Christmas Sausage Rolls Puff

There is something special about Christmas sausage rolls coming hot from the oven the fragrance of buttery pastry and savory sausage filling always brings back memories of holidays with my family When I want a festive appetizer or hearty party snack this is the recipe I know everyone will devour

I first baked these on Christmas Eve for a family gathering and the plate was empty in minutes My cousin still asks for the recipe each year and it keeps holiday traditions alive for us

Gather Your Ingredients

• Sausage meat or ground sausage: provides rich flavor and a burst of protein choose high quality sausage with visible flecks of herbs and fat
• Puff pastry: creates a golden flaky outer crust look for all butter pastry in the frozen section for best results
• Egg: helps seal and glaze the rolls giving a beautiful sheen farm fresh eggs give the brightest finish
• Minced garlic: builds savory depth use fresh cloves for a brighter taste
• Dried sage: classic holiday herb that deepens the sausage flavor
• Dried thyme: adds another woodsy layer choose certified dried leaves for a more potent aroma
• Ground black pepper and salt: balance and intensify the flavors opt for freshly ground peppercorns if possible
• Olive oil: softens the onions and infuses a hint of richness extra virgin oil will be most aromatic
• Finely diced onion: brings sweetness and moisture yellow onions work best for this recipe

How to Make It

Prepare the Aromatics:

In a medium skillet heat olive oil over medium heat Add finely diced onion and minced garlic Stir frequently and cook for about 5 minutes until the onion turns translucent and fragrant Let cool slightly to avoid scrambling the egg later

Mix the Filling:

In a large bowl combine the sausage meat cooled onion mixture dried sage dried thyme salt and black pepper With clean hands gently mix until just combined Overmixing can make the rolls dense

Shape the Rolls:

Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface Trim edges if needed Divide the sausage mixture in half using damp hands Form two even logs and lay across the long edge of the pastry Sheet should be wide enough to roll each log once

Wrap and Seal:

Brush egg wash along the edge of the puff pastry Roll each log tightly so the seam is underneath and slice into equal pieces about two inches each Gently press the seams closed

Glaze and Score:

Transfer sausage rolls seam side down to a lined baking sheet Brush with more beaten egg for that golden crust Use a sharp knife to score a few shallow vents in the tops to let steam escape

Bake:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit Place tray in the center of the oven and bake for about 25 minutes until pastry is puffed and deep golden brown Filling should reach at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit inside

Serve:

Let the rolls cool for five minutes before serving This helps the filling set and makes them easier to eat Serve with a little mustard or cranberry sauce for an extra festive touch

My favorite part is the aroma of sage and savory sausage as these rolls bake It never fails to make me hungry I love watching my family sneak just one more roll from the tray even before dinner is served That is the hallmark of a hit holiday recipe in my house

Flavor Boosters

Try chilling the filling for 15 minutes before shaping for firmer rolls Always bake seam side down to prevent bursting Scoring the tops is important as it helps steam escape and avoids soggy pastry

Serving Suggestions

Sausage rolls are delicious served with tangy cranberry sauce grainy mustard or tomato relish on the side For a full party spread pair with cheese boards marinated olives or pickled vegetables They also make a great brunch option alongside scrambled eggs and roasted potatoes

Creative Twists

For a lighter version try chicken or turkey sausage instead of pork Dried rosemary or marjoram can stand in for sage or thyme for a different holiday flavor Vegan puff pastry and plantbased sausage filling work surprisingly well giving everyone at the table something to enjoy

These Christmas sausage rolls are a family favorite for good reason and will be the first appetizer gone at your next gathering Serve them warm and watch the smiles appear

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I make these sausage rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate them up to a day in advance. Bake just before serving for the freshest results.

→ What type of sausage meat works best?

Pork sausage is traditional, but any high-quality ground sausage can be used to suit your taste.

→ Can I freeze the unbaked sausage rolls?

Absolutely. Freeze assembled, unbaked rolls on a tray, then store in a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

→ Which dipping sauces pair well?

Spicy mustard, cranberry sauce, or even a simple ketchup are excellent accompaniments for serving.

→ How do I ensure the pastry stays crisp?

Brush with egg wash and avoid overfilling. Bake until fully golden and let them cool briefly on a wire rack after baking.