Warm, hearty, and rich, this sausage gravy recipe is a quintessential Southern classic. Served over flaky, buttery biscuits, it’s an irresistible breakfast staple that brings comfort to your table. Whether for a weekend brunch or a special family gathering, this creamy gravy is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Pioneer Woman’s Sausage Gravy is the ultimate comfort food—a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that transforms simple biscuits into a hearty, satisfying breakfast. Made with perfectly browned breakfast sausage and a silky gravy, this classic Southern favorite is surprisingly easy to whip up. Whether you serve it for a weekend brunch or a cozy dinner, it’s guaranteed to leave everyone at the table asking for seconds!
Key Ingredients
Breakfast Sausage: The base of the dish, breakfast sausage infuses the gravy with savory, spiced flavor. Choose mild or hot sausage depending on your heat preference.
All-Purpose Flour: Acts as the thickening agent, ensuring the gravy has a smooth, rich consistency. Cooking the flour with the sausage eliminates any raw taste.
Whole Milk: The creamy backbone of the gravy. Whole milk creates the perfect texture, but you can substitute with half-and-half for an even richer result.
Seasoned Salt: Adds a subtle depth of flavor that complements the sausage. Adjust to taste based on the saltiness of your sausage.
Black Pepper: A generous amount of freshly ground black pepper gives the gravy its signature kick. Don’t skimp—this ingredient takes the dish to the next level!
Biscuits: Warm, fluffy biscuits are the perfect vehicle for the sausage gravy. Use homemade or store-bought for convenience.
Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Sausage
Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the Sausage:
Tear the sausage into small pieces and add it to the skillet in a single layer.
Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
Reduce the heat to medium-low once cooked.
Browning the sausage enhances its flavor and provides a savory base for the gravy.
2. Add the Flour
Incorporate Flour:
Sprinkle half of the flour over the cooked sausage and stir well to combine.
Gradually add the remaining flour, stirring constantly to coat the sausage evenly.
Cook the Mixture:
Allow the flour to cook for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
This step ensures the flour is fully integrated and helps thicken the gravy.
3. Add the Milk
Pour Gradually:
Slowly pour in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
Thicken the Gravy:
Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the gravy begins to thicken. This can take 10-12 minutes.
If the gravy thickens too quickly or becomes too dense, add additional milk (about 1/2 cup at a time) to achieve your desired consistency.
Stirring frequently ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
4. Season the Gravy
Add Seasoning:
Sprinkle in seasoned salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Taste and Adjust:
Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning as needed to balance the flavors.
Cook to Blend Flavors:
Let the gravy cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve
Prepare the Biscuits:
Split warm biscuits in half, creating a base for the gravy.
Top with Gravy:
Generously spoon the sausage gravy over the biscuits.
Optional Garnish:
Add a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper or chopped parsley for a finishing touch.
Serving Suggestions
Sausage gravy over biscuits is a complete dish on its own, but you can elevate your meal with these sides:
Eggs: Serve with scrambled or fried eggs for a full breakfast plate.
Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns or home fries pair wonderfully with the creamy gravy.
Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh fruit adds a refreshing contrast to the rich dish.
For a cozy brunch spread, add a pot of coffee, orange juice, and some fresh muffins or scones to the table.
Storage Tips
Refrigerating
Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency.
Freezing
Sausage gravy freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
Variations
Spicy Gravy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
Herbed Gravy: Stir in fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic flair.
Cheesy Gravy: Fold in shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy version of the classic.
Lighter Option: Use turkey sausage and low-fat milk for a lighter take on the recipe.
Vegetarian Alternative: Replace the sausage with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable stock instead of milk for a vegetarian-friendly gravy.
Conclusion
The Pioneer Woman’s Sausage Gravy is a timeless recipe that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Its creamy, savory flavors paired with warm biscuits create a breakfast dish that feels like a big, cozy hug. Easy to make and endlessly satisfying, it’s perfect for a lazy weekend morning or a comforting weeknight dinner. Whip up a batch today, and enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade Southern comfort food.
The Pioneer Woman’s Sausage Gravy
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage hot or mild
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3-4 cups whole milk more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper more to taste
- 12 cooked biscuits warmed, for serving
Instructions
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Tear the sausage into small pieces and add to the skillet. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Sprinkle half of the flour over the cooked sausage and stir to combine. Gradually add the remaining flour, stirring constantly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens, about 10-12 minutes. Add additional milk if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Sprinkle in seasoned salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Let cook for 2-3 more minutes to blend the flavors.
- Split warm biscuits in half and generously spoon the sausage gravy over them. Garnish with freshly ground black pepper or chopped parsley if desired.
