Sausage Rolls Recipe
Sausage rolls are a classic, savory snack that are loved worldwide for their flaky pastry and savory, juicy sausage filling. These are perfect for parties, picnics, or as a delicious appetizer. The combination of tender sausage wrapped in buttery puff pastry makes for an irresistible bite. Here’s how to make them from scratch!
Ingredients:
For the Sausage Filling:
- 1 pound (450g) ground sausage meat (you can use plain pork sausage, or seasoned sausage, depending on your preference)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried sage (or use fresh if preferred)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust depending on the seasoning of your sausage)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for a warm, aromatic flavor)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra texture)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For the Pastry:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade, chilled)
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing over the pastry)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sausage Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage meat with the chopped onion, garlic powder, sage, thyme, black pepper, salt, and nutmeg.
- Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. If you’re using breadcrumbs, mix them in as well to help bind the filling.
- Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed.
2. Prepare the Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) (or 350°F (175°C) if using a convection oven).
- Roll out your puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. If you’re using a large sheet of puff pastry, cut it into two or more rectangles (depending on how large you want your sausage rolls to be). Each rectangle should be about 4-5 inches wide and about 10-12 inches long.
3. Assemble the Sausage Rolls:
- Divide the sausage mixture into even portions (for example, 3-4 portions for larger rolls, or 6-8 portions for smaller ones).
- Shape each portion of sausage filling into a long log, about 1 1/2 inches thick, and place it along the center of each pastry rectangle.
- Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg to help seal it.
- Fold the sides of the pastry over the sausage filling, encasing it completely.
- Press the edges together to seal, and if necessary, use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative effect.
- For a neater roll, trim off any excess pastry from the ends.
4. Brush and Cut:
- Place each sausage roll seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops of the sausage rolls with beaten egg to give them a golden finish as they bake.
- Using a sharp knife, make a couple of small slits along the top of each roll to allow steam to escape during baking.
5. Bake:
- Bake the sausage rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes (for smaller rolls) or 30-35 minutes (for larger rolls), or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- The pastry should be puffed and golden, and the sausage filling should be fully cooked.
6. Serve:
- Allow the sausage rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve them warm or at room temperature. They’re great on their own or with your favorite dipping sauces, such as mustard, ketchup, or even a tangy chutney.
Tips for Success:
- Flavor Variations: You can add some finely chopped herbs, grated cheese (cheddar works wonderfully), or even a spoonful of caramelized onions into the sausage mixture to elevate the flavor.
- Freezing: You can freeze the assembled, unbaked sausage rolls for later. Simply place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at the same temperature, but add about 5-10 extra minutes of baking time.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or lentils mixed with vegetables for a vegetarian or vegan version of sausage rolls.
- For Extra Flakiness: Ensure that your puff pastry is chilled before baking, as this helps it puff up beautifully during cooking.
Why You’ll Love These Sausage Rolls:
- Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses basic ingredients, most of which you may already have in your kitchen.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From snacks to party appetizers, these sausage rolls are always a crowd-pleaser.
- Customizable: Whether you like your sausage rolls spicy, cheesy, or herby, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences.
These Sausage Rolls are guaranteed to be a hit at your next event or just as a delicious homemade treat for a cozy night in!
