Southern Biscuits and Sausage Gravy

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Nothing says classic Southern comfort food like warm, buttery biscuits smothered in a creamy, rich sausage gravy. The biscuits are golden and flaky, while the savory gravy is filled with crumbles of sausage, creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s a dish that brings warmth and nostalgia with every bite.

Whether you’re making this for a slow weekend breakfast or a special brunch gathering, this homemade biscuits and sausage gravy recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or fresh orange juice, and you’ve got a meal that feels like home.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Biscuits:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
¾ cup buttermilk

For the Sausage Gravy:

1 pound breakfast sausage
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 ½ cups whole milk
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Directions:

Prepare the Biscuits: Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or fingers to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually pour in the buttermilk and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface, gently pat it down, and fold it over itself 3–4 times. Roll it out to about ¾-inch thickness and cut into biscuits.
Place biscuits in a cast-iron skillet and bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown.
Prepare the Sausage Gravy: While the biscuits bake, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it into crumbles, and cook until browned.
Sprinkle the flour over the sausage and stir well, cooking for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Slowly pour in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Let simmer for 4–5 minutes until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne.
Split the warm biscuits in half and spoon the hot sausage gravy over them. Serve immediately.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes

Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

A Brief History of Biscuits and Sausage Gravy

Biscuits and gravy date back to the late 18th century in the United States, particularly in the Southern states. During the early days of America, when food was scarce and settlers had to make do with simple ingredients, they relied on filling, inexpensive meals to sustain them. Biscuits, made from basic flour, butter, and milk, were an easy and affordable bread option.

Sausage gravy, on the other hand, became popular in the South due to the abundance of pork. Farmers would prepare fresh sausage from their livestock, and the fat left in the pan after frying the sausage was turned into a rich, creamy gravy using flour and milk. This combination of buttery biscuits and savory sausage gravy quickly became a staple of Southern cuisine, offering a satisfying meal that was both economical and delicious.

Why This Recipe is the Best

Authentic Southern Flavor: This recipe captures the rich, traditional flavors of a true Southern-style breakfast. The combination of flaky, buttery biscuits and creamy sausage gravy delivers a perfect balance of texture and taste.
Easy to Make: Unlike other elaborate breakfast dishes, biscuits and gravy require simple pantry ingredients and minimal prep time, making it an ideal dish for busy mornings.
Customizable: You can tweak the recipe to your preference—whether using spicy sausage, adding cheese to the biscuits, or incorporating herbs like thyme and sage for extra flavor.
Filling and Satisfying: Thanks to the high protein content from the sausage and the hearty texture of the biscuits, this meal keeps you full and energized for hours.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether serving it at a family breakfast, brunch with friends, or a weekend gathering, biscuits and sausage gravy never fail to impress.

Ingredient Breakdown and Benefits

Biscuits:

Flour: The base of the biscuits, providing structure and a soft crumb.
Butter: Adds richness and creates flaky layers.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: The leavening agents that make biscuits rise and stay fluffy.
Buttermilk: Enhances the flavor and moisture while making the biscuits tender.

Benefit: Homemade biscuits are free from preservatives and artificial additives, offering a wholesome alternative to store-bought versions.

Sausage Gravy:

Breakfast Sausage: The key flavor component, offering a savory and slightly spicy taste.
Flour: Used to thicken the gravy to a smooth, creamy consistency.
Milk: The base of the gravy, creating a rich and velvety texture.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the dish’s overall flavor.
Cayenne Pepper (Optional): Adds a hint of spice for those who love a kick in their gravy.

Benefit: The high protein content from sausage keeps you fuller for longer, while milk provides essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Biscuits and Gravy

Making the Biscuits:

Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
Cut in Butter: Add cold butter cubes and cut them into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Buttermilk: Stir in the buttermilk gradually until the dough comes together.
Roll & Cut: Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into biscuits.
Bake: Place the biscuits in a preheated oven at 425°F and bake until golden brown.

Making the Sausage Gravy:

Cook Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and crumbled.
Add Flour: Sprinkle flour over the sausage and stir to coat evenly.
Pour in Milk: Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens.
Season & Serve: Add salt, pepper, and optional cayenne, then spoon over warm biscuits.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Classic Serving:

Serve biscuits and sausage gravy hot with a side of scrambled eggs and hash browns.
Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice for a balanced meal.

Creative Variations:

Spicy Version: Use hot sausage and add red pepper flakes to the gravy.
Cheesy Biscuits: Mix shredded cheddar cheese into the biscuit dough for an extra savory touch.
Vegetarian Alternative: Replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms and onions for a meatless version.
Southern-Style Toppings: Drizzle with a touch of honey butter or maple syrup for a sweet-savory contrast.

Tips for Making the Best Biscuits and Gravy

Use Cold Butter: Cold butter is key to achieving flaky biscuits.
Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overworking the dough can result in tough biscuits. Handle it gently for the best texture.
Cook the Flour Well in the Gravy: Cooking the flour for at least a minute prevents a raw flour taste and ensures a rich, creamy consistency.
Use Whole Milk for Creaminess: Whole milk or a mix of heavy cream and milk makes the gravy extra indulgent.
Season to Taste: Don’t forget to taste the gravy before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Nutritional Information

While biscuits and sausage gravy are an indulgent comfort food, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Here’s a rough estimate per serving:

Calories: 480 kcal
Protein: 18g
Fat: 30g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Calcium & Iron: Significant amounts due to the milk and sausage content.

For a lighter version, consider using turkey sausage and low-fat milk, or substituting part of the flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try This Recipe

Southern Biscuits and Sausage Gravy is a true comfort food that delivers warmth, flavor, and nostalgia in every bite. This dish embodies the heart of Southern cooking, with its rich history and homey appeal. Whether you’re enjoying it on a lazy weekend morning or serving it to guests, it’s a meal that brings people together.

The combination of flaky, golden biscuits and creamy, peppery sausage gravy is hard to beat. Best of all, this recipe is incredibly easy to make with basic pantry ingredients. Once you master it, you’ll never want store-bought biscuits again!

So, next time you’re craving a hearty breakfast, give this classic Southern dish a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Conclusion: The Comfort of Southern Biscuits and Sausage Gravy

Southern Biscuits and Sausage Gravy is more than just a meal—it’s a timeless comfort food that brings warmth, nostalgia, and satisfaction to any breakfast table. This dish, rooted in Southern tradition, showcases the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. The combination of flaky, buttery biscuits and rich, creamy sausage gravy makes every bite a delicious reminder of home-cooked goodness.

Whether you’re preparing it for a weekend brunch, a cozy family breakfast, or just because you’re craving something hearty and indulgent, this recipe is sure to please. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. With each forkful, you’ll taste the comforting flavors that have made this dish a Southern classic for generations.

So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy the best homemade biscuits and gravy you’ve ever had. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this dish remains a beloved favorite across generations. Happy cooking!