Sausage and Casserole in Oven: A Comforting British Classic Made Easy in 6 Steps
The Magic of Oven-Baked Sausage and Casserole
When it comes to hearty British comfort food, nothing beats a sausage and casserole cooked in the oven. The combination of sizzling sausages, rich gravy, and tender vegetables is guaranteed to warm your heart and soul on even the chilliest of days. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a family dinner or a cosy evening in, it’s simple, satisfying, and full of flavour.
Let’s dive into how to create the ultimate sausage casserole that’s bursting with goodness and cooked to perfection in the oven. 🍴✨
Why Choose the Oven for Sausage and Casserole?
Cooking a sausage casserole in the oven offers several advantages:
- Even cooking ensures all the ingredients blend beautifully.
- Hands-off approach lets you prepare sides or relax while it bakes.
- Enhanced flavour from slow, consistent heat.
Plus, the oven allows the sausages to develop a deliciously golden exterior while staying juicy on the inside. Perfection! 🐖🔥
Ensure your sausages are cooked to perfection by following the Food Standards Agency’s guide to cooking sausages safely.
Ingredients for Sausage and Casserole in Oven
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 high-quality pork sausages
- 2 medium onions (sliced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 carrots (peeled and diced) 🥕
- 200g button mushrooms (halved) 🍄
- 400g tinned chopped tomatoes 🍅
- 300ml beef or chicken stock
- 2 tbsp tomato purée
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh sprigs
Optional Additions:
- 1 can of butter beans or cannellini beans (for added protein and texture)
- A handful of fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish) 🌿
For Thickening (if needed):
- 1 tbsp cornflour mixed with 2 tbsp cold water
Equipment You’ll Need
- Ovenproof casserole dish with a lid: Ensures even cooking and retains moisture.
- Sharp knife and chopping board: For prepping your veggies.
- Wooden spoon: To sauté the ingredients before baking.
- Mixing jug: For combining the stock and seasonings.
- Tongs: For browning the sausages.
Step-by-Step Recipe: Sausage and Casserole in Oven
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (fan 160°C) / Gas Mark 4.
- Gather and prep all your ingredients.
2. Brown the Sausages
- Heat a drizzle of oil in your casserole dish on the stovetop.
- Brown the sausages on all sides until golden. Remove and set aside. This locks in the juices and prevents soggy sausages.
3. Sauté the Veggies
- In the same dish, add onions, carrots, and mushrooms. Sauté until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Build the Sauce
- Stir in the tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and thyme. Let it cook for a minute.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and stock, stirring to combine.
5. Combine and Bake
- Return the sausages to the dish, ensuring they’re submerged in the sauce.
- Cover with a lid (or foil) and bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes.
6. Thicken and Finish
- If the sauce is too thin, stir in the cornflour mixture and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Sausage Casserole
- Choose Quality Sausages: Opt for butcher’s sausages or premium supermarket brands for the best flavour.
- Don’t Skip Browning: This step adds depth and prevents the sausages from becoming rubbery.
- Customise Your Veggies: Swap out or add ingredients like parsnips, leeks, or celery for variety.
- Boost the Flavour: Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar for a richer sauce. 🍷
- Serve with Style: Pair your casserole with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or even fluffy Yorkshire puddings for the ultimate comfort meal. 🥔🍞
FAQs About Sausage and Casserole in Oven
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! Sausage casserole tastes even better the next day as the flavours develop. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat thoroughly.
Q: Can I freeze sausage casserole?
A: Absolutely! Allow the casserole to cool completely, transfer it to an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Of course! Swap the sausages for vegetarian ones, use vegetable stock, and add more beans or lentils for protein.
Q: Why is my sauce too runny?
A: Ensure you simmer the sauce uncovered for a few minutes or add the cornflour slurry to thicken it.
Conclusion: A Dish That Brings Everyone Together
There’s nothing quite like a sausage and casserole cooked in the oven—it’s the epitome of British comfort food. With its rich flavours, hearty ingredients, and effortless preparation, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So gather your loved ones, fire up the oven, and let the magic happen!
Looking for more inspiration? Check out our take on the Hairy Bikers’ sausage casserole for another classic version of this hearty dish.
“Good food doesn’t have to be complicated—it just needs to be made with care.”
Don’t forget to share your sausage casserole creations with us! Tag us on social media and inspire others to give it a try. 🍴✨
