Description
A hearty and comforting Crockpot Stuffing with Sausage and Apple recipe that combines savory sausage, fragrant poultry seasoning, fresh apples, and toasted bread cubes cooked slowly in the crockpot for a moist and flavorful side dish perfect for holiday dinners or everyday meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 lb ground sausage
Vegetables and Fruits
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 apples, peeled and chopped
Base
- 8 cups cubed bread, toasted
Liquids & Fats
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Seasoning
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat. This step adds rich flavor and protein to the stuffing.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and celery. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Then add the chopped apples and cook for an additional 3 minutes to combine flavors.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine toasted bread cubes, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables and apples. Pour in melted butter, chicken broth, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until bread is evenly moistened but not soggy.
- Transfer to Crockpot: Lightly grease the crockpot insert. Transfer the stuffing mixture into the crockpot and spread it out evenly for consistent cooking.
- Cook the Stuffing: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 3 to 4 hours or until the stuffing is heated through and the flavors have melded beautifully. Avoid lifting the lid frequently to retain moisture.
- Serve Warm: Once cooked, fluff the stuffing gently with a fork and serve warm as a delicious side dish for your meal.
Notes
- To make this stuffing gluten-free, use gluten-free bread.
- Make sure to toast the bread cubes before mixing to avoid sogginess.
- Adjust poultry seasoning and salt according to your taste preference.
- For a crispier top, you can transfer the cooked stuffing to a baking dish and broil for 3-5 minutes before serving.
- This dish keeps well refrigerating leftovers for up to 3 days.
