Sausage gravy. Just the name conjures up images of cozy mornings, hearty breakfasts, and that soul-satisfying feeling of pure comfort food. Across kitchens in the Midwest and the South, sausage gravy and biscuits reign supreme as a beloved dish for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even dinner. It’s a meal that transcends time, perfect for warming you up on a chilly day or simply bringing a smile to your face any time of year.
This recipe focuses on creating a truly authentic, creamy sausage gravy from scratch, just like you’d expect from the Pioneer Woman herself. Forget those shortcut versions using canned soup – we’re going for real, homemade goodness. This is the kind of sausage gravy that sticks to your ribs and tastes like pure comfort in every bite.
What Makes Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy So Good?
The secret to a truly exceptional sausage gravy lies in a few key elements: fresh ingredients, proper technique, and that touch of homemade love. This recipe emphasizes building flavor from the ground up, starting with browning savory breakfast sausage and creating a classic roux as the base for a rich, creamy gravy. It’s about taking simple ingredients and transforming them into something truly special.
Many recipes claim to be “authentic,” but often fall short by using shortcuts that compromise on flavor and texture. This Pioneer Woman inspired recipe stays true to the traditional method, ensuring a depth of flavor and creaminess that’s simply unmatched. It’s the kind of gravy that will have everyone asking for seconds – and the recipe!
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy
To make this delicious sausage gravy, you’ll need just a handful of simple 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, for serving
These are pantry staples that come together to create something truly magical. The quality of the sausage is key, so choose a breakfast sausage you enjoy.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy
Making sausage gravy from scratch is easier than you might think! Just follow these simple steps:
FIRST STEP:
Begin by crumbling the mild breakfast sausage into a large skillet. Place the skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is thoroughly browned and cooked through.
SECOND STEP:
Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the flavorful sausage fat in the pan. Do not drain the grease – this is essential for building the base of your gravy.
THIRD STEP:
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour into 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.
FOURTH STEP:
Season the roux with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to incorporate the seasonings. Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. Continue whisking constantly as the milk heats up and the gravy begins to thicken.
FIFTH STEP:
Once the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency (it should be creamy and coat the back of a spoon), return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Stir to combine the sausage and gravy, ensuring the sausage is evenly distributed throughout.
SIXTH STEP:
Let the sausage gravy simmer gently for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
SEVENTH STEP:
Serve the hot sausage gravy immediately over warm, fluffy biscuits. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Tips for the Creamiest Sausage Gravy
- Don’t drain the fat: Sausage fat is flavor! It’s crucial for making a rich and flavorful roux, which is the foundation of your gravy.
- Whisk constantly: Whisking the roux and when adding milk prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, creamy gravy.
- Low and slow: Cooking the roux gently and simmering the gravy allows the flavors to develop fully.
- Adjust consistency: If your gravy is too thick, simply whisk in a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions for Biscuits and Gravy
While biscuits are the classic pairing for sausage gravy, there are plenty of other delicious options:
- Toast: A simple slice of toast is a great base for soaking up all that delicious gravy.
- American Fried Potatoes or Hash Browns: Crispy potatoes alongside creamy gravy are a match made in breakfast heaven.
- Mashed Potatoes: For an extra comforting meal, serve sausage gravy over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.
- Baked Potatoes: Top a baked potato with sausage gravy for a hearty and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sausage Gravy
Can I make sausage gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make sausage gravy ahead of time. Prepare the recipe as directed, let it cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to thin it out.
What should I serve with sausage gravy besides biscuits?
Beyond biscuits, sausage gravy is fantastic with toast, American fried potatoes, hash browns, mashed potatoes, and even baked potatoes. Get creative and enjoy it with your favorite starchy side!
Is it hard to make sausage gravy from scratch?
Not at all! Making sausage gravy from scratch is surprisingly easy. The key is to make a roux with fat and flour, then slowly whisk in milk and cook until thickened. With a little practice, you’ll be a sausage gravy pro in no time.
Can I add mushrooms to sausage gravy?
Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms would be a delicious addition to sausage gravy. Slice and sauté your favorite mushrooms (like cremini or button mushrooms) and stir them into the gravy along with the sausage for added flavor and texture.
Can I make gluten-free sausage gravy?
While this recipe uses all-purpose flour, you can experiment with gluten-free alternatives. Cornstarch can be used as a thickener, but it may alter the texture slightly. Ensure your sausage is also gluten-free if needed.
Can sausage gravy be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze sausage gravy, but be aware that freezing can sometimes change the consistency. Thawing may cause some water separation. To minimize this, cool the gravy completely before freezing in an airtight container. When thawing, reheat gently and whisk well to recombine.
Why is my gravy too thick?
If your sausage gravy becomes too thick, simply whisk in a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency. Add milk gradually until you achieve the perfect creamy texture.
Enjoy making this classic Pioneer Woman inspired sausage gravy and biscuits recipe! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a true taste of comfort food heaven.
