When the holiday season rolls around, I find myself in search of dishes that not only fill the table but also fill the room with warmth. That’s where this Festive Sausage Wreath comes in. Picture this: a stunning, golden ring of flaky puff pastry embracing a savory filling of sweet Italian sausage, sautéed onions, and fragrant herbs. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will instantly transport you to blissful gatherings with loved ones.
I discovered this recipe during a particularly bustling holiday prep, and it quickly became a festive favorite. Not only is it visually impressive—making it a conversation starter at any celebration—but it’s also surprisingly easy to assemble. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s as delightful to eat as it is to behold. Perfect for brunch, cocktail parties, or cozy family dinners, the sausage wreath is sure to impress without the fuss. Let’s get started on this delectable show-stopper that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why will you love this Sausage Roll Wreath?
Impressive Presentation: The sausage wreath is visually stunning, perfect for holiday parties and gatherings, showcasing your culinary skills!
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip this up in no time, even during the busiest holiday season.
Savory Flavor: A delightful blend of Italian sausage, onions, and herbs delivers a rich, comforting taste that’s sure to please any palate.
Versatile Dish: Great for brunch, dinner, or as an appetizer, this wreath can be adapted with different fillings or spices to suit any occasion.
Aromatically Inviting: The scent of baked pastry mingling with savory herbs creates an intoxicating aroma that fills your home with warmth and holiday cheer.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for sharing, this generous dish is designed to bring people together, ensuring your holiday gatherings are memorable!
Sausage Roll Wreath Ingredients
For the Filling
• Extra-virgin olive oil – Adds richness and helps sauté the onions; substitute with any light cooking oil.
• Large yellow onion, finely chopped – Provides sweetness and depth of flavor; white or sweet onions can substitute.
• Kosher salt – Enhances overall flavor; regular table salt may also be used, adjusting the quantity as needed.
• Freshly ground black pepper – Essential for seasoning; pre-ground pepper is fine, but fresh is ideal for flavor.
• Chopped fresh rosemary – Offers earthy and aromatic notes; dried rosemary can be used in a pinch (use less, as it’s more concentrated).
• Chopped fresh sage – Adds a warm, herby flavor profile; replace with thyme for a similar effect.
• Sweet Italian pork sausage, casings removed – The main filling providing a savory base; for a lighter version, consider turkey sausage or meat alternatives.
• Chopped fresh parsley – Brightens the filling; dried parsley can be used but fresh is recommended for flavor.
• Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami depth; substitute soy sauce if needed.
For the Pastry
• All-purpose flour, for surface – Prevents sticking when rolling out pastry; can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Puff pastry (14-oz. package, thawed) – The flaky exterior; ensure it is thawed correctly for best results.
• Dijon mustard (divided) – Provides tanginess; yellow mustard can be a milder alternative.
For the Topping
• Large egg, lightly beaten – Serves as an egg wash for a golden color; an egg substitute can be used for a vegan version.
• Toasted sesame seeds – Add a nutty flavor and texture; skip or use poppy seeds if desired.
• Poppy seeds – Incorporates flavor and adds a decorative touch.
This Sausage Roll Wreath is bound to become a festive favorite at your holiday table!
How to Make Sausage Roll Wreath
-
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, chopped rosemary, and sage to build those comforting flavors.
-
Prepare the Filling: Remove the skillet from heat and introduce the sweet Italian sausage, chopped parsley, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly until well combined; you want every bite packed with flavor.
-
Roll Out Pastry: Dust a clean surface with all-purpose flour. Carefully roll out the thawed puff pastry until it’s an even thickness. Spread a layer of Dijon mustard over the pastry for a tangy punch.
-
Form the Wreath: Place the sausage mixture along one edge of the pastry and tightly roll it into a log, making sure the filling is securely packed inside. Join the ends together to form a circular wreath.
-
Chill: Transfer the wreath to the fridge for about 30 minutes—this helps the pastry firm up, ensuring it holds its shape while baking.
-
Preheat Oven and Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Once ready, brush the wreath with the lightly beaten egg for that gorgeous golden color. Then, sprinkle with toasted sesame and poppy seeds for extra texture and visual appeal.
-
Bake: Place the wreath in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the pastry is gloriously golden brown and the sausage filling is thoroughly cooked. Let it cool slightly on a rack before slicing and serving.
Optional: Serve warm with whole-grain mustard or cranberry chutney for an even more festive touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for the Sausage Roll Wreath
-
Thawing Pastry: Ensure your puff pastry is fully thawed before using it; this will prevent tearing and ensure a flaky texture.
-
Avoid Overfilling: Be cautious with the sausage filling; overfilling can cause the wreath to burst open while baking, leading to a messy presentation.
-
Use Fresh Herbs: For the best flavor, choose fresh herbs like rosemary and sage instead of dried; they elevate the savory taste profile of the sausage roll wreath.
-
Egg Wash Importance: Don’t skip the egg wash—brushing with a beaten egg gives your wreath a beautiful, golden-brown finish that’s visually enticing.
-
Baking Surface: Place the wreath on a perforated baking sheet or a lined baking tray to ensure even baking and avoid soggy bottoms.
What to Serve with Sausage Roll Wreath?
Creating the perfect meal around your sausage roll wreath can elevate your holiday gathering from delightful to extraordinary.
- Whole-Grain Mustard: A tangy and sharp complement that adds depth to each bite, enhancing the savory flavors of the wreath.
- Cranberry Chutney: The sweet and tart contrast makes an exquisite pairing, bringing a festive flair to your appetizer.
- Branston Pickle: Offering a zesty kick, this classic British accompaniment adds a delightful crunch and complements the rich sausage beautifully.
- Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, these potatoes create a hearty side that balances the light, flaky pastry of the wreath.
- Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens tossed in a light vinaigrette add brightness and a refreshing crunch, perfect for cutting through the richness.
- Hot Mulled Cider: Serve a warm beverage that embodies the essence of the holidays, enhancing the cozy atmosphere of your gathering.
Let your creativity shine in the kitchen as you explore these mouthwatering pairings to accompany your stunning sausage roll wreath!
Sausage Roll Wreath Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make the recipe your own!
-
Spicy Sausage: Swap sweet Italian sausage for spicy sausage to add a fiery kick that warms the soul.
-
Vegetable Medley: Mix in finely diced bell peppers and spinach for a color-packed filling that adds texture and freshness.
-
Cheesy Delight: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the filling for a gooey, cheesy upgrade that melts in your mouth.
-
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or basil in place of rosemary and sage for a flavor twist that surprises.
-
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free puff pastry and flour substitutes to make this dish friendly for those with gluten sensitivities.
-
Honey Mustard Glaze: Brush the wreath with honey mustard instead of Dijon for a sweet and tangy finish that excites the palate.
-
Apple-Sausage Combo: For a sweet and savory blend, mix chopped apples with your sausage; the sweet notes will elevate the dish beautifully.
-
Mediterranean Flare: Incorporate feta cheese and kalamata olives for a Mediterranean-inspired twist that transports your taste buds on a flavor journey.
Make Ahead Options
These Sausage Roll Wreaths are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the entire wreath up to 24 hours in advance by following the recipe instructions up to the chilling step. After forming the wreath, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven and brush the chilled wreath with egg wash before sprinkling the sesame and poppy seeds on top, then bake as directed. This method ensures the wreath stays just as delicious and flaky while cutting down your prep time significantly, allowing you to enjoy more moments with loved ones during your festive gatherings!
How to Store and Freeze Sausage Roll Wreath
Fridge: Store the leftover sausage wreath in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, tightly wrap the cooled wreath in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the wreath in a toaster oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with mustard or chutney to elevate the flavor when reheating your sausage roll wreath.
Sausage Roll Wreath Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right sausage for the filling?
Absolutely! When selecting sausage for your sausage roll wreath, sweet Italian pork sausage is ideal for its juicy flavor, but you could opt for spicy sausage for a flavorful kick or even turkey sausage for a lighter option. Always check the casings; they should be removed for easier mixing.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! To keep your leftover sausage wreath fresh, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before storing to avoid any sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy, a brief reheating in the toaster oven at 350°F for around 10 minutes will revive that delightful flaky texture.
Can I freeze the sausage wreath, and if so, how?
Absolutely! For freezing, allow the wreath to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This keeps it protected from freezer burn. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months! To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it up in the oven or toaster oven for a crispy finish.
What should I do if my pastry tears while rolling it out?
No problem! If your puff pastry tears, don’t panic. Just use a bit of flour to dust the edges and gently press them together while rolling. You can also patch it up with leftover pastry if needed. The key is to keep the pastry cold and work quickly to maintain its flaky texture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Very! To create a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with a plant-based meat alternative or finely diced vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, seasoned with herbs. For a vegan wreath, replace the egg wash with a non-dairy milk or aquafaba wash and skip the Worcestershire sauce or use a vegan alternative.
How do I know when the sausage wreath is fully cooked?
Great question! The best test is to look for a beautifully golden-brown color on the pastry, which usually takes about 40 minutes at 400°F. You can also use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature of the sausage filling should reach 160°F to be safely cooked through.
Sausage Roll Wreath: A Festive Treat for Holiday Feasts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, rosemary, and sage.
- Prepare the Filling: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sausage, parsley, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
- Roll Out Pastry: Dust a clean surface with flour and roll out the puff pastry. Spread Dijon mustard over the pastry.
- Form the Wreath: Place the sausage mixture along one edge of the pastry and roll it into a log, joining the ends to form a wreath.
- Chill: Transfer the wreath to the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare for Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F. Brush the wreath with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame and poppy seeds.
- Bake: Place the wreath in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes until golden brown.
