Sausage gravy. Just the name conjures up images of cozy mornings, hearty breakfasts, and that warm, comforting feeling of home. Across the Midwest and South, this dish, often served over fluffy biscuits, isn’t just food; it’s a tradition. And while there are countless versions out there, nothing beats the rich, creamy goodness of truly homemade sausage gravy. Forget those canned soup shortcuts – we’re diving into a from-scratch recipe that will redefine your definition of comfort food.
This isn’t just another recipe; it’s your guide to creating sausage gravy that rivals even the best diner versions. Imagine waking up to the smell of savory sausage mingling with creamy gravy, promising a satisfying and delicious start to your day. Or picture serving it up for a comforting dinner on a chilly evening. This sausage gravy recipe is versatile, easy to make, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Why This Sausage Gravy Recipe Works
What makes this recipe stand out? It’s all about authenticity and flavor. We skip the processed shortcuts and focus on building layers of taste from simple, wholesome ingredients. The result? A gravy that’s:
- Incredibly Creamy: Achieved through a classic roux and the perfect milk-to-flour ratio.
- Savory and Flavorful: The breakfast sausage is the star, enhanced with just the right touch of garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Made from Scratch: Because homemade always tastes better, and you control exactly what goes in.
- Surprisingly Easy: Don’t let “from scratch” intimidate you. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for cooks of all levels.
Ingredients for Your Pioneer Woman Inspired Sausage Gravy
You don’t need a pantry full of fancy ingredients to make incredible sausage gravy. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound Mild Breakfast Sausage: The foundation of our flavor. Choose a good quality sausage for the best taste.
- ⅓ cup All-Purpose Flour: To create the roux and thicken our gravy.
- 3 cups Milk: Whole milk will give you the richest, creamiest gravy, but 2% will also work.
- ½ tsp Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle savory depth.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste – season generously!
- Biscuits: For serving. Homemade buttermilk biscuits are the classic choice, but store-bought works in a pinch.
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Sausage Gravy
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to sausage gravy success:
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Crumble the mild breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s fully browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes.
Step 2: Create the Roux
Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside, but do not drain the grease. The rendered sausage fat is crucial for flavor and for making our roux. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Sprinkle the ⅓ cup of all-purpose flour into the skillet with the sausage grease.
Step 3: Cook the Roux
Using a whisk, stir the flour and grease together constantly. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously, until the roux is lightly golden and fragrant. This cooks out the raw flour taste and creates the base for a smooth gravy.
Step 4: Add Milk and Seasoning
Slowly pour in the 3 cups of milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the milk is fully incorporated and the mixture starts to thicken. Add the ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Thicken and Simmer
Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Continue to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency. Remember, it will thicken slightly more as it cools.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the gravy. Stir to combine and heat through. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve hot over warm biscuits and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Ever Sausage Gravy
- Don’t Drain the Fat: Sausage fat is flavor! It’s essential for a rich and flavorful gravy.
- Whisk Constantly: Especially when adding the milk, to ensure a smooth, lump-free gravy.
- Season to Taste: Salt and pepper are key. Don’t be afraid to season generously, tasting as you go.
- Adjust Thickness: If your gravy is too thick, whisk in a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer a bit longer.
- Make Ahead: Sausage gravy can be made a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to thin it out.
- Serving Suggestions: While biscuits are classic, sausage gravy is also delicious over toast, fried potatoes, hash browns, or even mashed potatoes.
- Get Creative: For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Sautéed mushrooms can also be a delicious addition.
- Freezing: While you can freeze sausage gravy, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, let it cool completely, store in an airtight container, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Your New Go-To Comfort Food
This Pioneer Woman inspired sausage and gravy recipe is more than just breakfast; it’s a taste of home, a hug on a plate, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, it’s time to ditch the canned soup and experience the real deal. Get ready to enjoy the creamiest, most delicious sausage gravy you’ve ever tasted!
