Devilled Sausages: A Culinary Throwback with a Fiery Kick

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about devilled sausages. I remember countless family barbecues where these were the star of the show. Not the fancy, gourmet sausages you see nowadays, but the humble, porky kind, all jazzed up with a sweet and spicy glaze. My grandfather, a man of few words but strong opinions, would always declare them “a proper meal,” and honestly, who could argue? The sizzle of the bacon, the tangy sauce, and the happy chatter – those are the flavours and feelings I’m chasing with this recipe.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free, Not Dairy-Free

Ingredients

• 8 sausages (your favorite pork or beef sausages will work)
• 8 slices bacon (streaky bacon recommended for optimal crispiness)
• 1 teaspoon mustard (English mustard or Dijon)
• 4 tablespoons ketchup (tomato ketchup)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Equipment Needed

• Baking tray
• Small bowl
• Whisk or fork

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) or Gas Mark 4. This ensures the sausages cook evenly and the bacon crisps up nicely without burning.

2. Spread the mustard evenly over each slice of streaky bacon. This adds a delicious sharpness that complements the sweetness of the ketchup later on. Don’t be shy with the mustard – it’s key to the “devilled” flavour.

3. Wrap each sausage with a slice of mustard-covered bacon, securing it tightly. The bacon should overlap slightly to prevent it from unwrapping during cooking.

4. Place the wrapped sausages on a baking tray, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning.

5. Cook in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the sausages are cooked through and the bacon is crispy and golden brown. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your sausages and the power of your oven, so keep a close eye on them. To check for doneness, insert a thermometer into the centre of a sausage; it should read 160°F (71°C).

6. While the sausages are cooking, prepare the devilled dip. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk until well combined and smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired – add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat, or a dash of brown sugar for more sweetness.

7. Once the sausages are cooked through, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve hot with the devilled dip on the side.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Bacon Quality: Use good-quality, streaky bacon for the best flavour and crispiness. The fat content in streaky bacon renders beautifully during cooking, basting the sausages and keeping them moist.
• Sausage Selection: While pork sausages are traditional, you can use any type of sausage you prefer. Chicken or vegetarian sausages also work well, but you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Preventing Soggy Bacon: To ensure crispy bacon, pat the sausages dry with paper towels before wrapping them. This removes excess moisture and helps the bacon to brown properly.
• Oven Placement: Place the baking tray in the center of the oven for even cooking. If the bacon starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent the sausages with foil to prevent burning.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the sausages ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Simply wrap the sausages in bacon, cover them tightly, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This is a great way to save time when entertaining.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Devilled sausages are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. They are fantastic as part of a barbecue spread, served alongside burgers, salads, and other grilled favorites. They also make a delicious and satisfying meal on their own, served with a side of chips or potato wedges. For a more refined presentation, consider serving them sliced on top of mashed potatoes or polenta, drizzled with the devilled dip.

Leftover devilled sausages can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them, as they can become dry.

These are best enjoyed freshly made, but can be reheated, but bear in mind the texture of the bacon may change.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	465 kcal	23%
Total Fat	35g	54%
Saturated Fat	15g	75%
Cholesterol	103mg	34%
Sodium	1067mg	44%
Total Carbohydrate	3g	1%
Dietary Fiber	0g	0%
Sugars	2.4g	5%
Protein	21.5g	43%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Devilled Sausages: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the devilled dip for extra heat. You could also use spicy Italian sausages for an added kick.
• Sweet and Tangy Devilled Sausages: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to the devilled dip for a sweeter flavor. A splash of apple cider vinegar can also add a tangy twist.
• Gluten-Free Devilled Sausages: Use gluten-free sausages and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is also gluten-free.
• Vegetarian Devilled Sausages: Substitute the pork sausages with your favorite vegetarian or vegan sausages. Wrap them in vegetarian bacon alternatives or omit the bacon altogether and simply baste them with the devilled dip during cooking.
• Alternative Bacon: Pancetta makes an equally delicious substitute for bacon in this recipe.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use different types of mustard?
A: Absolutely! While English mustard provides a classic kick, Dijon mustard offers a smoother, more subtle flavour. Feel free to experiment with other mustards like wholegrain or honey mustard to find your preference.

Q: Can I cook these on the grill?
A: Yes, devilled sausages are fantastic on the grill! Just make sure to keep a close eye on them and turn them frequently to prevent burning. You can also cook them over indirect heat for more even cooking.

Q: My bacon keeps falling off the sausages. What can I do?
A: Secure the bacon with toothpicks before cooking. Remove the toothpicks once the bacon is cooked and crispy. Alternatively, use thinner slices of bacon that are easier to wrap tightly around the sausages.

Q: Can I make the devilled dip ahead of time?
A: Yes, the devilled dip can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This is a great way to save time when preparing for a party or gathering.

Q: What are some good sides to serve with devilled sausages?
A: Devilled sausages pair well with a variety of sides, including chips, potato wedges, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, baked beans, and green salad. They also make a delicious addition to a barbecue spread.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my take on classic devilled sausages. They’re simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the recipe and make it your own. Whether you’re serving them at a barbecue, a family dinner, or a casual get-together with friends, I hope these sausages bring as much joy to your table as they have to mine. I’d love to hear your thoughts and any variations you try, so don’t hesitate to share your feedback! Consider serving these with a crisp, cold beer or a refreshing glass of lemonade. Bon appétit!