Sausage Gravy with Biscuits

Sausage Gravy with Biscuits is one of the most iconic comfort breakfasts of all time — buttery, flaky biscuits smothered in creamy, peppery sausage gravy. This dish traces its roots back to the Southern United States, where it became a hearty, filling meal for farmworkers and families alike.

It’s a dish that brings together simplicity, flavor, and nostalgia — every bite feels like home. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or “breakfast for dinner,” Sausage Gravy with Biscuits is a Southern favorite that never disappoints.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines everything I adore in comfort food — warmth, richness, and simplicity. The homemade biscuits are buttery and soft with slightly crisp edges, while the sausage gravy is thick, creamy, and full of flavor.

It’s also incredibly easy to make with basic pantry staples — flour, milk, butter, and sausage — yet the result tastes restaurant-worthy. You don’t need fancy tools or exotic ingredients; just a bit of love and time.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Authentic Southern flavor in every bite.
• Rich, hearty, and satisfying — perfect for cold mornings.
• Simple ingredients, big reward.
• Customizable: You can make it spicy, mild, or even vegetarian.
• Comfort food perfection — it feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4–6 servings
• Calories: ~550 kcal per serving

Course and Cuisine

• Course: Breakfast / Brunch
• Cuisine: Southern American

Ingredients

For the Biscuits:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 3/4 cup cold buttermilk (plus extra for brushing tops)

For the Sausage Gravy:

• 1 lb (450 g) pork breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
• 3 tbsp butter (optional if sausage is lean)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk (plus extra if needed)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (add more to taste)
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

Cooking Directions (Overview)

1. Make the homemade biscuits.
2. Cook the sausage and prepare the creamy gravy.
3. Combine and serve while warm.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Make the Biscuits

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter cubes and cut them into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in the cold buttermilk and stir gently until a dough forms (don’t overmix).
5. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead gently 3–4 times.
6. Pat dough into a 1-inch thick round.
7. Cut out biscuits using a round cutter or the rim of a glass.
8. Arrange biscuits on a baking sheet, close together for soft sides or spaced apart for crispier edges.
9. Brush tops with buttermilk.
10. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 2: Make the Sausage Gravy

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until browned and crumbly, about 6–8 minutes.
   • If sausage is lean, add 2–3 tablespoons of butter for richness.
2. Sprinkle flour evenly over the sausage and stir well to coat.
3. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens (about 5–7 minutes).
6. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Reduce heat to low and let simmer gently for a few minutes.
8. Adjust consistency with more milk if desired — the gravy should be creamy but not runny.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Split warm biscuits in half and place them on a plate.
2. Spoon a generous amount of sausage gravy over the top.
3. Garnish with a little black pepper or parsley (optional).
4. Serve hot and enjoy immediately!

How to Serve

Serve Sausage Gravy with Biscuits immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor.

• Pair it with scrambled eggs, bacon, or hash browns for a complete breakfast.
• Add a fresh fruit salad or orange juice for a balanced brunch.
• For dinner, serve with sautéed greens or roasted potatoes for a rustic Southern meal.

Recipe Tips

• Use cold butter and buttermilk for the flakiest biscuits.
• Don’t overwork the dough — minimal handling gives tender biscuits.
• Whisk constantly while adding milk to the gravy to keep it smooth.
• Adjust seasoning at the end — pepper is key for authentic flavor.
• Make extra gravy! It tastes great over eggs, potatoes, or grits.

Variations

1. Spicy Sausage Gravy:
   • Use hot Italian sausage and add crushed red pepper or cayenne for heat.
2. Cheddar Biscuits:
   • Mix 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese into biscuit dough for cheesy flavor.
3. Herb Biscuits:
   • Add 1 tsp dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives to the biscuit mix.
4. Bacon Gravy:
   • Replace sausage with crispy bacon bits for a smoky twist.
5. Vegetarian Gravy:
   • Use plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms and vegetable broth with milk.
6. Country-Style Gravy:
   • Add a splash of cream at the end for extra richness and silky texture.

Freezing and Storage

To Refrigerate:

• Store leftover gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep biscuits at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for 5 days.

To Freeze:

• Biscuits: Freeze baked biscuits for up to 2 months. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
• Gravy: Freeze cooled gravy for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen it.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or cast-iron pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Biscuit cutter or round glass
• Rolling pin (optional)
• Baking sheet with parchment paper

Conclusion

Sausage Gravy with Biscuits is the definition of Southern comfort — a dish that’s simple yet deeply satisfying. From the flaky, buttery biscuits to the creamy, peppery gravy, it’s a meal that warms the heart and fills the soul.

Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weekend breakfast or a hearty brunch, this recipe brings homemade love to your table. One bite of this creamy gravy poured over soft biscuits, and you’ll understand why it’s a Southern classic that never goes out of style.