Sausage Wreath Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer or a cozy crowd-pleaser for gatherings, the Sausage Wreath Recipe is hands down one of my all-time favorites. It’s that magical blend of flaky puff pastry hugging savory sausage filling, twisted into a gorgeous wreath shape that everyone just can’t get enough of. Stick with me because I’ll share all the tips I’ve learned to nail this recipe perfectly every single time — trust me, your friends and family will be asking for the recipe!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this sausage wreath starts with fresh herbs and quality sausage, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. I always recommend using fresh rosemary and sage for that punch of aroma that really elevates this recipe. And don’t skip the Dijon mustard—it adds a subtle tang that makes all the difference.

• Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness to sautéed onions and draws out their sweetness.
• Yellow onion: Finely chopped for that flavorful base; caramelize gently to develop sweetness.
• Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasoning to balance flavors.
• Fresh rosemary and fresh sage: Chopped finely for a rustic, herby kick—fresh is best here.
• Sweet Italian pork sausage (casings removed): The star protein; I prefer sweet over spicy for family-friendly appeal.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a bright note and color contrast inside the filling.
• Worcestershire sauce: Surprising umami boost that deepens the sausage flavor.
• All-purpose flour: For dusting the surface so puff pastry doesn’t stick during rolling.
• Puff pastry (thawed): Use good quality store-bought sheets for consistent puff and flakiness.
• Dijon mustard: Spread inside the pastry for subtle tang and moisture barrier.
• Large egg (lightly beaten): Sets the pastry’s seal and gives that gorgeous golden finish.
• Toasted sesame seeds and poppy seeds: Optional sprinkle to add visual texture and a nutty crunch.
• Cranberry chutney or sauce: Perfectly pairs as a sweet and tangy dip against the savory wreath.

Variations

I love how adaptable this Sausage Wreath Recipe is, so don’t hesitate to make it your own. Whether you have dietary needs or want to switch things up seasonally, playing around with ingredients is fun and totally encouraged.

• Vegetarian version: Swap sausage for a chopped mushroom and walnut mixture; I tried this for a friend once, and it was surprisingly hearty and delicious.
• Spicy twist: Use spicy Italian sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick my family can’t resist.
• Cheesy upgrade: Spread a thin layer of grated sharp cheddar or Parmesan inside before adding the sausage—ooey-gooey goodness!
• Gluten-free adaptation: Use gluten-free puff pastry and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.

How to Make Sausage Wreath Recipe

Step 1: Sauté onions and herbs to form a fragrant base

Start by heating extra-virgin olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in your finely chopped onion, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook until nicely browned in spots—about 10 minutes. This slow browning is key because it brings out those sweet, caramelized notes that balance the savory sausage perfectly. Stir in chopped rosemary and sage, cooking just until fragrant (about 1 to 2 minutes). Transfer everything to a large bowl and let it cool for 5 minutes; the cooling prevents the sausage from starting to cook prematurely when mixed.

Step 2: Mix the sausage filling

Now, crumble your sausage into the bowl with the onion-herb mixture. Add chopped parsley and Worcestershire sauce for that subtle umami depth, then season with a bit more salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine—your sausage filling is coming together! The Worcestershire sauce was a game-changer for me; it adds a nice complexity that makes the filling anything but bland.

Step 3: Roll out and assemble the sausage rolls

Lightly flour your work surface to keep the puff pastry from sticking, then roll it out into a 14″ x 12″ rectangle. Cut it in half lengthwise. Spread about 1 1/2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard along one long edge, leaving a 1-inch border. Scoop half of your sausage mixture into a log shape along the mustard line. Carefully pull the edge of the pastry closest to you over the sausage to cover it, then brush egg wash on the other side and gently pull it over the sausage to seal. Trim any excess pastry and pinch sides tightly to seal—this helps keep the filling from oozing out during baking. Lay the sausage roll seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat for the second half.

Step 4: Form the wreath and chill

Brush the ends of your sausage rolls with egg wash, then join and pinch the ends together to form a circle. This wreath shape is what makes this recipe so festive and fun. Pop the wreath into the fridge until the pastry feels cool and firm to the touch—about 25 minutes. Chilling here prevents the pastry from shrinking and helps maintain that beautiful shape during baking.

Step 5: Score, twist, and add finishing touches

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place a rack in the center. Using a sharp knife, make 1-inch cuts along the sausage roll every 1 1/2 inches, being careful not to cut all the way through—the center of the wreath should stay connected. Twist each section so the sausage side faces up. Then brush the entire wreath with remaining egg wash and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and poppy seeds for a lovely nutty crunch and visual contrast.

Step 6: Bake to golden perfection

Bake the wreath for 40 to 45 minutes, rotating halfway through for even browning, until the puff pastry is beautifully puffed and golden, and your sausage is cooked through. Don’t rush the bake—this slow process is what ensures that flaky crust and juicy filling. Let the wreath cool about 15 minutes before moving it; this resting step helps the juices set so nothing spills when you slice.

Step 7: Plate and serve with your favorite chutney

Carefully transfer the sausage wreath to a serving platter and set out cranberry chutney or cranberry sauce on the side. The bright, tangy fruitiness contrasts perfectly with the herb-infused sausage and buttery pastry. This step always draws compliments at my parties, and guests love dipping their slices!

How to Serve Sausage Wreath Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing this sausage wreath with a fresh sprinkle of chopped parsley or even some thinly sliced green onions for color and freshness. The sesame and poppy seeds add a nice bit of crunch and visual appeal, but if you’re feeling festive, a small drizzle of honey mustard on the side is a delightful touch.

Side Dishes

My go-to sides always include a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted root vegetables or a warm apple and fennel slaw also work beautifully—both add texture and bright notes that complement the wreath’s savory flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

One of my favorite ways to present this sausage wreath is on a rustic wooden board surrounded by small bowls of assorted chutneys, mustards, and pickles—giving guests plenty of options for dipping. For holiday parties, I add sprigs of rosemary around the wreath and sprinkle pomegranate seeds nearby for a seasonal pop of color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover sausage wreath slices store really well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I usually reheat just the slices I want to eat, so the rest stays fresh and crisp for later. It’s perfect for quick lunches the next day!

Freezing

I find freezing the whole assembled wreath before baking works best. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual. It’s a total time-saver when hosting unexpected guests.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, pop slices in a 350°F oven on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the pastry flaky and the filling warm without making it soggy like microwaving can. A quick toast in the oven restores that fresh-baked taste beautifully.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Sausage Wreath Recipe turns out every time—it’s hearty, flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. When I first made it, I was nervous about shaping the wreath, but with practice, it became my go-to comfort food for holidays and casual get-togethers alike. I hope you’ll enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do; it really adds that special touch to any meal and makes life in the kitchen a little more joyful. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!

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