How to Make Bangers and Mash – A Traditional British Favourite

 comfort food.

--- published by foodie Parmod.

Bangers and mash is a much-loved classic in British cuisine, combining hearty sausages with creamy mashed potatoes and rich onion gravy. Whether you’re after a cosy midweek dinner or a taste of traditional British pub fare at home, this dish ticks all the boxes.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you step-by-step through how to make authentic bangers and mash using simple ingredients. Ideal for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

---

What Is Bangers and Mash?

“Bangers” is a British slang term for sausages, often pork, while “mash” refers to mashed potatoes. The dish dates back to World War I, when sausages were made with so little meat they would often explode when cooked – hence the nickname "bangers."

Bangers and mash is typically served with onion gravy and sometimes accompanied by peas or other veg. It’s filling, flavourful, and quintessentially British.

---

Ingredients for Bangers and Mash (Serves 4)

For the bangers (sausages):

8 quality British pork sausages (Cumberland, Lincolnshire, or your favourite)

1 tbsp vegetable oil or a knob of butter

For the mash:

900g floury potatoes (e.g., Maris Piper), peeled and chopped

50g butter

100ml milk or cream

Salt and pepper to taste

For the onion gravy:

2 tbsp butter

1 large onion, thinly sliced

1 tsp sugar

1 tsp plain flour

300ml beef or vegetable stock

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

---

How to Make Bangers and Mash – Step-by-Step

1. Cook the Sausages (Bangers)

Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C fan) or Gas Mark 5. Heat a little oil or butter in a frying pan over medium heat.

Add the sausages and cook gently for about 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally to brown them evenly. Transfer to a baking tray and finish cooking in the oven for 15–20 minutes until fully cooked through and golden brown.

Tip: If you're short on time, you can cook the sausages entirely in the frying pan, but baking helps them stay juicy.

2. Make the Mashed Potatoes (Mash)

While the sausages are cooking, boil the potatoes in a large pan of salted water for 15–20 minutes or until tender.

Drain well and return to the pot. Add the butter and milk, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For extra indulgence, stir in a splash of cream or a pinch of nutmeg.

3. Prepare the Onion Gravy

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sugar, cooking slowly for 10–15 minutes until soft and caramelised.

Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux. Gradually add the stock, whisking to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, then simmer for another 5 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

---

Serve and Enjoy

Pile a generous portion of mash onto each plate, top with two sausages, and ladle over the rich onion gravy. Serve with garden peas, steamed greens, or buttery carrots for a complete British meal.

---

Tips for Perfect Bangers and Mash

Choose good sausages: Quality makes all the difference. Go for butcher's sausages or traditional British types like Cumberland or Lincolnshire.

Don’t overwork the mash: Mash while the potatoes are hot and avoid using a food processor, as it can make them gluey.

Make ahead: You can prepare the mash and gravy in advance and reheat gently before serving.

---

Variations to Try

Cumberland swirl sausages: These large coiled sausages look impressive and taste amazing with mash.

Cheesy mash: Add grated mature cheddar for a twist on the classic.

Vegan version: Use plant-based sausages, dairy-free butter, and a vegetable gravy.

---

A Pub Favourite at Home

Bangers and mash is a staple on many British pub menus, and now you can make it at home with ease. It’s comfort food at its finest – hearty, satisfying, and full of flavour.

---

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re cooking for family or craving a taste of Britain, bangers and mash is a timeless dish that always hits the spot. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you’ll have a delicious meal that warms you from the inside out.

---

how to make bangers and mash, traditional bangers and mash recipe, British bangers and mash, best sausage and mash recipe UK, onion gravy recipe for bangers and mash, homemade mashed potatoes, British comfort food recipes

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.