There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty meal fresh from the oven. The Sausage, Butter Bean & Tomato Tray Bake blends juicy sausages with creamy butter beans and rich tomatoes, creating a dish that’s not just a feast for the eyes but also for the palate. The distinct flavors harmonize beautifully, leaving you with a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Each forkful is bursting with flavor, and the aromas that waft through your kitchen as it bakes are simply irresistible.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Sausage, Butter Bean & Tomato Tray Bake
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Sausage, Butter Bean & Tomato Tray Bake

This recipe is perfect for any day of the week, shining during weekday dinners or weekend family gatherings. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and a guaranteed hit at the dinner table. And let’s be honest—when you can whip up something so delicious in just about 30 minutes, why wouldn’t you? So why not roll up your sleeves and dive into this delightful dish?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: In just 31 minutes, you can have a hearty meal on the table.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of spices and savory sausages creates a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The colorful mix of ingredients makes for a vibrant, inviting tray bake, perfect for impressing guests.
Flexible Serving: Ideal for family dinners, cozy nights in, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable—swap sausages for veggie options for a plant-based twist!

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 onion: A classic base for flavor; use yellow or white onions for sweetness. Red onions can add a mild kick.
1 pepper: Any color will do—red, yellow, or green will bring sweetness and color. Substitute with zucchini or eggplant for a veggie twist.
A pack of your favorite sausages (6-12): Choose links that you enjoy; pork, chicken, or plant-based sausages work great.
1 tsp garlic puree (or 1 fresh, crushed clove): Fresh garlic gives depth of flavor; puree is convenient when you’re short on time.
1 tbsp tomato puree: Adds richness and depth. You can use Italian tomato paste for a more concentrated flavor.
1 tsp paprika: Sweet or smoked paprika elevates the dish’s warmth—opt for smoked for a little extra flavor.
1 tsp thyme: Dried thyme is a must for that earthy flavor, but fresh thyme offers an even brighter taste.
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and enhances the dish’s savory notes; soy sauce can be a good substitute.
1 tsp sugar: Balances the acidity from the tomatoes; brown sugar can also provide a richer taste.
1 400ml tin baked beans: Use your favorite brand for convenience—look for lower sugar options if desired.
1 400ml tin chopped tomatoes: Choose whole, peeled tomatoes if you prefer a chunkier texture in your bake.

How to Make Sausage, Butter Bean & Tomato Tray Bake

Prep the Vegetables: Start by cutting the onion and pepper into bite-sized pieces, adjusting the size based on your family’s preferences. This dish begs for lush bites, so don’t skimp on the chop!

Sizzle the Sausages: Heat a drizzle of oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the sausages, turning them occasionally to ensure they’re evenly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes—don’t rush this step!

Add the Aromatics: Once the sausages are beautifully browned, toss in the onions and stir everything around. You want those sausages to cuddle up with the onions, letting their flavors blend together for another 5 minutes until the onions are softened, too.

Stir in the Peppers and Spices: Next, add the chopped pepper, sugar, garlic puree, tomato puree, paprika, and thyme. Mix everything well for about a minute, letting the spices bloom and envelop each ingredient with flavor.

Pour in the Tomatoes and Beans: Now, add the tin of chopped tomatoes and baked beans to the pan. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, and give it a good mix. This is where the magic happens; you should smell those amazing aromas!

Simmer and Thicken: Cover the pan with a lid and lower the heat. Let it cook gently for another 5-10 minutes, allowing it to thicken up. You want it to look rich and warm, bubbling slightly—it’s almost time to feast!

Serve It Up: Finally, it’s time to enjoy your creation! Serve your tray bake hot, paired with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty buttered bread. Dive in and relish the satisfying textures and flavors!

Storing & Reheating

Let any leftovers cool before storing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you wish to freeze your tray bake, it will maintain its quality for up to 3 months—just make sure it’s entirely cooled before placing it in the freezer. When it’s time for a reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until it’s warmed through. Note that freezing may slightly alter texture, but rest assured the flavor will still be wonderful!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Don’t skimp on the browning step; it adds vital flavor.
For thicker sauce, allow to simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
If it feels too thick, add a splash of broth or water.
Consider ingredients’ temperatures—using room temperature sausages will help ensure even cooking.
Leftovers make a fantastic filling for a baked potato or as a topping for a savory pizza.
If you’re feeding a crowd, feel free to double up the recipe for gatherings!

There’s so much to love about the Sausage, Butter Bean & Tomato Tray Bake. It not only serves comfort but also convenience—perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. It invites everyone to gather at the table and share stories over a delicious warm dish.

Experiment with flavors or ingredients as you see fit! You might find a unique twist that becomes your new favorite family recipe. Enjoy the process, relish the delectable taste, and be ready to make this wonderful dish a regular on your dinner rotation!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use different sausages?

Absolutely! This recipe is very forgiving. Feel free to use chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausages if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option.

How can I adjust the spice level?

If you want to amp up the heat, simply add a pinch of chili flakes or some diced fresh chili. For a milder version, omit the paprika or choose sweet paprika instead of smoked.

Can I add more vegetables?

Certainly! This dish is versatile—zucchini, spinach, or even carrots can complement the flavors nicely. Feel free to experiment with your favorite veggies!

What should I serve it with?

While we love it with mashed potatoes and crusty buttered bread, this tray bake is also delicious served over rice or alongside a fresh green salad for a lighter option!