Bangers and Mash with Onion Gravy: A Comfort Food Classic

Bangers and Mash, a beloved British comfort food, combines hearty sausages, creamy mashed potatoes, and a rich, caramelized onion gravy. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or looking to impress guests with a rustic yet flavorful dish, this recipe is a surefire hit. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural flavors of the sausages, potatoes, and onions to shine, creating a satisfying and comforting meal.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the perfect Bangers and Mash, complete with silky mashed potatoes and a savory onion gravy. We’ll also provide tips, serving suggestions, and variations to suit every palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Classic Comfort Food: Creamy mashed potatoes, savory sausages, and rich onion gravy make this dish the ultimate comfort food.
2. Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh ingredients, this dish is both easy to prepare and budget-friendly.
3. Versatile: Works with chicken, beef, or pork sausages, and the gravy can be customized to your preferences.
4. Family-Friendly: This dish is loved by adults and kids alike, making it a perfect family dinner.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly: The mashed potatoes and onion gravy can be prepared in advance, making dinner prep a breeze.

Ingredients for Bangers and Mash with Onion Gravy

For the Sausages and Mash

• 6 chicken or beef sausages (or pork sausages, for a traditional version)
• 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
• 3 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Onion Gravy

• 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth (use beef broth for beef sausages, chicken broth for chicken sausages)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (to thicken the gravy)
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp sugar (to enhance the sweetness of the caramelized onions)

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Sausages: Use your favorite type—chicken, beef, pork, or even plant-based sausages for a vegetarian version.
• Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes make creamy mashed potatoes, but Russet potatoes are also a great choice.
• Broth: For a vegetarian onion gravy, substitute vegetable broth and use plant-based sausages.
• Worcestershire Sauce: For a vegan option, use a vegan Worcestershire sauce.
• Butter and Milk: Swap with plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Bangers and Mash

Follow these simple steps to create this comforting classic:

Step 1: Make the Mashed Potatoes

1. Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash with 3 tbsp butter and 1/4 cup milk until smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Sausages

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil or butter.
2. Add the sausages and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through.
   • Tip: If the sausages brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly and add a splash of water to the pan to prevent them from drying out.
3. Remove the sausages from the skillet and set aside, leaving any drippings in the pan for the gravy.

Step 3: Caramelize the Onions

1. In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and 1 tsp sugar, and sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden and caramelized.
   • Tip: Lower the heat if the onions start to brown too quickly to avoid burning.

Step 4: Make the Onion Gravy

1. Sprinkle 1 tbsp all-purpose flour over the caramelized onions and stir to coat evenly. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
2. Gradually whisk in 2 cups beef or chicken broth. Stir constantly to prevent lumps and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor.
3. Add 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer the gravy for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened to your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Divide the mashed potatoes between plates.
2. Top each serving with sausages, then ladle the rich onion gravy over the top.
3. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Bangers and Mash is a hearty dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

1. Vegetables: Serve with sautéed spinach, green beans, or steamed peas for added nutrition.
2. Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
3. Bread: Pair with a slice of crusty bread or a dinner roll to mop up any leftover gravy.
4. Beverages: Enjoy with a pint of beer, cider, or a glass of red wine for a classic pub-inspired pairing.

Tips for the Best Bangers and Mash

1. Choose Quality Sausages: The flavor of the sausages is key to this dish, so use high-quality chicken, beef, or pork sausages for the best results.
2. Get Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Mash the potatoes while they’re hot and use warm milk to ensure smooth, creamy potatoes without lumps.
3. Perfect Gravy: Whisk the broth gradually into the flour and onion mixture to avoid lumps. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of water or broth to thin it out.
4. Caramelize Onions Slowly: Cook the onions over medium-low heat to achieve a deep golden color and rich sweetness.
5. Make it a One-Pan Dish: Cook the sausages and gravy in the same skillet to maximize flavor and minimize cleanup.

Variations to Try

1. Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based sausages and vegetable broth to create a vegetarian-friendly version.
2. Add Herbs: Stir fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley into the mashed potatoes or gravy for an aromatic touch.
3. Cheesy Mash: Mix shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese into the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
4. Spicy Kick: Use spicy sausages, such as chorizo, and add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the gravy for a fiery twist.
5. Mushroom Gravy: Add sautéed mushrooms to the onion gravy for added texture and flavor.

Health Benefits of Bangers and Mash

While indulgent, this dish also provides nutritional benefits:

• Protein-Packed Sausages: Sausages are a good source of protein, which supports muscle health and energy.
• Potatoes for Energy: Potatoes are rich in complex carbohydrates and provide a dose of potassium and vitamin C.
• Caramelized Onions: Onions are packed with antioxidants and add natural sweetness without the need for excessive sugar.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mashed potatoes and onion gravy up to 1 day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the potatoes and gravy gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?

While mashed potatoes don’t freeze well due to changes in texture, the sausages and gravy can be frozen. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

3. What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?

If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can use soy sauce, tamari, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar depth of flavor.

4. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, but homemade mashed potatoes will have a creamier, fresher flavor. If using instant mashed potatoes, enhance them with butter, milk, and seasoning.

5. How do I prevent lumpy gravy?

To avoid lumps, sprinkle the flour evenly over the onions and whisk constantly while gradually adding the broth. Straining the gravy is another option if lumps form.

Conclusion

Bangers and Mash with Onion Gravy is the epitome of comfort food, combining juicy sausages, buttery mashed potatoes, and rich, caramelized onion gravy. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for cozy nights at home or when you want to impress with a rustic, flavorful meal.

Serve it alongside your favorite vegetables or a crisp salad, and enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. With its hearty, homemade flavors, this classic dish is sure to become a family favorite. Bon appétit!