Festive Sausage Rolls with Sage and Thyme Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing snack this holiday season, these Festive Sausage Rolls with Sage and Thyme Recipe are just the ticket. I’ve made them for Christmas gatherings and trust me, they disappear super fast! The blend of sage and thyme gives the sausage filling a wonderfully warm, herby aroma that feels like a hug in pastry form.

What makes this recipe special is how effortlessly it combines simple ingredients into something that tastes so festive and homemade. Whether you’re prepping for a party or just want a comforting treat on a chilly evening, these sausage rolls really hit the spot. Plus, once you’re confident with this Festive Sausage Rolls with Sage and Thyme Recipe, you’ll find yourself coming back to it year after year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a part in creating the perfect balance of savory and herby flavors. Don’t rush the sausage meat selection — a good quality ground sausage or sausage meat really makes a difference.

• Sausage meat or ground sausage: I recommend using good quality pork sausage for flavor and juiciness.
• Puff pastry: Thawed and ready to roll — the flakier, the better to contrast that juicy filling.
• Egg: Beaten for brushing on top, creating that golden, glossy finish.
• Onion: Finely diced so it blends smoothly into the filling, adding sweetness and texture.
• Garlic: Just a small clove, minced for a subtle kick that complements the herbs.
• Dried sage: This herb lends the sausage rolls their unmistakable festive aroma.
• Dried thyme: Adds earthy notes and depth of flavor.
• Ground black pepper: For a gentle peppery heat.
• Salt: To season and enhance every other ingredient.
• Olive oil: Used to sauté the onion and garlic until translucent and fragrant.

Variations

I love switching things up with this recipe depending on the occasion or my pantry. It’s so adaptable! You can make it work for different diets or just try new flavor combos to keep it interesting.

• Variation: Swap out pork sausage for turkey or chicken sausage to lighten it up — I’ve done this when cooking for friends who prefer leaner meat.
• Vegetarian option: Use a mix of lentils and mushrooms seasoned with the same herbs; it’s surprisingly satisfying and festive.
• Cheese addition: Try folding in some grated cheddar or parmesan into the filling for an extra layer of richness — trust me, it’s delightful.
• Herb swaps: Fresh sage and thyme work beautifully if you have them, just chop finely and reduce quantities slightly since fresh is stronger.
• Seasonal twist: Adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice brings out a holiday vibe that my family really enjoys.

How to Make Festive Sausage Rolls with Sage and Thyme Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat and add the finely diced onion and minced garlic. Cook gently for about 5 minutes until soft and fragrant but not browned — this step brings out sweetness that balances the herbs nicely.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the sausage meat with the sautéed onion and garlic, dried sage, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. I like to use my hands for this — it really helps you get everything evenly distributed. Be careful not to overwork it or the filling can become dense.

Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Roll out your thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface, smoothing it out gently to remove creases. Then slice it lengthwise into two even strips. This portioning makes it easier to fill and roll up.

Step 4: Assemble the Sausage Rolls

Spoon an even line of the sausage mixture along the center of each pastry strip, making sure not to overfill. Wet the edges lightly with water, then fold the pastry over the filling and press down gently to seal. I’ve found that using a fork to crimp the edges not only seals them well but gives a nice rustic look.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Brush the tops with beaten egg — this little step creates that irresistible golden-brown shine. Place your rolls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the pastry is puffed up and golden, and the filling is cooked through. Remember, every oven is a bit different, so keep an eye on them towards the end.

How to Serve Festive Sausage Rolls with Sage and Thyme Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle some fresh thyme leaves over the sausage rolls after baking. It adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that perks up every bite. A light dusting of flaky sea salt is another little trick I use — it enhances the flavors and adds a subtle crunch.

Side Dishes

These sausage rolls pair beautifully with a simple mixed green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette — it cuts through the richness perfectly. For a holiday spread, I often serve them alongside cranberry sauce or a tangy mustard dip for that festive zing.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I like to cut these sausage rolls into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a wooden board decorated with sprigs of sage and thyme. It makes them look extra special and inviting. Another fun idea is to serve them in small paper cups or on cocktail sticks to make handing out at gatherings a breeze.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I’ve found that leftover sausage rolls keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just pop them in once cooled, and when you’re ready, you can reheat them to enjoy that fresh-baked warmth again.

Freezing

These rolls freeze surprisingly well — an absolute lifesaver when prepping for busy holidays! I freeze them unbaked; assemble as usual, then wrap individually and store in a freezer bag. When you want to bake, just thaw overnight in the fridge and bake straight from chilled. This way, they come out fresh and flaky every time.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop leftover sausage rolls into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This reheats evenly without drying out the pastry or the filling. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that crisp texture!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Festive Sausage Rolls with Sage and Thyme Recipe is one of those dishes that brings nostalgia and joy every time I make it. I love the way the herbs transform humble sausage meat into something truly special and perfect for holiday celebrations. I’m confident that once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your festive repertoire too — it’s just that good and comforting!

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