There is something utterly comforting about a warm, flaky pastry wrapped around a flavorful, juicy sausage filling, which is why this Sausage Rolls Recipe has become a true favorite for gatherings and cozy nights at home alike. The perfect balance of savory herbs, tender pork sausage, and buttery puff pastry creates an irresistible treat that never fails to impress. Whether you’re making these for a party appetizer or a delicious snack, this recipe brings together simple ingredients and a few careful steps to create something truly special and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right for this Sausage Rolls Recipe is surprisingly straightforward, yet each element plays an important role in crafting that delightful blend of flavors and textures. From the juicy sausage meat to the flaky puff pastry, every component contributes to making these rolls irresistible.
- 1 pound pork sausage meat: The star of the dish, seasoned and juicy, providing rich flavor and moist texture.
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed: This creates the delightfully flaky, buttery outer layer that holds everything together.
- 1 small onion, finely minced: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth to the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a gentle kick of savory warmth.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a fragrant herbal note that complements the sausage.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth and mild spice making the filling more complex.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the savory flavors and balances the sweetness of the onion.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For a touch of heat and sharpness.
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash): Gives the pastry a beautiful golden color and glossy finish.
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash): Helps achieve the perfect consistency for the egg wash.
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional): Adds a lovely crunch and visual appeal on top of the rolls.
How to Make Sausage Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Mixing Bowl
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This initial step ensures that your sausage rolls cook evenly and don’t stick, making cleanup a breeze. Meanwhile, get your mixing bowl ready for the next exciting steps.
Step 2: Combine the Filling
In the mixing bowl, bring together the pork sausage meat, finely minced onion, garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly combined. This step is crucial because it spreads the spices and herbs evenly throughout the sausage mixture, giving you a well-rounded flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Lightly flour your work surface, then roll out the thawed sheet of puff pastry. Cut it lengthwise into two equal halves. This creates the perfect size strips that will wrap snugly around the sausage filling, ensuring that every piece has that delightful balance of meat and pastry.
Step 4: Shape and Roll
Divide the sausage mixture evenly and shape it into a long log down the center of each pastry strip. Roll the pastry tightly around the filling and press the seam firmly to seal it. Placing the rolls seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet helps keep their shape and prevents the pastry from opening while baking.
Step 5: Apply Egg Wash and Add Seeds
Whisk together the beaten egg and milk to create your egg wash, then brush it over the top of the pastry rolls. This gives them that irresistible shiny, golden crust once baked. If you like a bit of texture and extra flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top before slicing the logs into individual pieces.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the sausage rolls for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed up and golden brown and the sausage inside is fully cooked through. The smell that fills your kitchen during this time will surely make your mouth water, so be sure to watch closely once they start turning golden.
How to Serve Sausage Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your sausage rolls beautifully. A small dollop of tangy mustard or a spoonful of sweet chutney pairs wonderfully with the savory filling, adding a fresh contrast. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top just before serving can also add a burst of color and subtle herbal notes.
Side Dishes
Though sausage rolls stand well on their own, pairing them with crisp side salads or roasted vegetables makes for a more balanced meal. A crunchy coleslaw or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad can refresh the palate and complement the rich sausage filling perfectly. For a cozy touch, serve with warm, creamy mashed potatoes or even a bowl of soup.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can make your Sausage Rolls Recipe party-ready in no time. Arrange the rolls neatly on a large platter with small ramekins of dipping sauces arranged around them, or skewer small rolls with toothpicks for bite-sized finger food fun. Wrapping individual rolls in colorful parchment or serving them on wooden boards can add a rustic, inviting charm to your spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover sausage rolls keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover them to maintain their flakiness but know that the pastry might soften slightly over time. They make a perfect grab-and-go snack or quick lunch option the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze assembled but unbaked sausage rolls by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freezing until solid, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to bake, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual. This method keeps your sausage rolls fresh and ready for whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
Reheat leftover sausage rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 to 12 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as that can make the puff pastry soggy rather than crisp. Using the oven helps regain the lovely flakiness and ensures the filling is warmed through without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for this Sausage Rolls Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork sausage is traditional, you can substitute with beef, chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative depending on your preference. Just be sure the meat is minced or ground to get that perfect filling texture.
Do I have to use puff pastry?
Puff pastry is preferred for its light, flaky texture that contrasts beautifully with the rich sausage. However, you could experiment with shortcrust pastry for a denser, buttery bite, but keep in mind the texture and appearance will differ.
Can I prepare sausage rolls in advance?
Yes, you can assemble sausage rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking, making them incredibly convenient for parties or meal prep. Just cover and keep chilled until ready to bake.
What dipping sauces go well with sausage rolls?
Mustard, ketchup, spicy brown mustard, or fruity chutneys all pair wonderfully with sausage rolls, adding extra layers of flavor and moisture. Try a tangy tomato chutney for a classic British touch or a sweet chili sauce for a little heat.
How do I know when the sausage rolls are fully cooked?
The pastry will be golden brown and puffed up, and the sausage inside should reach an internal temperature of 160°F to be safe to eat. You can also cut a piece to check the meat is no longer pink and is cooked through.
Final Thoughts
If you ever want to impress with something that feels warm, comforting, and just downright tasty, try this Sausage Rolls Recipe. It brings heartwarming flavors wrapped up in buttery, flaky pastry that’s hard to resist. Once you make these, they’ll quickly become one of your go-to favorites for sharing with friends and family, whether it’s a casual snack or a special occasion.
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Sausage Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 sausage rolls 1x
Description
These classic British Sausage Rolls are savory pastries made with seasoned pork sausage meat wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack, they are golden and crispy on the outside with juicy, flavorful filling inside.
Ingredients
Sausage Filling
- 1 pound pork sausage meat or sausage with casings removed
- 1 small onion, finely minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pastry & Topping
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds, optional
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
- Mix Sausage Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the pork sausage meat, finely minced onion, garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet and cut it in half lengthwise to create two long rectangles.
- Shape Sausage Logs: Divide the sausage mixture into two equal portions and shape each into a long log, placing each down the center length of each puff pastry strip.
- Wrap Sausage in Pastry: Carefully roll the puff pastry around each sausage log, pressing the edges to seal the seams tightly to prevent leakage while baking.
- Arrange & Egg Wash: Place the wrapped sausage rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Mix the beaten egg with the milk, brush this egg wash over the tops of the pastry to achieve a golden color, and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
- Slice Rolls: Cut each roll into equal-sized pieces—usually about 6 pieces per roll—making 12 sausage rolls total.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up, golden brown, and the sausage filling is fully cooked through.
- Cool & Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. These sausage rolls pair wonderfully with mustard, ketchup, or chutney.
Notes
- Keep the puff pastry cold until ready to use to ensure the best rise and flakiest texture.
- You can assemble the sausage rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake.
- Serve hot or warm for the best flavor, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauces like mustard, ketchup, or chutney.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
