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If you are looking for a crowd-pleasing snack that combines flaky pastry, juicy sausage, and fresh herbs in every bite, this Cheese and Herb Sausage Rolls Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with aroma and flavor, it transforms simple ingredients into irresistible morsels perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a cozy family afternoon, these sausage rolls bring warmth and comfort wrapped in a golden, buttery crust.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheese and Herb Sausage Rolls Recipe relies on simple but essential ingredients that each play a crucial role: the sausage gives it that hearty, savory depth; the fresh herbs brighten and elevate the flavor profile; and the puff pastry guarantees that flaky, tender texture everyone loves. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful snack:
- Puff pastry (2 sheets, 17.3 ounces), defrosted: Provides the buttery, flaky base that wraps everything up perfectly.
- Pork sausage (1 pound): The star protein that keeps these rolls juicy and flavorful.
- Eggs (2, divided): One egg binds the filling, while the other is for that shiny golden glaze.
- Italian breadcrumbs (â…” cup): Add a bit of texture and help hold the filling together without drying it out.
- Minced fresh parsley (1½ tablespoons): Brings a fresh, vibrant note to the meat mixture.
- Minced fresh thyme (1 teaspoon): Lends an earthy, aromatic touch that complements the pork beautifully.
- Minced garlic (1½ teaspoons): Adds a lovely punch of savory depth.
- Onion powder (1½ teaspoons): Enhances overall flavor without overpowering the herbs.
- Water (1 tablespoon): Mixed with egg for the egg wash, it helps achieve that perfect, glossy finish.
How to Make Cheese and Herb Sausage Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep those sausage rolls from sticking and to make cleanup a breeze. Having a clean, organized station will also make the process flow smoothly as you assemble your rolls.
Step 2: Mix the Savory Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pork sausage, 1 egg, Italian breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, garlic, and onion powder. Mix everything thoroughly using your hands or a spoon until the ingredients are well incorporated. This careful blending ensures every bite bursts with balanced, savory flavors and herbaceous freshness.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out the defrosted puff pastry sheets lightly on a clean, non-stick surface. Your goal is to slightly thin the sheets for a delicate, flaky finish. Then cut each sheet into three equal long rectangles, giving you six pieces total. If your pastry was folded, those fold lines serve as great guides for an even cut.
Step 4: Fill and Shape the Sausage Rolls
Place small spoonfuls of the sausage mixture in the center of each pastry rectangle, forming a long, sausage-shaped line. Leave about an inch of space on both sides. Bring the pastry edges up and over the filling, then seal the seam by pressing down firmly with a fork to encase the filling completely. This sealing keeps all the delicious juices trapped inside as they bake.
Step 5: Slice and Arrange
Using a sharp knife, cut the long sausage-filled logs into 2-inch slices. Lay each slice seam-side down on your lined baking sheet, making sure to space them about an inch apart. This spacing helps each roll bake evenly and get crisp on all sides.
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash
Whisk the remaining egg with 1 tablespoon of water and brush this glossy mixture over the tops of each sausage roll. This egg wash is what creates that irresistible golden-brown, shiny crust that’s both beautiful and delicious.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pop your tray into the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the pastry puffs up and the rolls develop a rich, golden color. Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly before serving, so the flavors settle and the sausage remains juicy without being too hot to enjoy.
How to Serve Cheese and Herb Sausage Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your sausage rolls can add another layer of visual appeal and flavor. Freshly chopped parsley sprinkled over the top adds a pop of green and freshness, while a light dusting of smoked paprika contributes a hint of smokiness and a beautiful contrast. Serve with a small bowl of grainy mustard or a tangy chutney for dipping, enhancing every bite with surprising zest.
Side Dishes
These sausage rolls pair beautifully with simple sides that don’t overshadow their flavor. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette brightens the plate and balances the richness. Alternatively, a bowl of homemade tomato soup or baked beans complements their heartiness and makes for a comforting combo perfect for cooler days.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving these as party snacks, arrange them on a rustic wooden board or a colorful platter for an inviting display. Add some small bowls of dips like garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, or tangy yogurt-based sauces around the platter. For kid-friendly fun, try mini skewers by threading the sausage rolls onto toothpicks paired with cherry tomatoes and cheese cubes for a playful presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover sausage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them in a single layer or separated with parchment paper to maintain their flaky texture without getting soggy. They make a perfect snack or quick lunch the next day.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead or save for later, these sausage rolls freeze beautifully. Arrange them on a tray without touching and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Frozen sausage rolls keep for up to 2 months, ready to be baked fresh whenever you need a tasty snack.
Reheating
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the sausage rolls on a baking tray. Warm them for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the pastry soggy and chewy instead of flaky and delightful.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage in the Cheese and Herb Sausage Rolls Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork sausage is traditional and flavorful, you can swap in chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian sausage options. Adjust seasonings accordingly to maintain that balanced herb and garlic flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes. The puff pastry sometimes contains butter, so look for dairy-free or vegan puff pastry brands. As for the filling, the recipe doesn’t actually include cheese, so it’s already close to dairy-free as long as you choose the right pastry and avoid using cheese toppings.
Can I prepare these sausage rolls completely in advance?
You can assemble the sausage rolls and keep them refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them great for meal prep or for preparing ahead for parties. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
Why do some sausage rolls become soggy inside?
Sogginess often comes from overloading with wet ingredients or underbaking. Make sure not to add too much stuffing, and bake until the pastry is puffed and golden brown so steam can escape, keeping the crust crisp and the filling juicy.
Can I add cheese directly inside the sausage rolls?
Definitely! Adding small cubes or shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella inside the filling will give a gooey, melty surprise in the center. Just fold the cheese into the sausage mixture before filling the pastry.
Final Thoughts
This Cheese and Herb Sausage Rolls Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite go-to treats because it turns simple pantry staples into something truly spectacular. Warm, flaky, and packed with herby, savory goodness, these sausage rolls are perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying a cozy moment yourself. I can’t wait for you to try them and make them a staple in your kitchen too.
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Print
Cheese and Herb Sausage Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
These classic sausage rolls feature flaky puff pastry filled with a savory pork sausage mixture seasoned with fresh herbs and spices. Perfect as a delicious snack or party appetizer, they bake up golden and crispy with a glossy egg wash finish in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
- 1 package puff pastry (contains 2 sheets, 17.3 ounces), defrosted
Sausage 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
- 1 egg (for filling)
Egg Wash
- 1 egg (divided from above)
- 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 all ingredients are evenly incorporated to ensure consistent flavor in every bite.
- Prepare the dough: Place the defrosted puff pastry sheets on a clean non-stick surface. Lightly roll each sheet out to slightly thin them. Cut each sheet into 3 equal long rectangles to yield 6 rectangles total. Use fold lines as a guide if present.
- Fill the pastry dough: Spoon small amounts of the sausage mixture in a line down the center of each pastry rectangle, leaving about an inch of pastry free on both sides. Shape the sausage into a long string along the center. Fold the dough edges over the filling and use a fork to pinch and seal the edges completely, encasing the sausage filling.
- Slice: Cut each sealed sausage roll log into approximately 2-inch wide slices using a sharp knife. Arrange the slices seam-side down on the lined baking sheet, spacing about an inch apart.
- Add an egg wash: In a small bowl, whisk the remaining egg with 1 tablespoon water. Brush this egg wash generously over the tops of the sausage rolls to create a glossy, golden finish when baked.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the sausage mixture is well combined for even flavor.
- Do not overfill the pastry to prevent leakage while baking.
- Use cold puff pastry for best puff and flakiness.
- The egg wash helps achieve a shiny, appealing crust.
- Serve warm for best taste, but these can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
