The Hairy Bikers, known for their warm personalities and love of traditional British cooking, have crafted many recipes that have become staples in households across the UK. One of their most beloved dishes is the sausage casserole—a hearty, flavorful dish that combines sausages, bacon, vegetables, and rich sauces to create a comforting meal perfect for chilly evenings. The recipe has earned a reputation for being easy to prepare, filling, and absolutely delicious.
In this article, we will explore the history of the Hairy Bikers’ sausage casserole, the ingredients involved, step-by-step preparation instructions, variations you can try, and why this dish has become a favorite for so many.
A Brief History of the Hairy Bikers
The Hairy Bikers—Si King and Dave Myers—are a pair of British chefs known for their robust appetites, jovial demeanor, and love for classic home-cooked food. They first gained popularity on the BBC series The Hairy Bikers where they showcased their culinary talents and passion for hearty dishes. Their food focuses on wholesome ingredients, and they often bring a modern twist to traditional British recipes.
Their sausage casserole is a prime example of how they can take simple ingredients and transform them into a dish that’s both nostalgic and comforting. With the Hairy Bikers’ focus on making home-cooking accessible and enjoyable, this recipe quickly became a hit on their show and remains a favorite among their fans.
Ingredients for Hairy Bikers’ Sausage Casserole
The beauty of the Hairy Bikers’ sausage casserole lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are easy to find, and the dish can be prepared with basic pantry staples. Here’s a rundown of the key components:
Sausages
The base of the dish is, of course, the sausages. You can choose from a variety of sausages, though the Hairy Bikers typically use pork sausages for their rich, juicy flavor. Cumberland sausages are a great choice, but feel free to explore other options, including spicy sausages or even vegetarian varieties if you want to cater to different dietary needs.
Bacon
Crispy streaky bacon adds a layer of smoky richness to the casserole. The bacon also imparts a savory depth of flavor that complements the sausages perfectly.
Vegetables
Onions, garlic, and carrots are commonly used in the Hairy Bikers’ sausage casserole. These vegetables form the foundation of the flavor, adding sweetness and depth. Some variations of the recipe also include celery, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Tomatoes
Canned tomatoes or tomato purée form the base of the sauce. This gives the casserole its rich, tangy flavor, while helping to create a thick and hearty sauce.
Beans
Beans, such as butter beans or kidney beans, are often included in the casserole. These provide a creamy texture and are a great source of protein, making the dish more filling and nutritious.
Stock and Worcestershire Sauce
Chicken stock or vegetable stock adds liquid to the casserole, making it moist and savory. A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds umami and a bit of tang to balance the flavors.
Herbs and Spices
The seasoning for the casserole is simple but effective. Thyme, bay leaves, and paprika are typically used to enhance the flavor. A pinch of black pepper and salt will help bring all the ingredients together.
Red Wine (Optional)
Some variations of the recipe incorporate red wine, which gives the sauce a more robust flavor. This is optional but adds another layer of complexity to the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have a good understanding of the ingredients, let’s dive into how to make the Hairy Bikers’ sausage casserole.
Step 1: Brown the Sausages and Bacon
Start by heating a little oil in a large pan. Brown the sausages on all sides until golden and cooked through, about 10 minutes. Once cooked, remove the sausages and set them aside. In the same pan, add the bacon and cook until it becomes crispy, which will take about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add chopped onions, garlic, and carrots (and any other vegetables you are using). Sauté these until softened, which should take about 10 minutes. You can also add a pinch of paprika at this stage for extra flavor.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Stock
Once the vegetables are softened, add the canned tomatoes, tomato purée, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine, and then add the stock. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it cook for about 15 minutes. If you’re using wine, pour it in at this stage, allowing it to reduce and mingle with the other ingredients.
Step 4: Combine Everything in the Casserole
Add the browned sausages and crispy bacon back into the pan. Stir everything together, ensuring the sausages are coated with the sauce. Throw in the bay leaves and thyme, then bring the whole mixture to a simmer.
Step 5: Simmer the Casserole
Let the casserole cook gently for about 40 minutes. During this time, the flavors will develop, and the sauce will thicken. If you’re using beans, add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking, so they can absorb the flavors but remain firm.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste the casserole and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
Variations of the Hairy Bikers’ Sausage Casserole
One of the great things about this dish is its versatility. While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways to customize it. Here are a few variations that you might want to try:
Add More Vegetables
You can experiment by adding different vegetables to suit your taste. Root vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or turnips can add an extra layer of sweetness and texture to the casserole.
Spicy Sausage Version
For those who enjoy a little heat, consider using chorizo or adding chili flakes to the mix. This will infuse the casserole with a delightful spicy kick.
Slow Cooker Version
If you prefer to use a slow cooker, this recipe works wonderfully when cooked low and slow. Brown the sausages and bacon first, then add the remaining ingredients to the slow cooker. Set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the flavors have melded together.
Vegetarian Sausage Casserole
For a vegetarian version, swap the sausages and bacon for plant-based sausages or vegetarian bacon. You can also experiment with adding lentils or other beans for extra protein.
Serving Suggestions
The Hairy Bikers’ sausage casserole is a rich and hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Some great options include:
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect vehicle for soaking up the savory sauce.
Rice: A simple bowl of white or brown rice complements the casserole beautifully.
Crusty Bread: For sopping up the sauce, a loaf of fresh, crusty bread is a classic choice.
Steamed Vegetables: Add a healthy touch with some steamed broccoli, peas, or green beans.
FAQs
What makes the Hairy Bikers’ sausage casserole different from other sausage casseroles?
The Hairy Bikers’ version of sausage casserole is notable for its simplicity, comfort, and rich flavor. Unlike some casserole recipes, which may call for exotic ingredients or complicated techniques, the Hairy Bikers’ sausage casserole focuses on using good-quality sausages, bacon, root vegetables, and herbs to create a meal that’s both flavorful and satisfying. The recipe’s simplicity and hearty nature make it a popular choice for family dinners and gatherings, and it can be adjusted to suit various tastes or dietary needs.
What sausages are best for the Hairy Bikers’ sausage casserole?
Traditionally, pork sausages are used for the Hairy Bikers’ sausage casserole because they provide the perfect balance of fat and flavor. However, you can use any type of sausage you prefer, including Cumberland sausages, chorizo, or even chicken sausages for a lighter alternative. If you prefer a bit of spice, spicy sausages or chorizo can add an exciting flavor profile to the dish. Vegetarian sausages are a great substitute for those following a plant-based diet.
Can I add other vegetables to the Hairy Bikers’ sausage casserole?
Yes, you can definitely add more vegetables to the casserole. The traditional recipe calls for onions, garlic, and carrots, but you can experiment with adding celery, parsnips, or sweet potatoes. These vegetables will not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to the dish’s hearty texture. If you like mushrooms, they can also be added to bring a more earthy flavor to the dish.
How can I make the sausage casserole spicier?
If you like your sausage casserole with a bit of heat, there are several ways to spice it up. You can use spicy sausages such as chorizo or Andouille sausage, both of which will infuse the dish with heat. Alternatively, you can add chili flakes, fresh chilies, or hot paprika to the recipe. Adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of hot sauce can also boost the flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Can I make the Hairy Bikers’ sausage casserole in a slow cooker?
Yes, the Hairy Bikers’ sausage casserole can be made in a slow cooker for a more hands-off approach. To do so, brown the sausages and bacon first, then add them to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients, including the stock and vegetables. Set the slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to develop over time and results in a very tender and flavorful casserole.
In Summary
The Hairy Bikers’ sausage casserole is a beloved dish that provides comfort and satisfaction with minimal effort. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a weeknight meal, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe delivers robust flavors and versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes, whether that means spicing it up, adding extra vegetables, or making it vegetarian-friendly.
The dish is not only simple to prepare but also provides an excellent way to make use of leftover sausages or bacon. Whether you opt for the slow cooker, stovetop, or oven method, you can rely on the Hairy Bikers’ sausage casserole to be a crowd-pleaser every time. With its ability to be frozen and stored for later use, it’s a fantastic dish to keep in your recipe rotation. So, whether you enjoy it with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread, this casserole is sure to warm you up and keep you full for hours.
To read more, Click here.
