Sausage gravy is a classic comfort food that pairs perfectly with biscuits for a hearty and satisfying breakfast. This rich and creamy gravy, made with flavorful ground pork sausage, is simple to prepare and sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just enjoying a cozy morning at home, sausage gravy is a delicious way to start the day. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe for homemade sausage gravy.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground pork sausage (see notes)
- ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ cups whole milk
- Kosher salt to taste
- Fresh ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground pork sausage, breaking it up with a spatula, until it is browned and cooked through. This should take about 7-10 minutes.
- Add Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle the red pepper flakes over the sausage as it cooks for an added kick of heat.
Step 2: Make the Roux
- Add Butter: Reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the skillet. Stir until the butter is completely melted and combined with the sausage.
- Incorporate Flour: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sausage and butter mixture. Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes until the flour is fully absorbed and the mixture begins to thicken slightly. This creates the roux, which will thicken the gravy.
Step 3: Add the Milk
- Pour in the Milk: Gradually pour the whole milk into the skillet, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to stir until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Simmer the Gravy: Reduce the heat to low and let the gravy simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 4: Season and Serve
- Season to Taste: Season the gravy with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Serve the sausage gravy hot over freshly baked biscuits for a classic Southern breakfast. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes
- Sausage: For the best flavor, use a high-quality ground pork sausage. You can also use flavored sausages like sage or maple for a unique twist.
- Consistency: If the gravy becomes too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.
- Spices: Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. You can also add other spices like paprika or garlic powder for additional flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of milk? A: Yes, you can use any type of milk, but whole milk provides the richest flavor and texture. For a lighter option, you can use 2% milk or even a non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk.
Q: Can I make sausage gravy ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the gravy ahead of time and refrigerate it. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency.
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 it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of milk if needed.
Q: Can I freeze sausage gravy? A: Yes, you can freeze sausage gravy. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of this recipe, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum. Ensure the sausage and milk are also low in carbohydrates.
Sausage gravy is a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort to any breakfast table. With its rich, creamy texture and flavorful sausage, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re serving it over homemade biscuits or enjoying it as a standalone dish, sausage gravy is a delicious way to start your day.
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