Sausage Skillet with Sweet Potatoes and Apples

This savory casserole combines sage sausage, sweet potatoes, and apples with warm spices for a cozy and flavorful autumn-inspired dish.

This Autumn Harvest Sausage and Sweet Potato Bake brings together the comforting flavors of sage pork sausage, tender sweet potatoes, and tart apples, all seasoned with warm cinnamon and nutmeg. Sautéed onions and garlic add depth, while a splash of chicken broth or apple cider enhances the dish with extra flavor. Baked to perfection in a casserole dish, this hearty meal is perfect for fall, offering a balance of savory, sweet, and spiced notes, topped with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.

Servings

2-4

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

40 minutes

Total Time

55-60 minutes

Fresh
1 pound Jimmy Dean’s sage ground pork sausage
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Pantry
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup chicken broth or apple cider (for added flavor)

Cooking the Sausage
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 pound Jimmy Dean’s sage ground pork sausage. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns, until fully cooked and slightly crisp. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving a bit of the rendered fat in the pan for flavor.

Cooking the Sweet Potatoes
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil if needed, then add 2 large peeled and cubed sweet potatoes. Cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and lightly brown. If needed, add a splash of water and cover briefly to help them cook through.

Building the Flavor Base
Add 1 medium finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Adding the Apples and Seasoning
Stir in 2 large peeled, cored, and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp). Season with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, salt to taste, and black pepper to taste. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the apples begin to soften but still hold their shape.

Combining and Finishing
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and pour in ½ cup chicken broth or apple cider. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 3–5 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly and the flavors meld.

Serving
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm as a hearty, sweet-savory dish.