Christmas Sausage Rolls Recipe

If you’re looking to bring some festive cheer to your holiday table, this Christmas Sausage Rolls Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines the savory richness of pork sausage meat with warm herbs and a hint of garlic, all wrapped in the perfect marriage of flaky puff pastry and tender shortcrust. Whether you’re making a snack for a party or a cozy family gathering, these sausage rolls feel like a warm hug on a plate, full of seasonal flavors that everyone will adore. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Christmas Sausage Rolls Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role: from the herbs that add depth, to the pastries that create a flaky, buttery exterior, every flavor and texture harmonizes beautifully.

• 500 g pork sausage meat: Choose good-quality sausage meat for juicy, flavorful filling.
• 200 g shortcrust pastry: Adds a tender, crumbly texture to the base of the roll.
• 200 g puff pastry: Offers that classic flaky, golden finish that makes sausage rolls irresistible.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Sweated down to bring sweet, mellow notes to the filling.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a gentle savory kick without overwhelming the dish.
• 1 tsp dried sage: A traditional Christmas herb that complements the pork beautifully.
• 1 tsp dried thyme: Adds an earthy, fresh flavor to brighten the mix.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper: Provides subtle warmth and spice.
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Ensures a shiny, golden crust that looks as good as it tastes.
• Flour, for dusting: Keeps your rolling surface smooth and prevents sticking.
• Optional: 100g cooked cranberry sauce or chutney: A sweet and tangy touch that brightens the sausage filling with a festive twist.

How to Make Christmas Sausage Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Tray

Start by heating your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper to keep your sausage rolls from sticking and to make cleanup a breeze. This initial prep sets you up for smooth cooking and easy handling.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Gently cook the chopped onion and minced garlic in a skillet over medium heat until they become soft and translucent. This step unlocks their sweetness and mellows the sharpness of garlic, which adds a fantastic base flavor to the sausage mixture. Let them cool slightly before mixing.

Step 3: Combine the Filling

In a large bowl, take the pork sausage meat and fold in your sautéed onion and garlic. Sprinkle in the dried sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the herbs and seasoning are evenly distributed – this is where your Christmas Sausage Rolls Recipe really starts to come alive with flavor.

Step 4: Roll Out the Pastry

Lightly dust your workspace with flour and roll out the shortcrust pastry until it’s about 0.5cm thick. Cut it into rectangles roughly 10cm by 15cm. The shortcrust will provide a delicate base that contrasts wonderfully with the puff pastry topping.

Step 5: Fill and Add a Festive Twist

Place a generous spoonful of the sausage mixture along one edge of each pastry rectangle. If you want to elevate your rolls, spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce or chutney before adding the sausage. This optional step gives a pop of tartness that feels so festive and special.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Carefully roll the pastry over the filling, sealing the edges with a little water. Make sure to press the seam edges firmly to avoid any filling leakage while baking. Position the rolls seam side down on your prepared baking tray to help them hold their shape as they cook.

Step 7: Repeat and Space Out

Continue rolling and sealing each rectangle until all the filling is used, spacing the sausage rolls apart on the tray so they bake evenly and get that perfect golden finish on all sides.

Step 8: Add the Golden Touch

Brush each roll with beaten egg, which will give you a glossy, mouth-watering crust. This step is simple but transforms your Christmas Sausage Rolls Recipe into a golden masterpiece that looks incredibly inviting.

Step 9: Bake Until Perfect

Place the tray in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Watch closely as the rolls puff up and turn a rich golden brown. They smell amazing when baked, so it’s hard to wait – but patience pays off with that perfect crust and juicy filling.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool just slightly so you don’t burn yourself. These sausage rolls are best enjoyed warm but not piping hot, making them perfect for sharing at any festive occasion.

How to Serve Christmas Sausage Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate these sausage rolls beautifully. Try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or a few sprigs of thyme on the serving platter. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also complement the herbal flavors inside the rolls perfectly.

Side Dishes

Serve your sausage rolls alongside a fresh winter salad with tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness, or offer a bowl of hot mulled wine or spiced apple cider for that ultimate cozy experience. Crispy roasted vegetables or a creamy mashed potato make hearty accompaniments for a festive meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday parties, slice the sausage rolls into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a festive platter lined with evergreen branches or holly for a charming presentation. You could also serve them with individual dipping bowls filled with mustard, chutney, or cranberry sauce to keep things interactive and fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any sausage rolls left over, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They will remain delicious, and the flavors often deepen after a day, making them even better as quick snacks or next-day lunches.

Freezing

To enjoy this Christmas Sausage Rolls Recipe any time, freeze uncooked sausage rolls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. You can also freeze fully baked rolls and reheat later for convenience.

Reheating

Reheat your sausage rolls in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, which can make the pastry soggy. This way, you’ll keep them tasting fresh and flaky like they just came from the oven.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! While pork sausage meat is traditional and flavorful, you can experiment with beef, turkey, or even vegetarian sausage options. Just keep in mind that cooking times and flavor may vary slightly.

What’s the difference between shortcrust and puff pastry in this recipe?

Shortcrust pastry gives a crumbly, tender base that holds the sausage mixture nicely, while puff pastry is light and flaky, creating a golden, crispy top layer. Using both provides a delightful contrast in textures.

Is there a way to make these sausage rolls in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the rolls and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it super convenient for holiday entertaining or preparing ahead for a party.

Can I omit the cranberry sauce or chutney?

Definitely. The cranberry sauce or chutney is optional but adds a lovely sweet and tangy note. If you prefer a more traditional sausage roll, feel free to skip this step and enjoy the savory flavors on their own.

How can I make these sausage rolls vegetarian?

Substitute the pork sausage meat with a plant-based or vegetarian sausage alternative. Add finely chopped mushrooms, lentils, or vegetables to bulk up the mix, and adjust seasoning to taste for a festive vegetarian twist on the classic.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about homemade sausage rolls that brings people together, especially during the holidays, and this Christmas Sausage Rolls Recipe delivers just that. It’s simple enough for any level of cook but impressive enough to wow your guests. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a new festive favorite at your gatherings!

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