How to Make Toad in the Hole – A Classic British Comfort Dish

---  published by foodie Parmod.

Toad in the hole is a much-loved British classic that combines two favourites in one: succulent sausages baked in a crispy, fluffy Yorkshire pudding batter. It’s comforting, affordable, and ideal for a satisfying midweek dinner or a traditional Sunday lunch.

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What Is Toad in the Hole?

Toad in the hole is a traditional British dish made by cooking sausages in Yorkshire pudding batter. Despite the amusing name, there's no toad involved – the origin of the name remains uncertain, though it's thought to refer to the sausages poking through the batter like toads in a hole!

It's usually served with onion gravy and vegetables, making it a complete and hearty meal.

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Ingredients for Toad in the Hole (Serves 4)

For the batter:

140g plain flour

4 eggs

200ml whole milk

Pinch of salt

For the sausages:

8 good quality British pork sausages (Cumberland or Lincolnshire work well)

1–2 tbsp vegetable oil or beef dripping

For serving (optional):

Onion gravy

Steamed greens or roasted vegetables

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How to Make Toad in the Hole – Step-by-Step

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1. Make the Batter

Start by making the batter so it has time to rest.

Sift the flour into a bowl and add a pinch of salt.

Make a well in the centre, crack in the eggs, and start whisking.

Gradually add the milk while whisking until you have a smooth, lump-free batter.

Set aside to rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. This helps the batter rise and crisp in the oven.

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2. Cook the Sausages

Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan)/Gas Mark 7.

Pour the oil or dripping into a large ovenproof dish (about 20cm x 30cm) and add the sausages.

Place the dish in the oven and roast for 15 minutes, or until the sausages are just starting to brown and the fat is very hot.

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3. Add the Batter and Bake

Carefully remove the dish from the oven (the oil should be sizzling).

Quickly pour the batter over the sausages – it should start to bubble immediately.

Return the dish to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes without opening the door.

The batter should puff up and turn golden brown, with the sausages peeking through.

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4. Make the Onion Gravy (Optional but Traditional)

While the toad in the hole is baking, you can prepare a simple onion gravy:

Slice 1–2 onions and fry in a knob of butter for 10–15 minutes until soft and golden.

Stir in 1 tbsp plain flour and cook for a minute.

Gradually add 400ml beef stock, stirring constantly.

Simmer until thickened and season to taste.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve hot from the oven with lashings of onion gravy and your favourite vegetables – such as:

Steamed broccoli or green beans

Carrots or peas

Roasted parsnips or mashed potato

Toad in the hole is also delicious with a dollop of English mustard on the side.

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Top Tips for Perfect Toad in the Hole

Rest the batter for at least 30 minutes – it makes a real difference to the rise and texture.

Get the oil piping hot before adding the batter – this helps it puff up instantly.

Use a metal roasting tin – it conducts heat better than ceramic or glass.

Don’t open the oven door during cooking – or the batter may collapse.

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Variations to Try

Vegetarian version: Use veggie sausages and vegetable stock for the gravy.

Add herbs: A pinch of thyme or rosemary in the batter adds extra flavour.

Mini toads: Use a muffin tin for individual servings – great for kids or parties.

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A Classic British Family Favourite

Toad in the hole has been gracing British tables for generations. Its combination of crispy batter and juicy sausages makes it a comforting, budget-friendly meal that’s loved by both children and adults.

Whether it’s a chilly autumn evening or a Sunday dinner with the family, this dish never fails to please.

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Final Thoughts

Making toad in the hole from scratch is simple, satisfying, and far tastier than any pre-made version. With just a few ingredients and a bit of care, you’ll have a traditional British dish that’s golden, fluffy, and full of flavour.

Try it once, and it might just become a weekly favourite in your household!

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--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.