Salwaa’s Homemade Mini Sausage Rolls
From My Kitchen To Yours – Keeping Our Heritage Alive Since 2011!
There’s something timeless and deeply comforting about mini sausage rolls—especially when they’re made from scratch, Cape Malay–style. This cherished recipe from Salwaa brings generations of flavor wrapped in flaky, golden puff pastry. Spiced just right, tender on the inside, and crisp on the outside, they’re perfect for everything from party platters to midweek treats.
This batch makes around 30 bite-sized sausage rolls, and trust me—you’ll want every single one.
Why I Love This Recipe
These sausage rolls are nostalgia in pastry form. Whether you use lamb, beef, or chicken, the spiced mince filling is warming and flavorful without being overpowering. The puff pastry turns golden and buttery, encasing the seasoned meat in layers of crisp comfort.
It’s the kind of recipe that pairs beautifully with hearty dips like beer cheese or something bolder like cheesy hot sandwich dip. No matter the crowd, these rolls always vanish fast.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Sausage Filling:
- 500g minced meat (beef, lamb, chicken, or mutton)
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
- Handful of breadcrumbs (for texture and binding)
For the Pastry:
- 1 kg puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten, for egg wash
🧂 Ingredient Notes & Tips
- Ground meat: Choose lamb for richness, chicken for lightness, or beef for classic flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: These help absorb juices, keeping the filling firm and tender.
- Spice level: Add chili flakes if you like heat, or keep it mild for younger eaters.
- Puff pastry: Pre-rolled or block—just make sure it’s chilled but pliable before use.
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling
Mix all the filling ingredients in a large bowl: minced meat, salt, pepper, garlic and onion powders, cumin, coriander, optional chili flakes, and breadcrumbs.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help the flavors meld and firm the mixture.
2. Roll Out the Pastry
On a floured surface, roll your puff pastry into a large, thin rectangle (about ⅛ inch thick).
Cut in half lengthwise to create two long strips.
3. Shape the Sausage Rolls
Form two long, even sausage shapes with the meat mixture and place along one edge of each pastry strip.
Brush the opposite edge with a bit of egg wash, then tightly roll the pastry over the meat to seal.
4. Cut and Egg Wash
Using a sharp knife, cut the long rolls into mini portions—about 1.5 to 2 inches each.
Place on a parchment-lined baking tray, seam side down.
Brush the tops with more egg wash for a golden, glossy finish.
5. Bake
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
Bake for 25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
💡 Tips for Success
- Seal it tight: Roll the pastry snugly over the filling to prevent air pockets.
- Don’t overstuff: Too much filling can burst through the pastry.
- For extra flair: Score the tops with a knife before baking for a decorative touch.
- Double batch friendly: These freeze well—assemble and freeze before baking, then cook from frozen.
🍽 Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Pair these sausage rolls with:
- Beer Cheese Dip – creamy, salty, and bold
- Cheesy Chicken Wontons – for a golden crunchy appetizer spread
- Dorito Casserole – serve alongside as a comfort food combo
- Garlic Butter Sliders – for a party platter full of finger-friendly bites
- Hot Dip Sandwich Remix – because double-dipping is encouraged
🧊 Storage & Freezing Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Use an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness—avoid the microwave if possible.
- Freeze unbaked: Assemble, freeze on a tray, then store in freezer bags. Bake straight from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the cook time.
🥄 More Recipes You’ll Love
- Easy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Wontons – crisp and addictive
- Beer Cheese Dip – a match made in party heaven
- Cheesy Chicken Sliders – melty and perfect for crowds
- Dorito Casserole – dinner meets guilty pleasure
- Cheesy Hot Dip – a bold twist on tradition
Final Thoughts
Salwaa’s Homemade Mini Sausage Rolls are more than just a savory snack—they’re a flavorful link to Cape Malay culinary heritage and the kind of recipe that brings people together. Whether you’re serving them for gatherings, holidays, or midweek cravings, these flaky little rolls deliver on flavor, texture, and satisfaction.
Give them a try, and don’t forget to tag @ChefManiac when you make your batch! For more golden bakes and irresistible appetizers, explore ChefManiac.com.
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