When it comes to holiday gatherings, everyone loves a good finger food that’s not only delicious but also easy to share. Enter Christmas Sausage Rolls—a savory, golden pastry filled with juicy sausage and perfect for any holiday spread. These tasty treats bring together rich, flavorful sausage, fresh herbs, and a flaky, buttery puff pastry that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or part of a larger buffet, Christmas Sausage Rolls are sure to be a crowd favorite.
Inspired by the classic British sausage roll, this festive variation takes it up a notch with holiday-inspired spices and seasonings. The subtle hint of sage and nutmeg, along with the savory sausage filling, creates a warm, comforting bite that pairs wonderfully with a cold drink or a hot mulled wine.
Why You’ll Love Christmas Sausage Rolls
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Comforting and Savory: The hearty sausage filling is a comforting, satisfying treat that’s perfect for winter.
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Flaky & Buttery: The puff pastry provides a light, crispy, and buttery bite that perfectly complements the richness of the sausage filling.
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Customizable: You can adjust the seasoning and add your favorite herbs or fillings to make it your own.
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Easy to Prepare: These sausage rolls are simple to prepare and can be made in advance, which makes them perfect for busy holiday parties or family gatherings.
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Perfect for Parties: With their finger-food appeal, Christmas Sausage Rolls are an easy-to-eat, crowd-pleasing snack that’s perfect for any festive occasion.
Ingredients for Christmas Sausage Rolls
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1 lb (450g) sausage meat (preferably pork or a mix of pork and beef)
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1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
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1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
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1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
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1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
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2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional for added depth of flavor)
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1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade, about 12 x 12 inches)
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1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
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2 tablespoons olive oil (for greasing)
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Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish, optional)
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Chili flakes or cranberry sauce (for dipping, optional)
How to Make Christmas Sausage Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage Filling
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In a large bowl, combine the sausage meat with fresh sage, ground nutmeg, black pepper, salt, and the optional chopped onion. If you like a little extra flavor, you can also add Dijon mustard for a tangy kick.
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Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything together until well combined. The sausage mixture should be firm but moist.
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a large rectangle, about 12 x 12 inches. If using store-bought pastry, you might need to cut it in half to fit your baking sheet, but aim for a long, even rectangle.
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Place a long strip of the sausage mixture along the center of the pastry. Try to make the sausage log as even as possible, about 2 inches wide, so it’s easy to cut after baking.
Step 3: Form the Sausage Rolls
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Carefully fold the pastry over the sausage filling, using your fingers to press and seal the edges. The pastry should completely encase the sausage filling.
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Use a sharp knife to cut the sausage roll into smaller sections, typically about 2–3 inches long. If you prefer smaller bites, you can make them even smaller.
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Place the sausage rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each roll.
Step 4: Bake the Sausage Rolls
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Brush the tops of the sausage rolls with the beaten egg to create a golden, glossy finish.
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Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the sausage rolls are golden brown and crispy. You’ll know they’re done when the pastry is puffed and golden, and the sausage filling is fully cooked through.
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Once baked, remove the sausage rolls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
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If desired, garnish your sausage rolls with fresh chopped parsley for a festive touch.
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Serve hot with a side of cranberry sauce or chili flakes for an extra burst of flavor. You can also offer a dipping sauce like mustard or a tangy aioli to enhance the overall experience.
Make It Your Own
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Add Cheese: For a richer filling, try adding shredded cheddar, gouda, or even brie to the sausage mixture. The melty cheese will add a creamy, indulgent texture to every bite.
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Swap the Sausage: You can switch up the type of sausage used. Try a spicy chorizo for an extra kick, or use chicken sausage for a lighter option. If you’re looking to make these rolls vegetarian, you can use a plant-based sausage or lentil mixture.
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Use Different Herbs: While sage and nutmeg are classic holiday flavors, feel free to experiment with rosemary, thyme, or even a pinch of cinnamon for different flavor profiles.
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Cranberry-Infused Pastry: For an extra festive touch, you can brush the pastry with a little cranberry sauce before rolling the sausage mixture inside. This will add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the finished rolls.
Storage & Leftovers
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Storing: Leftover sausage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them crisp, it’s best to store them in a single layer with parchment paper between the rolls.
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Reheating: Reheat sausage rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the puff pastry won’t stay as crispy.
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Freezing: You can freeze unbaked sausage rolls before cooking. Simply prepare the rolls and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, then freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen rolls to a freezer bag or container and store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply place them on a baking sheet and cook from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 25–30 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
Final Thoughts
Christmas Sausage Rolls are a must-have on your holiday appetizer table. These little bundles of joy are warm, savory, and bursting with festive flavor, making them a perfect snack for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday party, a cozy family gathering, or simply treating yourself to something delicious, these sausage rolls are sure to impress your guests. Their golden, flaky exterior and hearty sausage filling will leave everyone reaching for just one more. So, embrace the holiday spirit, get baking, and enjoy this classic finger food with a festive twist!
