I remember the first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Tray Bake. It was a busy evening after work. I needed something quick, easy, and comforting. I had just seen a video of Jamie effortlessly tossing sausages, potatoes, and a few veggies onto a tray. No fuss. No complex steps. Just pure simplicity. It looked like something I could do, so I decided to give it a shot.
The moment it came out of the oven, I knew I had discovered a new go-to recipe. This dish has become one of those meals I make when I want something hearty but don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen. It’s flavorful, comforting, and made with just five ingredients. You might be wondering, “Can something so simple really be that good”? Trust me, it can.
Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Tray Bake 5-ingredients Recipe
This recipe is one of Jamie’s signature creations. It’s built around minimal ingredients that pack a punch in flavor. There’s no need for complex seasonings or fancy techniques. Just basic, fresh items that come together to create something surprisingly delicious. You’ll be amazed at how satisfying this dish is with just five ingredients.
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can play around with it, but the magic really happens when you keep it simple. If you’re feeling lazy or craving something hearty without all the effort, this is your go-to meal.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s the full list of ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s 5-ingredient sausage tray bake. When I first saw it, I thought it was too simple to be any good, but I was wrong.
- Sausages (4-6 links): I like to use good quality sausages, like pork or chicken. The meat is the star of the show, so go for something that feels fresh and flavorful.
- Potatoes (about 4-6 medium-sized): Peel and cut them into chunks. You’ll need these to roast alongside the sausages.
- Onions (2 large): Slice them into wedges. They’ll caramelize in the oven, adding sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Bell peppers (2-3): These add a nice sweetness and color to the tray bake. Feel free to choose your favorite variety.
- Olive oil: You’ll need a drizzle to coat everything before baking. It helps everything roast evenly and brings richness to the dish.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Tray Bake 5-ingredients
Now, here’s the fun part. When I first made this, I was amazed at how easy it was. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to recreate this hearty meal:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). The goal is to roast everything at a high temperature to get that crispy, caramelized effect.
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Prepare The Vegetables And Sausages
- Peel and chop the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the onions and bell peppers into large wedges or chunks.
- Toss the veggies in olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.
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Place Everything On A Baking Tray
- Lay the sausages in the center of the tray.
- Scatter the potatoes, onions, and peppers around them.
- Drizzle a little more olive oil over the top.
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Roast In The Oven For About 45-50 Minutes
- Halfway through, use tongs to turn the sausages and stir the veggies around so they all cook evenly.
- Everything should be golden and crispy when done.
- Serve hot: Once it’s out of the oven, let everything rest for a couple of minutes before serving. The sausages should be perfectly cooked through, the potatoes crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and the onions and peppers sweet and tender.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Every ingredient in this tray bake serves a purpose, from the sausages to the vegetables. Here’s a little science behind why this dish works so well:
- Sausages: The sausages release fat while they cook, which not only keeps them juicy but also helps the potatoes crisp up. As they roast, they also add depth of flavor to everything surrounding them. The key is to use a good-quality sausage because its flavor will infuse the dish.
- Potatoes: Potatoes are perfect for roasting because they can absorb flavors while also developing a crispy exterior. The starch in potatoes reacts with the heat, forming a crunchy crust while keeping the inside soft and pillowy.
- Onions and peppers: Onions and peppers add sweetness and caramelization as they cook. The high heat breaks down their natural sugars, creating a rich, savory-sweet contrast to the savory sausages. Plus, their texture softens beautifully in the oven.
Expert Tips
If you want to elevate your sausage tray bake, here are a few expert tips I’ve picked up over time:
- Use high-quality sausages: Don’t skimp on the sausages. Go for something with a higher meat content and a good balance of seasoning. It makes a big difference.
- Give the potatoes space: Don’t overcrowd the tray. Give the potatoes room to roast so they can get nice and crispy. If they’re packed too tight, they’ll steam rather than roast.
- Change up the veggies: If you want to try something new, swap out the bell peppers for other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or even cauliflower. Just make sure they’re cut to a similar size to ensure even cooking.
- Add fresh herbs: A sprinkle of rosemary or thyme before roasting can bring an extra layer of flavor to the dish. Just make sure to add them towards the end to avoid burning.
Recipe Variations
One of the things I love most about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can swap out ingredients depending on what you have at home. Here are a few variations I’ve tried:
- Spicy sausage tray bake: Swap regular sausages for spicy chorizo or add some chili flakes for a bit of heat.
- Vegetarian version: Replace the sausages with veggie sausages or even plant-based protein like tempeh or seitan. Add mushrooms or eggplant for extra texture.
- Roast with cheese: For an indulgent twist, sprinkle some grated cheese on top of the sausages and vegetables halfway through baking. It melts into a delicious, gooey topping.
Final Words
This dish has quickly become one of my favorites. It’s simple yet satisfying, and the best part is that it’s practically foolproof. Whether you’re cooking for yourself after a long day or hosting a small dinner, Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Tray Bake has you covered.
It’s the perfect balance of crispy, tender, savory, and sweet. The kind of meal that feels like a hug in food form. And once you get the hang of it, you’ll be making this tray bake on repeat.
FAQs
What Are The Ingredients For Jamie Oliver’s 5-ingredient Sausage Tray Bake?
You need sausages, potatoes, onions, olive oil, and rosemary. It’s super simple.
How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Tray Bake Take To Cook?
It takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your oven and how crispy you want everything.
Can I Add Other Vegetables To The Tray Bake?
Yes, you can add things like bell peppers or carrots. Just make sure they cook evenly with the potatoes.