If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that combines savory sausage goodness with the rich, sweet flavor of caramelized onions, then this French Onion Sausage Rolls Recipe is exactly what you need. These flaky pastry parcels are packed with tender pork sausage and slowly caramelized onions, bringing an irresistible balance of hearty and subtle sweetness wrapped in golden puff pastry. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a snack, or party finger food, these rolls always vanish fast and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This French Onion Sausage Rolls Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play an essential role in creating a masterpiece of flavor and texture. From the buttery puff pastry that ensures flakiness to the slow-cooked onions adding depth, every component contributes to the delicious harmony.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For gently sautéing the onions until tender and golden.
- 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced: The star ingredient, caramelized to develop that sweet, deep flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Helps speed up caramelization and enhances the onions’ sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar: Adds a subtle tang and complexity to the onion mixture.
- 1 pound ground pork sausage: The savory filling base with juicy, meaty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle kick and sharpness to balance richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: A fragrant herb that pairs beautifully with onion and pork.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For a touch of heat and seasoning.
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen): The crisp, flaky casing that envelopes the filling perfectly.
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash): Ensures a gorgeous golden brown finish on the rolls.
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping): Adds texture and visual appeal.
How to Make French Onion Sausage Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the thinly sliced onions. Cooking them slowly is the secret here—patience pays off as the onions soften and turn a luscious golden brown over 15 to 20 minutes. Sprinkle in the sugar and balsamic vinegar to deepen that sweetness and add a slight tang before cooking for another 5 minutes until they’re perfectly caramelized. Once done, remove them from the heat and allow them to cool; this sweet, rich onion base is what makes these sausage rolls so memorable.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage Filling
In a large bowl, combine the ground pork sausage with Dijon mustard, dried thyme, black pepper, and the cooled caramelized onions. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures every bite is bursting with flavor. The sausage provides juicy savoriness, while mustard and thyme add that extra layer of subtle complexity.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly flour your surface and roll out the puff pastry into a rectangular sheet, then cut it lengthwise into two equal strips. Divide the sausage mixture evenly, shaping it into long logs placed down the center of each pastry strip. Fold the pastry over the filling and seal the edges by pressing with a fork — this keeps everything tightly enclosed and ready to puff up beautifully in the oven.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Brush each roll generously with the beaten egg wash for that irresistible shiny, golden crust. If you want, sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top to add a delightful crunch and a touch of gourmet flair. Slice each log into 4 to 6 pieces, arrange them seam-side down on your baking sheet, then bake for 25 to 30 minutes. When they emerge crispy, puffed, and golden, your French Onion Sausage Rolls Recipe is ready to be enjoyed fresh and warm.
How to Serve French Onion Sausage Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving to brighten the savory richness with a pop of green color and a fresh note. A side of grainy mustard or aioli can elevate the experience, offering creamy or tangy dips that complement the golden rolls beautifully.
Side Dishes
These savory rolls pair wonderfully with simple green salads tossed in light vinaigrettes, roasted vegetables, or even a crisp slaw. The brightness of fresh veggies creates a nice balance against the richness of puff pastry and sausage filling, turning your snack into a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these French Onion Sausage Rolls Recipe bites on a wooden board with a variety of dipping sauces for a casual sharing platter, perfect for parties or game-day gatherings. Alternatively, try wrapping the rolls in parchment paper tied with twine for a rustic picnic presentation that’s as charming as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover sausage rolls keep well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispness, let them cool completely before storing, and reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave for best results.
Freezing
This French Onion Sausage Rolls Recipe freezes beautifully, making it a convenient dish to prepare in advance. Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.
Reheating
For a crisp finish, reheat your rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through and the pastry is refreshingly flaky again. Avoid microwaving as this can turn the puff pastry soggy and heavy.
FAQs
Can I use other kinds of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground pork sausage works beautifully here, feel free to try breakfast sausage, spicy Italian sausage, or even a mix of pork and beef for a slightly different flavor profile. Just make sure it’s raw sausage so it cooks perfectly inside the pastry.
Is puff pastry necessary, or can I use another type of dough?
Puff pastry is key to achieving that flaky, golden crust that makes these rolls so incredible. While you could use shortcrust pastry or filo, the texture and rise won’t be the same. For the best results, stick with high-quality puff pastry.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes! The filling can be made up to one day in advance and stored in the fridge. This can save you time on the day you want to bake the rolls, allowing you to focus on assembly and baking.
What dipping sauces go well with French Onion Sausage Rolls Recipe?
Mustard (especially grainy or Dijon), garlic aioli, ketchup, or even a tangy barbecue sauce all complement the rich sausage and sweet onion flavor brilliantly. Feel free to serve a few options to please every palate.
How do I prevent puff pastry from getting soggy?
Make sure the filling isn’t too wet before you wrap it in pastry, and bake the rolls at the right temperature to ensure a crisp, golden crust. Pre-cooking the filling partially, as with caramelized onions here, helps reduce moisture and keeps the pastry delightfully flaky.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this French Onion Sausage Rolls Recipe enough if you want a comforting yet impressive dish that feels special but is surprisingly easy to make. These rolls bring together the best of flaky pastry, savory sausage, and sweet onions in every bite. Next time you’re planning a gathering or craving a savory treat, give this recipe a try and watch it become a fast favorite!
Print
French Onion Sausage Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8–12 rolls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British, French-Inspired
Description
These French Onion Sausage Rolls combine the rich, sweet flavor of caramelized onions with savory ground pork sausage, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. A perfect appetizer or snack with a delightful blend of textures and bold tastes inspired by British and French cuisine.
Ingredients
For the Caramelized Onions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
For the Sausage Rolls
- 1 pound ground pork sausage
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and have turned a deep golden color. Add sugar and balsamic vinegar, then continue cooking for another 5 minutes to caramelize the onions fully. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Prepare the Sausage Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground pork sausage with Dijon mustard, dried thyme, black pepper, and the cooled caramelized onions. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet and cut it lengthwise into two equal rectangles.
- Assemble the Rolls: Divide the sausage mixture evenly and form a log shape down the center of each pastry strip. Fold the pastry over the filling and seal the edges by pressing with a fork. Place the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Finish and Bake: Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg for a glossy finish. Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top if desired. Slice each roll into 4 to 6 pieces for serving. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown and the sausage is thoroughly cooked. Let the rolls cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- The sausage and onion filling can be prepared a day ahead to save time on the day of baking.
- Serve these rolls warm with mustard or aioli for dipping for an enhanced flavor experience.
- For best flavor and flakiness, use all-butter puff pastry rather than margarine-based brands.
