Hairy Bikers Sausage casserole – delicious winter warmer

This hearty Hairy Bikers sausage casserole is a warming, flavourful dish packed with savoury pork sausages, smoky bacon, and a rich tomato-based sauce. The slow cooking melds all the ingredients, creating a comforting, satisfying meal perfect for cosy evenings. The blend of spices and beans adds depth and a touch of warmth to every bite.

By the Hairy Bikers

From Saturday Kitchen Recipes
Original recipe from BBC Saturday Kitchen Live.

The Nutri-Score health assessment for this hearty sausage casserole rates it as a C. The score is based on the ingredients’ nutritional profile, with the dish containing a good balance of vegetables, protein, and wholesome beans. It provides a nourishing meal, though moderate in calories and fats.

Each serving provides 423 kcal, 23.5g protein, 16g carbohydrates (of which 9.5g sugars), 28.5g fat (of which 10g saturates), 4.5g fibre and 2g salt.

Ingredients

Method

1. Warm 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil in a large non-stick frying pan. Gently fry the sausages for about 10 minutes, turning until they’re browned all over. Transfer to a large saucepan or casserole dish and set aside.
2. In the same pan, crisp up the bacon until browned. Add to the dish with sausages.
3. Add sliced onions to the pan, cooking over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring often. Add garlic and cook for 2–3 minutes until golden. Sprinkle with chilli powder or smoked paprika, cooking briefly.
4. Stir in tomatoes, stock, purée, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, herbs, and wine if using. Bring to a simmer.
5. Pour the tomato mixture into the dish with the sausages and bacon. Simmer gently, covered loosely, for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Stir in drained beans and cook for another 10 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot with rice or rustic bread slices.

Suggested Wine Pairing

1. Majestic: Campo Viejo Tempranillo Rioja – A soft, fruity red that complements the smoky bacon and spiced sausage.
2. Tesco: Flowstone Sauvignon Blanc – Crisp and refreshing, balancing the richness of the dish with citrus and herb notes.
3. Sainsbury’s: Waimea Valley Sauvignon Blanc – Light with herbal hints, perfect for cutting through the hearty casserole.

What can you serve with the Hairy Bikers Sausage Casserole

1. Rice: Absorbs the rich sauce beautifully and makes it more filling.
2. Rustic bread slices: Ideal for dipping and scooping up the hearty casserole.
3. Green salad: Adds freshness to the meal and balances the richness of the dish.

FAQs for Hairy Bikers Sausage Casserole

• Can I make this ahead? Yes, it tastes even better the next day after the flavours meld.
• Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Can I use different beans? Absolutely. Chickpeas or lentils work well too.
• Is it suitable for vegetarians? No, this dish contains sausages and bacon, but you could use veggie sausages.
• What’s the best wine pairing? A medium-bodied red or a crisp white balances the flavours nicely.

Nutri-score Health Check

This hearty Hary Bikers sausage casserole scores a C on the Nutri-Score — a good reflection of its balance of protein, vegetables, and beans. The sauce contains some fats and salt from the bacon and sausages, but overall it’s a nourishing, satisfying meal. The score is calculated automatically based on the ingredients used and is only a guide.

Positive Factors

• Beans contribute fibre and protein
• Tomatoes and herbs add vitamins and antioxidants

Negative Factors

• Sausages and bacon contain saturated fats and salt