Bangers and Mash with Onion Gravy is a staple of British cuisine, beloved for its simple yet rich flavors. Juicy, browned sausages sit atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, perfectly paired with a deeply savory onion gravy. The combination of textures—silky potatoes, succulent sausages, and velvety gravy—creates a meal that is both satisfying and comforting.
This dish is incredibly versatile and can be customized based on preference. Whether you opt for pork, beef, or plant-based sausages, the heart of this recipe remains the same—quality ingredients prepared with love. Serve it with a side of peas, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that incredible gravy. It’s the ultimate homely meal that never fails to bring warmth to the table.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 6 pork sausages (preferably Cumberland or English-style)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Onion Gravy:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef stock
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
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Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- Place cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
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Cook the Sausages:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add sausages and cook, turning occasionally, until browned and fully cooked (about 12–15 minutes). Remove from the skillet and keep warm.
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Make the Onion Gravy:
- In the same skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and caramelized.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw taste.
- Slowly pour in the beef stock, whisking to prevent lumps.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the gravy thickens (about 5 minutes).
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Assemble and Serve:
- Spoon mashed potatoes onto a plate, top with sausages, and generously drizzle with onion gravy.
- Serve immediately with a side of steamed peas or roasted vegetables.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Bangers and Mash with Onion Gravy – A Classic British Comfort Food
Bangers and Mash is one of the most iconic and comforting dishes in British cuisine. Featuring juicy, browned sausages served over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes and drenched in a rich, flavorful onion gravy, this meal is simple yet deeply satisfying. Often found in pubs and home kitchens across the UK, it is a beloved dish that has stood the test of time.
The History of Bangers and Mash
The term “bangers” dates back to World War I, when meat shortages led to the production of sausages that contained a high amount of fillers, such as breadcrumbs and water. These sausages would sometimes explode while cooking due to the high moisture content, making a loud “bang” sound—hence the name “bangers.” Over time, sausages improved in quality, but the name stuck, and today, Bangers and Mash remains a staple of British and Irish cuisine.
While the dish originated in the UK, variations have spread worldwide, with different types of sausages and gravy styles used to adapt it to local tastes. In some versions, mustard or ale is added to the gravy for extra depth of flavor, while others use pork, beef, or even plant-based sausages to cater to different dietary preferences.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor – This recipe is made with everyday pantry staples but delivers a restaurant-quality meal.
- Comforting and Hearty – The creamy mashed potatoes, savory sausages, and rich onion gravy create the ultimate cozy dish.
- Customizable – You can use any type of sausage, adjust the seasonings, or even swap out the potatoes for a lower-carb alternative like mashed cauliflower.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this dish never disappoints.
- Easy to Make in One Pan – Aside from boiling the potatoes, everything can be cooked in a single skillet, making cleanup easy.
The Key to the Best Bangers and Mash
1. Choose Quality Sausages
Traditional British sausages, such as Cumberland, Lincolnshire, or Pork and Herb sausages, provide the best flavor for this dish. However, you can use bratwurst, Italian sausages, or even chicken sausages as an alternative.
2. Cook the Sausages Slowly
Cooking the sausages over medium heat ensures they develop a deep golden-brown crust while remaining juicy inside. A quick sear followed by gentle cooking helps to avoid burning the outside before the inside is fully cooked.
3. Make a Rich Onion Gravy
The gravy is what truly elevates this dish. Slow-cooked caramelized onions, beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard create a deeply savory, slightly tangy, and rich sauce that ties everything together. You can also add a splash of red wine or ale for extra complexity.
4. Perfect the Mashed Potatoes
Smooth, buttery mashed potatoes are essential. To achieve the creamiest mash:
- Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for a fluffy texture.
- Warm the milk and butter before mixing them into the potatoes for a silkier consistency.
- Avoid over-mashing to prevent a gluey texture.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Perfect Comfort Food – The combination of hearty sausages, creamy potatoes, and savory gravy makes this a cozy, satisfying dish.
- Easy to Make – With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can recreate this British classic in your own kitchen.
- Rich and Flavorful Onion Gravy – The slow-cooked caramelized onions give the gravy a deep, sweet, and savory taste that enhances the entire dish.
- Versatile – You can customize this dish by using different types of sausages, adjusting the gravy to your taste, or pairing it with your favorite vegetables.
- Great for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a special gathering, or a St. Patrick’s Day celebration, Bangers and Mash is always a crowd-pleaser.
How to Choose the Best Ingredients
The Best Sausages for Bangers and Mash
Traditional British-style sausages such as Cumberland, Lincolnshire, or Pork and Herb sausages work best for this dish. However, you can also use:
- Bratwurst – A mild and juicy German sausage
- Italian Sausage – For a slightly spiced version
- Chicken Sausages – A lighter alternative
- Vegetarian/Vegan Sausages – Plant-based options work well with the rich gravy
The Secret to Perfect Mashed Potatoes
The best mashed potatoes are creamy, smooth, and buttery. To achieve this:
- Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for a fluffy texture.
- Warm the milk and butter before adding them to the potatoes to ensure a silky consistency.
- Avoid over-mashing to prevent a gluey texture.
How to Make the Best Onion Gravy
The gravy is what ties the dish together, and slow-cooking the onions until caramelized is key to getting the best flavor.
- Butter and olive oil – For a rich, smooth texture
- Beef or vegetable stock – Provides depth of flavor
- Flour – Helps thicken the gravy
- Worcestershire sauce – Adds a tangy, umami taste
- Dijon mustard – Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness of the onions
Tips for Making the Best Bangers and Mash
- Brown the Sausages Properly – Cooking them slowly over medium heat ensures they get a golden, crispy skin while staying juicy inside.
- Caramelize the Onions – The deeper the color, the richer the gravy. Low and slow cooking is key.
- Use High-Quality Stock – A good beef or vegetable stock will enhance the overall flavor of the gravy.
- Season the Mashed Potatoes Well – Don’t forget to add enough salt and butter for the best taste.
Creative Variations of Bangers and Mash
- Irish Twist: Use Guinness in the gravy for a rich, slightly sweet flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a bit of heat.
- Cheesy Mash: Mix in cheddar or parmesan for extra indulgence.
- Sweet Onion Gravy: Add a touch of brown sugar or balsamic vinegar for extra caramelization.
- Low-Carb Version: Swap mashed potatoes for mashed cauliflower or roasted root vegetables.
Perfect Pairings for Bangers and Mash
- Side Dishes: Buttered peas, roasted carrots, braised cabbage, or a side salad
- Drinks: A pint of stout beer (like Guinness), a glass of red wine (Shiraz), or apple cider
- Condiments: English mustard, horseradish, or a dollop of cranberry sauce for contrast
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigeration:
- Store leftover sausages, mashed potatoes, and gravy separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
- Mashed potatoes and gravy freeze well for up to 2 months, but sausages may dry out slightly.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Heat the gravy in a pan, adding a splash of water if needed. Warm the sausages in the same pan.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.
Conclusion
Bangers and Mash is one of the ultimate comfort foods, combining simple yet bold flavors that satisfy every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening, preparing it for a British-themed dinner, or simply looking for a filling, easy-to-make meal, this dish is guaranteed to hit the spot.
With its crispy, juicy sausages, silky mashed potatoes, and rich, savory gravy, this classic British staple is proof that the best meals are often the simplest. Try it today, and bring the heartwarming flavors of a traditional British pub meal straight to your table!