There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of caramelized onions, savory sausage, and flaky pastry. My French Onion Sausage Rolls bring together the rich, sweet flavors of classic French onion soup with the hearty satisfaction of a homemade sausage roll – creating a delicious handheld treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re planning a casual gathering, looking for an impressive appetizer, or simply craving something different for dinner, these sausage rolls deliver exceptional flavor with minimal fuss. The slow-caramelized onions add a sweet depth that perfectly complements the savory sausage, all wrapped in golden, buttery pastry.
Why You’ll Love This
- Make-ahead friendly – prepare earlier in the day and bake when needed
- Perfect balance of sweet caramelized onions and savory sausage
- Crisp, flaky pastry exterior with a juicy, flavorful filling
- Versatile as an appetizer, party food, or main dish with a side salad
- Simple ingredients that transform into something truly special
Ingredients
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 lb ground sausage meat
- 1/2 cup grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 large egg, beaten for wash
- Sesame seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring frequently, for 20-25 minutes until deep golden brown and softened. Stir in sugar, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- In a large bowl, combine ground sausage meat with the cooled caramelized onions, thyme, and any optional ingredients like grated cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and fresh parsley. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Preheat oven to 390°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Lay out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a clean work surface. Using a sharp knife, cut the pastry in half lengthwise to create two long strips.
- Spoon half the sausage mixture along one long edge of each pastry strip, forming an even log. Roll the pastry tightly around the filling, sealing the seam with a little water. Press firmly to ensure a good seal.
- Using a sharp knife, cut each log into individual rolls about 2 inches (5 cm) wide. Place them seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the pastry is golden brown and puffed, and the sausage filling is cooked through. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the onion mixture
- Try different cheeses – Emmental or even a sharp cheddar works well
- Make mini versions for party appetizers by cutting into smaller pieces before baking
- For a shortcut, use pre-made caramelized onions from specialty stores
- Add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the onions during the last 5 minutes of caramelizing
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth
Serving Suggestions
These French Onion Sausage Rolls are delicious served with a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a more substantial meal, pair with roasted vegetables or a cup of tomato soup.
For dipping, consider offering a small bowl of Dijon mustard, a homemade gravy, or even a touch of cranberry sauce for a sweet-savory contrast that complements the caramelized onions beautifully.
Notes
- Sausage rolls can be assembled and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking
- To freeze, prepare up to the egg wash step, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 3 months
- When baking from frozen, add 5-10 minutes to the baking time
- Sausage rolls are done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C)
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare these up to the baking stage and refrigerate for 24 hours or freeze for longer storage.
What type of sausage works best?
Plain pork sausage meat works wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with Italian, breakfast, or even chorizo for different flavor profiles.
How do I know when the onions are properly caramelized?
Properly caramelized onions should be deeply golden brown, very soft, and sweet-tasting. This process takes patience – at least 25-30 minutes of slow cooking.
Can I reheat leftover sausage rolls?
Absolutely! Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. This maintains the crispy pastry better than microwaving.
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