Chicken Sausages with Mashed Potatoes, Onion Gravy, and Fried Sage: A Comfort Food Classic

This recipe for Chicken Sausages with Mashed Potatoes, Onion Gravy, and Fried Sage is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy mashed potatoes, juicy pan-fried chicken sausages, rich onion gravy, and crispy fried sage combine to create a dish that’s satisfying, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping this up for a hearty weeknight meal or serving it as part of a weekend feast, this dish is sure to impress.

Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to making this delicious and comforting meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: The creamy mashed potatoes and savory onion gravy pair perfectly with juicy chicken sausages for a meal that feels like a warm hug.
• Rich Flavor: Caramelized onions and fried sage elevate the dish, giving it a gourmet touch.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple techniques, this recipe is approachable for cooks of all skill levels.
• Perfect for All Seasons: Whether served on a cold winter night or a cozy family dinner in the fall, this dish fits the bill.

Ingredients: What You’ll Need

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
  Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for their creamy texture.
• 3 tbsp butter
  Adds richness and flavor to the mashed potatoes.
• 1/4 cup milk
  Creates a creamy, smooth consistency. Use whole milk or a dairy-free alternative.
• Salt and pepper to taste
  Enhances the flavor of the potatoes.

For the Sausages:

• 3 chicken sausages
  Use your favorite variety, such as herb, garlic, or apple chicken sausages.
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  Used to pan-fry the sausages to golden perfection.

For the Onion Gravy:

• 1 large onion, finely sliced
  Caramelized onions create a deep, sweet, and savory flavor.
• 1 tbsp flour
  Helps thicken the gravy.
• 1 cup chicken stock
  Forms the base of the rich onion gravy.
• Salt and pepper to taste
  Adjust seasoning to your preference.

For the Fried Sage:

• 6–8 fresh sage leaves
  Adds a crispy, aromatic garnish that enhances the flavor of the dish.
• 1 tbsp butter
  Used to fry the sage leaves until crisp.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Mashed Potatoes

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for 12–15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add 3 tbsp butter, 1/4 cup milk, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Mash until smooth and creamy. Cover and set aside to keep warm.

2. Cook the Chicken Sausages

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken sausages and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through. (Internal temperature should reach 165°F.)
3. Remove the sausages from the skillet and set them aside, keeping them warm.

3. Make the Onion Gravy

1. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté over medium-low heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
2. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well to coat. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Gradually pour in the chicken stock, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Fry the Sage Leaves

1. Heat 1 tbsp butter in a small skillet over medium heat until melted and foamy.
2. Add the sage leaves in a single layer and fry for 1–2 minutes on each side, or until crispy.
3. Remove the fried sage from the skillet and drain on a paper towel.

5. Plate and Serve

1. Divide the mashed potatoes among plates.
2. Place the chicken sausages on top of the potatoes.
3. Spoon the onion gravy generously over the sausages and potatoes.
4. Garnish with the fried sage leaves for a crispy, aromatic finishing touch.
5. Serve immediately, optionally pairing with roasted vegetables or a simple side salad.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Chicken Sausages with Mashed Potatoes and Onion Gravy with these delicious sides for a complete meal:

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for added color and nutrition.
• Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread complements the rich flavors beautifully.
• Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish.
• Steamed Peas or Corn: Light and easy sides that bring a touch of sweetness to the plate.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Use Quality Chicken Sausages: Opt for high-quality sausages with your favorite flavor profile for the best results.
2. Caramelize the Onions Slowly: Take your time cooking the onions over medium-low heat to develop their sweet, rich flavor.
3. Thicken the Gravy: If the gravy is too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
4. Crispy Sage: Ensure the butter is hot enough before adding the sage leaves to achieve a crispy texture without soaking up too much oil.
5. Keep Everything Warm: Cover the mashed potatoes and sausages with foil to keep them warm while making the gravy and sage.

Recipe Variations

1. Make It Vegetarian

Replace the chicken sausages with plant-based sausages or grilled portobello mushrooms. Use vegetable stock for the gravy.

2. Add More Herbs

Enhance the flavor by adding thyme or rosemary to the gravy or as a garnish.

3. Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

Mix shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese into the mashed potatoes for extra richness.

4. Spicy Sausages

Use spicy chicken sausages or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the gravy for a kick of heat.

5. Dairy-Free Option

Substitute the butter and milk in the mashed potatoes with olive oil and almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use other types of sausages?

Yes! Pork, turkey, or plant-based sausages work just as well in this recipe. Choose a sausage variety that suits your taste.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or stock to the mashed potatoes to refresh them.

3. Can I freeze this dish?

You can freeze the mashed potatoes and gravy separately for up to 2 months. However, freshly cooked sausages are best. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the mashed potatoes in advance and reheat them with a splash of milk or butter to restore their creaminess.

5. What’s the best way to caramelize onions?

Cook the onions slowly over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. This allows the natural sugars to develop without burning.

Conclusion

This Chicken Sausages with Mashed Potatoes, Onion Gravy, and Fried Sage is a comforting, hearty meal that delivers on flavor and simplicity. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of creamy potatoes, savory sausages, rich gravy, and crispy sage creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that’s impossible to resist.

Grab your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and enjoy the satisfaction of a homemade comfort food classic! Bon appétit!