Introduction
Toad in the Hole is a classic British comfort dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. Despite its unusual name, this hearty meal is simply sausages baked in a light, crisp Yorkshire pudding batter and served with rich onion gravy. It is a dish that reflects the practicality of British home cooking, using affordable ingredients to create something filling, warming, and deeply satisfying.
The origins of Toad in the Hole date back to the 18th century, when batter puddings were commonly used to stretch small amounts of meat and feed families more economically. Early versions sometimes used leftover meat rather than sausages, but over time, sausages became the standard and most popular choice. The name itself is thought to describe the sausages peeking through the risen batter, resembling “toads” in a hole.
At The Recipe Kitchen, this Toad in the Hole recipe stays true to the traditional UK method. With crisp-edged batter, juicy sausages, and simple seasoning, it is designed to be approachable for beginners while delivering the authentic flavours people expect from this timeless British favourite.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Sausages
- 8 pork sausages (traditional British style)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Yorkshire Pudding Batter
- 140 g plain flour
- 4 large eggs
- 200 ml milk
- Salt, to taste
For the Onion Gravy (Optional but Traditional)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon plain flour
- 400 ml beef or vegetable stock
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt until smooth. The batter should be similar in consistency to double cream. Cover and rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes if time allows, as this helps the batter rise better. - Preheat the oven
Preheat the oven to 220°C (200°C fan). Place a large roasting dish in the oven to heat up. - Cook the sausages
Remove the hot roasting dish from the oven and carefully add the vegetable oil. Place the sausages in the dish and return it to the oven. Cook for 15–20 minutes, turning once, until the sausages are well browned. - Add the batter
Once the sausages are cooked, remove the dish from the oven. Working quickly, pour the batter evenly around and over the sausages. The oil should be very hot, and you should hear a sizzle as the batter hits the pan. - Bake the pudding
Return the dish to the oven immediately. Bake for 25–30 minutes without opening the oven door, until the batter has risen and turned golden brown with crisp edges. - Prepare the gravy
While the Toad in the Hole is baking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook for 8–10 minutes until soft and lightly caramelised. - Thicken the gravy
Stir the flour into the onions and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add the stock, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and black pepper. - Serve immediately
Remove the Toad in the Hole from the oven and serve straight away with the hot onion gravy.
Cooking Tips & Variations
- Hot pan is essential: The oil must be very hot before adding the batter to ensure a good rise.
- Do not open the oven: Opening the door while baking can cause the batter to collapse.
- Sausage choice: Pork sausages are traditional, but Cumberland or Lincolnshire sausages work particularly well.
- Lighter batter: Use half milk and half water for a slightly lighter Yorkshire pudding.
- Vegetarian version: Use vegetarian sausages and vegetable stock for the gravy.
What to Serve With Toad in the Hole
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Steamed green beans or broccoli
- Buttered peas
- Carrot and swede mash
These sides complement the richness of the sausages and batter while keeping the meal balanced.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C until hot and crisp. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the batter soft.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the batter does not retain its texture well once thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why didn’t my batter rise?
This is usually due to the oil not being hot enough or opening the oven door during cooking.
Can I prepare the batter in advance?
Yes. The batter can be made several hours ahead and kept at room temperature, which can actually improve the rise.
Is Toad in the Hole served with gravy?
Traditionally, yes. Onion gravy is the most common accompaniment and completes the dish.
Final Thoughts
Toad in the Hole is a perfect example of traditional British comfort food. Simple ingredients, careful technique, and proper timing come together to create a dish that is crisp, savoury, and deeply satisfying. Whether served as a family dinner or a nostalgic weekend meal, this classic UK recipe continues to stand the test of time and remains a beloved part of Britain’s culinary heritage.
