Game Day Sausage Rolls

My apartment smelled like a British pub on Sunday afternoons when I first made these for a playoff game. Friends kept grabbing them fresh from the oven, burning their fingers but going back for more. Now they demand these sausage rolls every time we gather around the TV.

I learned the hard way that letting the pastry get too warm makes it stubborn and sticky. Now I work quickly and keep everything chilled until the last possible moment. The difference between a sad, soggy roll and one that shatters beautifully when you bite down is just a few degrees of temperature.

Ingredients

• 500 g halal chicken or beef sausages: Removing the casings gives you complete control over the seasoning and texture
• 1 small onion, finely diced: The sweetness balances the smoky paprika and adds moisture to the filling
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic makes a huge difference compared to garlic powder here
• 1 tsp smoked paprika: This is the secret ingredient that makes them taste like they came from a proper bakery
• 1 tsp dried oregano: Earthy and aromatic, it pairs perfectly with the sausage meat
• ½ tsp ground black pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds a gentle heat that builds as you eat
• ½ tsp salt: Just enough to enhance the flavors without overwhelming the palate
• 2 sheets ready-rolled puff pastry: Keep it cold and work quickly for the flakiest results
• 1 egg, beaten: This creates that gorgeous golden shine that makes them look professional
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds: Optional but adds a lovely crunch and visual appeal

Instructions

Preheat and prepare:

Get your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper before you start mixing anything

Mix the filling:

Combine the sausage meat, onion, garlic, paprika, oregano, pepper, and salt in a large bowl until everything is evenly distributed

Prepare the pastry:

Cut each pastry sheet in half lengthwise to create 4 long rectangles on a lightly floured surface

Shape and fill:

Form the sausage mixture into 4 equal logs and place them along one edge of each pastry strip

Roll and seal:

Tightly fold the pastry over the filling, brush the edge with water, and cut each roll into 4 pieces

Add the finishing touches:

Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds if you are feeling fancy

Bake to golden perfection:

Slide them into the oven for 22 to 25 minutes until they are deep golden and cooked through

Save

These became my go-to contribution after I showed up empty-handed to one too many parties. Now people actually cheer when they walk in and see me carrying a baking tray.

Make Ahead Magic

You can assemble the entire recipe up to 24 hours before baking. Just wrap the tray tightly in plastic and store it in the refrigerator. Add a couple of minutes to the baking time since they will be cold going into the oven.

Freezing Instructions

Flash freeze the uncooked rolls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 200°C for about 27 to 32 minutes. No thawing needed, which makes them perfect for unexpected guests.

Serving Suggestions

These pair beautifully with simple dipping sauces that do not overpower the delicate pastry. A bowl of ketchup, some tangy mustard, or even a mild chutney will let the rolls shine.

• Mix honey with whole grain mustard for a sweet and sharp dip
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad to balance the richness
• Offer a variety of condiments so guests can customize their experience

Save

Whether it is a big game or just a Tuesday night, these sausage rolls turn ordinary moments into something worth celebrating together.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of sausage is used?

Halal chicken or beef sausages are used with casings removed to create the filling.

→ Can I make these sausage rolls egg-free?

Yes, use milk instead of beaten egg for the wash to keep the rolls egg-free.

→ How do I achieve a crispy pastry?

Using ready-rolled puff pastry and brushing with egg or milk before baking ensures a golden, flaky crust.

→ Are there flavor variations for the filling?

Adding fresh parsley or coriander enhances flavor; smoked paprika and oregano provide a spiced profile.

→ Can these rolls be frozen before baking?

Yes, unbaked rolls freeze well. Bake from frozen by adding 5–7 minutes to cooking time.