If you’re craving a breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Homemade Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Recipe. It’s a classic Southern comfort meal that combines buttery, flaky biscuits with a rich, savory sausage gravy that’s simply irresistible. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity—the careful balance of textures and flavors turns humble ingredients into a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re starting your day or treating yourself to a cozy brunch, these biscuits and sausage gravy are sure to delight every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in building the perfect texture and flavor for your Homemade Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Recipe. With pantry staples like flour and milk, along with fresh sausage and cold butter, you’re set to create a dish that’s both hearty and comforting.
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour: The foundation for perfectly tender, fluffy biscuits.
- 1 tablespoon Baking Powder: Acts as your leavening agent to give biscuits a rise and lightness.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness of the biscuits.
- 1/2 cup Cold Unsalted Butter: Cold butter ensures flaky layers in your biscuits when cut into the flour.
- 3/4 cup Milk: Brings the biscuit dough together and adds moisture.
- 1 pound Ground Sausage: Provides the rich, savory base for the flavorful gravy.
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour for Gravy: Essential for thickening the gravy to the perfect consistency.
- 2 cups Milk for Gravy: Creates a creamy, luscious gravy that clings to the biscuits.
- Black Pepper: Adds a peppery kick that balances the richness of the gravy.
- Optional Spices (such as Cayenne Pepper or Paprika): Spice it up and customize the gravy with a little extra depth and warmth.
How to Make Homemade Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to a toasty 425°F (220°C). Preheating ensures your biscuits bake quickly and develop a beautiful golden crust, setting the stage for that irresistible texture we all love.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until combined. This step evenly disperses the leavening agent and seasoning, ensuring every biscuit rises and tastes seasoned.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Cold butter is key here. Cut it into small pieces and work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. You want little flecks of butter throughout; these melt during baking and create flaky layers.
Step 4: Add Milk and Form Dough
Slowly pour in the milk, stirring gently until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing to keep your biscuits tender instead of tough.
Step 5: Fold and Shape
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Pat it into a rectangle and fold it over itself a couple of times. This folding helps build layers, making your biscuits extra fluffy and flaky.
Step 6: Cut Biscuits and Bake
Using a biscuit cutter or a round glass, cut out biscuits and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pop them into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until they’re perfectly golden and inviting.
Step 7: Cook the Sausage
While the biscuits bake, brown your ground sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Breaking it up as it cooks makes this step quick and ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
Step 8: Make the Gravy
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage and stir for one to two minutes. This cooks off the raw flour taste and starts thickening the gravy. Gradually pour in the milk while stirring to keep things smooth and creamy. Let it simmer until it reaches the perfect gravy consistency.
Step 9: Season and Serve
Finish off your Homemade Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Recipe by seasoning with black pepper to taste. Split open the warm biscuits and generously spoon the creamy sausage gravy over the top. It’s pure comfort food heaven.
How to Serve Homemade Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a touch of fresh garnish can elevate this classic dish. Try a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and subtle freshness that cuts through the richness of the sausage gravy.
Side Dishes
Consider serving your homemade biscuits and gravy alongside crispy hash browns or sautéed greens for a breakfast that feels hearty but balanced. Fresh fruit or a light side salad also work well if you want a contrast of flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve this dish in cute ramekins with split biscuits nested under the gravy like a little savory pot pie. Or try cutting biscuits into smaller pieces and layering them in a casserole dish topped with sausage gravy and cheese for a delightful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the biscuits and gravy separately for best results. Keep biscuits in an airtight container and the gravy in a sealed jar or bowl. The biscuits will stay soft, and the gravy won’t congeal into a thick mass.
Freezing
You can freeze biscuits before baking or after, but freezing before baking retains freshness best. Wrap the dough or baked biscuits tightly to prevent freezer burn. The gravy freezes too, but it might need a good stir and gentle reheating after thawing.
Reheating
For a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste, reheat biscuits in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and slightly crisp on the outside. Warm gravy slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to bring back its creamy, silky texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage for the gravy?
Absolutely! While traditional pork sausage is classic, you can experiment with spicy sausage, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based alternative. Just cook it thoroughly before making your gravy.
What can I do if my gravy is too thick?
If your sausage gravy becomes too thick, simply stir in a little more milk over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. Go slow, so it doesn’t get too thin.
How do I make the biscuits flakier?
Keeping the butter cold and not overworking the dough are key to flakiness. Also, folding the dough a couple of times before cutting helps create layers that puff up beautifully in the oven.
Can I prepare any parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix the biscuit dough and shape it ahead, storing it covered in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Sausage gravy reheats well, so make that up to a day ahead to save time in the morning.
Is this dish good for dinner, or just breakfast?
While it’s a breakfast staple, homemade biscuits and sausage gravy make a fantastic comforting dinner any day of the week. Pair with a side salad or steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Recipe is pure comfort food goodness that deserves a spot in your recipe rotation. It’s simple, satisfying, and better than any takeout sausage gravy you’ll find. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade biscuits smothered in creamy sausage gravy—you won’t regret it!
