Classic Toad in the Hole: A British Comfort Food Favorite

Toad in the Hole

Toad in the hole is a classic British comfort food with juicy sausages, crispy, puffed, and tender Yorkshire pudding, and delicious onion gravy made using Chef John’s easy “cold oven” method.

What is Toad in the Hole?

Born in English kitchens of the Victorian era, this savory pudding features a light, airy batter—known as Yorkshire pudding—baked around rich sausages. The dramatic puff and golden crust make it a standout UK favorite at Sunday roasts and hearty weeknight dinners.

Ingredients for Toad in the Hole

For the Yorkshire Pudding Batter

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Sausages

• 8 pork sausages (about 1 pound)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or beef drippings

For the Onion Gravy

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 sprig fresh thyme (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, flour, milk, water, salt, pepper, and cayenne until completely smooth. Cover and let rest at room temperature for 1 hour to develop maximum fluff.
2. Preheat and heat the pan: Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a 9×13-inch baking dish or cast-iron skillet with oil in the oven to get smoking hot (about 10 minutes).
3. Brown the sausages: Carefully add sausages to the heated pan, turning to coat in oil. Roast for 10 minutes until lightly golden.
4. Pour in the batter: Remove pan, swirl the sausages, then pour rested batter evenly around them. Return to oven and bake 25–30 minutes, undisturbed, until puffed and deep golden.
5. Prepare the onion gravy: While pudding bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft and caramelized, about 8 minutes. Stir in flour for 1 minute, then whisk in broth and thyme. Simmer until thickened, seasoning to taste.
6. Serve hot: Slice the puffed pudding, plate with sausages, and drizzle generously with onion gravy.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 491 calories, 37 g carbs, 17 g protein, 31 g fat (9 g saturated), 228 mg cholesterol, 1 062 mg sodium.

Tips for Perfect Toad in the Hole

• Use room-temperature eggs and milk for a lighter rise.
• Do not open the oven door during baking to maintain height.
• Experiment with herbs like rosemary or serve with minty peas for variety.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes and steamed greens for a true British comfort feast.

Enjoy this hearty toad in the hole with friends and family!

Recipe adapted from Allrecipes.