James Martin Sausage Casserole

Name: James Martin Sausage Casserole
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Ingredients: 8 pork sausages; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, sliced; 2 garlic cloves, crushed; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 red pepper, chopped; 400g chopped tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato puree; 300ml chicken stock; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 bay leaf

This James Martin sausage casserole is a rich, comforting dish packed with juicy sausages, tender vegetables, and a deeply savoury tomato-based sauce. The texture is hearty and warming, with soft vegetables and beautifully browned sausages in every bite. It’s an easy, one-pot recipe that’s perfect for weeknights or relaxed weekend cooking. From start to finish, it takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes, with minimal hands-on effort.

Ingredients

For the casserole

8 good-quality pork sausages
1 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, sliced
2 garlic cloves, crushed
2 carrots, sliced
1 red pepper, chopped
400g canned chopped tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato purée
300ml chicken stock
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional additions

1 tin (400g) cannellini beans, drained
A handful of fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make James Martin Sausage Casserole

Prepare the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C or 160°C fan. Place a shelf in the middle of the oven so the casserole cooks evenly.
Brown the sausages: Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof casserole dish over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook until browned all over. Remove and set aside.
Cook the vegetables: In the same pan, add the onion, carrots, and red pepper. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
Build the sauce: Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, chicken stock, paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Combine and bake: Return the sausages to the dish, nestling them into the sauce. Cover with a lid and transfer to the oven. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes.
Add final touches: If using beans, stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Remove the bay leaf before serving and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Tips

How do I get the best flavour?

Browning the sausages properly at the start adds depth and richness to the entire dish, so don’t skip this step.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this casserole tastes even better the next day as the flavours develop further.

What sausages work best?

Use high-quality pork sausages with a good meat content for the best texture and flavour.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Remove the lid for the last 10 minutes of cooking to allow the sauce to reduce slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with creamy mashed potatoes
Pair with crusty bread to soak up the sauce
Add steamed green vegetables on the side
Enjoy with buttered rice for a lighter option

Storage

Room temperature

Allow the casserole to cool and do not leave it out for more than 2 hours.

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Freezing

Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the hob or in the oven.

Nutrition

Calories: 420 kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Sodium: 900mg

Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I cook sausage casserole in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the sausages first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.

Can I use different types of sausages?

Absolutely, you can use beef, chicken, or even vegetarian sausages depending on your preference.

Do I have to cook it in the oven?

No, you can simmer it gently on the hob for about 40 minutes instead, stirring occasionally.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, courgettes, or potatoes all work well and make the dish even heartier.