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Crockpot Stuffing with Sausage and Apple: A Cozy, Flavor-Packed Side Dish for Any Holiday Table


  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 3hrs 15mins

Description

When it comes to holiday meals, stuffing is an essential side dish. But rather than spending time hovering over the stove, why not make it easier and just as delicious by preparing it in a crockpot? This Crockpot Stuffing with Sausage and Apple combines the savory flavors of seasoned sausage with the sweetness of apple and the earthy taste of fresh herbs, creating a dish that’s bursting with autumnal flavors. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any cozy family gathering, this stuffing is designed to save you oven space and time while still delivering that homemade, comforting taste everyone loves. With easy prep and slow cooking, this crockpot stuffing frees you up to focus on other dishes and enjoy your holiday. Let’s dive into this simple, scrumptious recipe!

 


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450 g) sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3–4 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
  • 10 cups cubed bread, dried (a mix of white and whole grain works well)
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tsp fresh sage, chopped
  • 2 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries (for extra sweetness)
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (for crunch)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread:
    • If using fresh bread, cut it into 1-inch cubes, then spread on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes to dry it out slightly. You can also leave the bread out overnight to dry naturally.
  2. Cook the Sausage:
    • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it into crumbles as it browns. Once fully cooked, transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
  3. Sauté Vegetables:
    • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. Mix Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes, sausage, onion, celery, diced apple, parsley, sage, thyme, and rosemary. Toss everything together gently.
  5. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and broth. Pour this mixture over the bread mixture and gently toss to coat. Make sure the bread cubes are moistened, but not soggy.
  6. Transfer to Crockpot:
    • Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot. Transfer the stuffing mixture into the crockpot, pressing it down gently to fit.
  7. Cook:
    • Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, checking occasionally to ensure the edges don’t burn. The stuffing should be moist with slightly crispy edges when done.
  8. Serve:
    • Garnish with additional parsley if desired and serve warm directly from the crockpot for an easy, no-fuss presentation.
  • Prep Time: 15mins
  • Cook Time: 3hrs