Sausage Gravy with Biscuits – Full Recipe Write-Up
Introduction
Sausage Gravy with Biscuits is the ultimate Southern comfort breakfast—warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying. Flaky, buttery biscuits smothered in a rich, peppery sausage gravy create a dish that feels like a comforting hug on a plate. Whether served on slow weekends, holiday mornings, or cozy family gatherings, this recipe never fails to bring joy.
Ingredients & Quantities
For the Homemade Biscuits
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
3/4 cup cold buttermilk (plus extra for brushing)
For the Sausage Gravy
1 lb (450 g) breakfast sausage
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 1/2 – 3 cups whole milk
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked for best flavor)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, adds depth)
Instructions
1. Make the Biscuits
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
3. Cut cold butter into the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in cold buttermilk until dough comes together—do not overmix.
5. Turn dough onto a floured surface, gently fold 2–3 times, and press to 1-inch thickness.
6. Cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter or a glass.
7. Place on a baking tray, brush tops with buttermilk, and bake 15–18 minutes until golden.
8. Keep biscuits warm while preparing the gravy.
2. Make the Sausage Gravy
1. Brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles.
2. Once fully cooked, sprinkle flour over the sausage and stir well to coat.
3. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
4. Slowly pour in milk while stirring constantly.
5. Simmer until the gravy thickens to your liking.
6. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if using.
3. Assemble
Split warm biscuits and ladle the creamy sausage gravy generously on top. Serve immediately.
Origin & Cultural Significance
Sausage Gravy with Biscuits is a beloved staple of the American South. Originating from simple, inexpensive ingredients available to farmers, it became a hearty breakfast designed to fuel long days of labor. Over time, it evolved from “poor man’s food” into a cherished comfort dish served in diners, family kitchens, and Southern Sunday brunch tables. Today, it represents hospitality, warmth, and tradition.
Description
This dish features soft, buttery biscuits that melt in your mouth and a rich, velvety gravy loaded with savory sausage. The peppery warmth and creamy texture make every bite indulgent yet comforting. It’s rustic, filling, and irresistibly delicious.
Optional Additions
Red pepper flakes for extra heat
Cheddar cheese added to the biscuit dough
Fresh herbs like chives or parsley
A splash of heavy cream for richer gravy
Maple sausage for a sweet-savory twist
Tips for Success
Keep butter and buttermilk cold for the flakiest biscuits.
Do not overwork the dough—too much handling makes biscuits tough.
Brown sausage well to deepen flavor.
Add milk gradually to avoid lumps in the gravy.
If gravy becomes too thick, whisk in a splash of milk.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
4 servings
Calories: 520
Protein: 19 g
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Fat: 30 g
Sodium: 980 mg
Fiber: 1–2 g
Values vary depending on biscuit size and sausage type.
Conclusion
Sausage Gravy with Biscuits is a heartwarming, deeply flavorful dish perfect for mornings when you want something extra special. Its rich gravy, paired with tender biscuits, brings comfort and tradition together in the most delicious way.
Recommendation
Enjoy this dish fresh and warm, ideally with a side of scrambled eggs or fresh fruit for balance. It’s perfect for weekend brunch, holiday breakfasts, or when you want to impress guests with a classic Southern favorite.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While indulgent, this recipe can be part of a balanced lifestyle when enjoyed mindfully. Use lean sausage, reduce the gravy’s fat content, or pair with lighter sides. Savor every bite—comfort food is best enjoyed with gratitude and balance.