Bangers and Mash with Rich Onion Gravy

Bangers and Mash with Rich Onion Gravy is a beloved British classic, known for its comforting flavors and hearty composition. This dish features juicy sausages served atop creamy mashed potatoes, all smothered in a deep, flavorful onion gravy. Whether you’re preparing a cozy meal for your family or looking to explore traditional British cuisine, this recipe delivers a satisfying, home-cooked experience. With the perfect balance of savory sausages, velvety mash, and a luscious onion gravy, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite.

Equipment Needed

• Large frying pan or skillet
• Medium saucepan
• Potato masher
• Large pot for boiling potatoes
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl (optional)

Ingredients:

For the Bangers:

• 6 high-quality pork sausages (Cumberland or British-style preferred)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 pounds (900g) russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Rich Onion Gravy:

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)

Preparation:

Step 1: Cook the Sausages

1. Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and add the olive oil and butter.
2. Add the sausages and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and fully cooked through, about 12-15 minutes.
3. Transfer the sausages to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 2: Make the Onion Gravy

1. In the same pan used for the sausages, add the butter and olive oil.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, for about 10-15 minutes until they soften and turn golden brown.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well to coat.
4. Gradually add the beef broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, pepper, and thyme.
6. Simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the gravy thickens.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Place the peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water.
2. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
4. Add the butter, milk (or cream), salt, and black pepper.
5. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
6. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto a plate.
2. Place the sausages on top of the mash.
3. Pour the rich onion gravy over the sausages and potatoes.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Variation

• Cheesy Mash: Add 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese to the mashed potatoes for extra richness.
• Spicy Sausages: Use spicy pork or chorizo sausages for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute pork sausages with plant-based sausages and use vegetable broth for the gravy.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add roasted or minced garlic for a deeper flavor.

Cooking Notes:

• Use high-quality sausages for the best flavor.
• Browning the onions well enhances the depth of flavor in the gravy.
• If the gravy is too thick, add a little more broth.
• Keep the mashed potatoes warm by covering them with a lid while preparing other components.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with steamed greens such as peas or sautéed spinach.
• Pair with a pint of beer or a glass of dry red wine.
• Enjoy with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.

Tips:

• To avoid lumpy mashed potatoes, use a potato masher instead of a food processor.
• Let the sausages rest for a few minutes before serving to retain their juices.
• Cook onions slowly to enhance their natural sweetness.
• Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 580
• Protein: 24g
• Sodium: 890mg

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mashed potatoes and gravy ahead of time. Reheat them on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth before serving.

2. What sausages work best for bangers and mash?

Traditional British-style sausages like Cumberland, Lincolnshire, or pork and herb sausages work best. However, you can use any sausage of your choice.

3. How can I thicken my gravy?

If your gravy is too thin, let it simmer a little longer or add a small slurry of cornstarch and water.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?

Mashed potatoes and gravy can be frozen separately. Store in airtight containers and reheat gently before serving.

5. What are common mistakes when making bangers and mash?

• Overcooking or burning the sausages.
• Not browning the onions enough for the gravy.
• Making the mashed potatoes too dry by not adding enough milk or butter.
• Rushing the gravy, resulting in a bland sauce.

Presentation Ideas:

• Serve on a rustic plate with fresh herbs sprinkled on top.
• Drizzle extra gravy over the sausages for a mouthwatering look.
• Add a side of roasted carrots for color contrast.
• Use a piping bag for mashed potatoes to create a fancy swirl.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Using low-quality sausages: This dish depends on the flavor of the sausages, so choose good-quality ones.
• Not caramelizing the onions properly: The depth of flavor in the gravy comes from well-cooked onions.
• Skipping the butter in mashed potatoes: Butter adds richness and enhances flavor.
• Rushing the gravy: Allow time for the flavors to meld.

Conclusion

Bangers and Mash with Rich Onion Gravy is the ultimate comfort food, offering a hearty, satisfying meal with bold flavors. The combination of juicy sausages, buttery mashed potatoes, and deep, flavorful gravy makes this dish a true classic. Perfect for a cozy dinner, family gatherings, or a taste of traditional British cuisine, this recipe is simple yet incredibly delicious. With the right techniques and ingredients, you can enjoy an authentic and mouthwatering dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to every bite. Enjoy!

Bangers and Mash with Rich Onion Gravy

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• Author: anassbourouti
• Total Time: 50 minutes

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Ingredients

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Ingredients:

For the Bangers:

• 6 high-quality pork sausages (Cumberland or British-style preferred)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 pounds (900g) russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Rich Onion Gravy:

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)

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Instructions

Preparation:

Step 1: Cook the Sausages

1. Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and add the olive oil and butter.
2. Add the sausages and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and fully cooked through, about 12-15 minutes.
3. Transfer the sausages to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 2: Make the Onion Gravy

1. In the same pan used for the sausages, add the butter and olive oil.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, for about 10-15 minutes until they soften and turn golden brown.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well to coat.
4. Gradually add the beef broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, pepper, and thyme.
6. Simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the gravy thickens.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Place the peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water.
2. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
4. Add the butter, milk (or cream), salt, and black pepper.
5. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
6. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto a plate.
2. Place the sausages on top of the mash.
3. Pour the rich onion gravy over the sausages and potatoes.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories: 580
• Sodium: 890mg
• Protein: 24g