There’s nothing quite like the rich, savory goodness of classic Southern sausage gravy. Whether served over crispy biscuits for breakfast or paired with a side of scrambled eggs, this dish has been a beloved part of Southern cuisine for generations. Simple, hearty, and absolutely delicious, sausage gravy is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table.
What Makes Southern Sausage Gravy So Special?
Southern sausage gravy is not just a sauce—it’s a dish that embodies the essence of Southern comfort food. Made with only a few ingredients, it relies on the natural flavors of breakfast sausage, butter, and milk to create a creamy, savory gravy. The key is in the seasoning and the balance of textures—rich, creamy, and with just the right amount of spice to bring it all together.
Why You’ll Love This Sausage Gravy:
- Comforting and Filling: A perfect dish for a hearty breakfast or brunch, this gravy is filling and satisfying.
- Versatile: You can serve it over biscuits, mashed potatoes, cornbread, or even pour it over fried chicken for a Southern-inspired feast.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can create a rich, creamy gravy that’s perfect for any meal.
Southern Sausage Gravy ingredients:
Breakfast Sausage:
Use raw, uncured, and casing-free sausage for this recipe. Traditional pork sausage like Neese’s Country Sausage works best for authentic Southern flavor. If using lean sausage like turkey, add extra fat (butter, bacon grease, or oil) to achieve the right richness and prevent the gravy from drying out.
Butter :
If the sausage doesn’t release enough fat during cooking, add butter to create a creamy and smooth gravy. Bacon grease can also enhance the smoky, savory flavor.
All-Purpose Flour:
Flour is essential for thickening the gravy. When cooked with sausage fat, it forms a roux that gives the gravy its signature velvety texture. Make sure to cook the flour thoroughly to avoid a raw taste.
Whole Milk:
Whole milk creates a rich, creamy gravy. You can substitute low-fat or fat-free milk, but be prepared for a thinner gravy that may require extra simmering time to thicken. For added depth, consider using a mix of whole milk and heavy cream.
Salt:
Enhances the overall flavor. Adjust the amount based on the saltiness of the sausage you use. Start with a small amount and increase as needed.
Black Pepper:
Freshly ground black pepper is key for authentic Southern flavor. Use generously for a bit of heat and boldness. Add more if you like a peppery kick.
How to Makes Classic Southern Sausage Gravy:
Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage with butte, breaking it into crumbles as it browns. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink.
Make the Roux:
- Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage and stir well to coat. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour turns golden and absorbs the fat.
Add the Milk:
- Slowly pour in the milk while stirring to prevent lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture begins to thicken.
Season and Simmer:
- Add salt and black pepper. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy reaches your desired thickness. For a thicker gravy, simmer longer or add more flour. For a thinner consistency, stir in extra milk.
Serve:
- Spoon the sausage gravy over freshly baked biscuits or your favorite breakfast item. Enjoy warm!
Tips For Easy Sausage Gravy Recipe:
- Use a cast-iron skillet for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove. If the gravy thickens, add a bit of milk while heating to reach the desired consistency.
FAQs
- What is sausage gravy made of?
- Ground pork sausage, flour, milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
- What can I put in sausage gravy to make it taste better?
- Add spices like garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne, fresh herbs, cheese, or sautéed onions and mushrooms.
- What is the difference between sausage gravy and country gravy?
- Sausage gravy includes crumbled sausage, while country gravy is meatless and typically made with milk, flour, and seasonings.
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Classic Southern Sausage Gravy
Description
Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with this rich and savory Southern Sausage Gravy! Perfect over biscuits or toast, it’s an easy, hearty breakfast that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
Instructions
Classic Southern Sausage Gravy recipe:
-
Brown the Sausage:
- Melt the butter in a large skillet (at least 10 inches wide) over medium-high heat.
- Add the sausage and break it into small chunks using a wooden spoon, similar to how you would crumble ground beef for tacos or spaghetti sauce.
- Spread the sausage evenly across the skillet and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until fully browned with no pink remaining.
-
Cook the Flour:
- Once the sausage is browned, level it out in the pan and lower the heat to medium.
- Sprinkle one-third of the flour evenly over the sausage and stir well, allowing the flour to absorb the fat.
- Add another portion of flour and mix until fully incorporated, repeating the process with the last portion.
- After all the flour is worked in, continue cooking and stirring for an additional 2-3 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste.
-
Add the Milk:
- Gradually pour in the milk, about one cup at a time, stirring constantly (use a whisk if needed).
- Ensure each cup of milk is fully mixed before adding the next.
- After adding four cups of milk, let the mixture simmer briefly, then check the consistency.
- For a thinner gravy, add the remaining half cup of milk. If you prefer a thicker gravy, skip this step.
-
Season and Simmer:
- Season the gravy with half of the black pepper and seasoned salt if using.
- Stir well, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for about 3 minutes.
- Turn off the heat, add the remaining black pepper, and serve hot over biscuits, toast, or your favorite breakfast items.
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Serve:
- Turn off the heat, add the remaining black pepper, and serve hot over biscuits, toast, or your favorite breakfast items.
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 275kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 19g30%
- Saturated Fat 8g40%
- Trans Fat 0.1g
- Cholesterol 57mg19%
- Sodium 486mg21%
- Total Carbohydrate 11g4%
- Dietary Fiber 0.2g1%
- Sugars 7g
- Protein 14g29%
- Vitamin A 266 IU
- Vitamin C 0.4 mg
- Calcium 176 mg
- Iron 1 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
