Introduction
Sausage rolls are a beloved snack or meal option that combines flaky pastry with a savory filling. This recipe adds a delightful twist to the traditional version, incorporating beef mince, cheeses, and pickled jalapeños for an extra kick. Easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings, these rolls can be served hot or at room temperature with a side of tomato sauce or ketchup.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 small onion, peeled and whole
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
500g (1 lb) beef mince (ground beef), preferably with higher fat content
1 egg
2 garlic cloves, minced or finely grated
1 beef stock cube, crumbled, or 1/2 teaspoon cooking salt/kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon cooking salt/kosher salt (adjust if using table salt or flakes)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/3 cup pickled jalapeños, roughly chopped (~3mm)
1 1/2 cups (150g) cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup (50g) parmesan cheese, shredded
2 sheets frozen puff pastry (24cm / 9.5″ squares), preferably butter-based
1 egg, separated into yolk and white
1 teaspoon white sesame seeds
1/2 teaspoon black sesame seeds (or additional white sesame seeds)
Tomato sauce or ketchup, for serving
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 4 sausage rolls
To create these delicious sausage rolls, begin by preheating the oven and preparing your ingredients. With each step carefully followed, you’ll have a golden-brown, cheesy, and flavorful treat that is sure to impress. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat Oven
Set the oven to 200°C (425°F) or 180°C (fan-forced).
Prepare Onion and Breadcrumbs
Grate the onion into a bowl, including all juices. Add the panko breadcrumbs and mix to moisten.
Combine Filling Ingredients
To the onion and breadcrumb mixture, add the beef mince, egg, garlic, crumbled stock cube (or salt), additional salt, black pepper, and chopped jalapeños. Mix thoroughly using your hands until well combined.
Incorporate Cheeses
Add the shredded cheddar and parmesan cheeses to the mixture. Use your fingers to crumble the cheese into the beef mixture, ensuring even distribution without clumping.
Prepare Pastry
Lightly thaw the puff pastry sheets until just pliable. Divide the meat mixture into two equal portions and shape each into a log. Place each log along the center of a pastry sheet.
Assemble Rolls
Roll the pastry over the meat filling, overlapping the edges to create a double layer at the seam. Use the egg white to seal the seam. Position the rolls seam-side down and trim any excess pastry if necessary.
Portion Rolls
Cut each roll in half to create four pieces. Make three diagonal slashes on the top of each roll.
Egg Wash and Topping
Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg yolk. Sprinkle with white and black sesame seeds.
Bake
Place the sausage rolls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 35 minutes. Then, transfer the rolls onto a rack to elevate them out of any rendered fat. Bake for an additional 15 minutes until the pastry is deep golden and the underside is crispy.
Cool and Serve
Allow the sausage rolls to cool on the rack for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with tomato sauce or ketchup.
Notes
Minced Beef
Using beef with a higher fat content will result in juicier and more flavorful rolls.
Cheese Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.
Storage
Leftover sausage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.
Jalapeños Spin
Adjust the quantity of jalapeños based on your spice preference, or substitute with mild peppers for less heat.
Puff Pastry Handling
Ensure the puff pastry does not become overly warm during handling, as this can affect the flakiness when baked.

Cook techniques
Grating Onion
Grate the onion to release its juices, which will help to moisten the breadcrumb mixture and enhance the flavor of the filling.
Mixing Ingredients
Use your hands to thoroughly combine the beef mince, breadcrumb mixture, egg, garlic, and seasonings. This ensures that the flavors are well distributed throughout the filling.
Incorporating Cheeses
When adding shredded cheese, crumble it into the mixture with your fingers to distribute it evenly without forming clumps.
Preparing Puff Pastry
Lightly thaw puff pastry sheets until pliable, making them easier to work with while ensuring they remain cold enough to maintain their shape during baking.
Sealing the Rolls
Use egg white to brush the seams of the pastry, which will help seal the rolls securely, preventing leaks during baking.
Baking Technique
Bake the rolls on a parchment-lined baking tray, turning them halfway through if necessary, to achieve an even, golden-brown color and crispy texture.
FAQ
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
While panko breadcrumbs have a lighter texture that provides extra crunch, regular breadcrumbs can be used in a pinch, although the texture may differ.
What kind of beef mince is best for this recipe?
Using ground beef with a higher fat content (around 20%) will contribute to a juicier and more flavorful filling.
Can I substitute the cheeses?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar and parmesan with other cheeses, but keep in mind that this may alter the flavor and texture of the filling.
How do I store leftover sausage rolls?
Cool any leftover rolls completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven for best crispness.
What can I serve with these sausage rolls?
They can be served with a variety of dipping sauces such as tomato sauce, ketchup, or any preferred condiment for added flavor.
Conclusion
These savory sausage rolls combine juicy beef, flavorful spices, and gooey cheese, all encased in flaky puff pastry. They make for a hearty snack or a main dish, perfect for gatherings or simply enjoyed at home. The addition of pickled jalapeños gives each bite a delightful kick, while the sesame seeds add a touch of crunch. Whether served with ketchup or tomato sauce, these rolls are bound to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Chicken Rolls
Substitute beef mince with seasoned ground chicken and add chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a lighter version.
Veggie-Filled Puff Pastry Rolls
Replace the meat with a mixture of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and feta cheese for a delicious vegetarian option.
Classic Cheese & Onion Rolls
For a simpler take, focus on rich cheddar and sautéed onions. Add fresh thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
Breakfast Sausage Rolls
Use breakfast sausage instead of beef, and incorporate scrambled eggs and cheese for a delightful brunch treat.
BBQ Beef Rolls
Mix in your favorite BBQ sauce with the beef mince for a smoky flavor profile, and serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side.
Mexican-Inspired Rolls
Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning to the beef filling, and serve with salsa for a fun twist.
Sweet Potato and Chorizo Rolls
Combine roasted sweet potato with chorizo for a sweet and spicy filling, offering a unique flavor combination.
