There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, creamy sausage gravy, especially when it’s made from scratch. Forget those canned soup versions – authentic sausage gravy is a culinary experience in itself. This recipe delivers a rich, flavorful, and utterly delicious sausage gravy, reminiscent of the hearty, home-style cooking championed by the Pioneer Woman. It’s the perfect topping for biscuits and can elevate any breakfast, brunch, or even a comforting dinner.
Biscuits and gravy are a beloved staple across the Midwest and Southern United States, enjoyed at any time of day. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a hug on a plate. On a chilly morning or a long day, a plate of biscuits smothered in sausage gravy can truly turn things around. It’s the kind of comfort food that nourishes the soul and brings a smile to your face, no matter what life throws your way.
While some might take shortcuts, using processed soups, true sausage gravy is built from the ground up. This recipe focuses on creating that authentic, creamy texture and savory flavor that defines genuine, homemade sausage gravy, just like you’d expect from a Pioneer Woman recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy
Can I prepare this sausage gravy in advance?
Absolutely! Sausage gravy is a fantastic make-ahead dish. Simply follow the recipe, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in your refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
What are the best pairings for Sausage Gravy?
Biscuits reign supreme as the classic partner for sausage gravy, especially fluffy Southern-style buttermilk biscuits. However, the versatility of sausage gravy extends beyond just biscuits. Try it over toast for a simpler option, or alongside American fried potatoes or hash browns for a heartier breakfast. For dinner, consider serving it over mashed potatoes or even baked potatoes for a truly comforting meal.
Is making sausage gravy from scratch complicated?
Not at all! Creating homemade sausage gravy is surprisingly straightforward. The foundation is a roux, made by cooking butter and flour together. Then, milk or cream is gradually whisked in, creating a luscious, thick gravy. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious, scratch-made gravy that far surpasses any store-bought version.
Would mushrooms be a good addition to sausage gravy?
Adding sautéed mushrooms can introduce a delightful earthy dimension to your sausage gravy. Experiment with your favorite mushroom varieties – sliced and sautéed mushrooms would complement the savory sausage beautifully, adding depth and another layer of flavor to this already exceptional dish.
Can I adapt this recipe to be gluten-free?
While this recipe traditionally uses all-purpose flour, you can explore gluten-free alternatives. Substituting cornstarch for the flour might work to thicken the gravy while keeping it gluten-free. However, note that this alteration might slightly change the texture and flavor profile of the gravy.
Is it possible to freeze sausage gravy?
Yes, you can freeze sausage gravy for later enjoyment. Keep in mind that freezing can alter the gravy’s consistency slightly. Upon thawing, you may notice some water separation. Whisking gently while reheating should help restore a smoother texture.
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy
- 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, for serving
How to Make Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy: Step-by-Step Instructions
FIRST STEP:
Crumble the mild breakfast sausage into a large skillet.
Cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s thoroughly browned and cooked through.
SECOND STEP:
Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet using a slotted spoon and set it aside.
Crucially, do not drain the flavorful fat rendered from the sausage in the pan. This fat is essential for creating a rich and delicious roux and gravy.
THIRD STEP:
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, until it’s lightly golden and fragrant. This step is important for removing the raw flour taste.
Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the roux and stir well to incorporate the seasonings.
FOURTH STEP:
Slowly whisk in the milk, about ½ cup at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated into the roux before adding more. Continue whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming and to create a smooth gravy.
Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the gravy and stir to combine, ensuring the sausage is evenly distributed throughout the creamy gravy.
FIFTH STEP:
Reduce the heat to low and let the sausage gravy simmer gently for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serve the Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy immediately, spooned generously over warm biscuits.
Enjoy this classic comfort food!
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size: 1 Amount Per Serving: Calories: 140Total Fat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 10gCholesterol: 160mgSodium: 30mgCarbohydrates: 240gSugar: 20gProtein: 12g
