Classic Bangers and Mash

Short Description

Bangers and Mash is a traditional British comfort food featuring juicy, pan-seared sausages served over creamy mashed potatoes and topped with a rich onion gravy. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy meal, offering simple yet bold flavors that satisfy every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Classic British pub favorite with rich flavors
  • Easy to make in under an hour
  • Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with flavorful gravy
  • Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
  • Customizable with different sausage varieties

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Sausages (Bangers):

  • Pork sausages (Cumberland, Irish, or any thick sausage)
  • Olive oil or butter
  • Onion, sliced
  • Garlic, minced

For the Onion Gravy:

  • Butter
  • Flour (for thickening)
  • Beef broth
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Dijon mustard (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper

For the Mashed Potatoes:

  • Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
  • Heavy cream or milk
  • Butter
  • Salt and black pepper

For Garnish (Optional):

  • Fresh parsley
  • Extra caramelized onions

Directions

Step 1: Make the Mashed Potatoes

  1. Peel and chop the potatoes into chunks.
  2. Boil in salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
  3. Drain and mash with butter, cream, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Cover and keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Sausages

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add sausages and cook for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and fully cooked.
  3. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Onion Gravy

  1. In the same pan, melt butter and sauté onions until soft and golden.
  2. Stir in garlic and flour, cooking for 1 minute.
  3. Slowly add beef broth, whisking to prevent lumps.
  4. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  5. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

  1. Spoon mashed potatoes onto a plate.
  2. Place sausages on top and drizzle with onion gravy.
  3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

  • Beer Gravy: Replace some broth with stout beer for depth.
  • Cheesy Mash: Mix shredded cheddar into the potatoes.
  • Spicy Kick: Use spicy sausages or add cayenne pepper to the gravy.
  • Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based sausages and vegetable broth.
  • Caramelized Onion Gravy: Cook onions longer for a sweeter, richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze gravy separately for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

What are the best sausages for Bangers and Mash?

Cumberland, Irish, or any thick pork sausages work best for authenticity.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, but homemade mashed potatoes taste much better!

What’s the best way to thicken gravy?

Flour or cornstarch helps achieve a rich, smooth texture.

Can I use chicken or turkey sausages?

Yes! Adjust cooking time accordingly for leaner meats.

What can I serve with Bangers and Mash?

Peas, roasted vegetables, or a side salad complement this dish well.

Can I make the gravy ahead of time?

Yes! Reheat on the stovetop and add extra broth if needed.

How do I prevent sausages from bursting while cooking?

Cook them on medium heat and prick them lightly with a fork.

Can I add herbs to the mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! Try chives, thyme, or rosemary for extra flavor.

How do I make gluten-free gravy?

Use cornstarch instead of flour and gluten-free Worcestershire sauce.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! Mild sausages make it perfect for family dinners.

Conclusion

Classic Bangers and Mash is a comforting, hearty meal that brings British pub flavors to your kitchen. With juicy sausages, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich onion gravy, this dish is sure to be a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a taste of the UK at home!

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Classic Bangers and Mash

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Bangers and Mash is a traditional British comfort food featuring juicy sausages (“bangers”) served over creamy mashed potatoes (“mash”) with a rich onion gravy. Perfect for a cozy meal, this dish is easy to make and full of hearty flavors!

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: British

Ingredients

Scale

For the Bangers (Sausages):

  • 8 pork sausages (Cumberland, Lincolnshire, or any thick sausages)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 lbs (900g) potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet, peeled and chopped)
  • ½ cup whole milk (warm)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Onion Gravy:

  • 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon flour (to thicken)
  • 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)
  • Salt & black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Make the Mashed Potatoes

  1. Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
  2. Drain and mash until smooth.
  3. Stir in butter, warm milk, salt, and black pepper. Cover and keep warm.

2. Cook the Sausages

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Cook the sausages for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and fully cooked.
  3. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Make the Onion Gravy

  1. In the same pan, melt butter and sauté onions for 5 minutes until golden brown.
  2. Sprinkle in flour, stir, and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Slowly pour in beef broth, stirring to prevent lumps.
  4. Add Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.

4. Serve & Enjoy!

  1. Place a serving of mashed potatoes on each plate.
  2. Top with sausages and generously drizzle with onion gravy.
  3. Serve with peas, roasted veggies, or crusty bread.

Notes

  • Want a richer gravy? Use a splash of red wine or stout beer.
  • Prefer a smoother mash? Pass the potatoes through a ricer before adding butter.
  • Need a shortcut? Use store-bought gravy and add caramelized onions for flavor.

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