Bangers and Mash is an ideal classic British dish that has been enjoyed for generations.
This hearty meal features sausages, mashed potatoes, and gravy, making it the perfect comfort food for cool evenings.
However, the dish can sometimes be a bit heavy and meaty, which is why it’s essential to serve it alongside some light, flavorful side dishes. But what to serve with bangers and mash?
In this blog post, I’m going to share with you some of the best side dishes to serve with bangers and mash.
These dishes are quick and easy to make, full of flavor and will elevate your bangers and mash to the next level. So, let’s get started!
What are bangers and mash? What do bangers and mash taste like?
Bangers and mash, also popular as sausages and mash, is a perfect traditional English dish made up of sausages served with mashed potatoes.
The sausages are usually made from pork or beef but can also include other meats like chicken or lamb.
They are seasoned with herbs like sage, thyme, oregano or rosemary to give them more flavor.
Bangers and mash have a savory taste that comes from the combination of the smooth texture of mashed potatoes combined with the juicy flavorsome sausages.
18 Best Sides to serve with bangers and mash
1. Buttered Peas
One of the simplest side dishes to serve with bangers and mash is buttered peas. This dish is a classic pairing with most British dishes, and it’s incredibly easy to make.
Simply cook fresh or frozen peas in boiling water for a few minutes, then drain and toss with butter and a pinch of salt.
The bright green peas add a burst of color and freshness to the plate, and the buttery flavor complements the savory sausages and creamy mashed potatoes.
2. Roasted Root Vegetables
If you’re looking for a heartier side dish, roasted root vegetables are the perfect choice. Roasted carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes are the perfect complement to bangers and mash.
Toss the chopped veggies with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast in the cookstove until tender and caramelized. The sweetness of the vegetables pairs well with the savory sausages and rich gravy.
3. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a perfect refreshing side dish that pairs well with bangers and mash. The crunchy texture and tangy flavor of the slaw cut through the richness of the dish and provide a refreshing counterpoint.
You can make your coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing, or add some apples or raisins for extra sweetness.
4. Baked Beans
Another classic British side dish that pairs well with bangers and mash is baked beans.
The sweetness of the beans complements the spiciness of the sausages, and the hearty texture helps to fill you up.
You can prepare your own baked beans from scratch or simply open a can and heat them up on the stove.
Discover More: 39 Side Dishes to serve with Potato Salad and Baked Beans
5. Mixed Greens Salad
If you’re looking for a lighter side dish, a mixed greens salad is a great option.
Mix together a variety of leafy greens, such as spinach, arugula, and kale, and top with your favorite salad ingredients, such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese.
Dress the salad with a popular vinaigrette, and you have a light and refreshing side dish that complements the richness of the bangers and mash.
6. Sautéed Mushrooms
Sautéed mushrooms are a simple yet flavorful accompaniment to bangers and mash. Cook sliced mushrooms in butter and garlic until they are golden brown and tender.
The earthy flavor of the mushrooms accompanies well with the sausage’s meatiness, and the garlic adds a pungent kick that cuts through the richness of the dish.
7. Green Beans Almondine
Green beans almondine is a classic French side dish that complements bangers and mashes perfectly.
Blanche fresh green beans until tender and toss with toasted almonds, butter, and lemon juice.
The almonds add a crunchy texture, while the lemon juice brightens up the dish and cuts through the sausage’s richness.
8. Yorkshire Pudding
Yorkshire pudding is a traditional British side dish that is often served with bangers and mash.
The pudding is made from a simple batter of flour, eggs, and milk and is baked in the oven until puffy and golden brown. (Recipe)
The crispy pudding is a perfect vessel for soaking up the rich gravy from the bangers and mash, making it an ideal side dish.
9. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are another hearty side dish to serve with bangers and mash.
Grill a variety of veggies, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, and toss with a general dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
The charred flavor of the vegetables adds depth to the dish, while the dressing provides a tangy taste that cuts through the richness of the bangers and mash.
10. Ratatouille
Ratatouille is an ideal classic French dish that is made from a hearty mixture of eggplant, zucchini, peppers, and tomatoes.
The dish is flavored with garlic and herbs and is a perfect complement to bangers and mash.
The hearty vegetables add depth and richness to the dish, while the acidity of the tomatoes cuts through the sausage’s richness.
Explore More: 15 Quick and Amazing Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken Francaise
11. Peas and Carrots
Peas and Carrots are a classic British side dish that is the perfect accompaniment to bangers and mash.
The colorful combination of sweet peas and carrots makes a visually stunning addition to your plate, and their sweetness and crunch will complement the savory flavors of the sausages and mashed potatoes.
12. Sautéed Spinach
Spinach may not be the first vegetable that comes to mind when you think of bangers and mash, but it’s a perfect match.
Rich in folate and vitamin C, spinach is a healthy addition to your meal. Simply sauté the spinach in butter and garlic for a few minutes until wilted, and serve as a side dish.
13. Creamed Corn
Creamed Corn is a creamy and sweet dish that makes a great side dish for bangers and mash.
Creamed corn is easy to prepare and is an ideal classic comfort food that will satisfy your cravings.
14. Pickled Vegetables
If you want to add a tangy and flavorful twist to your bangers and mash, pickled vegetables are the way to go.
Try pickling cucumbers, beets, or radishes a few hours before dinner, and enjoy the crisp, tart taste with your meal.
15. Grilled Asparagus
Asparagus is a delicious vegetable that goes well with bangers and mash. Grilling asparagus adds a smoky flavor that complements the rich flavor of the sausages.
16. Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs make a great side dish for bangers and mash. The creamy, tangy filling and the spicy mustard make a perfect complement to the flavors of your main dish.
Learn More: Deviled Eggs: 30 Best Foods to Serve as an Appetizer
17. Macaroni and Cheese
If you’re a fan of classic comfort food, then macaroni and cheese is the perfect side dish for you.
The cheesy goodness of mac and cheese will complement the flavors of your bangers and mash, making every bite heavenly.
18. Steamed Broccoli
Steamed broccoli is a simple, healthy, and delicious side dish that goes well with bangers and mash.
It’s easy to prepare and adds some greenery to your plate. Simply steam the broccoli for a few minutes until tender, season, and serve.
the best gravy for bangers and mash
Gravy is one of the quintessential accompaniments to bangers and mash, a classic British dish.
Not only does it add flavorful complexity to the combination of mashed potatoes and sausages, but it also helps to make the meal complete.
Here are five of the best gravies to combine with bangers and mash:
1. Onion Gravy
Rich in flavor and depth, onion gravy is made with onions cooked in butter until they are caramelized before being added to beef stock or broth.
The result is a savory, slightly sweet sauce that provides an additional layer of flavor to your bangers and mash.
2. Ale Gravy
This dark gravy is made with ale beer that has been cooked down into a rich sauce that will take your bangers and mash to the next level.
It has a hint of sweetness from the beer as well as herbal notes from any herbs or spices you may add when making it.
3. Mushroom Gravy
It’s no secret that mushrooms provide umami-rich flavor, so why not try adding them to your gravy?
Simply add some diced mushrooms along with butter, garlic, onion, flour, and beef stock for an earthy flavor boost.
4. Red Wine Gravy
A great way to use up any leftover red wine in your fridge!
Start off by reducing some dry red wine over medium heat, then add beef stock or broth as well as rosemary for a deep red color and complex flavor that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and sausages. (Recipe)
5. Balsamic Vinegar Gravy
Balsamic vinegar adds a subtle sweet-tart note that adds complexity to any gravy.
Simmer some balsamic vinegar in beef stock, then season it with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an amazing twist on classic gravy flavors perfect for serving alongside bangers and mash!
Find Out More: 19 Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Biscuits and Gravy
What are the best flavors to go with bangers and mash?
Bangers and Mash is an ideal classic British dish that typically consists of pork sausages and mashed potatoes. There are an array of flavors that pair well with this dish.
A classic combination is to serve the bangers and mash with creamy onion gravy. This adds a flavorful boost of savory complexity to the meal.
Another great flavor pairing is to add smoky bacon bits or lardons to the mashed potatoes for added texture and flavor.
Caramelized onions are also a great addition, adding sweetness and umami flavor combinations.
For a more subtle flavor pairing, try adding garden-fresh herbs such as thyme, parsley, or rosemary to the mashed potatoes before serving.
Finally, for those who like things extra flavorful, bangers and mash can be served with a zesty tomato relish or a tangy brown sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
How do you jazz up bangers and mash?
There are a variety of ways to jazz up bangers and mash. Try making gravy with caramelized onions, fresh herbs, and mushrooms for added flavor.
You can also top the mashed potatoes with crispy bacon bits for added crunch.
To give the whole dish an extra kick, add your favorite spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper.
Lastly, you can add some grated cheese on top of the mashed potatoes to make it really cheesy!
How do you display bangers and mash on a platter?
Bangers and mash can be served on a platter in a variety of different ways.
A classic presentation would involve the bangers, or sausages, being arranged in a ring around the mashed potatoes. The potatoes should be shaped into a dome and covered in gravy for an authentic touch.
To add some flair to the dish, you could top it off with fried onions or mushrooms, as well as a sprig of parsley for decoration.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also add some roasted vegetables, such as carrots or peas, to create a colorful contrast.
Wrap Up on what to serve with bangers and mash.
Bangers and Mash is an ideal classic British dish that is perfect for cool evenings. However, serving it with the right side dishes can take it from good to great.
Hopefully, these side dishes have given you some inspiration for how to elevate your bangers and mash to the next level.
Whether you opt for a simple side of buttered peas or a more substantial dish like roasted root vegetables or ratatouille, these side dishes will add flavor and depth to your meal.
So, get cooking and enjoy your delicious bangers and mash with these amazing side dishes!
FAQs
How many bangers and mash per person?
It depends on the size of the bangers (sausages) and other ingredients that you’re using.
As a general rule, it’s typically recommended to plan for one or two sausages per person when serving bangers and mash.
Additionally, you should also plan for about 1-2 cups of mashed potatoes per person.
For larger appetites, you may want to increase these amounts slightly.
What wine pair with bangers and mash?
When it comes to bangers and mash, a good wine pairing is a classic English ale.
A malt-forward ESB (Extra Special Bitter) or a well-balanced Pale Ale are both great choices. They will bring out the caramelized notes of the sausages without overpowering them.
For added depth, a fruity red like Pinot Noir can be an excellent accompaniment. It will cut through the richness of the dish while still providing an enjoyable sweet and fruity flavor.
As far as whites go, look for something medium-bodied, such as Chenin Blanc or a Sauvignon Blanc with herbal aromas that will create an interesting contrast with the mashed potatoes and sausages.
What vegetable goes with bangers and mash?
Bangers and mash is an ideal classic British dish, most often served with fried onions and peas.
Another common accompaniment to the dish is roasted carrots or steamed cabbage, both of which provide a sweet and earthy contrast to the salty bangers and starchy mashed potatoes.
Roasted Brussels sprouts are also a great option for adding some extra flavor and texture to this cozy comfort food dish.
Best desserts to eat with bangers and mash
1. Sticky Toffee Pudding
A classic British dessert, sticky toffee pudding is a moist cake made with dates, caramelized sugar, and a sweet toffee sauce.
Pairs deliciously with bangers and mash and adds a unique flavor to the dish.
2. Eton Mess
A traditional English dessert that combines strawberries, meringue pieces, and cream in a delightful mixture of crunchy and creamy textures.
The sweetness pairs perfectly with the salty flavors of bangers and mash for an enjoyable meal.
3. Fruit Crumble
Another classic British dessert, fruit crumble, is made with cooked fruit topped with a crunchy topping of butter, sugar, and flour.
Try making your own version of crumble to serve alongside bangers and mash for an easy yet delicious dessert.
4. Bread Pudding
This simple yet tasty dessert is often overlooked but pairs exceptionally well with bangers and mash due to its savory notes that balance out the richness of the meal.
Represent warm with custard or ice cream for an extra treat!
5. Trifle
An elegant mix of sponge cake soaked in liqueur or sherry, custard, jelly, fresh fruit, jam and cream layered together in a glass bowl make this traditional British dessert both light and decadent at the same time – an ideal companion for bangers and mash!
Is bangers and mash a breakfast or dinner?
Bangers and mash are typically served as a traditional dinner or comfort meal.
It consists of sausages (the “bangers”) and mashed potatoes, usually topped with onion gravy. It is often accompanied by additional vegetables such as peas or broccoli.
