French Onion Sausage Rolls

Growing up, my mom had this magical way of making our house feel warm and inviting, especially when she whipped up her French Onion Sausage Rolls. I can still picture the scent of caramelized onions and savory pork wafting through the air, pulling the family together as we gathered around the kitchen island, eager to sneak a taste before they even made it to the table. It's one of those recipes that just feels like home, perfect for cozy nights in or casual gatherings with friends.

These French Onion Sausage Rolls are more than just a delicious snack; they're a celebration of comfort food at its finest. With the flaky pastry wrapping around a hearty filling, they're absolutely perfect for chilly evenings or as an easy appetizer for game day. Trust me, once you make these, they'll quickly become a staple in your kitchen, just as they are in mine!

Why You'll Love "French Onion Sausage Rolls"

• Quick prep time of just 15 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute snacks.
• Minimal ingredients that pack a punch of flavor, so you won't break the bank.
• Family-friendly and sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Freezer-friendly, allowing you to whip up a batch and save them for later.
• Versatile enough to serve as appetizers, snacks, or even a light meal.
• Deliciously flaky pastry that complements the savory filling perfectly.

Ingredients You'll Need

• 1 lb ground pork (pork mince) - use a quality brand for the best flavor.
• 1 packet French onion soup mix or 1 cup sautéed onions + 1 teaspoon onion powder for a homemade touch.
• 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup - adds a slight sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce - for that extra umami kick.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard - don't skip this; it really enhances the flavor.
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste - adjust according to your spice preference.
• 2 sheets puff pastry - make sure they're thawed if frozen, for better handling.
• 1 egg - for the egg wash, gives a lovely golden finish.
• 1 tablespoon milk - mixed with the egg for a richer wash.
• Optional: cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) - for a gooey, melty filling.
• Optional: fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, parsley) - add these for a burst of freshness.
• Optional: chili flakes - sprinkle in if you like a little heat!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your French Onion Sausage Rolls bake evenly and get that perfect golden crust.

Make the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 lb of ground pork, 1 packet of French onion soup mix (or your homemade version), 1 tablespoon of tomato ketchup, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
2. Mix everything together well, using your hands or a spatula, until the ingredients are fully incorporated. Don't worry if it looks a little messy - that just means you're doing it right!

Prepare the Pastry

1. Take your 2 sheets of thawed puff pastry and roll them out on a lightly floured surface. You want them to be about ⅛ inch thick for the best flaky texture.
2. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into rectangles that are approximately 4 inches by 6 inches. This size is perfect for wrapping up your filling.

Assemble the Rolls

1. Place a generous spoonful of the pork filling in the center of each pastry rectangle. Be careful not to overfill, or they might burst open while baking!
2. Fold the pastry over the filling, bringing the edges together to seal it. Pinch the edges firmly to ensure there are no leaks.
3. In a small bowl, beat 1 egg with 1 tablespoon of milk to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture over the top of each roll - this will give them that beautiful golden brown color.

Bake

1. Place your assembled rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they're spaced out a bit to allow for puffing up.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until they're golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them; you want them looking irresistible!

Variations

• Swap ground pork for turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Use caramelized shallots instead of onion soup mix for a gourmet twist.
• Incorporate seasonal ingredients like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor.
• Try a spicy version by adding jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.
• For a lighter option, use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

These French Onion Sausage Rolls are best served warm, straight from the oven. Pair them with a side of tangy dipping sauce like mustard or barbecue. They make a great appetizer for parties or a fun snack while watching the game. You can also enjoy them as a light meal alongside a fresh salad. For more appetizer ideas, check out our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. You can freeze the unbaked rolls for up to a month; just bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra 5 minutes to the cooking time.

Helpful Notes

• Feel free to use low-fat ground pork or chicken to cut down on calories.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free puff pastry available in stores.
• Mix in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
• If you're dairy-free, skip the egg wash or use a plant-based alternative.
• These rolls are also great with a sprinkle of grated cheese inside for extra creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze French Onion Sausage Rolls?

Yes, you can definitely freeze French Onion Sausage Rolls! Just assemble them as directed, but don't bake them. Instead, place the unbaked rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last up to a month in the freezer. When ready to bake, pop them straight in the oven from the freezer, adding an extra 5 minutes to the baking time.

What can I substitute for pork mince?

If you're looking to switch things up, you can substitute ground pork with ground turkey, chicken, or beef. Each will bring a different flavor profile to your rolls, so feel free to experiment! For a vegetarian option, consider using a meat substitute like lentils or plant-based sausage crumbles. If you're interested in other ground beef recipes, you might like our Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the rolls in advance. Just cover them with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. If you want to save even more time, you can freeze them unbaked, as mentioned earlier, and bake them when you're ready to enjoy. For more make-ahead ideas, explore our blog.

Final Thoughts

There's something truly special about making French Onion Sausage Rolls that brings everyone together. Whether it's for a cozy family night or a fun gathering with friends, these little delights are bound to be a hit. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it your own - add your favorite spices, experiment with fillings, and enjoy the process! Remember, the best meals are made with love and a dash of adventure. So roll up your sleeves, channel your inner chef, and savor every bite of these delicious sausage rolls. You've got this!