Mary Berry Sausage Casserole

Name: Mary Berry's Sausage Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 8 pork sausages; 1 large onion, sliced; 2 garlic cloves, crushed; 1 red pepper, deseeded and sliced; 1 yellow pepper, deseeded and sliced; 400g can of chopped tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato purée; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 300ml chicken stock; Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil

Delve into the warmth and comfort of Mary Berry's Sausage Casserole, a dish that embodies the essence of home cooking. This beloved recipe, originally from Mary Berry herself, is a testament to simple, hearty fare that brings people together.

Mary Berry Sausage Casserole: A Brief Overview

The sausage casserole by Mary Berry is a quintessential British comfort food, combining succulent sausages with a rich, flavorful sauce and a variety of vegetables. Its ease of preparation and robust flavors make it a favorite among home cooks looking to satisfy their families with a fulfilling meal.

Cultural and Historical Context

Rooted in the tradition of British cuisine, sausage casseroles have been a staple in the UK for generations. Mary Berry, a revered figure in British home cooking, has contributed her version of this classic dish, making it accessible to even the novice cook through her straightforward approach and easy-to-follow instructions.

Ingredients for the Sausage Casserole

To recreate Mary Berry's sausage casserole, you'll need:

8 spicy pork sausages (approximately 1 kg)
1 tbsp sunflower oil
4 rashers of smoked bacon, finely chopped
Vegetables including 1 onion (sliced), 1 red pepper (deseeded and cut), and 1 large carrot (diced)
1 garlic clove, crushed
Liquids such as 300ml chicken stock and a 400g tin of chopped tomatoes
2 tbsp sun-dried tomato paste
Herbs like 2 fresh thyme sprigs
250g baby new potatoes, sliced
Seasonings including salt and freshly ground black pepper

Preparation Instructions

The process involves browning the sausages and bacon, sautéing vegetables, and simmering everything with the stock, tomatoes, and seasoning, before baking to perfection. The dish is finished with a simmer that ensures the sausages and vegetables are tender, creating a deeply satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating

Mary Berry's Sausage Casserole stores well, making it perfect for leftovers. It can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months, ensuring that you can enjoy this comforting dish whenever you desire. Reheating is straightforward, with options for the oven, stovetop, or microwave, ensuring the casserole is piping hot and just as delicious as when first made.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of the casserole is packed with nutrients, offering a balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Specifically, it contains approximately 572 calories, 38g of fat, 19g of carbohydrates, and 29g of protein.

FAQs about Mary Berry Sausage Casserole

Can I prepare this casserole in advance? Yes, it can be prepared up to the point of baking and stored in the refrigerator.
Can I use different meats? Absolutely, chicken, turkey, or vegetarian sausages can be used as substitutes.
How can I make this casserole healthier? Opt for low-fat sausages and increase the quantity of vegetables for a lighter version.

Mary Berry's Sausage Casserole is more than just a dish; it's a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and the joy of cooking at home. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a hearty meal on a chilly evening, this casserole is sure to delight and satisfy.