A delightful casserole combining the savory flavors of sausage with the sweetness of apples, perfect for any occasion.
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even cooking.
Grease a 13x9-inch baking dish with butter.
Use a paper towel to evenly spread the butter.
In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned.
Break the sausage into small pieces as it cooks for even browning.
Add the onion, garlic, celery, and mushrooms to the skillet and sauté until tender.
Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Mix in the apples, parsley, sage, and poultry seasoning, cooking for another 2 minutes.
Adding the apples last keeps them slightly crisp.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the half-and-half, milk, chicken broth, and eggs.
Ensure the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Combine the bread cubes with the skillet mixture, then pour the liquid mixture over and toss to coat evenly.
Let the bread soak for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Spread the mixture evenly for uniform baking.
Bake uncovered for 50 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Resting allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier.