Name: Crispy Sausages with Onion Gravy Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: ½ tablespoon oil; 6 pork sausages; 2 small-medium onions, halved and thinly sliced (about 1.5-2 cups); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons flour; ⅓ cup dry red wine (or extra beef broth); 2 cups beef broth; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional); 1 sprig thyme (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Mashed potatoes (about 4 cups); 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)

If you're craving a hearty, soul-warming meal, this Crispy Sausages with Onion Gravy Recipe is just what you need. It’s classic British comfort food at its best—juicy pork sausages smothered in rich onion gravy, paired perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes and peas.

A black cast-iron pan holds six browned sausages sitting in a thick creamy orange-brown sauce with translucent cooked onion slices spread over and around them. Small green herb pieces are sprinkled on top of the sausages and sauce, adding a pop of color. A silver spoon rests in the pan, filled with sauce and onions, positioned near the bottom right. Above the pan are two white bowls, one full of bright green peas and the other creamy mashed potatoes with a smooth texture. The background and surface are white marbled, with a gray textured cloth partially under the pan. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Sausages with Onion Gravy Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Crispy Sausages with Onion Gravy Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Crispy Sausages with Onion Gravy Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Whenever I make this dish, it instantly takes me back to cozy evenings at my grandmother’s kitchen. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Traditional Comfort: Classic British flavors that bring nostalgia and warmth to your table.
Easy to Master: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, even weeknight cooks can nail it.
Flavorful Gravy: The rich onion gravy is packed with savory depth, making every bite irresistible.
Perfectly Balanced: Crispy sausages meet tender mashed potatoes and fresh peas for a well-rounded meal.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Before you dive in, it’s important to pick the right ingredients that build flavor from the ground up. Choosing good quality pork sausages and ripe onions really makes a difference in this recipe.

Flat lay of six fresh raw pork sausages with smooth skins, two small-medium onions halved and thinly sliced showing white and purple layers, two whole uncracked garlic cloves with papery skins, a small white ceramic bowl of pale all-purpose flour, a small white bowl filled with deep red dry red wine, a small white bowl of rich brown beef broth, one fresh green sprig of thyme, a white ceramic bowl with creamy mashed potatoes topped with a pat of butter, a small white bowl of vibrant green peas, a small white bowl of golden cooking oil, and a set of two clean white ceramic dishes holding whole uncracked brown eggs and a balanced mix of coarse salt and cracked black peppercorns, all arranged symmetrically and evenly spaced, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Oil: Just a little to brown the sausages and soften the onions without sticking.
Pork Sausages: I recommend using pork for its juicy, flavorful profile that crisps beautifully in the pan.
Onions: Thinly sliced to caramelize easily and add natural sweetness to the gravy.
Garlic: Adds a subtle aroma and depth without overpowering the dish.
Flour: The secret to that silky, thickened onion gravy.
Dry Red Wine (or Beef Broth): Wine adds complexity, but beef broth is a great substitute to keep it rich and hearty.
Beef Broth: Forms the base of the gravy, giving it a savory backbone.
Worcestershire Sauce (Optional): Adds a nice tangy umami boost to the gravy.
Thyme (Optional): Fresh thyme brings an earthy herbal note that elevates the flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors perfectly.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and soft, perfect to soak up all that luscious gravy.
Peas: Add a pop of color and a fresh, sweet contrast to the richness of the sausages and gravy.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best parts about this Crispy Sausages with Onion Gravy Recipe is how easy it is to customize it to your taste or dietary needs. Whether you want to switch up the sausages or add some seasonal veggies, it’s all about making this comforting dish truly your own.

Variation: I love swapping pork sausages for vegetarian or plant-based sausages when I want a meat-free option. They soak up the onion gravy beautifully and still deliver that rich flavor we all crave.
Variation: During colder months, I like to add a handful of sautéed mushrooms along with the onions for an earthier taste that pairs perfectly with the gravy.
Variation: If you don’t have red wine on hand, simply use extra beef broth. It keeps the gravy rich and flavorful without any fuss.
Variation: For a fresh twist, sprinkle a little chopped parsley or fresh thyme over the top just before serving — it brightens the dish and adds a lovely aroma.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Sausages with Onion Gravy Recipe

A white bowl filled with three browned sausages placed on top of creamy mashed potatoes, all covered with a light brown onion gravy with visible onion slices and chopped green herbs sprinkled on top. On one side of the bowl is a generous serving of bright green peas. The mashed potatoes have a smooth texture, and the peas appear fresh and round. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a silver fork and knife nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Brown the Sausages to Perfection

Start by heating ½ tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your 6 pork sausages and let them cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally to get an even, crispy brown all around. This step locks in flavor and ensures juicy sausages. Once browned, remove them from the pan and keep warm—you’ll bring them back later to soak up all that delicious gravy.

Step 2: Sauté Your Onions Until Golden and Sweet

Using the same pan (no need to wash—those browned bits add flavor!), add the thinly sliced onions. Cook over medium heat for about 5 to 10 minutes until soft and golden, stirring occasionally so they don’t stick. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes—this will give your gravy a beautiful depth of flavor. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of flour over the onions and stir it well to evenly coat everything, which helps thicken your gravy later on.

Step 3: Build a Rich, Savory Gravy

It’s time to deglaze that pan! Pour in ⅓ cup of dry red wine—or use extra beef broth if you prefer—scraping the bottom of the pan to lift all those tasty browned bits. Slowly whisk in 2 cups of beef broth and add 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for a subtle tangy boost. If you have a sprig of thyme on hand, toss it in now to elevate the flavor even more. This step transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious gravy.

Step 4: Simmer Until the Gravy Thickens

Bring your mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. If you prefer a thicker consistency, just let it simmer a little longer or make a quick slurry with flour and water to stir in.

Step 5: Return the Sausages and Finish the Dish

Now, nestle the browned sausages back into the skillet and toss them gently to coat in that rich onion gravy. Let everything simmer together for a few more minutes so the sausages warm through and soak up all the flavor. Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed—this is your chance to get it just right!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy the Comfort

Finally, plate your crispy sausages over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes—about 4 cups makes a perfect base for 6 servings. Ladle the luscious onion gravy generously on top, and don’t forget a side of peas to add a pop of color and freshness. This classic British comfort food is ready to be enjoyed warm and hearty!

Top Tip

Mastering the perfect Crispy Sausages with Onion Gravy Recipe can be so rewarding, especially when you know a few insider tips to elevate the dish. These nuggets of wisdom come from experience and can really help you get that golden crust on your sausages while creating a luscious, silky gravy.

Get the pan sizzling hot: To achieve that beautiful crispy exterior, make sure your pan is hot before adding the sausages. It helps seal in the juices and creates a wonderful caramelization.
Don't rush the onions: Cooking the onions low and slow until golden really develops the gravy’s deep, savory flavor. Patience here is key!
Deglaze well: When adding the red wine or broth, scrape up all those browned bits from the pan — it’s where much of the magic and flavor live.
Keep the sausage intact: Resist the urge to poke or cut the sausages while cooking. This keeps them juicy and prevents the flavors from escaping.

How to Serve Crispy Sausages with Onion Gravy Recipe

A black cast iron skillet filled with light golden brown cooked onion slices spread evenly on the bottom. On top of the onions, there is a pile of white flour in the center, lightly scattered but mostly concentrated in one area. The skillet is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a touch of freshness can brighten up this hearty dish beautifully. Try garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of chopped chives, which add a lovely color contrast and a subtle herbal note. A light drizzle of mustard or a dollop of tangy horseradish sauce on the side also pairs wonderfully with the savory sausages and rich gravy.

Side Dishes

This classic British comfort food shines best when served with creamy mashed potatoes and tender peas as suggested. For added texture, you can include buttery sautéed greens such as spinach or kale. A side of roasted root vegetables like carrots or parsnips also complements the meal nicely by adding subtle sweetness. If you’re feeling indulgent, a warm crusty bread roll is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious onion gravy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover sausages with onion gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate mashed potatoes and peas if possible for best texture when reheating.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully! Portion out sausages and gravy into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. For optimal quality, you might want to freeze mashed potatoes and peas separately. Label everything clearly for easy reheating later.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the sausages are warmed through and the gravy is hot and slightly thickened. Add a splash of beef broth if the gravy has thickened too much during storage. For mashed potatoes and peas, microwave or warm in a covered dish until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of sausages in this recipe?

Absolutely! While pork sausages give the most traditional flavor, you can substitute beef, chicken, or even vegetarian sausages depending on your preference. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly.

What if I don’t have red wine for the gravy?

No worries! Simply use extra beef broth in place of the red wine. It will keep the gravy rich and flavorful without the alcohol.

How do I get the gravy thicker if it’s too thin?

You can simmer it a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken, or add a slurry made from equal parts flour and cold water. Whisk this in gradually to avoid lumps.

Can I make this dish ahead for a party?

Yes! You can prepare the sausages and onion gravy earlier in the day and reheat gently just before serving. Keep mashed potatoes and peas separate and reheat them fresh for best texture.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the warmth and soul-soothing comfort of Crispy Sausages with Onion Gravy served over creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a dish that brings people together, inviting smiles and full plates around the table. I hope these tips and techniques inspire you to make your own version of this classic British favorite and create delicious memories with every bite. Happy cooking!