beforehand?
Toasting the bread cubes is key to achieving the perfect texture. It helps the bread hold up against the broth and butter, preventing the stuffing from becoming mushy.
Can I prepare this stuffing without a crockpot?
You can bake this stuffing in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 30-40 minutes, and uncover for the last 10 minutes to get a slightly crispy top. Just keep an eye on the moisture level and adjust broth as needed.
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal because they hold their shape and add a nice tart contrast that balances the richness of the sausage.
Is this recipe suitable for large gatherings?
Definitely! The Crockpot Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe scales up beautifully and keeps warm throughout your event, making it a perfect stress-free option for holiday dinners or parties.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe is a true game-changer for anyone looking to serve up a soulful, crowd-pleasing side with minimal effort. The combination of savory sausage and sweet apples slow-cooked to perfection makes for a memorable dish that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will be your go-to stuffing every season!
Print
Crockpot Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and flavorful crockpot stuffing recipe featuring savory sausage, sweet apples, and classic autumn spices. This easy-to-make dish combines sautéed sausage and vegetables with toasted bread cubes and melted butter, then slow-cooked to perfection in a crockpot for a moist, comforting side that’s perfect for holiday meals or any cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 apples, peeled and chopped
Other Ingredients
- 8 cups cubed bread, toasted
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the sausage and vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until it is browned and cooked through. Add the chopped onion and celery to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Combine ingredients in crockpot: In the crockpot, mix the cooked sausage and vegetables with the peeled and chopped apples, toasted bread cubes, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add broth and butter: Pour the chicken broth and melted butter over the bread mixture in the crockpot. Stir gently to moisten the bread evenly but avoid making it too soggy.
- Cook the stuffing: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 4 to 5 hours, or until the stuffing is heated through and the bread has absorbed the flavors and liquid, resulting in a moist, tender texture.
- Serve: Once done, fluff the stuffing with a fork and serve warm as a delicious side dish, perfect for holiday feasts or comfort meals.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add chopped fresh herbs such as sage or thyme.
- Use day-old bread for better texture and absorption.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
- This recipe can be made vegetarian by substituting sausage with plant-based meat and using vegetable broth.
