I first came across Jamie Oliver’s Sausage and Mash Pie during a particularly rainy afternoon when I needed something comforting and hearty. I was scrolling through his recipes for ideas, and this one immediately caught my eye. The blend of sausages, creamy mashed potatoes, and crispy pastry seemed like a perfect balance of flavors. Ever since, it’s become one of my go-to dishes when I want something both indulgent and satisfying.
It’s one of those meals that doesn’t require anything too fancy but always delivers a warm hug in every bite. The simplicity of it, combined with Jamie’s bold approach to ingredients, makes it a recipe that anyone can enjoy. Let’s dive into how you can make this comforting dish at home.
Jamie Oliver’s Sausage And Mash Pie Recipe
This recipe brings a twist to the traditional sausage and mash by incorporating a rich, savory filling tucked inside a golden, flaky pastry shell. Here’s a breakdown of how it comes together:
- Sausages: The star ingredient of this dish. They provide a juicy, savory base that infuses the whole pie with flavor.
- Mash: Rich and creamy, the mashed potatoes are perfectly fluffy, offering a smooth contrast to the sausages.
- Pastry: Flaky and buttery, it creates the ultimate crust that adds texture to the pie.
- Herbs & Vegetables: These ingredients elevate the dish, adding layers of flavor that balance the richness of the sausages and mash.
Ingredients Needed
To create this pie, you’ll need a few pantry staples. Here’s a list of what you’ll require:
For The Filling
- 8 quality sausages (preferably pork or beef)
- 1 onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if available)
- 1/2 cup stock (chicken or vegetable works well)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For The Mash
- 2 pounds potatoes (peeled and chopped)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For The Pastry
- 1 sheet ready-made puff pastry
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Sausage And Mash Pie
This dish requires a few steps, but each one is simple and intuitive. Let’s go through the process:
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Cook The Sausages
- Start by cooking the sausages in a large pan over medium heat until golden brown.
- Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
- Slice the sausages into bite-sized pieces.
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Prepare The Filling
- In the same pan, add olive oil and sauté the onions and garlic until they soften and become translucent.
- Add the sausage pieces back into the pan and stir in the thyme, stock, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce reduces and thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Make The Mashed Potatoes
- While the filling simmers, boil the chopped potatoes in salted water until tender (about 10 minutes).
- Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter and milk.
- Season with salt and pepper.
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Assemble The Pie
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry and line a pie dish with it.
- Layer the sausage filling on the bottom, then top it with a generous layer of mashed potatoes.
- Cover with the puff pastry and press the edges to seal.
- Brush the top with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
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Bake
- Place the pie in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crispy.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Each ingredient in this pie serves a specific purpose in creating a balanced and flavorful dish:
- Sausages: They’re packed with fat, which adds moisture and richness to the filling. The fat also helps carry the herbs and spices, making each bite flavorful.
- Mashed Potatoes: Potatoes are high in starch, which gives them that creamy texture when mashed. Adding butter and milk helps break down the starch further, giving the mash a smooth, velvety finish.
- Pastry: The puff pastry is made by layering dough and fat, then folding it repeatedly to create thin layers. When baked, the fat releases steam, causing the layers to puff up and create a light, flaky texture.
- Worcestershire Sauce: This adds umami, deepening the savory flavor of the sausages and balancing out the richness of the mash and pastry.
Expert Tips
- Choosing the Sausages: Go for sausages with a higher meat content and fewer fillers. This will improve both the flavor and texture of the pie.
- Seasoning the Mash: Don’t skimp on seasoning! The mash can sometimes be bland if not properly seasoned, so taste and adjust as you go.
- Make Ahead: You can prep the filling and mash a day ahead, then just assemble and bake the next day for an even easier process.
- Egg Wash: For an extra golden finish, brush the pastry with egg wash before baking. This will make it shine and look even more appetizing.
Recipe Variations
You can experiment with a few twists on this classic dish:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the sausages for a plant-based alternative or use lentils and mushrooms for a hearty, savory filling.
- Cheesy Mash: Add grated cheddar or parmesan to the mashed potatoes for a cheesy twist that will melt into the pie.
- Different Sausages: Try using different types of sausages-chicken, lamb, or even spiced varieties like chorizo-to change up the flavor profile.
- Herb Variations: Instead of thyme, you could try rosemary, sage, or a combination of herbs for a unique aromatic experience.
Final Words
Jamie’s Sausage and Mash Pie is a dish that’s all about comfort and satisfaction. From the crispy pastry to the juicy sausages and creamy mash, it’s a complete meal in one. Whether you’re cooking for family or just craving something cozy, this pie won’t disappoint.
The best part is that it’s forgiving. You can adjust ingredients based on what you have or what flavors you prefer, making it an easy go-to for any occasion.
FAQs
What Type Of Sausages Are Best For Jamie Oliver’s Sausage And Mash Pie?
For the best flavor, use a good quality pork sausage or a British-style sausage with a bit of seasoning.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Sausage And Mash Pie Ahead Of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pie in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just make sure to bake it thoroughly when ready.
Can I Use Instant Mashed Potatoes In Jamie Oliver’s Sausage And Mash Pie?
While fresh mashed potatoes work best, you can use instant mashed potatoes if you’re short on time, though the texture might not be as rich.