Dinner

Roasted Goose with Apple and Onion Stuffing

Name: Roasted Goose with Apple and Onion Stuffing
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 3 h
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 whole goose; Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 2 sprigs 2–3 fresh thyme or rosemary; 1 cup water or stock; 3 medium apples; 2 large onions, finely chopped; 2 tbsp goose fat or butter; 2 cups breadcrumbs; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried sage; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp nutmeg; Salt and pepper, to taste

August 27, 2025

Servings: 6 Total Time: 3 hrs Difficulty: Beginner

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Introduction

When it comes to festive meals and grand celebrations, nothing quite compares to the timeless elegance of a roasted goose. This Roasted Goose with Apple and Onion Stuffing is a traditional European-inspired dish that combines the rich, succulent flavor of goose with a fragrant stuffing of sweet apples, savory onions, fresh herbs, and breadcrumbs. The slow roasting allows the fat to render beautifully, creating crisp golden skin while keeping the meat juicy and tender.

This recipe isn’t just food—it’s a centerpiece dish that brings family and friends together. Goose has long been a holiday tradition in many cultures, especially in Germany, Austria, and England, often gracing Christmas, New Year, and other festive tables. The sweet-and-savory stuffing perfectly complements the gamier taste of goose, while the natural fat bastes the bird as it roasts, ensuring every bite is flavorful and moist.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it feels like stepping back into old-world holiday traditions. Goose is less common than turkey or chicken, which makes it feel extra special. The apple and onion stuffing adds a lovely balance of sweetness and savory depth, making each bite comforting yet sophisticated. It’s not just a meal—it’s an experience. Preparing and serving roasted goose feels like creating a memory at the table, and the aroma alone fills the house with festive cheer.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

A show-stopping centerpiece for festive gatherings.
Richer flavor than turkey or chicken.
The stuffing combines perfectly with the natural goose drippings.
A traditional dish that brings a touch of history and heritage to the table.
Perfect for Christmas, New Year’s feasts, or special winter dinners.

Preparation & Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes – 3 hours (depending on bird size)
Total Time: ~3 hours
Resting Time: 15–20 minutes before carving

Servings & Nutritional Info

Servings: 6–8 people
Calories (per serving, with stuffing): ~600–750 kcal (goose is naturally fatty, but much of the fat is rendered out during roasting)

Cuisine & Course

Cuisine: European (German/British inspired)
Course: Main Course / Festive Dinner

Ingredients

For the Goose:

1 whole goose (10–12 lbs), cleaned and giblets removed
Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
2–3 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary
1 cup water or stock (for roasting pan)

For the Apple and Onion Stuffing:

3 medium apples (Granny Smith or other tart variety), peeled and diced
2 large onions, finely chopped
2 tbsp goose fat or butter
2 cups breadcrumbs (fresh or dried)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried sage (or 1 tbsp fresh, chopped)
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp nutmeg
Salt and pepper, to taste

Simple Cooking Directions

Make stuffing with apples, onions, herbs, and breadcrumbs.
Stuff goose cavity lightly and season skin.
Roast in oven at 350°F (175°C), basting with rendered fat.
Let rest before carving and serve with stuffing.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Goose

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Remove excess fat from the goose cavity (save it for roasting potatoes later).
Pat dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper, inside and out.

Step 2: Make the Stuffing

Heat goose fat or butter in a pan, sauté onions and garlic until soft.
Add diced apples and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
Stir in breadcrumbs, sage, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Let cool slightly before stuffing into goose cavity (don’t overpack, as stuffing expands).

Step 3: Roast the Goose

Place goose breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Add 1 cup water or stock to pan.
Roast for 2.5–3 hours (about 15 minutes per pound).
Pierce skin occasionally with a fork to release fat (careful not to pierce meat).
Baste with rendered fat every 30–40 minutes for crispy skin.
Goose is done when internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C) at thickest part.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Remove goose from oven, tent loosely with foil, and let rest 15–20 minutes.
Carve and serve with apple-onion stuffing and pan drippings.

How to Serve

Serve carved goose slices with apple and onion stuffing.
Pair with roasted potatoes (preferably cooked in goose fat), braised red cabbage, or glazed carrots.
A rich gravy made from pan drippings elevates the dish beautifully.
Wine pairing: full-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir, Merlot, or Syrah.

Additional Recipe Tips

Save the goose fat—it’s liquid gold for roasting potatoes and vegetables.
Don’t overstuff the cavity; stuffing expands during cooking.
For extra crispy skin, rub the goose with lemon juice before seasoning.
Roast on a rack so the fat drains away, preventing sogginess.

Variations

Fruitier Stuffing: Add dried cranberries, prunes, or raisins to the apple-onion mix.
Savory Twist: Add sausage or chestnuts to the stuffing for more depth.
Herb Lovers: Add rosemary, marjoram, or parsley for a greener, fresher flavor.

Freezing & Storage

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Goose meat freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Cover with foil and warm gently in oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.

Special Equipment Needed

Roasting pan with rack
Meat thermometer
Sharp carving knife
Basting brush or spoon

Conclusion

The Roasted Goose with Apple and Onion Stuffing is a dish that’s steeped in tradition and bursting with rich, satisfying flavors. It’s a true celebration meal, perfect for creating unforgettable holiday memories. The crisp golden skin, tender meat, and fragrant stuffing make it a showstopper at any table. Whether you’re honoring family traditions or creating new ones, this recipe is a must-try for your next festive feast.

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