Mary Berry has penned heaps of recipes perfectly suited to fuss-free dinners that can feed the entire family. Her sausage casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that requires just a single pan.

It'll save precious time in the kitchen while cutting down on washing-up. If you're searching for a reliable, comforting meal, look no further. The recipe does require time to allow the vegetables to soften and the sauce to thicken, but the majority of the cooking is largely hands-off.

The sausages are browned before being gently simmered alongside onions, vegetables, beans, tomatoes and stock. The result is a wonderfully spoonable dish that is both hearty and well-balanced.

• Eight high-quality sausages


• Tablespoon olive oil


• One large onion, chopped


• Two garlic cloves, crushed


• Two carrots, sliced


• Tinned chopped tomatoes, 400g


• Two tablespoons tomato puree


• Tinned cannellini or butter beans, 400g


• Chicken stock, 300ml


• Teaspoon dried thyme or mixed herbs


• One bay leaf


• Salt and black pepper to taste

Method

Begin by heating the oil in a large casserole dish or deep pan with a lid. Add the sausages and brown them all over. Once done, remove and put to one side.

Using the same pan, add the onion and carrots. Cook until they have softened.

Add the garlic and tomato purée. Stir briefly to draw out the flavour. Take care not to let it burn.

Add the tinned tomatoes, herbs and bay leaf, along with salt and pepper to taste.

Return the sausages to the pan and pour in the chicken stock.

Cover the pan and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add the beans and cook uncovered for a further 15 to 20 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.

Serve as it is, or accompany with mashed potatoes, crusty bread or steamed green vegetables.