Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Pork Sausage and Butternut Squash Hotpot?
It is a comforting one-pot dish featuring sausages, potatoes, and butternut squash topped with cheese.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields 4 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 375 calories.
What oven temperature is needed for this hotpot?
Preheat your oven to 375°F or Gas Mark 5.
How long does it take to bake the hotpot?
The dish takes 70 minutes in the oven: 40 minutes covered and 30 minutes uncovered.
What kind of sausage should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of pork sausage cut into 1-inch pieces.
Do I need to precook the potatoes?
Yes, peel and slice the potatoes then boil them for 5-7 minutes until they just begin to soften.
What are the main vegetables used?
The primary vegetables are potatoes, butternut squash, and onions.
Can I substitute the pork stock?
While pork stock is recommended, you can use homemade or store-bought chicken or vegetable stock as a substitute.
What is black pudding?
Black pudding is a type of blood sausage that adds a rich, savory flavor to this casserole.
Is black pudding required for this recipe?
The recipe uses 4 ounces of sliced black pudding, but it can be omitted if you prefer.
What herbs are used for seasoning?
Fresh or dried sage and thyme are used to provide aromatic flavor.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 17.5 grams of fat per serving.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides 20 grams of protein.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
There are 37.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What type of cheese should I use for the topping?
The recipe calls for 2 ounces of grated cheese; cheddar or a similar melting cheese works best.
How do I prepare the butternut squash?
You should use half of a butternut squash, peeled and diced into pieces.
Why is the dish covered with foil during baking?
Covering with foil for the first 40 minutes ensures the ingredients cook through without the top burning.
What should I serve with this hotpot?
It is best served warm with steamed seasonal vegetables.
Do I need to brown the sausages first?
Yes, brown the sausages on all sides in a saucepan with oil before layering them in the dish.
What is the purpose of the butter in the recipe?
Butter is dotted on top of the potato layer to help create a golden, flavorful crust.
Can I use dried sage and thyme?
Yes, the recipe allows for either fresh or dried herbs to taste.
Is this a good meal for winter?
Yes, it is tagged as a winter recipe and is considered a hearty comfort food.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 12 main ingredients in this recipe.
What size should the sausages be cut into?
The sausages should be cut into 1-inch pieces.
How long should I cook the onions?
Cook the diced onion for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent.
How much pork stock is needed?
The recipe requires 1/4 pint of pork stock.
Can I make this in a regular baking dish?
You should use a large ovenproof casserole dish for the best results.
Is this recipe considered a one-pot meal?
Yes, it is classified as a one-pot meal because the main components are layered and baked together.
When do I add the cheese?
The cheese is sprinkled on top of the final potato layer before the dish goes into the oven.