Sticky Irish Sausage Tray Bake

These Marmalade Sticky Sausages are a dream come true for those who love a balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors in their meals. Coated in a luscious glaze made from tangy marmalade, Dijon mustard, and a hint of balsamic vinegar, these sausages bake to perfection, caramelizing beautifully while staying juicy on the inside.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, brunch spreads, or even as a game-day snack, these glazed sausages pair wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered greens, or a crisp side salad. The rich, sticky glaze brings a gourmet twist to a simple dish, making it a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 12 high-quality pork sausages
  • 4 tbsp orange marmalade
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the marmalade, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Arrange the sausages on the prepared baking tray and brush generously with half of the glaze.
  4. Bake for 20 minutes, then turn the sausages and brush with the remaining glaze.
  5. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the sausages are caramelized and sticky.
  6. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes

Kcal: 290 kcal per serving | Servings: 4

Marmalade Sticky Sausages – A Sweet and Savory Delight

Introduction to Marmalade Sticky Sausages

Marmalade Sticky Sausages are a perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that make for a delicious and effortless meal. This dish takes classic pork sausages and coats them in a glossy, caramelized marmalade glaze infused with mustard, soy sauce, and balsamic vinegar. The result? A beautifully sticky and flavorful sausage with a golden-brown finish that is sure to impress at breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

This recipe is a family favorite because it’s easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality results right from your oven. Whether you’re looking for an exciting addition to a Sunday brunch, a quick midweek dinner, or a party snack, these sausages are guaranteed to be a hit.

The Story Behind This Recipe

The idea of glazing sausages with a sticky sauce has been around for generations, with different cultures using ingredients like honey, maple syrup, or fruit preserves to achieve that signature glossy caramelization. The use of marmalade in this recipe gives it a distinct citrusy sweetness, which perfectly balances the savory, meaty richness of the sausages.

This dish originated in British kitchens, where marmalade has been a breakfast staple for centuries. The idea of pairing it with sausages likely came from the classic British tradition of combining sweet and savory elements, much like the popular bangers and mash with onion gravy. Today, this recipe is beloved for its versatility and ease of preparation, making it a go-to choice for both casual meals and festive gatherings.

Why This Recipe is the Best Choice

✔️ Effortless and Quick – With only a few minutes of prep time, you can let the oven do the work while you enjoy a hassle-free cooking experience.

✔️ Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor – The simple combination of marmalade, mustard, and balsamic vinegar creates an irresistible glaze that enhances the natural flavors of the sausages.

✔️ Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you’re making a quick dinner, a holiday brunch, or a party appetizer, these sausages fit any meal plan.

✔️ Customizable to Your Taste – Swap out the Dijon mustard for whole-grain mustard, use honey instead of marmalade, or try different types of sausages, such as chicken or plant-based alternatives.

✔️ Pairs Well with a Variety of Dishes – Serve these sausages with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or even in a hot dog bun for a fun and flavorful twist.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

  • Pork Sausages – The juicy, meaty base that absorbs the glaze beautifully while crisping up in the oven.
  • Orange Marmalade – Adds sweetness, citrusy brightness, and caramelization, giving the dish its signature sticky texture.
  • Dijon Mustard – Provides a mild heat and tanginess, balancing the marmalade’s sweetness.
  • Soy Sauce – Enhances the umami depth, adding a slightly salty, savory contrast.
  • Balsamic Vinegar – Adds a touch of acidity, helping to balance the richness of the sausages.
  • Worcestershire Sauce – Brings a bold, complex umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
  • Garlic & Smoked Paprika – Add warm, aromatic depth and a subtle smokiness, elevating the dish’s richness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

1️⃣ Preheat Your Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2️⃣ Prepare the Glaze – In a mixing bowl, whisk together marmalade, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

3️⃣ Coat the Sausages – Arrange the sausages on the baking tray and brush them generously with half of the glaze.

4️⃣ Bake Until Caramelized – Bake for 20 minutes, allowing the glaze to soak into the sausages.

5️⃣ Flip and Glaze Again – Turn the sausages over, brush them with the remaining glaze, and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).

6️⃣ Finish Roasting – Bake for another 10 minutes, allowing the sausages to develop a deep caramelization with a sticky, glossy finish.

7️⃣ Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately while warm and sticky!

Serving Suggestions

🍽️ With Mashed Potatoes & Gravy – Classic, hearty, and comforting.
🥖 In a Sandwich or Brioche Bun – Make sticky sausage sandwiches with caramelized onions and mustard.
🥗 With a Light Salad – Pair with arugula, roasted nuts, and citrus vinaigrette for a fresh, balanced meal.
🍚 Over Rice or Quinoa – The glossy glaze coats grains beautifully, making it an easy, delicious meal.
🎉 As a Party Appetizer – Cut into bite-sized pieces, insert toothpicks, and serve as a finger food!

Health Benefits of This Dish

💪 High in Protein – The sausages provide essential protein for muscle repair and sustained energy.
🧡 Rich in Antioxidants – Garlic, balsamic vinegar, and paprika contain immune-boosting properties.
Balanced Nutrients – This dish includes healthy fats, protein, and natural sugars, making it a well-rounded meal.
🌱 Adaptable for Dietary Needs – Use chicken, turkey, or plant-based sausages to make the dish leaner or vegetarian-friendly.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

🥡 Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
❄️ Freezing: Freeze cooked sausages in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.
🔥 Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Creative Variations to Try

🔥 Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or chili sauce to the glaze for extra heat.
🍎 Fruit-Infused Twist – Swap orange marmalade for apricot preserves or cranberry sauce.
🥓 Bacon-Wrapped Sausages – Wrap each sausage in bacon before baking for an indulgent twist.
🌿 Herb-Enhanced – Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage for a deeper, more aromatic flavor.
🍯 Honey-Mustard Glaze – Replace marmalade with honey and grainy mustard for a different take on the sticky glaze.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes, flip, brush with more glaze, and cook for another 8-10 minutes until sticky and golden brown.

Can I use different sausages?
Absolutely! Try chicken, turkey, vegan, or even spicy chorizo sausages for different flavors.

What can I substitute for marmalade?
You can use honey, maple syrup, or apricot preserves for a different sweetness profile.

Conclusion

Marmalade Sticky Sausages are a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Whether served as part of a hearty breakfast, a quick weeknight dinner, or a party appetizer, these sausages will leave everyone wanting more.

With their golden caramelized glaze, juicy interior, and endless pairing options, they make an excellent addition to your recipe collection. Try this dish today and elevate your meals with minimal effort but maximum taste!

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