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Rustic Sausage, Apple & Chestnut Stuffing Casserole

Rustic Sausage, Apple & Chestnut Stuffing Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending savory Italian sausage with sweet apples and nutty chestnuts. This hearty dish is perfect for gatherings, offering a delightful medley of flavors that will warm your heart and home. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it transforms ordinary meals into extraordinary experiences, making it an ideal choice for festive occasions or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
  • 2 cups diced tart apples (like Granny Smith)
  • 1 cup cooked chestnuts (chopped)
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 4 cups day-old bread cubes (preferably sourdough)
  • 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
  • 2 tsp fresh sage (or 1 tsp dried sage)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large casserole dish.
  2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
  3. Crumble in the sausage; cook until browned (about 8 minutes).
  4. Stir in apples and chestnuts; cook for an additional 3 minutes.
  5. In a bowl, combine the sausage mixture with bread cubes and broth until just moistened.
  6. Spread the mixture in the casserole dish and bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes until golden brown.

Nutrition

Keywords: For a lighter option, substitute turkey sausage. Add herbs like rosemary or toss in dried cranberries for added flair. To make ahead, prepare up to baking, cover tightly, refrigerate overnight, then bake when ready.