There are few things more comforting than the aroma of freshly baked sausage rolls coming out of the oven. Golden brown, flaky pastry encasing savory sausage filling is a treat that never goes out of style. Add to that a tangy-sweet honey mustard dipping sauce, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer that works perfectly for parties, game nights, or even as a hearty family lunch. This recipe brings together the best of two worlds: a buttery puff pastry shell and a juicy sausage center, paired with a homemade sauce that balances sweetness, tang, and spice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Easy to make: Using ready-made puff pastry simplifies the process while still delivering bakery-quality results.
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Versatile: You can make bite-sized rolls for parties or larger rolls for lunch or dinner.
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Perfect pairing: The honey mustard sauce adds a sweet, tangy kick that elevates the sausage rolls from simple to sensational.
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Crowd-pleaser: Kids and adults alike enjoy these rolls, making them a go-to recipe for gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Sausage Rolls:
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1 lb (450 g) sausage meat (or good-quality sausages with casings removed)
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1 sheet puff pastry, thawed if frozen
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1 small onion, finely chopped (optional, for extra flavor)
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon fresh thyme or parsley (optional)
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, adds depth)
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
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Sesame seeds or poppy seeds, for garnish (optional)
For the Honey Mustard Sauce:
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3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
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2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard (for texture)
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3 tablespoons honey
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2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional, for creaminess)
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½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (to balance flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the sausage meat, onion, garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until everything is evenly incorporated. The onion and garlic add flavor while the herbs and paprika bring freshness and smokiness. If you prefer, you can keep the filling simple and just season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Roll Out the Pastry
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle about 12 x 10 inches. Cut the sheet lengthwise into two equal strips. This will give you two long pieces of pastry to work with.
Step 3: Shape the Sausage Rolls
Divide the sausage filling in half and form each portion into a long log, placing it down the center of each pastry strip. Gently fold the pastry over the sausage filling and seal the edges by pressing down with your fingers or a fork. Make sure the seam is on the bottom so the rolls don’t open up while baking.
Step 4: Cut and Glaze
With a sharp knife, cut each long roll into smaller pieces. For party snacks, cut them into 2-inch mini rolls; for a meal, leave them longer. Place the rolls seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds over the top for extra crunch and visual appeal.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden and the sausage filling is cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when the kitchen fills with that irresistible buttery aroma and the pastry turns crisp and flaky.
Step 6: Make the Honey Mustard Sauce
While the rolls are baking, whisk together Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Taste and adjust: add more honey for sweetness, more mustard for tang, or more vinegar for sharpness. Set aside until serving.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the sausage rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving—they’ll be very hot inside. Arrange them on a platter with a small bowl of honey mustard sauce for dipping. Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
Tips for Success
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Use quality sausage: The flavor of the rolls largely depends on the sausage you choose. Go for fresh, seasoned sausage meat or a good butcher’s sausage for the best taste.
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Keep the pastry cold: Puff pastry puffs best when cold, so work quickly and avoid overhandling it. If it softens too much, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes before baking.
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Make ahead: You can assemble the rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours. Simply brush with egg wash and bake when ready.
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Freeze for later: These rolls freeze beautifully. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden and heated through.
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Pairing ideas: Alongside honey mustard, try serving with spicy ketchup, barbecue sauce, or even a creamy ranch dip for variety.