Sassy Sausages
Sassy Sausages combine sweet cinnamon apples with savory pork sausages, creating a flavorful dish perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners with a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, heat 1 cup water, the cinnamon candies, and a few drops of red food coloring until candies are melted.
- Place apple rings in the syrup; cook slowly, turning occasionally, about 20 minutes or until tender.
- In another skillet, place the pork sausage links; add 3 tablespoons water.
- Cover tightly and cook slowly for 8 minutes.
- Uncover and cook, turning sausages until well browned.
- To serve, insert a hot sausage link into the center of each apple slice.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the syrup while heating. If you can't find red cinnamon candies, red hots or a similar candy can be used as a substitute. For a healthier option, try using turkey sausage instead of pork. This recipe is a fun twist on traditional pork recipes, making it appealing for family gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sassy sausages on a platter as an eye-catching appetizer or main dish. These are great alongside a fresh green salad or paired with roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a unique combination, try serving them with Mom Miller's Bacon Dip as a dip for the apple slices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the apple slices and sausage links in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. Cover and heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sassy Sausages contains roughly 501 calories, with 16g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value) and protein (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 791mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other apple varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji. However, tart apples like the ones suggested will provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cinnamon syrup.
How do I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or serving with a spicy dipping sauce. You could also use spicy sausage links for an extra kick!
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apple slices in the cinnamon syrup ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat the apples and cook the sausages right before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).