The Black Cats are still looking for a new boss after Roy Keane's exit but there was no sign of a team in crisis as the hosts cruised to a 4-0 victory against Tony Mowbray's men.
It was the early Christmas present the home fans wanted as the red and whites delivered a goal-laden victory.
Sunderland had been criticised for an ultra defensive display at Old Trafford the previous week, but there was no sign of any rearguard action against Albion as the hosts kicked off on the offensive.
A quick-fire brace from Kenwyne Jones set the Wearsiders on their way to three precious points.
The Trinidad & Tobago frontman was in sparkling form as he put the Baggies to the sword.
A rather drab opening spell from both sides sparked to life on 22 minutes as Jones met Andy Reid's cross with a diving header to put his side in front.
Just under a minute later the hosts were two goals to the good. Steed Malbranque threaded through a pass to Djibril Cisse and the forward fired at goal.
Baggies keeper Scott Carson made a good save, but the ball came back out to Cisse and this time the striker opted to cross. His ball was met by Reid who poked a shot goalwards.
Carson again did well to block but the rebound fell invitingly to Jones and he coolly slotted the ball home.
The shell-shocked visitors were still reeling as the Wearsiders piled on the misery.
With half-time approaching Sunderland went three up as Malbranque's 39th minute cross was headed in by Reid.
The goalfest continued after the break as Sunderland were awarded a penalty.
Albion substitute Roman Bednar's first contribution was to handle in the box and referee Lee Mason had no hesitation in pointing to the spot.
Up stepped Cisse to drill a shot down the centre of goal, Carson having dived to his right.
After that the Black Cats eased up and the visitors threatened to reduce the arrears.
However for all their possession that threat never materialised, with Albion restricted to long-range efforts which never really troubled Marton Fulop in the home goal.
The search continues for the Wearsiders' new boss, but whoever it is can rest assured that on this display the club is safe in the hands of stand-in manager Ricky Sbragia for now.