Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Kids Apple Sausage Stuffing! Imagine a dish that perfectly blends the savory richness of sausage, the sweet crunch of apples, and the comforting warmth of herbs - all in one delectable side that will have both kids and adults asking for more. This isn't just a stuffing; it's a flavor explosion that turns any meal into a memorable feast that will have your family gathering around the table with excitement!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb sausage
- 4 cups bread cubes
- 1 apple, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp sage
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and has developed a golden color, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet using a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the pan. Transfer the sausage to a large mixing bowl.
- In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onions in the sausage fat until they become translucent and slightly soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the chopped apple to the onions and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the apple to soften slightly and absorb the flavors.
- Transfer the onion and apple mixture to the bowl with the cooked sausage.
- Add the bread cubes, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Gently mix all ingredients to combine evenly.
- Slowly pour the chicken broth over the mixture, stirring carefully to ensure the bread cubes are moistened but not soggy.
- Transfer the stuffing mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes to create a crispy, golden top.
- Remove from the oven and let the stuffing rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the stuffing to set.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: Use day-old bread for the best texture. Slightly stale bread absorbs flavors better and prevents a mushy stuffing.
- Don't Oversoak: Add chicken broth gradually and mix carefully. You want the bread moistened, not drowning.
- Crumble Sausage Finely: Break the sausage into small, uniform pieces for even distribution of flavor.
- Layer Flavors: Sauté onions and apples in the sausage fat to enhance the overall taste profile.
- Crispy Top Secret: Removing the foil in the last 10 minutes ensures a golden, crispy surface that adds delightful texture.
- Let It Rest: Always allow the stuffing to sit for 5 minutes after baking to help it set and intensify flavors.Pro Tip: For extra kid-friendliness, you can finely dice the apples to make them less noticeable for picky eaters!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 45mg
