True Bangers and Mash with Onion Gravy

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe captures the essence of a British pub favorite, bringing together all the elements that make this dish so beloved: the crispy, tender sausages, the smooth and buttery mashed potatoes, and the deep, rich onion gravy that ties it all together. It's simple, filling, and utterly comforting, making it an ideal meal for cozy evenings or gatherings with family and friends. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can recreate this iconic dish right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 sausages (such as pork bangers)
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Directions

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the chopped potatoes for about 10–15 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and return them to the pot. Add butter, salt, and pepper, and mash until smooth. Set aside, keeping warm.

2. Cook the Sausages: While the potatoes cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook, turning occasionally, for about 10–12 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Onion Gravy: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the brown sugar and cook for another 2 minutes. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to combine. Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Serve: To serve, place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on each plate, top with a sausage, and pour the onion gravy over the top. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based sausages or vegetarian bangers for a meat-free version of this dish.
• Add Mushrooms: For an extra depth of flavor, sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onions when making the gravy.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add minced garlic to the potatoes when mashing for a garlicky twist.
• Different Sausages: Try this dish with other types of sausages, such as chicken or beef, to suit your preferences.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover bangers, mash, and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the bangers and mash in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Reheat the gravy on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in short intervals.

FAQs

1. What type of sausage should I use for bangers and mash?

Use traditional British sausages, often labeled as "bangers" in the UK, which are typically pork sausages. You can also use chicken or beef sausages, depending on your preference.

2. Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?

While fresh mashed potatoes are recommended for the best texture and flavor, instant mashed potatoes can be used in a pinch for convenience.

3. Can I freeze bangers and mash?

Yes, you can freeze both the sausages and the mashed potatoes. Store them separately in airtight containers. The gravy may also be frozen for up to 3 months.

4. How can I make the gravy thicker?

To make the gravy thicker, simply cook it longer to reduce it or add a little more flour to the onion mixture before adding the broth.

5. Can I make the onion gravy ahead of time?

Yes, the onion gravy can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove before serving.

6. Is there a vegetarian version of bangers and mash?

Yes! You can replace the meat sausages with plant-based sausages to make a delicious vegetarian version of this classic dish.

7. How do I keep the mashed potatoes creamy?

To keep the mashed potatoes creamy, add plenty of butter and a splash of milk or cream. Mash them while they are still hot for the smoothest texture.

8. Can I add cheese to the mashed potatoes?

Yes, you can stir in some grated cheese, such as cheddar, into the mashed potatoes for added richness and flavor.

9. How can I make the onions for the gravy sweeter?

Adding brown sugar or honey to the onions while they cook will enhance their natural sweetness, perfect for balancing the savory sausages and rich gravy.

10. What sides go well with bangers and mash?

Consider serving a green vegetable like peas, steamed broccoli, or sautéed spinach as a side dish to complement the richness of the bangers and mash.

Conclusion

True Bangers and Mash with Onion Gravy is a comforting, hearty dish that’s simple to prepare yet full of satisfying flavors. With juicy sausages, smooth mashed potatoes, and a savory onion gravy, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you're serving it to family or guests, this classic British recipe is sure to delight.

Print

True Bangers and Mash with Onion Gravy

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

True Bangers and Mash with Onion Gravy is a comforting British classic that pairs juicy sausages, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich onion gravy. Perfect for cozy evenings or family dinners, this dish offers hearty, satisfying flavors that bring the best of traditional British cuisine to your table. Easy to make with simple ingredients, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: British
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 4 sausages
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

• Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
  In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the chopped potatoes for about 10–15 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and return them to the pot. Add butter, salt, and pepper, and mash until smooth. Set aside, keeping warm.

• Cook the Sausages:
  While the potatoes cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook, turning occasionally, for about 10–12 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

• Make the Onion Gravy:
  In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the brown sugar and cook for another 2 minutes. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to combine. Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Serve:
  To serve, place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on each plate, top with a sausage, and pour the onion gravy over the top. Serve hot.

Notes

• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based sausages or vegetarian bangers.
• Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for added flavor.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add minced garlic to the mashed potatoes for a flavorful twist.
• Different Sausages: You can try chicken or beef sausages for a variation.