Savory Baked Apples Sausage: 1 Amazing Dish

by lona
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Savory Baked Apples Sausage

Savory baked apples sausage has a way of warming my soul like nothing else, especially when the autumn air starts to bite. I remember the first time I tried making this dish; the scent of sweet apples mingling with the rich, herby pork sausage filled my kitchen, promising something truly special. It’s more than just a meal; it’s comfort in a bite, a delightful contrast of sweet and savory that’s surprisingly easy to achieve. If you’ve ever wondered how to make savory baked apples with sausage that impress, you’re in the right place. This savory baked apple and sausage recipe is a keeper, and I can’t wait for you to try it. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Savory Baked Apples Sausage

  • An incredible balance of sweet apples and savory sausage that’s simply irresistible.
  • Ready in under an hour, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a quick appetizer.
  • A healthier option packed with lean protein and fiber from the apples.
  • Budget-friendly ingredients make this a smart choice for any meal plan.
  • Kid-approved flavors that will have the whole family asking for seconds.
  • This apple sausage bake savory recipe is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
  • It’s a fantastic apple sausage bake savory recipe that feels special without the fuss.
  • A comforting and impressive dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.

Ingredients for Savory Baked Apples Sausage

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. You’ll need:

  • 4 large apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) – choose firm apples that hold their shape when baked.
  • 1 pound ground sausage (Italian or breakfast sausage) – I love using apple and Italian sausage baked apples for a touch of spice and sweetness, but a classic breakfast sausage works beautifully too.
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned) – these help bind the stuffing and add a lovely texture.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped – about 1/2 cup, for a savory base.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that aromatic flavor punch.
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped – adds a subtle crunch and freshness.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme – a classic herb that pairs wonderfully with pork.
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage – brings an earthy, savory depth.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon – just a touch to enhance the apple’s natural sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth – helps moisten the stuffing.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – season generously!
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional) – for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
  • Olive oil, for drizzling – just a little to help with browning.

How to Make Savory Baked Apples Sausage

  1. Step 1: Get your oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Grab a baking dish and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Prepare your apples. Carefully core them, making sure to leave the bottom intact so the delicious filling doesn’t escape. You want a nice cavity for that savory goodness!
  3. Step 3: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add your finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become nice and translucent, releasing that wonderful aroma.
  4. Step 4: Now, add the ground sausage to the skillet. Break it up with your spoon and cook until it’s nicely browned. Drain off any excess grease – we want rich flavor, not greasiness. This is where the magic of ground sausage baked apples savory really starts to happen.
  5. Step 5: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage mixture with the breadcrumbs, chopped celery, dried thyme, dried sage, cinnamon, and chicken broth. Mix everything together thoroughly until it’s well combined. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Step 6: Generously stuff each cored apple with the savory sausage mixture. Pack it in there so you get a good bit of sausage in every bite.
  7. Step 7: Place the stuffed apples into your prepared baking dish. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of each one.
  8. Step 8: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil. This traps the steam and helps the apples cook evenly and stay moist. Bake for 25 minutes.
  9. Step 9: After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the apples are tender when you pierce them with a fork. The kitchen will smell amazing with this ground sausage baked apples savory dish!
  10. Step 10: Once tender, remove from the oven. If you have fresh parsley, sprinkle it over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve your delicious baked apples hot!

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Pro Tips for the Best Savory Baked Apples Sausage

I’ve made this dish more times than I can count, and these little tricks really elevate it:

  • Choose apples that are firm and hold their shape, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, to prevent them from turning to mush.
  • Don’t overstuff the apples; leave a little room for the stuffing to expand as it bakes.
  • For an extra layer of flavor, toast your breadcrumbs lightly before mixing them into the stuffing.
  • A sprinkle of brown sugar on top before the second bake can caramelize beautifully.
  • Make sure your sausage is cooked through and crumbled nicely before mixing it into the stuffing.

What’s the secret to perfect savory baked apples sausage?

The real secret to perfect savory stuffed baked apples with sausage lies in balancing the sweet apples with the savory, well-seasoned sausage stuffing. Using a mix of herbs like sage and thyme, along with a hint of cinnamon, really brings out the best in both components. For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes.

Can I make savory baked apples sausage ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the stuffing and stuff the apples up to 24 hours in advance. Cover them tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just follow the instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the covered baking time since they’ll be starting from cold.

How do I avoid common mistakes with savory baked apples sausage?

A common pitfall is using apples that are too soft, leading to a mushy texture. Also, be sure not to overcook the sausage before stuffing, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Finally, ensure you core the apples carefully without piercing the bottom to keep all that delicious stuffing inside. For more tips on cooking, you might find this guide on cooking sausage helpful.

Best Ways to Serve Savory Baked Apples Sausage

These delightful stuffed apples are incredibly versatile and can be served in so many wonderful ways! For a hearty main course, I love pairing them with a simple green salad and some crusty bread to soak up any extra juices. They also make a fantastic savory baked apples sausage side dish alongside roasted chicken or pork chops.

Another favorite serving suggestion is to present them as an elegant appetizer for holiday gatherings. The beautiful presentation and the comforting sweet-and-savory combination always impress guests. You could even serve them with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness and richness. If you’re looking for more holiday inspiration, check out our holiday recipes.

Nutrition Facts for Savory Baked Apples Sausage

Per serving (1 apple):

  • Calories: 380
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 750mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific ingredients and sausage used in this savory baked apple sausage dish.

How to Store and Reheat Savory Baked Apples Sausage

Leftovers of this wonderful savory baked apples sausage dish are a gift that keeps on giving, making it a truly quick savory baked apple sausage meal solution. Once your baked apples have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to preserve them for longer, you can freeze them! Wrap each cooled apple tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. For more storage tips, consider our guide on slow cooker recipes, which often involve make-ahead components.

To reheat, you have a couple of great options. For refrigerated leftovers, you can pop them back into a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, bake them covered at the same temperature for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving is also an option for a super quick reheat, just be mindful that the texture might be slightly softer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Savory Baked Apples Sausage

What are savory baked apples with sausage?

Savory baked apples with sausage are a delightful dish where the natural sweetness of baked apples is complemented by a flavorful stuffing made primarily from seasoned pork sausage, breadcrumbs, and aromatic herbs. It’s a comforting meal that beautifully balances sweet and savory notes, perfect for a main course or an impressive side.

Can I use different types of sausage?

Absolutely! While Italian or breakfast sausage are popular choices for this savory baked apple sausage dish, feel free to experiment. A good quality pork sausage is key, but you could also try using apple and sage sausage for an extra layer of complementary flavor, or even a spicier chorizo for a bolder kick. For other sausage dishes, explore our sausage recipes.

What apples are best for savory baked apples sausage?

Firm apples that hold their shape well during baking are ideal. Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work wonderfully. They offer a slight tartness or sweetness that balances the rich sausage stuffing, preventing the apples from becoming too mushy.

Variations of Savory Baked Apples Sausage You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic savory baked apples sausage, you’ll love experimenting with different twists! For a delightful flavor profile, try using apple and sage sausage baked apples for an extra aromatic and earthy taste that pairs beautifully with the fruit. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, swap out the pork sausage for a plant-based crumbled sausage or a hearty mixture of mushrooms, lentils, and finely chopped walnuts.

You can also switch up the cooking method. Instead of baking, consider slow-cooking the stuffed apples in a crockpot for a hands-off approach, or even grilling them for a smoky char. For a sweeter stuffing variation, add dried cranberries or chopped dates to the sausage mixture, creating a wonderful sweet-savory contrast that’s perfect for holidays. For more autumnal flavors, check out our autumn recipes.

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Savory Baked Apples Sausage

Savory Baked Apples Sausage: 1 Amazing Dish


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  • Author: lona
  • Total Time: 55-60 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Savory Baked Apples With Sausage Stuffing combines sweet apples with rich sausage for a comforting and impressive dish, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. This recipe offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures with hints of cinnamon and savory spices.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 1 pound ground sausage (Italian or breakfast sausage)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • Olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Core the apples, leaving the bottom intact.
  3. In a skillet with olive oil, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  4. Add ground sausage to the skillet and cook until browned.
  5. In a large bowl, combine sausage mixture, breadcrumbs, celery, thyme, sage, cinnamon, and chicken broth. Mix well. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Stuff the cored apples with the sausage mixture.
  7. Arrange stuffed apples in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  9. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until apples are tender.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Notes

  • Adjust spices to your preference; add red pepper flakes for heat.
  • Test apple doneness by piercing with a fork.
  • Serve with gravy or a cream sauce for added richness.
  • Experiment with nuts or dried fruits in the stuffing.
  • For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage or mushrooms and lentils.
  • Add dried cranberries or raisins for a sweeter stuffing.
  • Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic boost.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • Freeze wrapped apples for up to three months; reheat in the oven.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course, Side Dish, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 apple

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