If you’re searching for a heartwarming dish that fills your kitchen with the most inviting aromas and combines classic autumn flavors, this Crockpot Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a delightful balance of savory sausage and sweet, tender apples all perfectly soaked in aromatic herbs and rich broth. The slow cooker does the magic, giving you a hands-off way to create a stuffing side that’s moist, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress at any family gathering or holiday meal. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a cherished staple you’ll want to make over and over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this stuffing is a breeze because the ingredients are simple, yet each one plays a vital role in the overall flavor and texture. From the seasoned sausage and fresh apples to the aromatic herbs and hearty bread cubes, every element adds its own unique touch to this dish.
- 1 pound ground sausage (mild or spicy): Provides savory richness and a deliciously juicy base for the stuffing.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (if needed): Helps with sautéing veggies to perfect tenderness and adds depth of flavor.
- 1 yellow onion (chopped): Offers sweet and savory notes that balance the sausage and apples.
- 2 celery stalks (chopped): Adds crunch and earthy freshness, creating a great texture contrast.
- 2 apples (peeled and diced): Bring sweetness and a soft, fruity bite that complements the sausage beautifully.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic undertones.
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage (chopped) or 1 teaspoon dried sage: Contributes that classic herbaceous flavor essential in stuffing.
- 1 teaspoon thyme: Adds subtle earthy complexity.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle kick to balance the dish.
- 12 cups dried bread cubes (white, sourdough, or mix): The heart of the stuffing, soak up all the juices and seasonings for perfect texture.
- 2½–3 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Keeps the stuffing moist and helps marry all the flavors together.
- 2 large eggs (beaten): Bind the stuffing together for a cohesive, hearty dish.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and a mild herbaceous note.
How to Make Crockpot Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by cooking the ground sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s fully browned and cooked through. This step not only develops deep, savory flavor but also renders fat that adds richness down the line. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside for now.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Apples
In the same skillet, add a bit of olive oil or butter if the pan looks dry. Toss in the chopped onion and celery, cooking them gently for 4 to 5 minutes until they soften and get tender. Then, stir in the diced apples, minced garlic, fresh sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let this cook for another 3 to 4 minutes so the apples soften slightly and the aromatic herbs release their wonderful flavors.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in a Bowl
Now, grab a large mixing bowl and combine your dried bread cubes with the cooked sausage and the sautéed vegetable and apple mixture. Gradually pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the bread cubes, stirring as you go. This helps moisten everything evenly, and you can adjust the amount of broth depending on whether you prefer your stuffing wetter or a bit drier. To finish, mix in the beaten eggs which will hold everything together wonderfully as it cooks.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Lightly grease the inside of your 6-quart slow cooker to prevent sticking. Transfer the stuffing mixture into the crockpot, spreading it out evenly, then cover with the lid. Cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s done when it’s set and cooked through, with all those layers of flavor melded beautifully together. Before serving, fluff the stuffing gently with a fork and sprinkle optional chopped parsley for a lively touch.
How to Serve Crockpot Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley brightens up the dish visually and adds a subtle fresh herb note that complements the earthiness of the stuffing. If you want, toasted pecans or walnuts on top add a lovely crunch and a nutty contrast that’s irresistible.
Side Dishes
This Crockpot Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe pairs beautifully with roast turkey, baked ham, or even a simple roast chicken. Add some green beans almondine or garlic mashed potatoes on the side to make your meal feel like a full celebration. Cranberry sauce also makes the perfect tart companion to balance the savory and sweet flavors of the stuffing.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to wow your guests, consider transferring the stuffing to a baking dish halfway through cooking and broiling it for a few minutes to get a golden, crisp top. You can also serve it in mini ramekins for individual portions that look extra special on a holiday table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, place any leftover stuffing in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps beautifully and tastes just as comforting when reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze this stuffing to enjoy later by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or placing it in a freezer-safe container. It holds well in the freezer for up to 2 months—perfect for prepping ahead of time during busy holiday seasons.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, typically about 20 to 30 minutes. Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems dry, to bring back its moist texture.
FAQs
Can I use spicy sausage instead of mild?
Absolutely! Spicy sausage adds a bit of kick that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the apples. It’s a great way to add extra flavor if you like a little heat.
What type of bread works best for this stuffing?
Dried white or sourdough bread cubes are classic choices as they soak up the broth well without becoming mushy. You could also mix different breads for added texture and flavor complexity.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the bread cubes with gluten-free bread options to make this Crockpot Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing taste.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe without a slow cooker?
Sure thing! After combining all the ingredients, bake the stuffing in a greased casserole dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 to 50 minutes, until set and golden on top.
How do I get a crispier top on my stuffing?
To get that coveted crispy crust, transfer the cooked stuffing from the crockpot to a baking dish and broil it for a few minutes until the top turns golden brown and crunchy. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn!
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe is a total game changer when it comes to stress-free, flavorful holiday sides. It’s cozy, comforting, and bursting with perfect flavor harmony. I can’t wait for you to try it out—it just might become the star of your holiday feast or any family dinner. Happy cooking and enjoy every delicious bite!
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Crockpot Sausage and Apple Stuffing Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
Description
This Crockpot Stuffing with Sausage and Apple is a savory and comforting side dish perfect for holiday meals. Featuring browned sausage, tender apples, aromatic herbs, and soft bread cubes, this stuffing is cooked low and slow in a crockpot for hands-off convenience and deep, blended flavors. It’s an easy make-ahead recipe that delivers moist, flavorful stuffing with a hint of sweetness from the apples and robust seasoning from sage and thyme.
Ingredients
Sausage Mixture
- 1 pound ground sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (if needed)
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Base and Binder
- 12 cups dried bread cubes (white, sourdough, or a mix)
- 2½–3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside, draining any excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté the Vegetables and Apples: In the same skillet, add a little olive oil or butter if needed. Sauté the chopped yellow onion and celery for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add the peeled and diced apples, minced garlic, fresh or dried sage, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until the apples are slightly softened and the mixture is fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried bread cubes, cooked sausage, and sautéed vegetable and apple mixture. Gradually pour in 2½ to 3 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, stirring well to evenly moisten the bread but not make it soggy. Adjust the amount of broth based on your desired stuffing texture. Stir in the beaten eggs until fully incorporated.
- Prepare Crockpot and Cook: Lightly grease the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker using butter or nonstick spray. Transfer the stuffing mixture into the crockpot and spread evenly. Cover with the lid and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours until the stuffing is cooked through and set.
- Finish and Serve: Once done, fluff the stuffing gently with a fork. Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. For a crispier top, transfer to a baking dish and broil for a few minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- For a crispier top, transfer the cooked stuffing to a baking dish and broil in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
- This recipe is perfect as a make-ahead holiday side dish; it reheats well and actually tastes better the next day.
- To make this gluten-free, substitute the bread cubes with gluten-free bread.
- Adjust the amount of broth based on how moist you prefer your stuffing.
- You can use mild or spicy sausage depending on your taste preference.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (low) or 2–3 hours (high)
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
