Few recipes embody comfort food as perfectly as Sausage Rolls. Flaky golden pastry wrapped around savory, seasoned sausage meat—these handheld delights are beloved across the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and beyond. Whether you’re preparing them for a picnic, a holiday gathering, or simply as a snack, sausage rolls never fail to please.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything about making the ultimate sausage rolls: from the best type of pastry to use, to variations and tips for perfect results every time. By the end, you’ll have a go-to recipe that can easily be customized to suit any taste or occasion.
What Are Sausage Rolls?
At their simplest, Sausage Rolls consist of sausage meat wrapped in puff pastry, baked until golden and flaky. But their appeal lies in their versatility: you can season the filling with herbs, spices, or even cheese, and adjust the size to suit everything from appetizers to main courses.
In the UK, sausage rolls are a bakery staple and often enjoyed hot or cold. In Australia, they’re a party essential. And in many countries, they’ve become a comfort food classic.
Ingredients for Classic Sausage Rolls
To make traditional Sausage Rolls, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
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1 lb (450 g) sausage meat or high-quality pork sausages (casings removed)
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1 sheet puff pastry (ready-rolled, thawed if frozen)
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1 small onion, finely diced
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1 clove garlic, minced
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2 tbsp breadcrumbs (to help bind the filling)
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1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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1 tsp dried thyme or sage
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1 egg, beaten (for sealing and glazing)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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Sharp knife and cutting board
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Mixing bowl
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Baking sheet
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Parchment paper
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Pastry brush
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Oven preheated to 400°F (200°C)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Combine sausage meat, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, herbs, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Mix until evenly combined.
Step 2: Prepare the Pastry
Unroll the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut it in half lengthwise to create two long strips.
Step 3: Shape the Rolls
Place the sausage mixture in a log shape along the center of each pastry strip. Brush the edges with beaten egg, fold over, and press to seal.
Step 4: Slice and Arrange
Cut the long roll into smaller portions—bite-sized for party snacks or larger for individual servings. Place on a lined baking sheet.
Step 5: Glaze and Bake
Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Variations
One of the joys of Sausage Rolls is how customizable they are:
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Cheese & Herb Sausage Rolls – Add shredded cheddar or parmesan to the filling.
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Spicy Sausage Rolls – Mix in chili flakes, paprika, or cayenne for heat.
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Chicken Sausage Rolls – Substitute chicken sausage for a lighter option.
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Vegetarian Rolls – Use plant-based sausage or a mix of mushrooms, lentils, and cheese.
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Breakfast Sausage Rolls – Add scrambled eggs and a touch of maple syrup for a morning twist.
Helpful Tips for Perfect
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Chill before baking – Refrigerating the prepared rolls for 15 minutes ensures the pastry stays crisp.
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Use quality sausage – The better the sausage meat, the better the flavor.
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Don’t overfill – Too much filling can cause the rolls to burst.
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Score the pastry – Lightly cutting slits in the pastry helps steam escape and gives a bakery-style look.
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Freeze for later – Sausage rolls freeze beautifully before baking. Just bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Serving Ideas
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Party Platter – Serve bite-sized rolls with ketchup, mustard, or aioli.
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Family Dinner – Pair larger rolls with mashed potatoes and peas.
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Holiday Spread – Add them to your Christmas or New Year’s Eve buffet.
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Picnic Treat – Pack cooled rolls in a lunchbox for an easy, portable meal.
Nutritional Value (Approx. per serving)
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Calories: 210
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Fat: 14 g
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Carbohydrates: 14 g
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Protein: 8 g
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Fiber: 1 g
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Sugar: 0.5 g
Values may vary depending on sausage type and pastry brand.
History and Cultural Significance
The Sausage Roll has a long history, with early versions dating back to 19th-century England. What began as a humble meat-filled pastry quickly grew in popularity due to its convenience and flavor. Today, sausage rolls are found everywhere—from bakeries to gas stations to gourmet restaurants.
In Australia and New Zealand, they’re almost synonymous with parties, and competitions are even held for the “best sausage roll.” This global love showcases their universal appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make sausage rolls ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze sausage rolls?
Absolutely. Freeze unbaked rolls, then bake directly from frozen.
Q: Can I use shortcrust pastry instead of puff pastry?
Yes, though puff pastry is more traditional and gives a flakier texture.
Q: What dipping sauces go well with sausage rolls?
Tomato ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce, sweet chili, or garlic aioli are all popular.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Easy to make with minimal ingredients
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Customizable to suit dietary needs and flavor preferences
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Perfect for any occasion – from casual snacks to holiday parties
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Kid-friendly and loved by adults alike
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Make-ahead friendly – great for meal prep and freezing
Conclusion
If you’ve been searching for a recipe that combines ease, flavor, and versatility, look no further than Sausage Rolls. Whether you enjoy them as a party snack, a school lunch, or a festive holiday dish, these golden, flaky pastries will always impress.
