Sausage Gravy and Biscuits is a classic Southern breakfast dish that’s hearty, comforting, and absolutely delicious. This recipe features fluffy buttermilk biscuits smothered in a rich, creamy sausage gravy. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a special breakfast, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
For the Biscuits:
- 8 buttermilk biscuits (store-bought or homemade)
For the Sausage Gravy:
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Biscuits
- Bake or Prepare Biscuits:
- If using store-bought biscuits, bake according to package instructions. If making homemade biscuits, prepare them according to your favorite recipe.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
- Heat a Skillet:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook 1 lb of Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until it is browned and cooked through. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
- Add Flour:
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the cooked sausage. Stir to combine, ensuring the sausage is evenly coated with the flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Milk and Cream:
- Gradually stir in 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream. Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Add Sage and Season:
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the gravy simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 4: Serve
- Split Biscuits:
- Split the warm buttermilk biscuits in half and place them on serving plates.
- Top with Gravy:
- Spoon the sausage gravy generously over the biscuit halves.
- Serve Immediately:
- Serve the Sausage Gravy and Biscuits hot, garnished with additional fresh sage if desired.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Sausage: Italian sausage adds a nice flavor, but you can use any type of breakfast sausage or even spicy sausage for a different twist.
- Gravy Thickness: Adjust the thickness of the gravy by adding more milk or cream if it’s too thick, or letting it simmer longer if it’s too thin.
- Biscuits: Homemade biscuits are best for this dish, but high-quality store-bought biscuits work well if you’re short on time.
Variations
Spicy Sausage Gravy
- Add Spice:
- Use spicy Italian sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Cheesy Sausage Gravy
- Add Cheese:
- Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the gravy until melted for a cheesy version.
Herb-Infused Gravy
- Add Herbs:
- Add a mix of fresh herbs such as thyme and rosemary along with the sage for a more complex flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
- Scrambled Eggs:
- Serve with a side of fluffy scrambled eggs for a complete breakfast.
- Hash Browns:
- Pair with crispy hash browns or home fries.
- Fruit Salad:
- Balance the richness of the gravy with a fresh fruit salad.
Garnishes
- Fresh Herbs:
- Garnish with additional fresh sage or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- Grated Cheese:
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese for extra richness.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of milk? A: Yes, you can use any milk you prefer. Whole milk will provide the richest flavor, but you can use 2%, skim, or even non-dairy milk for a lighter version.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover sausage gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to thin the gravy.
Q: Can I freeze sausage gravy? A: Yes, you can freeze sausage gravy. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: What can I use instead of sage? A: If you don’t have fresh sage, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried sage or substitute with fresh thyme or rosemary.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: You can make the sausage gravy ahead of time and reheat it before serving. The biscuits are best when fresh, but you can also bake them ahead and warm them in the oven.
Sausage Gravy and Biscuits is a classic Southern breakfast dish that’s rich, comforting, and perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sausage gravy and fluffy biscuits, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or try one of the variations, this hearty breakfast is easy to make and always satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious meal with your family and friends!
