Few things in life are as joyfully moreish as British Sausage Rolls. Imagine flaky, golden puff pastry crackling beneath your fingers as you bite into savory, seasoned sausage with just the right hint of herbs – pure comfort in every mouthful. Whether you’re prepping for a party, looking for a quick lunch, or simply longing for a taste of a beloved UK classic, these rolls deliver robust flavor and nostalgia all rolled into one irresistible treat. If ever there was a reason to turn on your oven, this is it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every good British Sausage Roll begins with the simplest of ingredients, but don’t be fooled by their modesty – each one plays an essential part in achieving that iconic taste and crisp, golden look. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few tips to help every element shine.
- Puff Pastry: Thawed from the fridge, this makes the rolls beautifully golden and crisp – don’t skip the chill for maximum flake!
- Pork Sausage Meat: Opt for high-quality sausage, or remove casings from good sausages; it’s the heart of traditional British Sausage Rolls.
- Breadcrumbs: These soak up juices, keeping the filling moist without turning greasy.
- Onion, Finely Chopped: Adds gentle sweetness and keeps the sausage mixture succulent.
- Dried Sage: This classic herb brings a peppery warmth that’s unmistakable.
- Dried Thyme: Its gentle earthiness balances the flavors and lifts the sausage notes.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the sausage and herbs.
- Black Pepper: Just a dash gives a gentle heat and makes the filling lively.
- Egg (for egg wash): Whisked and brushed on top, this gives those beautiful golden tops.
- Milk (optional): Just a splash in the egg wash for extra shine and color.
How to Make British Sausage Rolls
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Tray
First things first – get your oven preheating to 400°F (200°C), giving it plenty of time to get nice and hot. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. A hot tray is the secret to perfectly crisp bases!
Step 2: Mix the Sausage Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine your sausage meat, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Don’t be shy – use your hands to mix it thoroughly, ensuring every bite will be seasoned just right and deliciously juicy.
Step 3: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Lightly flour your work surface and place your thawed puff pastry sheet down. Roll it into a rectangle, roughly 10×12 inches. This gives enough room to wrap that scrumptious filling without it bursting in the oven.
Step 4: Shape and Fill
Slice your pastry in half lengthwise to create two long strips. Divide your sausage mixture into two equal parts and form each into a log, placing them right in the middle of each pastry strip. This is what’s going to give your British Sausage Rolls that signature bakery style.
Step 5: Fold and Seal
Carefully fold the pastry over each sausage log, making sure to enclose the filling snugly but not too tight. Press the edges together firmly to seal – if you like, use a fork to crimp the edge for extra flair. Place the rolls seam-side down, which keeps them from opening as they bake.
Step 6: Slice and Egg Wash
With a sharp knife, cut each long roll into 4 to 6 pieces, depending on whether you want hearty portions or dainty nibbles. Arrange them on your prepared baking sheet with a little space between each. Whisk the egg (and milk, if using), then generously brush over each roll for that picture-perfect golden top.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until your British Sausage Rolls are gloriously golden and the filling is cooked through. Try to resist peeking too often – every time the door opens, precious heat escapes! Once baked, let them cool on the tray for a few minutes; the aroma will make you swoon.
How to Serve British Sausage Rolls
Garnishes
For a touch of color and freshness, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the warm rolls before serving. Some folks adore a dusting of flaky sea salt on top right after baking to add texture and a visual pop.
Side Dishes
British Sausage Rolls are perfectly happy as a snack on their own, but they pair marvelously with a crisp green salad, tangy pickles, or classic baked beans. For parties, set out a trio of dips like English mustard, tangy chutney, and creamy horseradish sauce to really let guests play.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the rolls on a rustic wooden board with little flags or toothpicks for sharing, or pop them into parchment pockets at a picnic. For a festive touch, make mini sausage rolls and stack them into a “pastry tower” centerpiece – they disappear fast!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have any leftovers, let them cool fully before storing. Place the British Sausage Rolls in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. This also keeps the pastry from turning soggy.
Freezing
British Sausage Rolls freeze like a dream. Lay them out on a tray to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to three months. You can freeze them either baked or unbaked – just add a couple extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from frozen.
Reheating
To bring back that irresistible crunch, reheat the sausage rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes. Microwaving works in a pinch, but you’ll miss out on that all-important pastry flakiness!
FAQs
What’s the best sausage to use for British Sausage Rolls?
Go for good-quality pork sausages with classic flavors – Cumberland or Lincolnshire are traditional favorites. Always remove the casings for a smoother filling. Flavored sausages can add fun twists, too!
Can I make these in advance for a party?
Absolutely! Assemble your sausage rolls the day before, cover, and refrigerate. When guests arrive, brush with egg wash and bake fresh. They’re also wonderful served at room temperature.
How do I make mini British Sausage Rolls?
Simply cut each long filled pastry strip into smaller pieces (about 2 inches each) before baking. Perfect for finger food at parties, and they cook a little quicker, too.
Is it possible to use other meats or make them vegetarian?
Definitely! Try chicken sausage for a lighter take, or opt for a hearty vegetarian sausage filling for a meat-free version. The same pastry and basic method work beautifully with either swap.
Why do my sausage rolls sometimes leak filling?
Make sure the pastry is well sealed, with the seam on the bottom, and don’t over-stuff with too much filling. Giving the rolls a good pinch or crimp helps keep all that goodness tucked safely inside.
Final Thoughts
If there’s one snack that never fails to spark joy, it’s a tray of warm, homemade British Sausage Rolls. With their flaky, buttery pastry and juicy, herb-flecked filling, they win hearts at every gathering and bring smiles to even the dreariest of afternoons. You truly won’t regret giving them a try – your kitchen is about to smell amazing!
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British Sausage Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These British Sausage Rolls are a classic savory pastry perfect for parties or as an appetizer. Flaky puff pastry filled with seasoned pork sausage, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet (14 oz) puff pastry, thawed
Sausage Filling:
- 1 pound pork sausage meat (or high-quality pork sausages with casings removed)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Egg Wash:
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk (optional, to loosen egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the sausage meat, breadcrumbs, onion, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Roll Out Pastry: On a floured surface, roll the puff pastry into a 10×12-inch rectangle. Cut it in half lengthwise.
- Fill and Shape: Divide the sausage mixture in half. Form each into a log and place one on each pastry strip. Fold pastry over meat, seal edges, and cut into smaller rolls.
- Bake: Arrange rolls on the baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can make mini sausage rolls for parties by cutting smaller pieces.
- For extra flavor, add a touch of Dijon mustard inside the pastry.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
