Name: Irresistible Christmas Sausage Rolls for Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Sausage Meat (Use ground turkey for a leaner option.); 0.5 cup Onion (Finely diced.); 1 clove Garlic (Minced.); 1 tsp Dried Sage (Substitute with 2 tsp fresh sage for freshness.); 1 tsp Dried Thyme (Use 2 tsp fresh thyme for a brighter flavor.); 0.25 tsp Ground Black Pepper (Adjust to your spice preference.); 0.25 tsp Salt (Consider low-sodium salt for a healthier option.); 1 sheet Puff Pastry (Thawed for easier handling.); 1 Egg (Beaten, serves as an egg wash.); 1 tbsp Olive Oil (For sautéing onions and garlic.); Cheese (Add your favorite cheese for a creamy filling.); Chilies (Minced, if you love heat!)

As I unroll the puff pastry, the smell of the holiday season fills my kitchen. Nothing brings people together quite like a tray of Christmas Sausage Rolls, which have become my go-to holiday appetizer. These delightful little bites are not only incredibly easy to make, but they also cater to everyone’s savory cravings at gatherings. With a flaky crust enveloping perfectly seasoned sausage, they rise to a golden finish that practically beckons your guests to indulge. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and even frozen, making holiday prep a breeze! Are you ready to impress your friends and family with a festive twist on a classic snack? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Why are these Christmas Sausage Rolls a must?

Irresistible flavor: The savory sausage paired with aromatic herbs delivers a taste sensation that your guests will adore.

Effortless preparation: Even kitchen novices can whip these up with ease, making them a stress-free option for busy holiday schedules.

Make-ahead magic: These rolls can be prepared in advance and frozen, allowing you to save time on the big day.

Perfect for any gathering: Whether it’s a festive party or cozy family get-together, these little bites are sure to please everyone.

Versatile and customizable: You can easily switch up the ingredients to cater to different tastes, like using vegetarian sausage or adding cheese for an extra indulgence.

Serve them warm, and don’t forget to pair with a festive cranberry sauce for an added burst of flavor!

Christmas Sausage Rolls Ingredients

For the Filling

Sausage Meat – 1 lb / 450g is key for that savory flavor; try ground turkey for a leaner option.
Onion – ½ cup, finely diced adds sweetness; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
Garlic – 1 clove, minced enhances the flavor profile; feel free to omit if sensitive to garlic.
Dried Sage – 1 tsp provides classic herb essence; substitute with 2 tsp of fresh sage for freshness.
Dried Thyme – 1 tsp adds earthy depth; use 2 tsp of fresh thyme for a brighter flavor.
Ground Black Pepper – ¼ tsp adds a hint of heat; adjust to your spice preference.
Salt – ¼ tsp enhances overall tastes; consider low-sodium salt for a healthier option.

For the Pastry

Puff Pastry – 1 sheet creates a flaky crust; ensure it’s thawed for easier handling.
Egg – 1, beaten serves as an egg wash for a beautiful golden finish; milk can be used as a substitute.

Optional Additions

Olive Oil – 1 tbsp is used for sautéing onions and garlic; feel free to swap in a neutral oil.
Cheese – Add your favorite cheese, like cheddar, for a creamy texture within the filling.
Chilies – Minced chilies can be included for an extra kick if you love heat!

These easy-to-make Christmas Sausage Rolls shine as a holiday appetizer that will surely impress your guests!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Sausage Rolls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the Christmas Sausage Rolls to a perfect golden brown. As the oven heats up, you can start preparing your ingredients, ensuring everything is ready for a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In a medium skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add ½ cup of finely diced onion and 1 minced garlic clove. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally. This step creates a flavorful base for your sausage filling.

Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with 1 pound of sausage meat, 1 teaspoon each of dried sage and thyme, ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Using your hands, mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is uniform and smells delicious.

Step 4: Prepare the Puff Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out 1 sheet of thawed puff pastry into a rectangle, ideally about 12×14 inches. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the pastry into rectangles, roughly 3×4 inches in size. Ensuring the pastry is cold but pliable will help keep the sausage rolls flaky during baking.

Step 5: Fill and Seal the Pastry
Take a portion of your filling (about 2 tablespoons) and place it onto the center of each pastry rectangle. Carefully fold the pastry over to encase the filling, and press the edges firmly to seal. For an extra secure closure, use a fork to crimp the edges. This will help the Christmas Sausage Rolls hold their shape while baking.

Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash
Using a pastry brush, gently coat the tops of the sealed sausage rolls with a beaten egg, which will give them a beautiful golden shine as they bake. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them so they can puff up properly in the oven.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the Christmas Sausage Rolls for about 20–25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should puff up and turn a lovely golden brown. You’ll know they’re ready when they emit a delightful aroma and are evenly browned.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the sausage rolls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet. This brief cooling period helps them set, making it easier to serve. Present the warm Christmas Sausage Rolls on a platter, optionally accompanied by mustard or cranberry sauce for dipping.

Expert Tips for Christmas Sausage Rolls

Thaw Properly: Ensure your puff pastry is completely thawed but still cold. This key step helps achieve that signature flakiness in your Christmas Sausage Rolls.
Don’t Overfill: Avoid the temptation to add too much filling. Overfilling can lead to bursting during baking; about 2 tablespoons per roll works perfectly.
Secure Edges: Be sure to seal the edges well, either by pressing with your fingers or using a fork. This prevents any leaks and keeps the delicious filling intact!
Adjust to Taste: Feel free to play with herbs and spices! Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning in the filling to suit your preferences, perhaps adding more pepper or a bit of cayenne for a kick.
Egg Wash Importance: Brushing the tops with beaten egg is vital for that beautiful golden color. If you run out of eggs, milk is a suitable substitute for a nice finish.

Christmas Sausage Rolls Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your delightful Christmas Sausage Rolls for a unique spin that suits your taste!

Vegetarian Option: Swap the sausage meat with a blend of sautéed mushrooms and lentils for a hearty, meat-free filling. This variation embraces fresh herbs, bringing life to your holiday table.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheese like sharp cheddar or creamy mozzarella into the filling for an extra gooey goodness. The melted cheese will create a delightful richness that complements the savory sausage perfectly.
Spicy Kick: Add minced fresh chilies or red pepper flakes to the filling for a touch of heat. The spicy notes will awaken your palate and create an exciting contrast with the flaky pastry.
Herb Twist: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or parsley for an aromatic flair. Fresh herbs can brighten up the filling, taking the flavors to the next level.
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate dried cranberries or diced apples into the filling for a sweet-savory combination that’s a festive treat. This harmony of flavors is reminiscent of richer holiday dishes.
Puff Pastry Swap: Try using whole wheat puff pastry for a nutty flavor and extra nutrition. It adds a different dimension without compromising on that beloved flakiness!
Sausage Blend: Mix and match different types of sausage (like spicy Italian or apple and sage) for a twist on classic flavors. Each bite will surprise and delight your guests.

These variations can take your Christmas Sausage Rolls from good to unforgettable! Pair them with a zesty dipping sauce or serve alongside our Tortellini Soup Sausage for a heartwarming meal that everyone will love!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Sausage Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the filling and assemble the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the steps to mix the filling and fill the pastry, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. For longer storage, these rolls can be frozen before baking for up to 3 months; just make sure they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time, and they’ll come out just as delicious as if you’d made them fresh!

What to Serve with Christmas Sausage Rolls

These delectable bites are perfect for building a festive meal, with flavors that will enchant your guests and create a warm holiday atmosphere.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, smooth texture of mashed potatoes complements the flaky sausage rolls beautifully, offering a comforting contrast.
Crispy Green Salad: A fresh salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the sausage rolls, adding a refreshing element to your spread. Mix in some cherry tomatoes and crispy cucumbers for extra crunch!
Sweet Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce introduces a tangy sweetness that balances the savory flavors perfectly. It’s a classic pairing that captures the essence of the season.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, like Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes, bring earthy flavors and vibrant colors to the table, making your meal feel wholesome and festive. The caramelization enhances the natural sweetness of the produce!
Warm Bread Rolls: Soft, warm rolls provide the ideal canvas for soaking up any leftover bits of sauce or drippings, making your meal feel heartwarming and complete. Plus, their fluffy texture pairs perfectly with the crispy sausage rolls.
Mulled Wine: A fragrant cup of mulled wine infused with spices creates a cozy atmosphere, perfectly harmonizing with the holiday spirit while complementing the richness of the sausage rolls.
Chocolate Hazelnut Tart: For dessert, indulge in a slice of rich chocolate hazelnut tart; its creamy texture and flavor will finish off your meal on an exquisite, sweet note.
Spiced Apple Cider: Hot spiced apple cider will warm everyone from the inside out while echoing the seasonal flavors of your holiday fare, creating a wonderful festive vibe.

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Sausage Rolls

Fridge: Store leftover Christmas Sausage Rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked sausage rolls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: To reheat baked sausage rolls, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until hot throughout. This keeps them crispy on the outside.

Make-ahead Tips: These Christmas Sausage Rolls can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge before baking. This allows for quick baking and serving at your holiday gatherings.

Christmas Sausage Rolls Recipe FAQs

What type of sausage meat should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! You can use any sausage meat you enjoy, such as pork, beef, or even ground turkey/chicken for a leaner option. When selecting sausage meat, look for a blend that is well-seasoned and flavorful, ideally with herbs like sage and thyme already included. This will enhance the taste of your Christmas Sausage Rolls tremendously.

How should I store leftover Christmas Sausage Rolls?
Store any leftover Christmas Sausage Rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore their crispiness and ensure they taste freshly baked!

Can I freeze Christmas Sausage Rolls? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your Christmas Sausage Rolls! To do this, first place the unbaked rolls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer the rolls to a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake them, you can pop them directly into the oven from frozen, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the cooking time for a delightful, freshly baked treat.

What should I do if my sausage rolls are leaking filling during baking?
If your Christmas Sausage Rolls are leaking filling, it’s likely that they were overfilled or not sealed properly. To prevent this, make sure to use about 2 tablespoons of filling per roll and ensure that the edges are tightly sealed by pressing down firmly before baking. Using a fork to crimp the edges can provide a more secure closure.

Are these Christmas Sausage Rolls suitable for gluten-free diets?
To make gluten-free Christmas Sausage Rolls, simply substitute the regular puff pastry with a gluten-free version. Many stores offer gluten-free puff pastry alternatives that work wonderfully. Just make sure all other ingredients, such as the sausage meat and seasonings, are also gluten-free to accommodate those with dietary restrictions.

Can pets eat sausage rolls?
While it’s tempting to share! It’s best to avoid giving your pets sausage rolls as the ingredients, such as onion and garlic, can be harmful to them. Plus, the spices and rich nature of the filling may not be suitable for their digestive systems. Stick to pet-friendly treats when you’re sharing the holiday cheer!