Caramelized Fennel & Apple Casserole with Taleggio and Toasted Almonds

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. This will ensure it's hot and ready by the time you need it.

2. Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a teaspoon of olive oil. Crumble in the fennel sausage and cook for about 5 minutes until it's no longer pink and crumbles into popcorn-sized pieces.

3. Cook the Garlic and Chili Flakes

Reduce the heat to medium-low, then add another tablespoon of olive oil and the smashed garlic cloves. Cook the garlic for about 5 minutes until it becomes fragrant and golden. Add the dried chile flakes and toast them for a few seconds to release their aroma.

4. Steam the Fennel

Add the fennel slices to the skillet and pour in ⅓ cup of water. Cover the skillet and let the fennel steam for about 10 minutes, until it's three-quarters cooked and the water has evaporated.

5. Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and add the thinly sliced apple, toasted almonds, fresh thyme leaves, and half of the Taleggio cheese. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together so the ingredients are evenly distributed.

6. Transfer to Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture to a 2- to 3-quart baking dish. Scatter the remaining Taleggio cheese pieces on top. Sprinkle the dried breadcrumbs over the casserole and dot with small pieces of the unsalted butter.

7. Bake the Casserole

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the cheese begins to melt and sizzle, creating a delectable golden crust on top.

8. Rest and Serve

Once baked, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy your Caramelized Fennel & Apple Casserole with Taleggio and Toasted Almonds warm from the oven.