If you’re craving something savory, flaky, and utterly satisfying, look no further than Cheese and Onion Sausage Rolls. These golden parcels combine juicy sausage meat with caramelized onions, melted cheese, and crispy puff pastry for a snack or appetizer that always delivers. Whether served at a party, packed in a lunchbox, or enjoyed as a warm comfort bite with tea, these rolls hit the spot every single time.
Let’s walk through each step to creating these irresistible sausage rolls—from the filling to the golden bake—plus expert tips, tasty variations, and answers to common questions.
Ingredients for Cheese and Onion Sausage Rolls
To make 12–16 sausage rolls, you’ll need the following:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 lb (450 g) sausage meat or uncooked sausages, casings removed
- ½ cup grated cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You can also customize the ingredients depending on what’s in your kitchen or what flavor you’re aiming for.
Preparing the Filling
Sauté the Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and finely chopped onions. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until soft and golden. Let them cool before mixing with the meat. This step builds sweetness and depth into the filling.
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine:
- Sausage meat
- Cooled sautéed onions
- Grated cheddar and Parmesan
- Dried thyme
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
Mix everything thoroughly until evenly distributed. The cheeses will bind the filling while adding a savory richness.
Assembling the Sausage Rolls
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll Out the Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a large rectangle. Cut it in half lengthwise to make two long strips.
Add the Filling
Divide the sausage mixture into two equal portions. Form each into a long log and place in the center of each pastry strip.
Fold and Seal
Brush one edge of the pastry with beaten egg. Fold the other edge over the sausage and press to seal tightly. Place the seam side down.
Slice and Top
Cut each roll into 2–3 inch pieces. Lightly score the tops for a decorative touch. Brush with the remaining egg and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds, if using.
Baking the Rolls
Transfer the assembled rolls to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out to allow for puffing.
Bake Until Golden
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is fully cooked. The smell will be irresistible by the time they’re done!
Let Them Cool
Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire rack. Let cool slightly before serving. They’re delicious warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Sausage Rolls
- Keep Puff Pastry Cold: Work quickly while the pastry is still chilled. Warm pastry becomes sticky and hard to manage.
- Cheese Choices: Cheddar adds sharpness, Parmesan enhances umami, but you can also try Gruyère, mozzarella, or even blue cheese for bold twists.
- Avoid Overfilling: Too much filling makes it hard to seal the pastry and may cause bursting during baking.
- Seal Edges Well: Use egg wash like glue and press the seams firmly.
- Scoring the Top: This helps steam escape and gives the pastry a beautiful, professional look.
Variations to Try
Vegetarian
Replace sausage meat with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, and cheese for a hearty meat-free version.
Spicy
Add ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a spoonful of hot sauce to the filling for some heat.
Herby and Fresh
Stir in freshly chopped parsley, rosemary, or chives to the sausage mixture for a garden-fresh finish.
Cheesy Deluxe
Use a blend of cheeses like Gouda, Havarti, or pepper jack to create layers of creamy flavor.
Mini Bites
Cut the pastry and filling into smaller portions to make bite-sized rolls—perfect for party trays or kids’ snacks.
Serving Suggestions
- Appetizer Platter: Pair these sausage rolls with mini quiches, olives, and crudités for an elegant appetizer spread.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve alongside ketchup, Dijon mustard, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or spicy mayo.
- Brunch Boards: Combine with hard-boiled eggs, fruit, and croissants for a cozy brunch board.
- Lunchbox Star: Wrap them in foil and tuck into lunchboxes for a protein-rich snack or light meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these sausage rolls in advance?
Yes! Assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving for the best texture.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Freeze them unbaked on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. Bake from frozen, adding 5–10 extra minutes.
What if I don’t have puff pastry?
You can substitute pie crust or even biscuit dough, though the texture will differ. Puff pastry gives the best flaky finish.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes for best results.
Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Yes, but it’s best to chop or crumble it finely and reduce the baking time slightly. The filling won’t bind as well as raw meat, though.
Do these taste good cold?
They’re best warm but still delicious at room temperature—perfect for picnics or snack boxes.
Final Thoughts
Cheese and Onion Sausage Rolls are a wonderful blend of crisp pastry and savory filling. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. With ingredients you likely already have and straightforward steps, this recipe makes it simple to create something special—whether for entertaining or everyday snacking.
Bake a batch, enjoy the rich aroma wafting through your kitchen, and serve these golden rolls with pride. Once you’ve made them, don’t be surprised if they become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.