Few dishes embody hearty, comforting home cooking like Bangers and Mash. This beloved British and Irish classic combines savory sausages (the “bangers”) and creamy mashed potatoes (“the mash”), all smothered in a rich onion gravy. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just craving a warm, satisfying meal, this dish is sure to hit the spot. It’s easy to make, customizable for the whole family, and packed with flavor. Let’s bring the pub classic to your dinner table!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
For the Bangers:
- 6 pork sausages (traditional British sausages or bratwurst work great)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Mash:
- 2 pounds potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup milk (or cream)
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Onion Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups beef stock (or chicken stock)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pro Tips
- Use the Right Sausages: Traditional British sausages, like Cumberland or Lincolnshire, give this dish an authentic taste. If you can’t find them, bratwurst or Italian sausages work as substitutes.
- Perfect the Mash: Yukon Gold potatoes create a creamier mash, while Russets make it light and fluffy. Don’t overmix, or the potatoes can become gummy.
- Caramelize the Onions: Take your time cooking the onions low and slow to develop their sweet, rich flavor for the gravy.
- Make It Extra Creamy: Add a splash of sour cream or cream cheese to your mashed potatoes for an ultra-luxurious texture.
- Keep It Warm: If you’re serving later, keep the mashed potatoes warm in a covered dish over a pot of simmering water.
Tools Needed
- Large skillet (for sausages and gravy)
- Medium pot (for boiling potatoes)
- Masher or potato ricer
- Whisk (for gravy)
- Knife and cutting board (for chopping onions and potatoes)
Substitutions and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based sausages and vegetable stock for the gravy.
- Extra Veggies: Add a side of peas, sautéed cabbage, or roasted carrots for a pop of color and nutrients.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour for the gravy and check that your sausages are gluten-free.
- Cheesy Mash: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
Make-Ahead Tips
- The onion gravy can be made up to 2 days in advance. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
- Peel and chop the potatoes a few hours ahead, and store them in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning. Drain before boiling.
Instructions
1. Cook the Sausages
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning frequently, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and keep warm.
2. Make the Onion Gravy
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of flour and stir well to coat the onions. Gradually pour in the beef stock, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
3. Boil and Mash the Potatoes
While the onions cook, boil the chopped potatoes in a medium pot of salted water for 12-15 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Assemble the Dish
Spoon a generous serving of mashed potatoes onto each plate. Top with sausages and ladle the onion gravy over everything. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Leftovers and Storage
- Store leftover mashed potatoes, sausages, and gravy separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat the mashed potatoes with a splash of milk to restore creaminess, and warm the sausages and gravy on the stovetop.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite as satisfying as Bangers and Mash, with its creamy mashed potatoes, savory sausages, and flavorful onion gravy. This dish is pure comfort food that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for a festive occasion. Pair it with a pint of ale or cider for the ultimate pub-style experience. Try it tonight, and let me know how you like it in the comments below. Cheers to hearty, home-cooked goodness! 🥔✨
