I remember the first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s Sausage and Mash Pie. I had just moved to a new city, and I was craving comfort food. You know that kind of meal that makes you feel like you’re wrapped up in a warm blanket, both physically and emotionally? That’s what this pie felt like. The sausages are hearty, the mash is creamy, and the whole dish is wrapped in buttery pastry. It’s the kind of food that brings people together-perfect for a cozy dinner with friends or a family meal that everyone can enjoy.
This pie is a twist on a classic British dish, giving it a more luxurious feel with the buttery crust and rich filling. It’s the type of recipe you want to have in your arsenal when you need something hearty, satisfying, and just a little bit special.
So let’s break it down-what makes this pie so irresistible?
Jamie Oliver’s Sausage And Mash Pie Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s Sausage and Mash Pie combines two beloved comfort foods-sausage and mash-with a rich gravy and golden pastry. The recipe has become a staple in many kitchens for its simplicity and flavor-packed punch.
Here’s a quick rundown of the key elements:
- Sausages – a mix of good quality pork or chicken sausages is ideal
- Mashed potatoes – buttery, creamy, and fluffy to balance out the richness of the sausage
- Gravy – a luscious, savory gravy that brings the whole thing together
- Pastry – buttery and golden, it encases all the flavors in a perfectly flaky shell
It’s not just the ingredients that make this pie great-it’s how the flavors and textures come together. The smooth mash, the savory sausage, and the crisp pastry create a perfect bite every time.
Ingredients Needed
Let’s dive into what you’ll need. The ingredients for this pie are easy to get, and once you have them, you’re only an hour away from a delicious meal. Here’s what you’ll need:
For The Filling
- Good-quality sausages (about 6-8 sausages depending on size)
- Potatoes (about 800g – for a mash that’s rich and creamy)
- Butter (to make that mash extra indulgent)
- Milk (for smooth, velvety mashed potatoes)
- Onions (1 large, chopped – caramelized to add depth to the filling)
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced – because garlic makes everything better)
- Flour (2 tablespoons to thicken the gravy)
- Beef stock (300ml – for that rich gravy flavor)
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon – gives it that umami punch)
- Herbs (a pinch of thyme, rosemary, or parsley)
For The Pastry
- Ready-made puff pastry (enough to line a pie dish and cover the top)
- Egg wash (1 egg, beaten, to get that golden shine on the pastry)
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Sausage And Mash Pie
Step 1: Prepare The Sausages
- Start by removing the sausages from their casings. Squeeze out the sausage meat into a pan over medium heat. Brown the meat until it’s nice and crispy on the edges, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Step 2: Caramelize The Onions And Garlic
- While the sausages cook, in a separate pan, heat a little oil and add your onions. Cook them on low heat until they become soft and golden brown. Add the garlic toward the end to avoid burning it.
Step 3: Make The Gravy
- Once the sausages are browned, sprinkle flour over the meat, stirring it in to form a roux. Slowly add beef stock, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a rich gravy. Add Worcestershire sauce and any herbs you’re using. Let this simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Step 4: Mash The Potatoes
- Peel and chop your potatoes, then boil them until soft (around 10 minutes). Drain and mash them with butter and milk, seasoning with salt and pepper until they’re nice and smooth.
Step 5: Assemble The Pie
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). In a pie dish, spoon in the sausage mixture, then top it with the mashed potatoes. Roll out your puff pastry and place it over the filling, trimming any excess. Brush the top with an egg wash to make it golden and shiny when baked.
Step 6: Bake
- Pop the pie into the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crisp.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Each ingredient in this pie brings something special to the table. Let’s break down the science behind the magic:
- Sausages: The fat content in sausages helps to keep the filling moist. As they cook, they release savory juices that blend with the gravy, enriching the flavor.
- Potatoes: When you mash potatoes with butter and milk, the starches break down to create a smooth, creamy texture. The high starch content in potatoes helps absorb the gravy, making each bite even more satisfying.
- Butter in the mash: Butter adds richness and a smooth mouthfeel. It helps emulsify the potatoes, making them creamy without being too heavy.
- Pastry: The puff pastry’s layers are what create that satisfying crunch. The fat in the dough causes the layers to separate as they cook, making it flaky and light.
Expert Tips
- Use a mix of sausages: Don’t stick to just one type of sausage. A blend of pork and chicken or pork and beef will give you a more complex flavor.
- Don’t skimp on the butter: For the best mashed potatoes, use a generous amount of butter. It makes all the difference.
- Caramelize your onions: The slow cooking of onions releases natural sugars, which makes them sweet and adds a deep layer of flavor to the dish.
- Chill the pastry: Before rolling it out, chill your puff pastry for about 10 minutes to prevent it from becoming too soft. It’ll bake more evenly this way.
Recipe Variations
This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to fit different preferences. Here are a few ideas:
- Vegetarian version: Use meat-free sausages, or replace the sausage with lentils or a vegetable mix like mushrooms and carrots. You can also add a bit of plant-based butter and milk for the mash.
- Spicy sausage pie: If you like a bit of heat, use spicy sausages like chorizo or add some chili flakes to the filling.
- Add cheese: Mix some grated cheese into the mashed potatoes for extra richness. A sharp cheddar works beautifully.
Final Words
Sausage and mash pie is one of those recipes that brings comfort and joy to any dinner table. It’s filling, satisfying, and makes the most of simple ingredients. With a little care in preparation, you can make a pie that tastes as good as anything you’d get in a pub or restaurant, but with the warmth of homemade love.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Sausage And Mash Pie?
You’ll need sausages, potatoes for mash, butter, flour, onions, and some herbs like rosemary. Plus, a bit of stock and pastry to top it off.
Can I Make The Sausage And Mash Pie Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prep it in advance. Assemble the pie, then cover and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just bake it!
What Sausages Work Best For This Recipe?
Use high-quality sausages with a good mix of pork and seasoning. You can go for classic Cumberland or any other flavorful choice.