Warming Delights: Delia Smith’s Hearty Sausage Casserole Recipe

Whenever the weather starts to cool down, my mind immediately goes to comfort food that not only warms the body but also the soul. One of my all-time favorites is a hearty sausage casserole that combines the rich flavors of spicy chorizo, the smokiness of paprika, and a bounty of vegetables. This dish is a staple in my kitchen, especially during the colder months, and it never fails to bring my family together around the dining table. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s both comforting and satisfying, perfect for a filling family meal.

How To Make Delia Smith Sausage Casserole Recipe Overview

This sausage casserole recipe is a delightful mix of spicy chorizo and pork sausages, simmered with a medley of vegetables, aromatic spices, and drenched in a rich tomato base. The smoky flavor of paprika and a hint of cumin add depth, while a splash of white wine offers a slight acidity that balances the dish beautifully. It’s a recipe that requires minimal fuss but delivers maximum flavor. The casserole takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to prepare and cook, making it an ideal choice for a weekend dinner. This version serves approximately 6-8 people, perfect for a family meal or when entertaining guests.

Ingredients

• Olive or rapeseed oil: 3 tbsp – A versatile base for sautéing the vegetables and browning the sausages, adding a subtle flavor.
• Onion: 1 large, finely chopped – Adds a foundational sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Celery: 3 medium sticks, finely chopped – Contributes a slight crunch and freshness to balance the richness.
• Yellow pepper: 1 large, chopped – Brings a mild, sweet flavor and vibrant color to the casserole.
• Red pepper: 1 large, chopped – Adds sweetness and a pop of color, enhancing the dish’s visual appeal.
• Cooking chorizo sausages: 8 (approximately 530g) – Infuses the casserole with a spicy, smoky flavor.
• Pork sausages: 8 (approximately 530g) – Offers a meaty, savory depth to complement the chorizo.
• Garlic cloves: 4 fat, chopped – Gives the dish a pungent, aromatic undertone.
• Sweet smoked paprika: 2 tsp – Provides a rich, smoky essence that is key to the casserole’s character.
• Ground cumin: ¾ tsp – Adds a warm, earthy note with a hint of citrus.
• Dried thyme: 1 ½ tbsp – Lends a subtle, slightly minty flavor, enhancing the overall herbaceousness.
• White wine: 160ml – Deglazes the pot and introduces a bright acidity, enriching the sauce.
• Cherry tomatoes or chopped tomatoes: 3 x 400g cans – Forms the tomatoey base of the sauce, adding sweetness and body.
• Fresh thyme: 3 sprigs – Introduces a fresh, lemony layer to the dish’s complex flavor profile.
• Chicken stock cube: 1 – Deepens the casserole’s savory notes with a concentrated burst of umami.
• Aduki beans: 1 x 400g can, drained and rinsed – Adds texture and a nutty taste, while enriching the dish with fiber.
• Chives: 1 bunch, snipped (optional) – Offers a mild oniony flavor and a fresh, green garnish to finish the dish.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Heat the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and peppers, cooking until they are soft and beginning to color, about 10 minutes.
2. Brown the Sausages: Add both types of sausages to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
3. Add Garlic and Spices: Once the sausages are browned, add the chopped garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and dried thyme. Cook for another 2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
4. Deglaze with Wine: To clean out the pan, add the white wine and scrape up any burnt bits on the bottom. Allow the wine to reduce by half.
5. Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Stir in the canned tomatoes, fresh thyme sprigs, and crumble in the chicken stock cube.Once it starts to boil, lower the heat and let it cook slowly for 45 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and the sausages are fully cooked.
6. Finish with Beans: Add the adzuki beans to the pot and heat through for another 10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
7. Serve: You can add chopped onions as a garnish before serving if you want to. This casserole is hearty enough on its own or can be served with crusty bread or a simple green salad.

Nutritional Value (per serving)

Calories: Approximately 600-700 kcal

Protein: 35g

Fat: 40g (Saturated: 14g)

Carbohydrates: 35g

Fiber: 8g

Sugar: 12g

Sodium: 1200mg

Also Read: Delia Smith Pancakes Recipe

Serving Suggestions

Crusty Bread: Serve the casserole with slices of warm, crusty bread. It’s perfect for soaking up the rich sauce and adds a comforting, hearty touch to the meal.

Mashed Potatoes: A side of creamy mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully with the casserole, making the meal even more filling and satisfying.

Steamed Green Beans: Offer a side of steamed green beans for a light, crisp contrast to the casserole’s richness. It adds a healthy touch and a pop of color.

Rice: Serve the casserole over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. Rice absorbs the sauce beautifully and rounds out the meal nicely.

Simple Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing complements the casserole’s robust flavors and adds a refreshing element to the dinner table.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this casserole vegetarian. Swap the chorizo and pork sausages for your favorite vegetarian sausages. Use a vegetable stock cube instead of a chicken one. This keeps the rich flavors while making it meat-free. You can also add more vegetables or beans to boost the texture and nutrition. This way, you still get a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for anyone looking for a vegetarian option. It’s simple and just as delicious.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Cook it as instructed, then let it cool down. Once cooled, cover it and store it in the refrigerator. It can stay there for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it gently on the stove or in the oven until it’s hot throughout. Preparing it in advance actually allows the flavors to meld together even more, making it taste even better when you serve it.

Can I use different beans?

Yes, you can use different beans. Aduki beans are just one option. Feel free to try kidney beans, cannellini beans, or even black beans. Each type of bean will add its unique flavor and texture to the casserole. Just make sure to drain and rinse them if you’re using canned beans. This flexibility lets you customize the dish to your taste or use what you have on hand. It’s all about making the recipe work for you.

Is it possible to cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook this casserole in a slow cooker. First, brown the sausages and sauté the vegetables in a pan. Then, transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add the spices, tomatoes, and wine. Set the slow cooker on low. Let it cook for 6-8 hours. This method is great for letting the flavors meld together. Before serving, stir in the beans and let them heat through. Cooking it slow and low makes it even more delicious and tender.

Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?

Yes, you can add more vegetables to this casserole. It’s a great way to make it even healthier. Try throwing in some carrots, mushrooms, or spinach. These veggies will cook nicely in the sauce and add extra flavor and nutrition. Just chop them up and mix them in before you start cooking. This makes the casserole more colorful and packed with vitamins. Plus, it’s a good way to use up any veggies you have lying around.

Conclusion

This sausage casserole is a true comfort food, rich in flavors and perfect for a cozy night in. It’s a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers to last the week, this dish is sure to satisfy. Give it a try and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings to your table.