Sausage Gravy

Sausage gravy is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any breakfast table. This rich and creamy gravy, studded with savory sausage, is perfect over flaky biscuits, mashed potatoes, or even waffles. It’s a classic Southern dish that’s incredibly easy to make but tastes like it took hours of love and care. Whether you’re cooking for a lazy weekend brunch or a cozy family breakfast, this sausage gravy recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try and how you can make it effortlessly at home.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Sausage gravy is a timeless dish that combines simple ingredients to create something truly comforting and delicious. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Simple ingredients: You likely have everything you need right in your pantry and fridge.
• Quick to prepare: From start to finish, this gravy comes together in about 20 minutes.
• Rich, creamy texture: The combination of sausage and creamy gravy is just irresistible.
• Versatile: Perfect over biscuits, toast, or even as a savory topping for potatoes and vegetables.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak with spices or different types of milk to suit your preferences.

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between hearty and comforting, making it a go-to for anyone craving a satisfying, flavorful breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients

• 1 lb pork sausage: Choose a mild or spicy sausage depending on your taste preference.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps create the roux for the gravy.
• ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour: This is the thickening agent for the gravy.
• 2 ½ cups milk: Whole milk works best for creaminess, but you can use 2% or any milk you prefer.
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle depth of flavor.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the gravy.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and balances the richness.

How To Make Sausage Gravy

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pork sausage and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. The sausage will release flavorful fat, which is essential for the gravy base.

Step 2: Add Butter

Once the sausage is fully cooked, add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Allow the butter to melt and combine with the sausage fat. This mixture forms the rich base for your gravy.

Step 3: Stir in the Flour

Sprinkle ¼ cup of all-purpose flour evenly over the sausage and butter. Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes to cook the flour. This step is crucial to avoid a raw flour taste and to thicken the gravy properly.

Step 4: Gradually Add Milk

Slowly pour in 2 ½ cups of milk while stirring constantly. This helps prevent lumps from forming. Continue stirring as the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. The gravy should have a creamy, smooth consistency.

Step 5: Season the Gravy

Add ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper to the gravy. Give everything a good stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Simmer and Serve

Reduce the heat to low and let the gravy simmer for a couple of minutes, stirring occasionally. Once thickened to your liking, remove from heat. Serve hot over freshly baked biscuits, toast, or your favorite breakfast side.

Expert Tips

• Use good quality sausage for the best flavor. If you prefer, try turkey sausage as a leaner alternative.
• Don’t rush cooking the flour. Properly cooking the flour in the fat is key to a smooth, lump-free gravy.
• If the gravy gets too thick, whisk in a little more milk until you reach the desired consistency.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Make sure to stir constantly when adding milk to avoid lumps and ensure a silky smooth texture.
• Serve immediately for the best taste and texture—gravy tends to thicken as it cools.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Sausage Gravy: Use spicy sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes to the gravy for a fiery kick.
• Mushroom Sausage Gravy: Sauté finely chopped mushrooms with the sausage for added earthiness and texture.
• Herbed Gravy: Stir in fresh or dried herbs like thyme, sage, or rosemary for a fragrant twist.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the milk with unsweetened almond milk or oat milk and use olive oil instead of butter.
• Cheesy Gravy: Stir in shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese once the gravy is thickened for a rich, cheesy flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles or seasoned mushrooms.

How to Store Leftovers

Sausage gravy is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk if the gravy has thickened too much during storage. Avoid reheating in the microwave without stirring, as it may cause uneven heating or separation. For longer storage, you can freeze the gravy for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use ground beef or chicken instead of pork sausage?

Absolutely! Ground beef or ground chicken can be used, but the flavor and fat content will differ. You may need to add extra butter or oil to achieve the right richness for the gravy.

What type of biscuits go best with sausage gravy?

Flaky buttermilk biscuits are the classic choice and pair beautifully with the creamy sausage gravy. However, any soft biscuit or even toast can work well as a base.

How do I prevent lumps in my sausage gravy?

To avoid lumps, make sure to cook the flour in the fat thoroughly before adding milk. Add the milk slowly while stirring continuously, preferably using a whisk. This helps the gravy thicken smoothly.

Can I make this gravy ahead of time?

You can prepare the gravy a few hours ahead and keep it warm on low heat. Just give it a good stir before serving. For longer storage, refrigerate and reheat gently, adding milk to restore creaminess if needed.

Conclusion

Sausage gravy is a delicious, hearty dish that’s perfect for starting your day with a smile. Its creamy texture and savory flavors make it a beloved comfort food that’s easy to master with just a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a cozy breakfast for one, this sausage gravy recipe will satisfy your taste buds and warm your heart. Whip up a batch, pile it high on warm biscuits, and enjoy the simple joy of homemade comfort food. Happy cooking!