Bangers and Mash Recipe: A Comforting Classic

Ever had one of those meals that just feels like a warm hug? That’s bangers and mash. Juicy sausages, creamy mashed potatoes, and a rich onion gravy—pure comfort on a plate.

I’ve made this dish more times than I can count. And let me tell you, it never gets old. The best part? It’s super easy to whip up.

Imagine cutting into a crispy, golden sausage, then scooping up some buttery potatoes dripping with gravy. Yep, it’s that good. And it’s perfect for family dinners or just a cozy night in.

Ready to make the best bangers and mash ever? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Comfort Food: A time-honored British dish that brings warmth to every bite.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and pantry-friendly ingredients make this a hassle-free meal.
• Rich and Savory: The onion gravy is packed with deep, caramelized flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is always a hit.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients without compromising on taste.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour

Servings:
This recipe serves 4 people, but it can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.

Difficulty:
Beginner-friendly! If you can fry sausages and make a simple gravy, you can master this dish.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before getting started, make sure you have the right tools:

• Large Skillet or Frying Pan: To cook the sausages and prepare the gravy.
• Saucepan or Pot: For boiling and mashing the potatoes.
• Wooden Spoon: Helps with stirring and deglazing the pan.
• Potato Masher or Hand Mixer: For creating smooth, creamy mashed potatoes.
• Whisk: Ensures the gravy is lump-free.

Ingredients for Bangers and Mash

Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty dish (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

For the Sausages & Gravy:

• Olive Oil: Helps brown the sausages for extra flavor.
• Pork Sausage Links: Traditional British bangers work best, but any good-quality pork sausages will do.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness to the gravy.
• Sweet Onion: Thinly sliced for a deep, caramelized flavor in the gravy.
• Garlic: Adds depth to the gravy.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the gravy.
• Beef Broth: Creates a savory, meaty base for the gravy.
• Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the dish.

For the Mashed Potatoes (Optional, but Recommended):

• Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold work best for a fluffy texture.
• Butter: For rich and creamy mashed potatoes.
• Milk or Cream: Adds creaminess to the mash.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning.

For Serving (Optional):

• Sweet Baby Peas: A classic side that adds freshness and color to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Bangers and Mash

1. Cook the Sausages

1. Heat the Pan: Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Sear the Sausages: Place the sausages in the pan and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until they develop a golden-brown crust.
3. Reduce Heat & Cook Through: Lower the heat to medium-low and continue cooking for another 10 minutes, or until the sausages are cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F (71°C)).
4. Transfer & Keep Warm: Remove the sausages from the skillet and place them on a plate. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

2. Make the Onion Gravy

1. Melt the Butter: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and allow it to melt.
2. Caramelize the Onions: Add the thinly sliced sweet onion and cook over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden brown.
3. Add Garlic & Flour: Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, then sprinkle 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the onions. Stir continuously for another 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste.
4. Slowly Add Beef Broth: Gradually pour in 2 cups of beef broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
5. Simmer & Thicken: Let the gravy simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
6. Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper as needed.

3. Make the Mashed Potatoes (If Using)

1. Boil the Potatoes: Peel and chop 2 pounds of potatoes into chunks. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 15–20 minutes or until fork-tender.
2. Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add 4 tablespoons of butter and ½ cup of warm milk or cream. Mash until smooth and creamy.
3. Season to Taste: Stir in salt and pepper as needed.

4. Assemble & Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Scoop a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate.
2. Add the Sausages: Place two sausages per serving on top of the mashed potatoes.
3. Drizzle with Gravy: Spoon the rich onion gravy over the sausages and potatoes.
4. Optional – Add a Side of Peas: Steam or boil sweet baby peas and serve them alongside for a fresh contrast.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Bangers and Mash

1. Choose Quality Sausages: Traditional British-style pork sausages work best for authentic flavor. Look for Cumberland or Lincolnshire sausages if available. If not, use any high-quality pork sausages with a coarse texture.
2. Slow Cook the Onions: Don’t rush the onions! Cooking them slowly allows them to develop a deep, caramelized flavor, which is the secret to an incredible onion gravy.
3. Use Beef Broth for Depth: Some recipes use chicken or vegetable broth, but beef broth gives the gravy a richer, more robust taste.
4. For Extra Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Add a splash of heavy cream or sour cream to the potatoes for extra richness.
5. Deglaze the Pan: After cooking the sausages, scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan when adding broth—this enhances the gravy’s depth of flavor.
6. Adjust the Gravy Thickness: If the gravy is too thick, add a bit more broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer or mix ½ teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it in.
7. Make It a Full British Feast: Serve with a side of Yorkshire pudding or buttered peas for an even more traditional experience.

Variations of Bangers and Mash

• Try Different Sausages: Swap pork sausages for chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausages for a different take.
• Add a Beer Gravy: Instead of using just beef broth, replace ½ cup with dark beer (such as Guinness) for extra depth.
• Caramelized Onion Mash: Stir sautéed onions into the mashed potatoes for even more flavor.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add roasted garlic to the mash for a richer taste.
• Cheesy Mash: Mix in grated cheddar cheese for extra creaminess.

How to Store and Reheat Bangers and Mash

Storing Leftovers:

• Sausages & Gravy: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Mashed Potatoes: Keep in a separate airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:

• Stovetop: Reheat the sausages and gravy in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if needed.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring the gravy occasionally to prevent uneven heating.
• Mashed Potatoes: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or butter to restore creaminess.

Nutrition Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (including mashed potatoes and gravy):

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	620 kcal
Protein	22g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fat	38g
Saturated Fat	15g
Cholesterol	85mg
Sodium	1120mg
Fiber	4g
Sugar	4g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Bangers and Mash FAQs

1. Can I use different types of sausages?

Yes! Traditional British bangers are best, but you can use chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausages.

2. How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free sausages and substitute gluten-free flour or cornstarch for thickening the gravy.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the sausages and gravy in advance and store them separately in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop.

4. What other sides go well with bangers and mash?

Try serving with steamed greens, roasted vegetables, or a side of baked beans for a complete meal.

5. Can I freeze bangers and mash?

Yes! Freeze the cooked sausages and gravy separately for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

Bangers and Mash is the definition of comfort food—simple, hearty, and packed with flavor. Whether you make it for a cozy weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. With its rich onion gravy, creamy mashed potatoes, and juicy sausages, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.