As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, it’s time to embrace the flavors of fall. One of my favorite dishes to whip up during this season is a hearty Apple and Sausage Skillet. This recipe combines the savory goodness of sausage with the sweet and tart taste of apples, making it perfect for a comforting dinner. Let’s dive in!
Why Apples and Sausage?
The combination of juicy apples and savory sausage is a classic that perfectly embodies fall. The natural sweetness of the apples balances the richness of the sausage, creating a deliciously cozy dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.
What You’ll Need
Here’s a list of ingredients for this tasty skillet dish:
- 1 pound of your favorite sausage links (Italian or apple sausage works great)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), cored and sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup apple cider or broth
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the sausage links and cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sliced apples. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the apples start to soften.
- Add Spices and Deglaze: Sprinkle in the cinnamon, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Pour in the apple cider (or broth) to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Bring to a simmer.
- Combine and Finish Cooking: Slice the cooked sausage and return it to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly.
- Serve: Once everything is cooked through, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Tips for Extra Flavor
- Apple Variety: Try using different types of apples for varying sweetness and tartness.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice for a more filling meal.
Final Thoughts
This Apple and Sausage Skillet is the epitome of fall comfort food. It’s warm, inviting, and packed with seasonal flavors that will make your kitchen smell amazing. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner at home or hosting a small gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
Happy cooking and enjoy the flavors of fall!