Bangers and Mash Recipe: A Classic British Comfort Dish
Bangers and Mash is a classic British dish known for its comforting flavors and hearty ingredients. This traditional meal consists of sausages (bangers) served over creamy mashed potatoes (mash) and topped with rich onion gravy. Popular in pubs across the United Kingdom and Ireland, Bangers and Mash is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Its simplicity, affordability, and satisfying taste make it a staple for weeknight dinners, special occasions, and pub-style feasts. In this guide, you’ll find a step-by-step Bangers and Mash Recipe to recreate this iconic dish at home.
Nutrition & Instructions
- Calories per serving: ~600 kcal
- Protein: ~25g
- Carbohydrates: ~50g
- Fats: ~35g
- Fiber: ~4g
- Sodium: ~1000mg
Prep Time, Active Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Active Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Resting Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Cuisines
- British
- Irish
Course
- Main Course
Servings
- Serves 4
Equipment Needed
- Large frying pan or skillet
- Saucepan
- Masher or potato ricer
- Whisk
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
For the Bangers:
- 8 pork sausages (preferably Cumberland or Lincolnshire)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional for added richness)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
For the Onion Gravy:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a saucepan with cold, salted water.
- Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot over low heat to remove excess moisture.
- Mash the potatoes using a masher or potato ricer.
- Add butter, milk (or cream), salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Mix until smooth and creamy. Keep warm.
Step 2: Cook the Bangers
- Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and add olive oil and butter.
- Place the sausages in the pan and cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and fully cooked.
- Remove sausages from the pan and keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Onion Gravy
- In the same pan, add butter and olive oil.
- Sauté the sliced onions over medium heat for about 10 minutes until caramelized.
- Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir well, cooking for another minute.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Place a generous portion of mashed potatoes on each plate.
- Lay the sausages over the mash.
- Pour the rich onion gravy on top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve hot.
Tips & Variations
- Sausage Choice: Traditional British pork sausages are ideal, but you can use chicken, beef, or even vegetarian sausages.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives for the mashed potatoes.
- Extra Flavor: Adding a splash of red wine to the gravy enhances its richness.
- Side Dishes: Serve with green peas, sautéed cabbage, or roasted carrots for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
Bangers and Mash is a beloved comfort food that brings a taste of Britain to your table. The combination of savory sausages, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich onion gravy makes it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner at home or hosting a pub-style gathering, this Bangers and Mash Recipe ensures a delicious and authentic experience. Try this easy recipe today and savor the classic flavors of British cuisine!
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.