Bangers and Mash with Onion Gravy: A Comfort Food Classic with an Irish Twist

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, savory flavor – The rich and flavorful onion gravy elevates the taste, with a depth that’s sure to satisfy.

• Comfort food at its best – Juicy sausages and creamy mashed potatoes make for a classic combination that’s hard to beat.

• Perfect for entertaining – This recipe is easy to scale up, making it great for feeding a crowd at dinner parties or family gatherings.

• Hearty and filling – It’s a dish that’s sure to leave everyone satisfied, with bold flavors and satisfying textures.

ingredients

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

For the bangers (sausages):

• 6–8 high-quality halal sausages (or your preferred variety)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

For the mashed potatoes:

• 2 pounds potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)

• 4 tablespoons butter

• ½ cup milk or cream

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the onion gravy:

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 tablespoon flour

• 1 cup of suitable non-alcoholic liquid

• 1 cup beef or chicken stock

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• Salt and pepper, to taste

directions

1. Prepare the Mash
   Peel and chop the potatoes into even chunks. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy. Keep warm.

2. Cook the Bangers
   In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 12–15 minutes. Remove the sausages from the pan and keep them warm.

3. Make the Onion Gravy
   In the same skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add the onions and sauté until caramelized, about 10–12 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the non-alcoholic liquid, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the stock and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble and Serve
   Spoon mashed potatoes onto plates. Place the sausages on top of the potatoes and generously ladle the onion gravy over everything. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4–6

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 25–30 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Meat swap: You can substitute your preferred halal sausage for a different protein or vegetable option.

• Vegetarian option: Use vegetarian or plant-based sausages and vegetable stock for a meat-free version.

• Add-ins: Feel free to stir in a bit of mustard or horseradish into the gravy for an added kick of flavor.

• Extra creaminess: Swap the milk with heavy cream in the mashed potatoes for an extra-rich texture.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet or in the microwave. If the mashed potatoes or gravy are too thick after storing, add a splash of milk or stock when reheating to loosen them up.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage for the bangers?

Yes, you can use halal sausages of your choice, including chicken or beef sausages, depending on your preference.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes and sausages ahead of time, then reheat them when ready to serve. Make the gravy fresh just before serving.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

You can use soy sauce or a bit of balsamic vinegar as a substitute.

Is this dish gluten-free?

No, this dish is not gluten-free as it contains flour in the gravy. You can try substituting the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add peas, roasted carrots, or any other vegetable of your choice as a side to complement the dish.

Can I make this recipe with beef sausages?

Yes, beef sausages work just as well as chicken or turkey sausages for this recipe.

What can I serve with Bangers and Mash?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of buttered peas, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Can I make this dish without the gravy?

While the gravy is a key component of Bangers and Mash, you can skip it if you prefer a lighter version. The sausages and potatoes still make a hearty meal.

How do I prevent the sausages from splitting while cooking?

Cook the sausages over medium heat and turn them regularly to ensure they cook evenly without drying out or splitting.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, the mashed potatoes and gravy freeze well. Store them in separate containers, and they will last for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Bangers and Mash with onion gravy is a classic comfort food that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. With juicy sausages, creamy mashed potatoes, and a rich, flavorful gravy, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just craving a hearty meal, Bangers and Mash never disappoints. Enjoy this traditional Irish and British favorite with your family and friends for a truly satisfying meal.