Introduction
Autumn brings with it a bounty of flavors that are warm, comforting, and utterly satisfying. One dish that beautifully captures the essence of the season is the Skillet Cheesy Apple & Sage Sausage Gratin. This delightful combination marries savory and sweet, bringing together succulent sausage, crisp apples, and fragrant sage in a bubbling, cheesy masterpiece. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, this gratin not only showcases the comforting qualities of classic comfort food but also highlights the wonderful ingredients of fall.
Imagine the crispy edges of golden cheese melding with tender chunks of sausage and juicy apple slices, all anchored by the earthy aroma of sage. This dish is a celebration of textures and tastes—from crispy to creamy, salty to sweet—creating a harmonious symphony in every bite. Grab your cast-iron skillet and prepare to indulge in a dish that will warm your heart and fill your kitchen with enticing aromas. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how easy it is to whip up this autumnal delight!
Ingredients
- 1 lb sage sausage, casings removed
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 2-3 medium potatoes)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried sage)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
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- Begin by heating the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Then add the garlic and cook for another minute.
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- Add the sage sausage to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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- Once the sausage is cooked, layer the sliced potatoes evenly over the sausage mixture in the skillet. Then, layer the sliced apples on top of the potatoes.
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- In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, and additional seasoning if desired. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the skillet.
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- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly across the top.
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- Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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- Remove the lid and turn on the broiler to high. Broil the gratin for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
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- Carefully remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this warm, comforting dish with a sprinkle of additional sage if desired!
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Sausage: 1 pound of apple and sage sausage, either fresh or precooked, sliced or crumbled.
- Potatoes: 2-3 medium-sized Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, thinly sliced.
- Cheese: 1-2 cups of shredded cheese (such as sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or fontina) for a rich, gooey texture.
- Onions: 1 medium onion, thinly sliced to add sweetness and depth.
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced for added flavor.
- Broth: 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth to enhance the savory elements.
- Cream: 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy, luscious sauce.
- Fresh Sage: 1 tablespoon of fresh sage leaves, chopped (or 1 teaspoon of dried sage) to infuse a fragrant herbaceous note.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
- Olive Oil or Butter: For sautéing the onions and sausage.
- Breadcrumbs (optional): For a crunchy topping, if desired.
These key ingredients will come together to create a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any gathering or cozy night in!
Baking Process
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your gratin will cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden crust.
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Prepare the Skillet: In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your sage sausage. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally for even browning.
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Add Apples: Once the sausage is fully cooked, add the sliced apples to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the apples begin to soften. The combination of the savory sausage and sweet apples will create a wonderful balance of flavors.
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Mix in Cream: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and additional chopped sage if desired.
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Incorporate Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and fold in half of the shredded cheese until melted and well combined. Reserve the other half for topping.
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Layer for Gratin: Spread the mixture out evenly in the skillet. This will create a nice base for the cheese to form a crust.
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Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. If you like a bit of crunch, consider adding breadcrumbs for an extra layer of texture.
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Bake: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent over-browning.
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Let it Rest: Once finished baking, remove the skillet from the oven and allow the gratin to rest for about 5-10 minutes. This will help it set and make serving easier.
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Serve Up: Garnish with additional fresh sage leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your delicious Skillet Cheesy Apple & Sage Sausage Gratin warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of savory and sweet in every bite!
Serving Suggestions
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Pair with a Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the gratin. Consider adding elements like sliced apples or toasted nuts for added texture and flavor.
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Serve with Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or ciabatta is perfect for soaking up any delicious gooey cheese and sauce left on your plate.
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Complementary Beverage: A glass of chilled white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, or a crisp hard cider can enhance the savory and sweet flavors of the dish. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling apple juice or a refreshing iced tea.
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Breakfast Twist: Serve smaller portions as a brunch dish alongside sunny-side-up eggs or poached eggs for a delightful twist on breakfast.
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Garnish for Flair: Finish off the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional sage leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.
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Leftover Ideas: If you have any leftovers, consider using the gratin as a filling for wraps or sandwiches, or mix it into scrambled eggs for a quick breakfast the next day.
Enjoy your Skillet Cheesy Apple & Sage Sausage Gratin with these delightful serving suggestions, making it a versatile dish for any occasion!
Conclusion
This Skillet Cheesy Apple & Sage Sausage Gratin is a delightful dish that beautifully marries savory and sweet flavors, making it a perfect comfort food option for any occasion. The combination of hearty sausage, tender apples, and aromatic sage, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce, creates a warm and inviting meal that’s sure to please a crowd.
Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a brunch gathering, this gratin is not only simple to prepare but also offers a stunning presentation straight from the skillet. Don’t forget to pair it with a crisp salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. Enjoy discovering the wonderful combination of tastes and textures in this heartwarming dish! Bon appétit!
