Savory French Onion Sausage Rolls Recipe
If you are craving a comfort food that bursts with rich, hearty flavors, you are going to fall head over heels for these Savory French Onion Sausage Rolls. Imagine flaky, buttery puff pastry enveloping a luscious filling of caramelized onions and seasoned sausage, with hints of thyme and optional Gruyère cheese melting into every bite. This dish perfectly balances sweetness, savoriness, and a golden crispness that makes it an irresistible snack or appetizer to share with loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Savory French Onion Sausage Rolls lies in a few simple, but essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and aroma that you’ll adore. From the sweet depth of caramelized onions to the flaky richness of puff pastry, these ingredients come together effortlessly to create a show-stopping treat.
- Ground sausage (1 pound): Choose pork, chicken, or turkey for a savory, juicy filling that complements the onions.
- Onions (2 large, thinly sliced): Slowly caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness and rich flavor.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For gently cooking the onions without overpowering their delicate taste.
- Fresh thyme (1 teaspoon) or dried (½ teaspoon): Adds a fragrant herbal note that elevates the overall flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and highlight the savory profile of the filling.
- Puff pastry (1 package, 2 sheets, thawed): Creates the golden, flaky exterior that’s both crispy and buttery.
- Egg (1, beaten): Used as an egg wash to give the rolls a gorgeous, glossy finish.
- Optional – Gruyère cheese (½ cup, grated): Adds a creamy, nutty richness for those who want a cheesy twist.
- Optional – Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Offers a tangy kick that cuts through the richness beautifully.
How to Make Savory French Onion Sausage Rolls
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add your thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt to draw out moisture and kickstart the caramelization process. Be patient and stir occasionally; it takes around 15 to 20 minutes for the onions to transform into golden, melt-in-your-mouth sweetness. This step is the heart of the dish, so don’t rush it!
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Once the onions have cooled enough to handle, combine them with the ground sausage in a mixing bowl. Add fresh or dried thyme along with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra layer of indulgence, fold in the grated Gruyère cheese and Dijon mustard. The result should be a well-seasoned, flavorful mixture ready to shine inside your pastry.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
While you work on the assembly, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your sausage rolls bake evenly and come off the tray hassle-free. Preheating the oven is key to getting that perfect golden crust.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
On a floured surface, gently roll out your puff pastry sheets. Cut them into rectangles measuring about 4 by 6 inches—just the right size for a satisfying handheld bite. Spoon the filling onto each rectangle, then fold the pastry over and press the edges down with a fork to seal in all the goodness. Brush the top of each roll with the beaten egg, which will give them a beautiful shine and help with browning.
Step 5: Bake
Place the sausage rolls on your prepared baking sheet and slide them into the oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Once out of the oven, allow them to cool for a few minutes—this keeps the filling from being too hot and helps the flavors settle. Your savory French onion sausage rolls are now ready to delight.
How to Serve Savory French Onion Sausage Rolls
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh thyme or chopped parsley on top adds a burst of color and a touch of fresh herbal aroma, enhancing those warm, savory notes. A small dab of Dijon mustard on the side also makes a perfect companion for dipping.
Side Dishes
Serve these rolls with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil to balance the richness. For heartier meals, pair them with roasted vegetables or a creamy soup to really complement the bold flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your Savory French Onion Sausage Rolls into smaller bite-sized pieces for cocktail parties or brunch spreads. Arrange them on a wooden board with assorted cheeses, olives, and nuts for an inviting appetizer platter that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying, store any leftover sausage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making them a perfect make-ahead snack or easy lunch option.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked assembled rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual. This method allows you to enjoy fresh-baked rolls anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the rolls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 to 15 minutes. This restores the crisp pastry exterior while warming the filling through without becoming soggy or dry.
FAQs
Can I use different kinds of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! Pork sausage is traditional, but chicken or turkey sausage work wonderfully too. Just choose a quality sausage with good seasoning for the best results.
Is it possible to make these gluten-free?
You can try using gluten-free puff pastry found at specialty stores. Keep in mind gluten-free pastry can be more delicate, so handle it gently during assembly.
How long can I keep the rolls after baking?
Once baked, it’s best to consume the sausage rolls within 2 to 3 days if stored in the refrigerator. They lose their crispness if kept much longer.
Can I add other herbs or spices to the filling?
Definitely! Sage, rosemary, or even a pinch of smoked paprika can add great dimension to the filling. Just adjust amounts to keep the balance with the sweet onions.
Do I have to use egg wash on the pastry?
The egg wash gives the pastry a beautiful golden color and shine, but if you prefer, you can brush with milk or even skip it—though the rolls may look less glossy.
Final Thoughts
Making Savory French Onion Sausage Rolls at home is such a rewarding experience. The scents filling your kitchen as the onions caramelize and the bakery-like finish of the puff pastry are truly unbeatable. Whether for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this recipe promises a crowd-pleasing treat that’s both comforting and elegant. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love just as I have!
PrintSavory French Onion Sausage Rolls Recipe
These Savory French Onion Sausage Rolls combine caramelized onions, flavorful ground sausage, and flaky puff pastry for a delicious and hearty snack or appetizer. Enhanced with fresh thyme, optional Gruyère cheese, and Dijon mustard, these rolls are perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 sausage rolls 1x
- Category: Snack, Appetizer, Lunch
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: French-inspired
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 pound ground sausage (pork, chicken, or turkey)
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ½ cup grated Gruyère cheese
- Optional: 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
For the Pastry
- 1 package puff pastry (2 sheets, thawed)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt to help draw out moisture. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn golden brown and caramelized, which takes about 15-20 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, caramelized onions, fresh or dried thyme, salt, and pepper. If you choose, fold in the grated Gruyère cheese and Dijon mustard for extra depth of flavor. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the pastry from sticking and ensure even baking.
- Assemble the Rolls: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets and cut them into rectangles measuring approximately 4 by 6 inches. Place a spoonful of the sausage and onion filling onto one side of each rectangle. Fold the pastry over the filling to create a roll and seal the edges firmly with the tines of a fork to prevent leaking during baking. Brush each roll on top with the beaten egg to give them a shiny, golden finish.
- Bake: Arrange the prepared rolls on the lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced evenly. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving to enjoy the full flavor and texture.
Notes
- To ensure even caramelization, cook the onions slowly over medium heat and stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Ground pork sausage works best for a traditional flavor, but chicken or turkey sausage can be used for a leaner option.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute sausage with a plant-based ground alternative and ensure the puff pastry does not contain animal fat.
- Make sure the puff pastry is thoroughly thawed before rolling to avoid cracking.
- These rolls freeze well – bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sausage roll (approx. 100g)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: French onion sausage rolls, savory sausage pastry, caramelized onion rolls, puff pastry sausage snacks, easy appetizer recipe
