Biscuits and gravy. Just the name evokes feelings of warmth, comfort, and hearty home-cooked goodness. Across the Midwest and Southern states, this dish reigns supreme as a breakfast, lunch, or even dinner favorite. And when it comes to classic comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like a truly delicious, creamy sausage gravy poured generously over fluffy biscuits. Forget those shortcut versions – we’re talking about authentic, made-from-scratch sausage gravy that will warm you from the inside out, much like you’d expect from the Pioneer Woman herself.
What sets this biscuits and gravy recipe apart is its rich, creamy texture and the depth of flavor that comes from building it from the ground up. We skip the canned soup shortcuts and dive straight into creating a roux, the foundation of any great cream-based sauce. This recipe is all about authenticity and delivering that genuine, soul-satisfying taste you crave when you think of classic comfort food. Whether you’re facing a chilly morning or simply need a pick-me-up any time of day, this Pioneer Woman inspired biscuits and gravy recipe is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Sausage Gravy
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s answer some common questions to ensure your biscuits and gravy experience is perfect:
Can I prepare sausage gravy in advance?
Absolutely! Sausage gravy is a great make-ahead dish. Simply follow the recipe, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
What are the best accompaniments for sausage gravy?
While biscuits are the undisputed champion, there are plenty of other delicious options! Try serving your sausage gravy over toast, crispy American fried potatoes, golden hash browns, or even creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting twist.
Is it difficult to make sausage gravy from scratch?
Not at all! Making sausage gravy from scratch is surprisingly easy. The process involves creating a roux with butter and flour, then gradually whisking in milk or cream until it thickens into a luscious gravy.
Can I add mushrooms to my sausage gravy?
For a deeper, earthier flavor, sautéed mushrooms are a fantastic addition. Slice and sauté your favorite mushrooms and stir them into the gravy along with the sausage for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Is a gluten-free version of sausage gravy possible?
While this recipe uses all-purpose flour, you can experiment with gluten-free alternatives. Cornstarch can be used as a thickener, but keep in mind it might slightly alter the texture.
Can sausage gravy be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze sausage gravy. However, freezing may slightly change the gravy’s consistency due to water separation upon thawing. It’s still perfectly safe and tasty, but the texture might be a bit less smooth.
What if my gravy becomes too thick?
If your gravy is thicker than you’d like, simply whisk in a little more milk until it reaches your preferred consistency. Add milk gradually to avoid thinning it out too much.
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Style Biscuits and Gravy
Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting classic:
- 1 pound Mild breakfast sausage
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups milk
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- Homemade or store-bought biscuits, for serving
How to Make Pioneer Woman Biscuits and Gravy: Step-by-Step
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of creamy, flavorful biscuits and gravy:
FIRST STEP: Brown the Sausage
Crumble the mild breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is thoroughly browned and cooked through.
SECOND STEP: Set Aside Sausage and Reserve Grease
Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Do not drain the flavorful grease rendered from the sausage in the pan – this is key to a rich gravy!
THIRD STEP: Create the Roux
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the all-purpose flour to the skillet with the sausage grease. Using a whisk, stir constantly to combine the flour and grease, creating a roux. Cook the roux for about 1 minute, stirring continuously. This cooks out the raw flour taste. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and continue to stir well to incorporate the seasonings.
FOURTH STEP: Make the Creamy Gravy
Slowly whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. Continue whisking constantly as the milk is added to prevent lumps from forming. Cook, whisking frequently, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, return the cooked sausage to the gravy and stir to combine everything.
FIFTH STEP: Simmer and Serve
Reduce the heat to low and let the biscuits and gravy simmer gently for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve hot over warm, freshly baked biscuits. Enjoy this ultimate comfort food!
Nutritional Information:
Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 140, Total Fat: 22g, Saturated Fat: 12g, Trans Fat: 10g, Cholesterol: 160mg, Sodium: 30mg, Carbohydrates: 240g, Sugar: 20g, Protein: 12g
