Toad in the Hole is one of my favourite classic dinners. Filling, comforting and super easy to make. When it comes to What to Serve with Toad in the Hole, there are a few fabulous options.
When it comes to classic British comfort food, Toad in the Hole is a dish that always hits the spot. Made with sausages baked in a Yorkshire pudding batter, it’s a filling and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
But what should you serve with Toad in the Hole for dinner?
One option for a classic British dinner is to serve Toad in the Hole with a generous helping of mashed potatoes. This is definitely one of my favourite options.
The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the crispy batter and savoury sausages.
You can also add a side of vegetables, such as carrots or green beans, to add some colour and nutrition to the meal, and you’ll undoubtedly want to whisk up some gravy.
Another great option is to serve Toad in the Hole with a rich onion gravy.
The sweet and savoury flavours of the gravy complement the sausages and batter perfectly, and it’s a great way to add some moisture to the dish.
You can also add a side of roasted root vegetables, such as parsnips or sweet potatoes, to add some extra flavour and texture to the meal.
To be honest, for me, when it comes to what to serve with Toad in the Hole, it’s often a combination of gravy, veg and potatoes.
Understanding Toad in the Hole
As a classic British main dish, Toad in the Hole is a hearty meal that’ll delight your taste buds.
It consists of sausages baked in a batter made of flour, large eggs, and milk.
The batter rises around the links during cooking, creating a unique and delicious texture that’s crispy outside and fluffy in the middle.
To make the perfect Luxury Toad in the Hole, it is important to use high-quality sausages.
Traditional British sausages, such as Cumberland or Lincolnshire sausages, work well. However, any type of sausage can be used depending on personal preference and budget.
The batter is a crucial component of this dish and should be made with care.
Using the right amount of flour (plain, or all purpose flour, not self-raising or cake), eggs, and milk is important to ensure the batter rises and has a light and fluffy texture. Adding a pinch of salt and pepper to the batter can also enhance the flavour, and you’ll need super hot vegetable oil for perfect puds.
I generally weigh my eggs (as even medium or large aren’t consistent in weight, one pack of eggs can all be a little different) and then base the rest of my quantities around this.
Toad in the Hole is traditionally served with vegetables such as peas, carrots, and green beans.
Gravy (another British Classic) is also a popular accompaniment and can be made using the juices from the cooked sausages or gravy granules.
Overall, Toad in the Hole is a classic British dish that is easy to make and delicious.
With the right ingredients and care, anyone can create a perfect Toad in the Hole for their next meal.
Recommended Side Dishes
When thinking about what to serve with Toad in the Hole, many side dishes can complement this classic British dish. Here are some of my recommendations:
Onion Gravy
Toad in the Hole is traditionally served with onion gravy, made by sautéing onions until they are caramelised, then beef broth and seasonings are added.
The gravy adds a rich, savoury flavour to the dish and helps to moisten the Yorkshire pudding.
I’ll often just use supermarket gravy granules on a busy weeknight as a quick and easy cheat.
Potatoes
Many different types of potatoes can be served with Toad in the Hole, but my favourite is mashed potatoes.
Roasted are fantastic, too, if you have time. Simply toss peeled and chopped potatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until crispy and golden brown.
Alternatively, you can serve boiled new potatoes, chips or wedges.
In terms of what type of potatoes to serve with Toad in the Hole, it really comes down to personal preference. Some prefer fluffy, floury potatoes like Maris Piper or King Edward.
In contrast, others prefer waxy potatoes like Charlotte or Jersey Royals. Ultimately, the best potatoes to serve with Toad in the Hole are the ones that you enjoy the most!
Peas
Peas are a classic side dish for Toad in the Hole, adding a fresh, sweet flavour. You can serve them boiled or steamed or add butter and mint for an extra flavour.
We often serve our Toad in the Hole with frozen peas and corn for a budget-friendly side.
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts might not be your first thought if someone asks, what veg with Toad in the Hole?
But they are an excellent choice for a side dish, especially if you want something a little different. Try roasting them with olive oil, salt, and pepper until crispy and caramelised, or just boil for a quick and easy dinner.
Other Vegetables
If you want something different, many other vegetables can be served with Toad in the Hole.
Some good options include carrots, green beans, cabbage, broccoli, or roasted root vegetables like parsnips and turnips.
Can You Have Baked Beans with Toad in the Hole?
What to eat with Toad in the Hole? Baked beans, of course!
Baked beans are a classic British dish that pair perfectly with Toad in the Hole.
The beans’ savoury and slightly sweet flavours complement the dish’s flavours, making for a satisfying and delicious meal.
When it comes to serving baked beans with Toad in the Hole, there are a few things to remember.
First, you want to make sure that the beans are cooked properly. They should be tender and flavourful, with a slightly thickened sauce that clings to the beans. You can make your baked beans from scratch or use a high-quality canned variety.
If you’re making your own baked beans (try this recipe), you can customise them. Add bacon or sausage for extra flavour, or spice things up with chilli powder or cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with different beans, such as navy or cannellini.
When serving the baked beans, you have a few options.
You can serve them on the side, in a separate dish, or spoon them over the Toad in the Hole. If you spoon them over the dish, do so just before serving so that the Toad in the Hole doesn’t get too soggy.
I absolutely would not serve my Toad in the Hole with baked beans. But I did once know someone who ate fish fingers and baked beans inside a Yorkshire pudding.
I do not recommend it.
Serving Toad in the Hole for Two
When it comes to serving Toad in the Hole for two, there are a few things to consider.
First and foremost, you’ll need to decide whether you are making a mini-Toad in the Hole (or even individuals) only using enough sausages for 2 or whether you are going to make a family size and save the leftovers for another time.
When it comes to what to serve with a Toad in the Hole for Two, the options are the same, so just think about what you like and how much you are trying to impress the person you are cooking for.
Vegetables
Toad in the Hole is hearty, so you’ll want to balance it with fresh vegetables. Some impressive options include:
- Steamed broccoli. I favour tenderstem myself.
- Roasted carrots.
- Sautéed green beans.
- Braised red cabbage.
What Potatoes to Serve with Toad in the Hole?
Potatoes are a classic accompaniment to Toad in the Hole. Here are a few ways to prepare them:
- Roasted potatoes with rosemary and garlic.
- Creamy mashed potatoes.
- Crispy potato wedges.
Gravy
No Toad in the Hole is complete without a generous helping of gravy. You can make your own from scratch or use a good-quality store-bought gravy. Here are a few tips for making the perfect gravy:
- Use the pan drippings from the Toad in the Hole for extra flavour.
- Add a splash of red wine for depth of flavour.
- Thicken the gravy with a cornflour slurry for a smooth texture.
Salad
Consider serving a simple salad like a cucumber salad on the side to add a fresh, crunchy element to your meal. A classic green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is always a good choice.
Personally, this one isn’t for me!
When serving Toad in the Hole for two, keeping things simple and balanced is essential. Stick to classic flavours and textures, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetable and potato preparations. With some planning, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Exploring Variations of the Dish
When it comes to serving Toad in the Hole, there are plenty of variations to explore. Here are a few ideas that are sure to add some excitement to your next meal:
Cheesy Toad in the Hole
Add some cheese to your batter for a rich and indulgent twist on the classic dish. Cheddar, Gouda, and Parmesan are all great options that will add a savoury flavour to the dish.
Mix grated cheese into your batter before pouring it into the baking dish to make a cheesy Toad in the Hole.
You can also sprinkle extra cheese on the batter before baking for a different cheesy finish.
Vegetarian Toad in the Hole
If you’re looking for a meat-free option, try using vegetarian sausages instead of traditional pork sausages.
Add some extra vegetables to the dish, such as mushrooms, onions, and peppers, to make it more filling and nutritious.
To make a vegetarian Toad in the Hole, cook your sausages and vegetables before placing them in the baking dish. Then, pour your batter over the top and bake as usual.
Spicy Toad in the Hole
Add spices to your batter for a Toad in the Hole with a twist. Paprika, cumin, and chilli powder are great options that add flavour and heat to the dish.
Mix your spices into your batter before pouring it into the baking dish to make a spicy Toad in the Hole. Add chopped chillies or jalapenos to the dish for an extra kick.
Overall, Toad in the Hole is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit any taste or occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for something cheesy, spicy, or vegetarian, a variation of this classic dish will surely hit the spot.
Final Thoughts on Serving Toad in the Hole
When it comes to serving Toad in the Hole, various options can complement this classic British dish. Here are some final thoughts on what to serve with Toad in the Hole:
Vegetables: Peas, carrots, and green beans are a classic accompaniment to Toad in the Hole. These can be served steamed, roasted, and seasoned with herbs and spices for added flavour.
Gravy: A rich and flavourful gravy is a must-have when serving Toad in the Hole. You can make your own gravy using the juices from the sausages and batter or a pre-made gravy mix.
Mash: Creamy mashed potatoes are a great side dish to serve with Toad in the Hole. You can also add some grated cheese or garlic for added flavour.
Salad: A fresh and crisp salad can help balance out the richness of the Toad in the Hole. You can use a variety of greens and vegetables and dress it with a vinaigrette or a creamy dressing.
Mustard: A dollop can add extra zing to your Toad in the Hole. You can use a classic English mustard or a more mild Dijon mustard.
Overall, when it comes to serving Toad in the Hole, the key is to balance out the richness of the dish with some fresh and flavourful sides. You can create a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love by combining vegetables, gravy, mash, salad, and mustard.
Toad in the Hole pairs well with various sides. Some good options include roasted vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, mashed potatoes, and green beans. Simple boiled veggies like peas, filling potatoes and a side salad.
To add flavour to your Toad in the Hole, use flavoured sausages, such as Cumberland or Lincolnshire, or add herbs and spices to the batter, such as thyme or paprika. You can also add caramelised onions to the batter for a sweeter flavour.
It is traditional to serve Toad in the Hole with mashed potatoes. The mashed potatoes help to soak up the gravy and provide a comforting, filling side dish.
Pre-cooking the sausages before making Toad in the Hole is unnecessary. The sausages will cook through in the oven as the batter bakes around them. However, if you prefer your sausages to be more well-done, you can pre-cook them before adding them to the batter.
A rich, savoury gravy made with beef stock and red wine is an excellent complement to Toad in the Hole. Add some mustard or Henderson’s Relish to the gravy for extra flavour.
While it is possible to use a cake tin instead of a roasting tin for making Toad in the Hole, a roasting tin is recommended as it allows the batter to cook more evenly. It ensures that the sausages are entirely surrounded by the batter. If you use a cake tin, ensure it is deep enough to hold the batter and sausages.
