Save to Pinterest This sausage gravy recipe brings back cozy weekend mornings in my kitchen with the scent of browned sausage and creamy gravy filling the house. The perfect partner for warm biscuits, this rich Southern classic is ready in under half an hour and is wonderfully simple to master.
I first tried making this for a holiday brunch. My family raved over it and now it is a constant request on Sunday mornings.
Ingredients
- Pork breakfast sausage: Choose quality sausage with plenty of seasoning and some fat for the best flavor and creaminess
- All-purpose flour: The key thickener for that signature silky texture Choose unbleached for the best taste
- Whole milk: Gives richness and body to the gravy Use fresh milk for the smoothest result
- Freshly cracked black pepper: Brightens up the flavors and gives classic Southern heat Use more for a peppery kick
- Kosher salt: Enhances the taste but use with care since sausage often has plenty of salt already
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Sausage:
- Heat a cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat Add the pork sausage breaking it up as it cooks Cook until it is browned and no pink remains this can take 5 to 7 minutes The browning adds a ton of flavor and savory bits
- Make the Roux:
- With the heat on low sprinkle the flour evenly over the sausage and all its rendered fat Stir thoroughly so every bit of sausage is coated with flour Keep stirring and let this mixture cook for two minutes This step is key so the gravy does not taste like raw flour
- Add the Milk Slowly:
- Pour in about half the milk while stirring the whole time This helps prevent any lumps and creates a creamy base Turn the heat up to medium as you do this
- Finish the Gravy:
- Slowly add in the rest of the milk still stirring Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer As it cooks for 3 to 5 minutes it thickens up beautifully Stir regularly to keep it smooth
- Season and Serve:
- Crack in fresh black pepper for that signature look and spice Taste before adding salt as the sausage may already be well-seasoned Serve piping hot over split biscuits or slices of toast
Save to Pinterest My favorite ingredient here is the sausage It matters so much Pick one with a little sage or spice My kids love watching the gravy bubble up in the skillet and we always sneak a spoonful before serving just because
Storage Tips
Store any leftover sausage gravy tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat slowly on the stove and add a little splash of milk if it seems too thick No need to microwave it if you have time for the skillet
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap out pork sausage for turkey sausage if you prefer it lighter. Almond milk works if you need a dairy alternative but the gravy will not be as rich. Gluten-free all-purpose flour is a good substitute for those who are gluten sensitive just ensure it is a blend meant for gravies
Serving Suggestions
Classic biscuits are the top choice but creamy sausage gravy also shines poured over toasted English muffins hash browns or even a fried chicken cutlet. Try it on top of a baked potato for a filling supper or alongside scrambled eggs
Save to Pinterest Cultural and Historical Context
This dish has deep roots in the American South where biscuits and gravy were inexpensive filling breakfasts for farmers and workers. Over time the recipe has spanned family tables nationwide and is now a highlight of many brunch menus It is always a sign you are going to eat a hearty meal
Common Recipe Questions
- → What kind of sausage works best?
Pork breakfast sausage is traditional, but hot or sage-flavored varieties can add different notes. Avoid heavily sweetened versions for best results.
- → How can I prevent lumps in the gravy?
Slowly add the milk while stirring constantly, ensuring the flour fully blends into the fat. Whisking helps achieve a smooth texture.
- → Is it possible to make the gravy spicier?
Yes, choose hot sausage or sprinkle in cayenne pepper while cooking for extra heat that builds flavor.
- → Can leftovers be stored and reheated?
Store cooled gravy in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently and add extra milk as needed to restore creaminess.
- → What can I serve besides biscuits?
This gravy is also delicious spooned over toast, hash browns, or even crispy fried chicken for a satisfying twist.