British Sausage Rolls: A Crispy, Savory Classic
A staple of British bakeries, picnics, and Christmas parties, sausage rolls are flaky, golden pastries stuffed with seasoned sausage meat—simple, delicious, and perfect hot or cold. Here’s how to make them at home!
Classic British Sausage Roll Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 lb (450g) sausage meat (or high-quality pork sausages, casings removed)
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1 sheet ready-rolled puff pastry (or homemade if you’re ambitious!)
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1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
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1 tsp dried sage (or mixed herbs)
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1 tsp English mustard (or Dijon)
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Salt & black pepper to taste
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1 egg, beaten (for glazing)
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Sesame or poppy seeds (optional)
Instructions:
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Prep the filling:
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Mix sausage meat with onion (if using), herbs, mustard, salt, and pepper.
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For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of nutmeg.
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Roll it out:
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Unroll the puff pastry and cut it lengthwise into two rectangles.
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Divide the sausage mixture into two logs and place each along the center of a pastry strip.
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Shape & seal:
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Fold the pastry over the meat, sealing the edges with a fork or your fingers.
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Flip seam-side down and brush with beaten egg.
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Cut & bake:
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Slice into 2-inch pieces (or leave whole for “giant” rolls).
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Score the tops lightly, sprinkle with seeds (optional), and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 mins until golden and crispy.
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Tips for Perfection
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Keep pastry cold to ensure maximum flakiness.
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Add extras: Grated apple, caramelized onions, or black pudding for a twist.
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Serve with brown sauce, ketchup, or a dollop of English mustard.
Fun Fact: Sausage rolls date back to the 19th century and are the savory cousin of France’s pâté en croûte. Greggs, the UK’s beloved bakery chain, sells millions yearly!
Veggie Option? Swap sausage meat for mashed lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based sausage.
Best enjoyed fresh from the oven—pair with a cuppa for peak British bliss. 🇬🇧😋
Fancy a posh version? Try adding cranberry sauce or stuffing at Christmas!