Sausage bread is one of those timeless recipes that instantly wins hearts and satisfies appetites. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual breakfast, a cozy brunch with friends, or even as a crowd-pleasing appetizer for game day, this dish delivers on all fronts. It’s a perfect combination of golden, fluffy bread enveloping savory sausage and cheese, creating a bite that’s both hearty and indulgent.
In today’s post, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about making sausage bread. From the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to creative variations and serving suggestions, this guide will equip you with everything you need to bake the perfect loaf of sausage bread. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sausage bread is more than just delicious—it’s versatile, easy to make, and offers endless possibilities for customization. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:
- Comforting and Filling: The rich, savory flavors and fluffy bread make this a hearty dish that satisfies hunger and cravings alike.
- Great for Any Meal: Sausage bread isn’t just for breakfast—it’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or even as a light dinner.
- Perfect for Sharing: Slice it up for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings, and watch it disappear in no time.
- Customizable: Whether you like it spicy, cheesy, or loaded with vegetables, there are endless ways to make it your own.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Sausage bread stores well and can even be frozen, making it a great option for meal prep.
Sausage Bread: A Versatile Delight
Sausage bread is one of those recipes that works beautifully for any occasion. Need a quick and hearty breakfast? Slice up some sausage bread to pair with your morning coffee. Planning a cozy brunch or family gathering? This savory loaf is guaranteed to impress your guests. Hosting a game-day party? Sausage bread makes the perfect snackable appetizer when sliced into smaller portions. It’s not just versatile in terms of when to serve it—it’s also highly customizable! You can use mild or spicy sausage, add your favorite cheeses, or sneak in some veggies like spinach or peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. The soft, golden bread wrapped around the savory sausage filling is a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven, reheated for leftovers, or even frozen for later, sausage bread is a recipe you’ll come back to over and over again
What Does Sausage Bread Taste Like?
Sausage bread is a flavor-packed combination of rich, savory sausage, melty cheese, and perfectly baked bread. The bread is soft and slightly golden on the outside, creating the ideal contrast to the juicy, seasoned sausage inside. Depending on the type of sausage you use—mild, spicy, or flavored with herbs—the flavor profile can vary, but the end result is always irresistibly delicious. Add in some shredded cheese or a hint of garlic, and you’ve got a dish that’s guaranteed to satisfy.
Benefits of Making Sausage Bread
Beyond its irresistible taste, sausage bread has several practical benefits:
- Versatility: It works as a breakfast, brunch, or even as a savory snack.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves the comforting combination of bread, sausage, and cheese.
- Budget-Friendly: With simple ingredients, it’s an affordable option for feeding a group.
- Portable: Ideal for packing into lunchboxes, picnics, or on-the-go snacks.
- Freezer-Friendly: Sausage bread freezes beautifully, so you can always have some on hand for busy days.
Ingredients for Sausage Bread
To make the perfect sausage bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:
The Dough
- All-Purpose Flour (3 cups)
- Yeast (1 packet, 2 ¼ tsp; active dry or instant)
- Sugar (1 tbsp)
- Salt (1 tsp)
- Warm Water (1 cup; around 110°F)
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp; or any neutral oil)
The Filling
- Sausage (1 lb; use mild, spicy, or Italian sausage, casings removed)
- Cheese (1 ½ cups shredded; mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend)
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
- Onion (1 small, finely chopped)
- Herbs (1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning)
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
The Topping (Optional)
- Egg Wash (1 egg, beaten with 1 tbsp water)
- Sesame Seeds or Grated Parmesan (for garnish)
Tools You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make sausage bread:
- Mixing Bowl: For preparing the dough.
- Stand Mixer (optional): For kneading the dough.
- Rolling Pin: To roll out the dough.
- Skillet: For cooking the sausage filling.
- Baking Sheet or Loaf Pan: For baking the sausage bread.
- Pastry Brush: For applying the egg wash.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
Sausage bread is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative with these ideas:
- Different Sausages: Try chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or plant-based sausage for a healthier or vegetarian option.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with pepper jack, gouda, or provolone for a unique flavor twist.
- Add Veggies: Include bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes in the filling for added nutrition.
- Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or hot sausage for a kick of heat.
- Use Pre-Made Dough: If you’re short on time, store-bought pizza or bread dough works as a great shortcut.
How to Make Sausage Bread
1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy.
- Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
2: Prepare the Filling
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles with a spatula.
- Add the garlic, onion, and herbs, and sauté until the onion is translucent. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Stir in the shredded cheese, mixing until well combined.
3: Assemble the Sausage Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the dough into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
- Spread the sausage and cheese filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from one of the longer sides. Pinch the edges to seal the seam.
- Place the log seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
4: Add the Finishing Touches
- Brush the top of the dough with egg wash for a golden crust.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds or grated Parmesan if desired.
5: Bake the Sausage Bread
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
What to Serve with Sausage Bread
Sausage bread is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with these sides:
- Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the bread.
- Soup: Serve it with tomato soup, minestrone, or butternut squash soup for a comforting meal.
- Dipping Sauces: Marinara, garlic butter, or ranch dressing make great accompaniments.
- Brunch Spread: Add scrambled eggs, fruit salad, and coffee for a complete brunch experience.
Tips for Perfect Sausage Bread
- Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can make it hard to roll the dough and may cause it to burst during baking.
- Use Fresh Dough: If using store-bought dough, make sure it’s at room temperature for easier handling.
- Let It Cool: Allow the bread to rest before slicing to prevent the filling from spilling out.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to try different herbs, spices, and cheeses to find your perfect combination.
- Make It Mini: Instead of one large loaf, divide the dough into smaller portions for individual sausage rolls.
Storing and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftover sausage bread in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-made dough?
Yes! Store-bought pizza or crescent roll dough works well as a time-saving alternative.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the bread and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Let it come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
How do I make it vegetarian?
Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
Conclusion
Sausage bread is the ultimate combination of comfort and flavor, perfect for any meal or occasion. Its flaky crust, savory filling, and cheesy goodness make it a hit with everyone who tries it. Whether you’re preparing it for breakfast, brunch, or as an appetizer, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below or share your photos on Pinterest. Don’t forget to explore more of my recipes for hearty, homemade dishes like Breakfast Stromboli or Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
Enjoy baking, and happy eating! 😊