Ball in a Goal

Basic, unfussy, and hearty, Ball in a Goal is an uncomplicated yet satisfying meal. Inspired by the British classic known as Toad in a Hole, this dish consists of savory sausages baked into a high-rising Yorkshire pudding that’s crisp and airy. Make it with any good-quality sausage, though British bangers are a classic choice. Serve with homemade gravy, and you’ll score every time!

Unbalanced

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Set an oven rack in the middle position and preheat the oven to 425ºF.

Step 2

Whisk together the flour, milk, eggs, ground mustard, and salt. Let the batter rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes; this will help the gluten bonds develop so the Yorkshire pudding rises up nicely.

Step 3

In the skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over medium-high heat. Cook the sausages for 5 minutes, or until sizzling and the sides start to crisp. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 4

4. Place the onion in the skillet and sauté over medium heat until slightly soft and browned, about 10 minutes. Transfer the onion to the same plate as the sausages.

Step 5

Wrap the bacon slices around the cooked sausages. If your skillet is oven-safe, add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil and place the bacon-wrapped sausages in the skillet. Alternatively, grease the bottom of the baking dish with the remaining oil and place the prepared sausages in the baking dish.

Step 6

Bake for 5 minutes and then add the cooked onion around the sausages. Pour the batter over the onion and around the sausages.

Step 7

Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, until golden brown and the batter has risen. Serve immediately, since the Yorkshire pudding collapses quickly after being removed from the oven.

Step 8

While the pudding is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.

Step 9

Add the onion, season with the salt, and sauté over medium heat until slightly soft and browned, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly with the onions to make a roux, 3 to 5 minutes. No streaks of flour should be visible.

Step 10

Slowly add the broth, whisking until smooth, 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 11

Add the thyme, ground mustard, and Worcestershire sauce and continue cooking until the gravy is thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 12

Serve the pudding topped with the gravy.