Cumberland Sausage & Caramelised Onion Smash Recipe | Loaded Sausage Smash on a Plancha BBQ

🧅 Cumberland Sausage Smash Burgers on a Plancha BBQ

Smash burgers have become a barbecue favourite, but this British-inspired version swaps traditional beef for seasoned Cumberland sausage meat. Pressed directly onto a hot plancha, the sausage develops irresistibly crispy edges while staying juicy and full of flavour.

Served in toasted brioche buns with sweet caramelised onions, mature Cheddar and a generous spread of wholegrain mustard mayonnaise, these sausage smash burgers are a fun twist on a classic British sausage sandwich. They're quick to prepare, packed with flavour and guaranteed to be a talking point at your next barbecue.

Whether you're feeding the family or entertaining friends, this recipe proves that the humble sausage can be every bit as exciting as a burger.

📝 Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Serves: 4

Difficulty: Easy

🛒 Ingredients

For the Sausage Smash

  • 500g Cumberland sausages (skins removed)
  • 4 brioche burger buns
  • 4 slices mature Cheddar
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Wholegrain Mustard Mayo

  • 4 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp wholegrain mustard
  • 1 tsp lemon juice

To Serve

  • Gem lettuce
  • Sliced gherkins
  • Crispy onions

🔥 Equipment Needed

  • Plancha BBQ
  • Burger press or heavy spatula
  • BBQ spatula
  • BBQ tongs
  • Mixing bowl

👨🍳 Method

Step 1 – Prepare the onions

Preheat the plancha BBQ to a medium heat.

Melt the butter and cook the onions slowly for around 12 minutes.

Sprinkle over the brown sugar and continue cooking until soft and caramelised.

Step 2 – Make the mustard mayo

Mix together the mayonnaise, wholegrain mustard and lemon juice.

Set aside.

Step 3 – Smash the sausage

Divide the sausage meat into four equal balls.

Place onto the hot plancha and immediately press flat using a burger press or sturdy spatula.

Cook for 4–5 minutes before turning.

Top each with a slice of Cheddar and cook for another 3–4 minutes, until the sausage is cooked through and the cheese has melted.

Step 4 – Toast the buns

Brush the cut sides lightly with olive oil.

Toast on the plancha for 1–2 minutes until golden.

Step 5 – Assemble

Spread the mustard mayo onto the buns.

Add lettuce, the sausage smash, caramelised onions and crispy onions.

Finish with sliced gherkins and serve immediately.

💡 Cooking Tips

  • Use good-quality butcher's Cumberland sausages for the best flavour.
  • Smash the sausage immediately after placing it on the plancha.
  • Cook over medium-high heat to achieve crispy edges.
  • Toasting the buns improves both flavour and texture.
  • Let the cheese melt naturally before serving.

🌟 Delicious Variations

Lincolnshire Sausage Smash

Swap Cumberland sausages for Lincolnshire sausages.

Ploughman's Smash

Add Branston Pickle and mature Cheddar.

Breakfast Smash Burger

Top with a fried egg and crispy bacon.

Chilli Cheese Smash

Add chilli jam and Red Leicester.

Apple & Sausage Smash

Top with caramelised apples and wholegrain mustard.

🍽️ What to Serve with Cumberland Sausage Smash Burgers

These burgers pair perfectly with:

  • Skin-on fries
  • Homemade coleslaw
  • Onion rings
  • Potato wedges
  • Corn on the cob
  • Pickles
  • Garden salad
  • Crispy slaw

🥡 Storage & Leftovers

Cooked sausage patties can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated on the plancha until piping hot.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ready-made sausage patties?

Yes, but removing the meat from quality Cumberland sausages gives a fresher flavour and better texture.

Why use a plancha?

The flat cooking surface helps the sausage develop crisp, caramelised edges while keeping it juicy.

Can I use another British sausage?

Absolutely. Lincolnshire, pork and apple or pork and leek sausages all work brilliantly.

How do I know when the sausage is cooked?

The centre should reach 75°C and no pink meat should remain.

Can I freeze the patties?

Yes. Shape the sausage meat into balls before freezing and thaw completely before cooking.

🛍️ Shop the Equipment at Sal's Place

A plancha BBQ is perfect for cooking smash-style burgers, giving you the high heat needed to create delicious crispy edges and juicy centres.

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Swap the traditional burger for this British-inspired favourite and enjoy a fresh take on outdoor cooking that's sure to become a family classic.