The Hairy Bikers Sausage and Bean Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines succulent sausages with flavorful beans in a rich tomato sauce. This one-pot meal is perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings, offering a balance of protein and savory flavors. It’s simple to make, with minimal prep and maximum flavor—ideal for both weeknight dinners and leisurely weekend meals.
What is Hairy Bikers Sausage and Bean Casserole?
The Hairy Bikers Sausage and Bean Casserole is a classic British comfort dish featuring sausages cooked with beans in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. It’s hearty, warming, and easy to prepare. With ingredients like smoky sausages, white beans, and vegetables, it offers a nutritious, filling meal. You can serve it on its own or alongside mashed potatoes or crusty bread for extra indulgence.
Other Popular Recipes
- Hairy Bikers Mississippi Mud Pie
- Hairy Bikers Mince And Dumplings
- Hairy Bikers Vegetarian Chilli Con Carne
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- One-pot meal: Less cleanup, more convenience.
- Full of flavor: The combination of sausages, beans, and spices makes every bite flavorful.
- Perfect for batch cooking: Great for making ahead and enjoying throughout the week.
- Simple to customize: Use different types of sausages or beans to suit your taste.
- Comforting and filling: Ideal for chilly evenings or when you need something warm and satisfying.
Ingredients Needed to Make Hairy Bikers Sausage and Bean Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious sausage and bean casserole:
- Sausages (6-8 large, your choice): Choose a high-quality sausage for the best flavor.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): For browning the sausages and vegetables.
- Onion (1 large, chopped): Adds a rich, savory base.
- Garlic cloves (2-3, minced): Enhances the depth of flavor.
- Carrots (2, sliced): Adds sweetness and texture.
- Celery stalks (2, chopped): For a savory, aromatic base.
- Canned chopped tomatoes (2 x 400g cans): The base of the casserole sauce.
- Tomato purée (1 tbsp): Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
- Canned white beans (2 x 400g cans, drained): Adds heartiness and protein.
- Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Adds a smoky flavor to the dish.
- Thyme (1 tsp, dried or fresh): Enhances the savory taste.
- Bay leaves (2): For added aromatic flavor.
- Vegetable or chicken stock (300ml): Provides extra richness to the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste.
Equipment Needed
- Large casserole pot or Dutch oven: For cooking the casserole.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring.
- Sharp knife and chopping board: To prep the vegetables.
- Tongs: For browning the sausages.
Instructions to Make Hairy Bikers Sausage and Bean Casserole
- Brown the sausages – Heat the olive oil in a large casserole pot over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the vegetables – In the same pot, add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add the spices – Stir in the smoked paprika, thyme, and bay leaves. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to release the flavors.
- Add the tomatoes and stock – Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, and vegetable stock. Stir everything together, bringing it to a simmer.
- Combine the sausages and beans – Return the sausages to the pot along with the drained white beans. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the casserole – Cover the pot and let the casserole cook on low heat for about 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Season and serve – Taste and season with salt and black pepper. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
What Goes Well with Hairy Bikers Sausage and Bean Casserole?
- Crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich tomato sauce.
- Mashed potatoes: A creamy side that complements the hearty casserole.
- Steamed greens: Adds a fresh, healthy contrast to the richness of the dish.
- Rice: A simple side that absorbs the flavorful sauce.
- Buttered noodles: A fun, comforting option for a change of texture.
- Polenta: Creamy or grilled polenta pairs beautifully with the sausage and beans.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Hairy Bikers Sausage and Bean Casserole
- Brown the sausages well: This adds depth and flavor to the dish, so don’t rush this step.
- Use high-quality sausages: Opt for premium pork or vegetarian sausages for the best taste.
- Add extra vegetables: Bell peppers or zucchini can be added for extra color and nutrition.
- Simmer slowly: Letting the casserole cook on low heat ensures the flavors develop fully.
- Adjust consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more stock. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Easy Variations of Hairy Bikers Sausage and Bean Casserole
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or chopped fresh chilies for extra heat.
- Vegetarian option: Use plant-based sausages and vegetable stock to make it vegetarian-friendly.
- Different beans: Try adding black beans or chickpeas for a different texture and flavor.
- Cheesy finish: Sprinkle some grated cheese on top and place under the grill for a few minutes to melt and brown.
- Herby twist: Swap thyme for rosemary or oregano to change up the flavor profile.
Best Practices to Store Hairy Bikers Sausage and Bean Casserole
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Let the casserole cool completely, then freeze it in portions for up to 3 months.
- Thaw: Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Best Practices to Reheat Hairy Bikers Sausage and Bean Casserole
- Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
How Can I Make Hairy Bikers Sausage and Bean Casserole Healthier?
- Use lean sausages: Opt for chicken or turkey sausages to reduce fat content.
- Add more vegetables: Bulk up the dish with extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Reduce the oil: Use just 1 tablespoon of olive oil or a cooking spray to lower fat.
- Use low-sodium stock: Opt for a low-sodium stock to control salt levels.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 20g
- Fiber: 10g
Final Words
The Hairy Bikers Sausage and Bean Casserole is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that delivers a comforting, hearty meal every time. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with your favorite side, and enjoy a warming, satisfying dinner!
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Hairy Bikers Sausage and Bean Casserole
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: British
Description
The Hairy Bikers Sausage and Bean Casserole is a classic British comfort dish featuring sausages cooked with beans in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. It’s hearty, warming, and easy to prepare. With ingredients like smoky sausages, white beans, and vegetables, it offers a nutritious, filling meal. You can serve it on its own or alongside mashed potatoes or crusty bread for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious sausage and bean casserole:
- Sausages (6-8 large, your choice): Choose a high-quality sausage for the best flavor.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): For browning the sausages and vegetables.
- Onion (1 large, chopped): Adds a rich, savory base.
- Garlic cloves (2-3, minced): Enhances the depth of flavor.
- Carrots (2, sliced): Adds sweetness and texture.
- Celery stalks (2, chopped): For a savory, aromatic base.
- Canned chopped tomatoes (2 x 400g cans): The base of the casserole sauce.
- Tomato purée (1 tbsp): Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
- Canned white beans (2 x 400g cans, drained): Adds heartiness and protein.
- Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Adds a smoky flavor to the dish.
- Thyme (1 tsp, dried or fresh): Enhances the savory taste.
- Bay leaves (2): For added aromatic flavor.
- Vegetable or chicken stock (300ml): Provides extra richness to the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste.
Instructions
- Brown the sausages – Heat the olive oil in a large casserole pot over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the vegetables – In the same pot, add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add the spices – Stir in the smoked paprika, thyme, and bay leaves. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to release the flavors.
- Add the tomatoes and stock – Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, and vegetable stock. Stir everything together, bringing it to a simmer.
- Combine the sausages and beans – Return the sausages to the pot along with the drained white beans. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the casserole – Cover the pot and let the casserole cook on low heat for about 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Season and serve – Taste and season with salt and black pepper. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
