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Festive pastry rolls filled with herby sausage meat make a crowdpleasing treat that’s perfect for holiday gatherings and casual parties. This recipe combines simple ingredients into an irresistible finger food that always disappears fast.
I first made these sausage rolls for a family Christmas brunch and they were such a hit that they became a must have every year. The golden, flaky pastry paired with savory meat always brings smiles.
Ingredients
- Sausage meat: One pound of sausage meat – the star protein choose good quality, freshly made if possible for best flavor and texture
- Puff pastry: One package of puff pastry, thawed – provides the flaky, buttery crust keep it cold until ready to roll to maintain its layers
- Egg: One egg, beaten – used as an egg wash to give a beautiful golden shine and help seal the pastry edges
- Dried herbs: One teaspoon dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary – these elevate the flavor with warm, woodsy notes opt for fresh herbs if you have them for a brighter taste
- Salt and pepper: Salt and pepper to taste – basics to season the sausage mix just right
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 Celsius).
- Roll out pastry:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry gently until smooth and even without pressing too hard to keep it light and flaky.
- Cut pastry:
- Cut the pastry into rectangles roughly four by six inches — these will be the perfect size for sausage rolls that are easy to hold and eat.
- Mix filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sausage meat with the dried herbs and seasoning. Mix everything thoroughly using your hands or a spoon until the herbs are evenly incorporated.
- Portion filling:
- Place a spoonful of the sausage meat mixture at one end of each pastry rectangle.
- Roll and seal:
- Roll the pastry tightly around the sausage filling to form logs, making sure to seal the edges with the beaten egg to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Arrange on baking sheet:
- Arrange the sausage rolls spaced apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Egg wash:
- Brush the tops of each roll generously with the beaten egg. This step is essential for a shiny, appealing golden crust.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the pastry is puffed up and beautifully golden brown.
- Cool:
- Let the sausage rolls cool for several minutes after baking; this helps the filling set and makes them easier to handle and enjoy.
I love the flavor punch that dried herbs bring to these rolls. Rosemary gives a lovely festive scent that reminds me of holiday evenings spent with family around the fire. Making these with my kids has become a cherished tradition where everyone gets involved in the rolling and brushing.
Storage Tips
Store leftover sausage rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in a low oven to keep the pastry crisp. These sausage rolls freeze well before baking so you can prepare them ahead and bake fresh on demand.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap the sausage meat for any ground pork or even a mix of pork and beef for different flavors. Fresh herbs can replace dried if you adjust the quantity slightly, using about three times as much. Use whole wheat puff pastry for a nuttier, heartier crust.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sausage rolls hot or at room temperature alongside mustard or a simple yogurt dip. They also pair nicely with a crisp winter salad or roasted vegetables to round out a holiday spread.
These sausage rolls are an effortless festive snack that disappears fast. Serve them warm and enjoy.
Your Recipe Questions Answered
- → What herbs work best with sausage for these rolls?
Dried thyme or rosemary complement the sausage meat beautifully, adding aromatic depth without overpowering the flavors.
- → Can I make these sausage rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them in advance and refrigerate before baking to save time on the day of serving.
- → What type of pastry is recommended for a flaky texture?
Use thawed puff pastry for a light, flaky, and buttery crust that crisps perfectly during baking.
- → How can I ensure the rolls stay sealed during baking?
Brush the edges with beaten egg before rolling and press firmly to seal, preventing filling from leaking out.
- → What is the ideal oven temperature and baking time?
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.