Name: Delicious Christmas Sausage Rolls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) sausage meat or ground sausage; 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); ½ cup finely diced onion; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried sage; 1 tsp dried thyme; ¼ tsp ground black pepper; ¼ tsp salt; 1 tbsp olive oil

Christmas time is all about the joy of family, friends, and of course, delicious food. One dish that captures this festive spirit perfectly is the classic Christmas Sausage Rolls. These delightful bites are not only simple to make but also incredibly satisfying, marrying the flavors of savory sausage with a light, flaky pastry. As you prepare these rolls, the warm aroma will fill your home, evoking the cozy feelings associated with holiday gatherings.

Sausage rolls are versatile and can be enjoyed at any festive occasion, whether it’s a holiday party, New Year’s celebration, or simply a cozy evening at home. They’re perfect for sharing, making them a popular choice whether you’re hosting guests or indulging in a movie night with family. With a contrast of crispy pastry enveloping juicy sausage filling, each bite is a mouthwatering experience that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the recipe for these tasty Christmas Sausage Rolls and learn how to create this beloved holiday treat.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Sausage Rolls

Delicious Flavor: The combination of sausage meat, herbs, and spices creates a savory filling that bursts with flavor in every bite.
Simple Ingredients: Made with a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, these rolls come together quickly and easily.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Christmas, a party, or a family gathering, sausage rolls make an excellent appetizer or snack.
Freezer Friendly: You can make a batch ahead of time and freeze them, then bake directly from the freezer, making entertaining a breeze!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start whipping up these irresistible sausage rolls, make sure your kitchen is ready. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Gather all your ingredients, including the sausage meat, puff pastry, egg, and spices, to ensure a seamless cooking experience.

Having your tools handy makes a world of difference. You’ll need a skillet for cooking the onions and garlic, a large mixing bowl for combining ingredients, and a rolling surface to flatten the puff pastry. Additionally, a sharp knife works wonders for slicing the rolls, while a pastry brush will assist in applying the egg wash for that golden, crispy finish. This preparation phase is crucial to ensure each step flows smoothly as you craft your Christmas Sausage Rolls.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) sausage meat or ground sausage
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
½ cup finely diced onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp dried sage
1 tsp dried thyme
¼ tsp ground black pepper
¼ tsp salt
1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by setting your oven to preheat at 400°F (200°C). This step is essential because you want your sausage rolls to bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown color. While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the rolls from sticking, ensuring they come off the sheet with ease once baked.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onions, cooking them until they become soft and translucent—this should take about 5 minutes. Next, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. It’s important to remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Then, in a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled onion-garlic mixture with the sausage meat, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring the herbs and spices are well distributed throughout the sausage.

Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry

On a lightly floured counter, roll out your sheet of puff pastry. If it’s not already in a rectangular shape, gently trim the edges to create a rectangle approximately 10×12 inches (25×30 cm). This will give you ample surface area to work with when you form your sausage rolls and help achieve a neat appearance.

Step 4: Assemble the Sausage Rolls

Now for the fun part! Spread the sausage mixture evenly along one long edge of the puff pastry, forming a log shape. Remember to leave a small border around the edges so you can seal the pastry properly. Carefully roll the pastry over the sausage mixture, creating a tight log. Pinch the edges to seal them securely, and then place the seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. This helps keep the filling inside during baking.

Step 5: Slice and Brush

Once your rolls are formed, use a sharp knife to slice them into 1½-inch (4 cm) pieces. Arrange these on your baking sheet, spacing them out to ensure they bake evenly. To achieve that beautiful golden finish, brush the tops with the beaten egg. This egg wash will not only give a stunning glaze but also help create a crispier exterior.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the sausage rolls for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the pastry is golden brown and flaky, and when the sausage is thoroughly cooked. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be hard to resist at this point.

Step 7: Serve

Allow your sausage rolls to cool slightly before serving. They’re delightful warm or can be enjoyed at room temperature. Serve them on a holiday platter with some dipping sauces or a side salad for a festive touch.

Variations

Protein: Substitute the sausage meat with other proteins like ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Vegetables: Add finely diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with different spices such as cumin, paprika, or even chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Cooking Notes

For best results, avoid overfilling the pastry, as this can lead to leaks during baking.
If using homemade sausage, ensure it’s well-seasoned to bring out the flavors in the rolls.
These sausage rolls can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
To freeze, assemble the rolls but do not bake, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a tangy mustard or a warm cheese dip for extra flavor.
Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.

Tips

For a beautiful presentation, sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top before baking.
Always ensure your pastry is thoroughly thawed before using to avoid a tough texture.
Feel free to double the recipe; these are sure to disappear quickly at holiday gatherings.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 per roll
Protein: 12g per roll
Sodium: 400mg per roll

FAQs

Can I make these sausage rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just brush with egg wash right before baking.

Can I freeze sausage rolls?

Absolutely! Assemble them without baking and freeze in an airtight container. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

What can I serve with sausage rolls?

Sausage rolls go great with dipping sauces like mustard, ketchup, or even BBQ sauce, and are wonderful alongside a fresh salad.

Can I use other types of pastry?

While puff pastry is traditional, you can experiment with shortcrust or even phyllo pastry, keeping in mind the texture will differ.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Christmas Sausage Rolls are a festive treat that delights your taste buds and warms your heart. Whether you’re gathering with friends and family or treating yourself during a cozy evening, these rolls are bound to be a hit. Their delightful combination of savory flavors and flaky texture makes them a staple for holiday festivities. Don’t hesitate to try different variations, making this recipe your own. We encourage you to share your experiences, variations, or thoughts in the comments below. Happy cooking and enjoy the festive season with your homemade sausage rolls!