If you’ve been searching for that show-stopping snack or appetizer that’s both comforting and impressive, this Homemade Sausage Rolls with Fresh Herbs and Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender, herby sausage wrapped in layers of buttery, flaky pastry that shatters delightfully with every bite—flavors and textures mingling perfectly to create a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again. These sausage rolls are not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying to bake from scratch, filling your kitchen with the most irresistible aroma that’s bound to draw everyone in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward crafting perfect sausage rolls. Each component plays a vital role in balancing flavor, texture, and freshness, making this Homemade Sausage Rolls with Fresh Herbs and Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe truly exceptional.
- Puff pastry (2 sheets, 17.3 ounces): Provides that iconic golden, flaky casing that’s light but sturdy enough to hold the filling.
- Pork sausage (1 pound): The hearty, juicy backbone of the filling, rich in flavor and fat for moisture.
- Eggs (2, divided): One for binding the filling together, and the other for brushing on top to achieve a glossy, golden crust.
- Italian breadcrumbs (â…” cup): Absorbs excess moisture, helping the filling hold its shape while adding subtle texture.
- Fresh parsley (1½ tablespoons, minced): Adds a bright, herbaceous note for freshness and color.
- Fresh thyme (1 teaspoon, minced): Lends an earthy, slightly minty depth that complements the pork wonderfully.
- Garlic (1½ teaspoons, minced): Infuses bold, aromatic flavor into every bite.
- Onion powder (1½ teaspoons): Enhances the savory layers, rounding out the taste without overpowering.
- Water (1 tablespoon): Combined with the egg wash, it helps create that irresistible sheen on the pastry surface.
How to Make Homemade Sausage Rolls with Fresh Herbs and Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Surface
To get started, heat your oven to a toasty 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper which will keep your sausage rolls from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This simple step ensures your pastry cooks evenly and comes off perfectly every time.
Step 2: Combine the Sausage Filling
In a large bowl, add the pork sausage along with one egg to bind everything nicely. Toss in the Italian breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, thyme, minced garlic, and onion powder. Mix everything thoroughly using your hands or a spoon until the herbs and spices are evenly distributed. This step is essential to have consistent flavors in every single bite of your homemade sausage rolls.
Step 3: Prepare and Cut the Puff Pastry
Lay out your thawed puff pastry sheets on a clean, non-stick surface. Roll each sheet lightly to thin it out just a bit, which promotes a better, flakier bake. Then, cut both sheets into three long rectangles each, creating six pieces total. If your puff pastry came folded, use those existing creases as guides—it makes this process foolproof and neat.
Step 4: Fill and Seal the Pastry
Spoon small amounts of the sausage mixture down the center of each pastry rectangle, forming a long, even line about an inch away from the edges. Carefully fold the edges over the sausage mixture, pressing gently to envelop the filling. Seal the edges tightly with a fork to trap all those savory juices during baking; this securing step is what keeps your rolls looking pristine and holding their shape.
Step 5: Slice and Arrange
With a sharp knife, slice the long sausage logs into about 2-inch pieces. Place each slice on your parchment-lined baking sheet with the sealed side down. Make sure they’re spaced about an inch apart to allow the puff pastry to puff up freely and brown beautifully.
Step 6: Egg Wash for Perfection
Mix the remaining egg with a tablespoon of water to create a glossy egg wash. Brush this generously over the top of every sausage roll, giving them that classic, irresistible shine and helping them achieve their perfect golden color.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Puffy
Pop your tray into the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes. Watch closely as the pastry puffs up and browns until evenly golden on top. When done, let the sausage rolls cool briefly to set before serving—this little pause helps everything come together in a delightful bite.
How to Serve Homemade Sausage Rolls with Fresh Herbs and Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a touch of fresh greenery like chopped parsley or thyme just before serving elevates the appearance and highlights the fresh herbs inside. Alternatively, a sprinkle of cracked black pepper can add a subtle kick that plays wonderfully with the savory sausage filling.
Side Dishes
These sausage rolls are an all-star on their own, but pairing them with a crisp green salad or tangy coleslaw can provide refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, roasted vegetables or a simple bowl of soup are comforting complements that round out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, try skewering small sausage roll bites with cocktail sticks, making them perfect finger foods. You can also serve them alongside a trio of dipping sauces like mustard, spicy ketchup, and aioli to bring some extra flavor excitement.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which can be tough), keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. That way, you can enjoy reheated homemade sausage rolls that still retain much of their original flakiness and flavor.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange uncooked sausage roll slices on a baking sheet and freeze until firm before transferring to a sealed container or bag. This method prevents them from sticking together and lets you bake fresh sausage rolls whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or thawed sausage rolls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that can make the puff pastry soggy instead of flaky and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While pork sausage is traditional and juicy, you can experiment with chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian sausage alternatives depending on your preference.
Do I need to defrost the puff pastry before using it?
Yes, it’s best to thaw your puff pastry according to package directions. Working with cold pastry can cause tearing, but it should still be cold—not warm—when you roll and cut it for the best results.
How do I prevent the pastry from becoming soggy?
Using breadcrumbs in the sausage mixture helps soak up excess moisture. Also, sealing the pastry tightly and giving space on the baking sheet allows for proper puffing and crisping.
Can I make these sausage rolls ahead of time?
You can assemble the sausage rolls and store them unbaked in the fridge for up to a day before baking. For longer storage, freeze them and bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What dips go well with sausage rolls?
Classic options include mustard, tomato ketchup, barbecue sauce, or a creamy garlic dip. You can also get creative with chutneys or spicy mayo for something different.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sinking your teeth into warm, flaky pastry wrapped around herby, savory sausage, and this Homemade Sausage Rolls with Fresh Herbs and Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe delivers just that. Whether for casual snacking or as a showpiece at your next gathering, these rolls combine simplicity and sophistication with every bite. I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves and make this recipe a beloved staple in your kitchen—you won’t regret it!
Print
Homemade Sausage Rolls with Fresh Herbs and Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
This classic Sausage Rolls recipe pairs savory pork sausage with flaky, golden puff pastry for a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack. Easy to prepare and perfect for parties or family gatherings, these rolls are seasoned with fresh herbs and garlic, baked to a beautiful golden brown.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 package puff pastry (contains 2 sheets, 17.3 ounces), defrosted
Filling
- 1 pound pork sausage
- â…” cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1½ tablespoons minced fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme
- 1½ teaspoons minced garlic
- 1½ teaspoons onion powder
- 2 eggs, divided
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, combine the pork sausage, 1 egg, Italian breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, garlic, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated for even flavor in every bite.
- Prepare the dough: Place the defrosted puff pastry sheets on a clean non-stick surface. Roll each sheet out lightly to make them slightly thinner. Cut each sheet into 3 equal long rectangles, resulting in a total of 6 rectangles. If the dough was folded, use the fold lines as guides for cutting.
- Fill the pastry dough: Take small spoonfuls of the sausage mixture and arrange them in the center of each piece of dough, creating a line, while leaving about an inch of pastry on either side. Mold the mixture into a long string along the center. Bring the edges of the dough up and over the sausage, then use a fork to pinch and seal the seam, encasing the sausage completely.
- Slice: Using a sharp knife, cut each sealed sausage roll log into approximately 2-inch slices. Arrange all the sausage rolls seam-side down on your lined baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Add an egg wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining egg and 1 tablespoon water. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the sausage rolls to promote a glossy and golden finish during baking.
- Bake: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the pastry puffs up and the sausage rolls are golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry is fully defrosted but still cold for easier handling and better puffing in the oven.
- You can substitute pork sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of black pepper or chili flakes to the sausage mixture.
- Sausage rolls are best served warm but can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Freezing tip: Assemble sausage rolls, freeze on the baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
