Sausage gravy is a classic Southern dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. Served over warm biscuits, this creamy and savory gravy is sure to be a hit with everyone. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground pork or breakfast sausage
- 3 cups milk
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
- Brown the Sausage:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook 1 pound of ground pork or breakfast sausage until it’s browned and crumbled. Break up the sausage with a spoon as it cooks.
- Drain Excess Fat:
- If necessary, drain any excess fat from the skillet, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan for flavor.
Step 2: Make the Roux
- Add Butter:
- Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet with the browned sausage. Stir until the butter is melted.
- Add Flour:
- Sprinkle 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour over the sausage. Stir well to coat the sausage and absorb the fat. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
- Add Milk:
- Gradually add 3 cups of milk to the skillet, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Season:
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook the gravy, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency. This should take about 5-10 minutes.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve Hot:
- Once the gravy is thickened and well-seasoned, remove it from the heat. Serve the sausage gravy hot over freshly baked biscuits.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Sausage: Use your favorite ground pork or breakfast sausage. Spicy sausage can add a nice kick to the gravy.
- Milk: Whole milk is best for a rich, creamy gravy, but you can use 2% or skim milk if you prefer.
- Consistency: If the gravy becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a little more milk.
Variations
Spicy Sausage Gravy
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage for a bit of heat.
Herb-Infused Gravy
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme or sage for an herbaceous twist.
Bacon Sausage Gravy
- Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the sausage mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this gravy ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make sausage gravy ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of milk if needed to reach the desired 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 before serving.
Q: Can I freeze sausage gravy? A: Yes, you can freeze sausage gravy. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
Q: What can I serve with sausage gravy? A: Sausage gravy is traditionally served over biscuits, but it also pairs well with toast, hash browns, or scrambled eggs.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat? A: Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
Sausage gravy is a classic Southern comfort food that’s perfect for any breakfast or brunch table. With its rich, creamy texture and savory flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this gravy is easy to make and always delicious. Enjoy making and sharing this comforting dish with your family and friends!
