Homemade beef sausage rolls are a delightful treat that brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite. The combination of tender minced beef, sautéed onions, and a blend of herbs creates a savory filling that is perfectly encased in flaky, golden puff pastry. Whether served as an appetizer at a party, a comforting snack for movie night, or even a main dish with a side salad, these sausage rolls are incredibly versatile. The ease of preparation and the ability to customize the filling according to your taste make them a fantastic addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
For the Beef Filling:
- 500g (1 lb) minced beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pastry:
- 500g (1 lb) puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a frying pan over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced beef, sautéed onions and garlic, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
Step 2: Prepare the Pastry
- Roll Out the Pastry: If using homemade puff pastry, roll it out on a floured surface to about 3mm thick. If using store-bought, ensure it is thawed and ready to use.
- Cut the Pastry: Cut the rolled pastry into rectangles, about 10cm x 15cm (4in x 6in). This size can be adjusted based on your preference for larger or smaller sausage rolls.
Step 3: Assemble the Sausage Rolls
- Fill the Pastry: Place a generous spoonful of the beef filling onto one half of each pastry rectangle, leaving space around the edges to seal.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling. Press the edges together to seal. For a decorative touch, you can crimp the edges with a fork or your fingers.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the assembled sausage rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to achieve a golden finish. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake the Sausage Rolls: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the sausage rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the pastry is puffed.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These sausage rolls can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
