Classic Bangers and Mash

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Bangers and Mash is the ultimate comfort dish that brings together juicy sausages, creamy mashed potatoes, and a rich onion gravy. It originated in the United Kingdom, but its cozy, hearty flavors have made it a beloved meal around the world. Whether you’re after something traditional for dinner or just craving a rustic, pub-style plate, this recipe hits all the right notes.

Each bite combines savory meatiness with buttery smooth mash and deeply flavorful gravy. It’s the kind of meal that makes any chilly evening feel warmer and more comforting. And while it looks like it took hours to make, it actually comes together with surprisingly simple steps and pantry-friendly ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Bangers and Mash

This Bangers and Mash is all about balance: the crisp snap of well-seared sausages, the pillowy mash enriched with butter and cream, and the golden, velvety onion gravy that ties it all together. It’s unfussy and satisfying, ideal for both a casual weeknight dinner or a more traditional Sunday meal.

You’ll also love how adaptable it is. Choose your favorite sausages, adjust the mash to your texture preference, and use the onion gravy on just about anything else. It’s a family-pleaser that you’ll come back to again and again.

What Kind of Sausages Should I Use?

The beauty of Bangers and Mash is that it welcomes variety. Traditional British pork sausages are ideal if you can find them, but any high-quality pork or beef sausage will do just fine. Look for ones with a coarse grind and a natural casing to get that satisfying snap when seared. Avoid overly spiced or sweet sausages so the gravy can shine.

Ingredients for the Classic Bangers and Mash

To make a truly memorable Bangers and Mash, you need just a few key ingredients that each play an important role in creating bold yet familiar flavors.

• Sausages
• Yukon Gold potatoes
• Unsalted butter
• Heavy cream
• Yellow onions
• Beef stock
• Flour
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh thyme

The sausages are the star, so choose ones with a rich, meaty flavor. Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for mashing due to their natural creaminess. Unsalted butter and heavy cream bring indulgent texture to the mash. Yellow onions add depth to the gravy when caramelized, and beef stock is the backbone of its richness. A touch of flour helps thicken everything up, while olive oil, salt, and pepper season things perfectly. Fresh thyme gives the gravy a warm, herbal note that rounds everything out.

How To Make the Classic Bangers and Mash

Step 1: Sear the Sausages

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook them slowly, turning often, until they’re browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove them from the pan and keep them warm.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and toss in the sliced onions. Cook on low to medium heat until deeply golden and soft, about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally so they don’t burn.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

Once the onions are caramelized, sprinkle in the flour and stir to coat. Let it cook for a minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the beef stock while stirring to create a smooth gravy. Add salt, pepper, and thyme, then simmer until thickened.

Step 4: Boil and Mash the Potatoes

While the gravy simmers, boil peeled, cubed Yukon Gold potatoes until fork-tender. Drain and mash with butter and heavy cream until creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Pile a generous scoop of mash onto each plate, top with sausages, and spoon over the rich onion gravy. Garnish with extra thyme if desired.

How to Serve and Store Your Bangers and Mash

Bangers and Mash is best served hot and freshly plated, ideally straight from the skillet. It’s a dish meant for comfort, so bring it to the table with a casual spirit and big appetites. This recipe serves four hearty portions.

If you find yourself with leftovers, store everything in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The mashed potatoes and sausages will keep for up to 3 days, and the gravy can be reheated gently on the stove. Add a splash of water or stock if it thickens too much.

What to Serve With Bangers and Mash?

Creamed Spinach

A rich side of creamed spinach offers a velvety green contrast to the savory elements of the dish.

Roasted Carrots

Oven-roasted carrots with a touch of honey and thyme echo the sweetness of the caramelized onions.

Peas with Mint

Classic and simple, this fresh side adds a hint of brightness and color to your plate.

Braised Red Cabbage

Tangy and slightly sweet, braised cabbage is a traditional companion to sausage dishes.

Crusty Bread

Use it to soak up every last bit of that onion gravy.

Dijon Mustard

Not a side dish, but a dollop on the side can add a nice zing if you like extra sharpness.

Apple Slaw

A crunchy, sweet-and-tart slaw balances the heaviness of the mash and sausages.

Want More Dinner Ideas?

If hearty dinners like this warm your soul, you’ll love diving into these delicious meal options next:

• Try this Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni for a creamy pasta twist.
• Enjoy a cozy bowl of Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup on a chilly evening.
• Make a skillet masterpiece like Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet.
• Keep things quick with this Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese that kids and adults both love.
• Need a side for tonight? Creamy Mushroom Sauce for Steak is versatile and flavor-packed.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try adding garlic to the mash? Maybe used a spiced sausage? I love hearing your tweaks and kitchen adventures.

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Conclusion

Classic Bangers and Mash is more than just a British favorite—it’s a timeless dish that delivers comfort in every bite. With crisp sausages, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich onion gravy, it’s the kind of meal that brings people together. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, this dish delivers both flavor and tradition.

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