Biscuits and gravy is a dish that evokes feelings of warmth and home, especially when done right. Across the American Midwest and South, it’s a comforting staple for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even dinner. Forget those pale imitations made with canned soup – authentic sausage gravy, like the kind you might imagine the Pioneer Woman herself whipping up, is a creamy, flavorful experience made from scratch. This recipe delivers just that: a rich, delicious sausage gravy that’s surprisingly easy to make and perfect for smothering warm, fluffy biscuits.
This isn’t just any sausage gravy; it’s a taste of genuine comfort food. On a chilly morning or a long day, a plate of biscuits and gravy can truly lift your spirits. It’s the kind of hearty, satisfying meal that sticks to your ribs and brings a smile to your face. While some shortcuts might exist, nothing compares to the real deal – a homemade sausage gravy crafted with care and simple, quality ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Sausage Gravy
Many home cooks have questions when it comes to making sausage gravy from scratch. Let’s address some of the most common queries to ensure your biscuit and gravy experience is seamless and successful.
Can I Prepare Sausage Gravy in Advance?
Absolutely! Sausage gravy is a fantastic make-ahead dish. Simply follow the recipe instructions, let it cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in your refrigerator. This makes it perfect for busy mornings or planned brunches.
What Are the Best Pairings for Sausage Gravy?
While biscuits are the undisputed champion when it comes to serving with sausage gravy – particularly Southern-style buttermilk biscuits – there are other delicious options. Consider toast for a lighter option, American fried potatoes or hash browns for a heartier breakfast, or even mashed potatoes or baked potatoes for a comforting dinner twist.
Is Making Sausage Gravy from Scratch Difficult?
Not at all! The process is quite straightforward. You start by creating a roux with butter and flour, the foundation of a creamy gravy. Then, you gradually whisk in milk or cream, allowing it to thicken into a luscious sauce. With a few simple steps, you’ll have homemade sausage gravy that far surpasses any canned version.
Can I Enhance Sausage Gravy with Mushrooms?
Certainly! Sautéed mushrooms can add a wonderful depth of flavor to your sausage gravy. Slice and sauté your favorite mushrooms – cremini, shiitake, or even simple white button mushrooms – and stir them into the gravy for an extra layer of savory goodness.
Is a Gluten-Free Sausage Gravy Possible?
While this recipe is traditionally made with all-purpose flour, you can explore gluten-free alternatives. Substituting cornstarch for the flour might work to thicken the gravy; however, the texture and taste may slightly differ. Experimenting with gluten-free flour blends could also be an option.
Can Sausage Gravy Be Frozen?
Yes, you can freeze sausage gravy. However, freezing may alter the gravy’s consistency slightly. Upon thawing, you might notice some water separation. Whisking the gravy gently while reheating can help restore a smoother texture.
Why Is My Gravy Too Thick?
If your gravy becomes thicker than desired, easily adjust the consistency by whisking in a little more milk until it reaches your preferred thickness. It’s always easier to thin out gravy than to thicken it after it’s overcooked.
Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting classic:
- 1 pound Mild breakfast sausage (for that classic, savory base)
- ½ tsp Garlic powder (adds a subtle savory note)
- Salt and pepper to taste (essential for seasoning and enhancing flavor)
- 3 cups Milk (whole milk or 2% milk creates a rich, creamy gravy)
- ⅓ cup All-purpose flour (the thickening agent for the roux)
- Homemade or store-bought biscuits (for serving and soaking up all that delicious gravy)
How to Make Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy: Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a truly satisfying Pioneer Woman-style biscuits and gravy:
FIRST STEP: Cook the Sausage
Crumble the mild breakfast sausage into a large skillet. Cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until it is thoroughly browned and cooked through.
SECOND STEP: Reserve Sausage and Fat
Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the flavorful sausage fat in the pan. Do not drain the grease! This rendered fat is crucial for creating a roux that’s packed with flavor.
THIRD STEP: Create the Roux
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the all-purpose flour to the skillet with the sausage fat. Using a whisk, stir constantly to combine the flour and fat, creating a roux. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously, to cook out the raw flour taste. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed in the roux.
FOURTH STEP: Make the Gravy
Slowly whisk in the milk, a little at a time, into the roux. Continue whisking constantly to ensure a smooth gravy and prevent lumps from forming. Cook, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, add the cooked sausage back into the gravy. Stir to combine, ensuring the sausage is evenly distributed throughout the creamy gravy.
FIFTH STEP: Simmer and Serve
Let the sausage gravy simmer gently for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve hot over warm, freshly baked biscuits. Enjoy this classic comfort food!
Ingredients
- 1 pound Mild breakfast sausage
- ½ tsp Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups Milk
- ⅓ cup All purpose flour
- Homemade or store bought biscuits
Instructions
FIRST STEP:
Crumble the sausage into a skillet
Fry the sausage until thoroughly cooked
SECOND STEP:
Remove the sausage and set off to the side
Do not drain the fat from the pan
THIRD STEP:
Add in the flour and using a whisk stir constantly
Add in the salt, pepper, garlic powder and stir well
FOURTH STEP:
Slowly whisk in the milk and continue to cook until the gravy thickens
Add the sausage back into the gravy and stir to combine
FIFTH STEP:
Let simmer for 5 more minutes
Serve over biscuits
Enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size: 1 Amount Per Serving: Calories: 140Total Fat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 10gCholesterol: 160mgSodium: 30mgCarbohydrates: 240gSugar: 20gProtein: 12g
