If you love comforting, flavorful, and satisfying meals, then this Irish bangers and mash recipe is exactly what you need. This traditional Irish dish is a classic combination of juicy sausages, creamy mashed potatoes, and a rich onion gravy that brings everything together. Whether you’re preparing it for St. Patrick’s Day or simply craving a warm and hearty meal, this dish is a must-try. The savory sausages, also known as bangers, are pan-fried until perfectly browned, then served over fluffy mashed potatoes. To complete the dish, a deeply flavorful onion gravy is drizzled over the top, making every bite irresistible.
One of the best things about this Irish bangers and mash recipe is how simple it is to make. It requires just a few basic ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. Despite its simplicity, the flavors in this dish are anything but ordinary. The combination of seasoned sausages, buttery mashed potatoes, and savory onion gravy creates a comforting and delicious meal that is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a holiday feast, or even a casual weekend meal, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Another reason to love this dish is its versatility. You can use different types of sausages, adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, and even add vegetables or other ingredients to the mashed potatoes for a unique twist. Plus, the onion gravy can be customized to be thicker, richer, or even slightly sweet, depending on how you prepare it. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this Irish bangers and mash recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Irish Bangers and Mash
There are so many reasons why this Irish bangers and mash recipe is a must-try. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and simple cooking techniques. Despite its simplicity, the dish delivers bold and comforting flavors that make it perfect for any occasion. Another reason to love this dish is that it’s highly customizable. You can use traditional Irish sausages, or substitute them with your favorite variety. The mashed potatoes can be made extra creamy with the addition of butter and heavy cream, or kept light and fluffy with milk and a touch of seasoning.
Additionally, the onion gravy is what truly sets this dish apart. The rich, savory flavor of the caramelized onions combined with beef broth and seasonings creates a sauce that perfectly complements both the sausages and the mashed potatoes. Whether you prefer your gravy thick and hearty or smooth and silky, this recipe allows you to adjust the consistency to your liking. Plus, this dish pairs well with a variety of sides, making it easy to customize based on what you have on hand.
This dish is also great for meal prepping, as both the mashed potatoes and gravy can be made in advance. The sausages can be cooked quickly when you’re ready to eat, making this a convenient option for busy nights. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just looking for a cozy and filling meal, this Irish bangers and mash recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.
Ingredients for the Best Irish Bangers and Mash
To make this delicious and hearty dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Bangers (Sausages):
- 6 Irish bangers (or any thick pork sausages) – The star of the dish, traditionally made with high-quality pork and seasonings.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps achieve a perfect sear.
- 1 tablespoon butter – Adds extra richness and flavor.
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds (900g) russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed – The perfect base for creamy mashed potatoes.
- ½ cup (120ml) whole milk or heavy cream – Adds creaminess and richness.
- 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter – Enhances the flavor and texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Essential for seasoning.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a hint of spice.
For the Onion Gravy:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced – Caramelizes beautifully to add depth to the gravy.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Helps soften and caramelize the onions.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Thickens the gravy to the perfect consistency.
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) beef broth – Provides a rich, savory base.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami and depth of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme – Complements the onions and beef broth.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – Balances and enhances the flavors.
These ingredients work together to create a dish that is rich, flavorful, and comforting. You can also customize the recipe by using different types of sausages, adding garlic to the mashed potatoes, or incorporating a splash of red wine into the gravy for extra depth.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Irish Bangers and Mash
- Prepare the mashed potatoes – Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain and return them to the pot.
- Mash the potatoes – Add the butter, warm milk or cream, salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Cover and set aside.
- Cook the sausages – Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the onion gravy – In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until soft and caramelized, about 10 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute.
- Add the broth and seasonings – Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Assemble the dish – Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate. Place the sausages on top and drizzle with the rich onion gravy. Serve immediately and enjoy!
How to Store and Reheat Irish Bangers and Mash
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm the mashed potatoes over low heat with a splash of milk, and heat the sausages and gravy in a pan until warmed through. Avoid microwaving at high heat, as it can dry out the sausages.
Conclusion
This Irish bangers and mash recipe is a true comfort food classic that delivers rich flavors and satisfying textures in every bite. The perfectly browned sausages, smooth and buttery mashed potatoes, and deeply flavorful onion gravy make this dish a must-try for anyone who loves hearty meals. Whether you’re making it for a festive celebration or just a cozy dinner at home, this dish is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of traditional Irish cuisine. If you love this dish, don’t forget to share it with your friends and subscribe for more delicious recipes!
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Authentic Irish Bangers and Mash Recipe for a Hearty Meal
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 4
Description
This Irish bangers and mash recipe features juicy sausages, creamy mashed potatoes, and a rich onion gravy. A perfect comfort food for any occasion!
Ingredients
- Prepare the mashed potatoes – Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain and return them to the pot.
- Mash the potatoes – Add the butter, warm milk or cream, salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Cover and set aside.
- Cook the sausages – Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the onion gravy – In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until soft and caramelized, about 10 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute.
- Add the broth and seasonings – Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Assemble the dish – Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate. Place the sausages on top and drizzle with the rich onion gravy. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Instructions
- Prepare the mashed potatoes – Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain and return them to the pot.
- Mash the potatoes – Add the butter, warm milk or cream, salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Cover and set aside.
- Cook the sausages – Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the onion gravy – In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until soft and caramelized, about 10 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute.
- Add the broth and seasonings – Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Assemble the dish – Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate. Place the sausages on top and drizzle with the rich onion gravy. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Choose the Right Sausages – Traditional Irish bangers are slightly milder and have a softer texture than regular pork sausages. If you can’t find them, use high-quality pork sausages with a slight seasoning.
- For Extra Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Use Yukon Gold potatoes instead of russet for a naturally buttery texture. Adding warm milk instead of cold milk prevents the potatoes from becoming gummy.
- Customize the Gravy – If you like a thicker gravy, let it simmer for an extra few minutes, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to thicken it further.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: DINNER
- Cuisine: AMERICAN
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 700
