Why the Crockpot Sausage Stuffing Is Great Crockpot Recipe
When you think about easy, delicious meals, the Crockpot Sausage Stuffing stands out as a fantastic option.
I love how I can throw everything into the crockpot and let it do all the work. The aroma fills my kitchen, making it feel cozy and inviting.
Plus, it’s so versatile; I can easily adapt it to suit my family’s tastes. It’s perfect for gatherings, allowing me to focus on other dishes while it cooks.
And the best part? It’s a comforting blend of flavors and textures that everyone enjoys. You won’t believe how simple and satisfying this dish is!
Ingredients of Crockpot Sausage Stuffing
When you’re gearing up to make the delightful Crockpot Sausage Stuffing, gathering your ingredients is the first step in this savory journey. This recipe isn’t only loaded with flavor but is also very forgiving if you want to switch things up a bit.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone who can manage a microwave, getting these ingredients together will set you on the path to a warm, cozy meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this scrumptious stuffing:
- 1 cup onion (chopped)
- 1 cup celery (chopped)
- 1 lb pork sausage (16 oz pork sausage roll)
- 1/4 cup butter (melted)
- 2 cups apples (peeled and chopped)
- 1 1/2 cups apple cider
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 (16 ounce) seasoned stuffing mix (Bells Seasoned Stuffing Mix)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
Now, let’s chat about those ingredients for a moment. The beauty of this recipe is in the flexibility. Not a big fan of apples? You could toss in some diced pears instead.
Or maybe you want to amp up the veggie game? Go ahead and add some diced carrots or even mushrooms.
And when it comes to the sausage, if you’re not feeling pork, turkey sausage can work wonders too, bringing a lighter vibe to the dish.
Just remember, the key is to balance the flavors, so whatever changes you make, keep that delicious harmony in mind. It’s all about what makes your taste buds happy, right?
How to Make Crockpot Sausage Stuffing
Alright, let’s get into making this delicious Crockpot Sausage Stuffing. First things first, grab that 1 lb roll of pork sausage and a trusty cast iron skillet. Turn the heat to medium and toss in the sausage. As it cooks, you’ll want to break it into small pieces—think of it as a mini workout for your hands.
After a few minutes, you’ll notice it turning golden brown and smelling divine. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat because, let’s be honest, we want all the flavor without the grease, right? Once that’s done, transfer the sausage to a large mixing bowl.
Now, it’s time to add some crunch and sweetness to the mix. Toss in 2 cups of peeled and chopped apples and the 16-ounce package of Bells seasoned stuffing mix. The apples will bring a lovely sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory sausage.
Next, melt 1/4 cup of butter in the same skillet (because why dirty another pan?) and sauté 1 cup of chopped onion and 1 cup of chopped celery until they’re tender—this usually takes around 5 minutes. Pour this buttery goodness right over the sausage, apples, and stuffing mix, and give it all a good stir with a wooden spoon.
Now, for the pièce de résistance, pour in 1 1/2 cups of apple cider and 1/2 cup of water. This step is essential because it helps bring all those flavors together and keeps the stuffing moist.
Once everything is combined nicely, it’s time to stuff your crockpot. Set it on low and let it do its magic for about 4 to 6 hours. I mean, can you think of anything better than a meal that practically cooks itself while you go about your day?
Just imagine coming home to that warm, savory aroma filling your kitchen—it’s like a cozy hug. So, grab a spoon, and get ready for some serious comfort food.
Crockpot Sausage Stuffing Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
If you’re looking to enjoy a delicious Crockpot Sausage Stuffing while sticking to a low-carb diet, there are plenty of tasty substitutions and variations to reflect upon.
I love swapping traditional bread stuffing with riced cauliflower or crushed pork rinds for that satisfying texture. Instead of apples, consider using diced zucchini or mushrooms to add moisture without the carbs.
You can even replace apple cider with a low-carb broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for flavor. Don’t forget to add herbs and spices like sage and thyme to elevate the dish and keep it deliciously aromatic!
What to Serve with Crockpot Sausage Stuffing
After enjoying a bowl of flavorful Crockpot Sausage Stuffing, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside it.
I love pairing it with roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots for a touch of sweetness. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add a rejuvenating contrast.
If you’re feeling indulgent, mashed potatoes topped with gravy complement the stuffing perfectly. For a lighter option, consider a fruit salad, which balances the savory flavors.
Finally, don’t forget a warm loaf of crusty bread to soak up all those delicious juices. Enjoy experimenting with these sides!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
While enjoying a hearty dish like Crockpot Sausage and Apple Stuffing, it’s easy to overlook calorie count.
To cut calories, I often swap out regular pork sausage for turkey sausage, which is leaner. I also reduce the amount of butter or replace it with a healthier oil, like olive oil.
Using whole grain or low-calorie bread for the stuffing mix helps too. I like to add more apples and celery for extra volume without many calories.
Finally, controlling portion sizes makes a big difference. These adjustments let me savor the dish without feeling guilty about the calorie intake!