Biscuits and gravy is a beloved Southern dish, known for its comforting combination of soft, flaky biscuits and creamy, savory sausage gravy. It has its roots in the rural South and has become a staple on breakfast tables across the United States. The dish is celebrated for its simplicity yet rich, satisfying flavor, offering the perfect balance of textures from the fluffy biscuits and the velvety gravy. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or as a comforting weekday breakfast, biscuits and gravy is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
For the Biscuits:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup milk (whole milk preferred)
Possible Substitutions for Biscuits:
- Dairy-Free: Substitute with plant-based milk and non-dairy butter.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
For the Gravy:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk works best for creaminess)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
Possible Substitutions for Gravy:
- Vegetarian: Use plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a meatless option.
- Low-Carb: Swap regular flour for almond flour or coconut flour.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Prepare the Biscuits:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually pour in the milk, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently pat it out to about 1-inch thickness.
- Use a biscuit cutter or a glass to cut out the biscuits. Place them on a baking sheet, ensuring they are close together.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
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Prepare the Sausage Gravy:
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the sausage and stir to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly pour in the milk while stirring to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a little heat.
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Assemble the Dish:
- Split the biscuits in half and spoon the sausage gravy generously over the top.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Don’t overwork the biscuit dough, as it can make the biscuits tough.
- Be sure to cook the sausage until fully browned for the best flavor in the gravy.
- If the gravy is too thick, simply add more milk to reach your desired consistency.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
- Flaky Biscuits: For the flakiest biscuits, ensure your butter is cold, and don’t overwork the dough. The key to the layers is keeping the butter intact until it hits the hot oven.
- Perfect Gravy: Stir the gravy constantly as you add milk to prevent lumps. If it thickens too much while sitting, add a splash more milk to loosen it up.
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: Cooking the gravy in a cast iron skillet can enhance the flavor due to the even heat distribution.
Variations and Customizations
- Vegetarian: Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms to create a delicious vegetarian version.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for both the biscuits and gravy to cater to gluten-sensitive diets.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the gravy for a spicy twist.
- Herb-Infused Biscuits: Incorporate fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme into the biscuit dough for an aromatic twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish: Garnish the biscuits and gravy with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
- Side Dishes: Pair with scrambled eggs, bacon, or a side of sautéed greens for a complete meal.
- Beverages: A hot cup of coffee or fresh-squeezed orange juice complements this dish perfectly.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a general breakdown for one serving (1 biscuit with gravy):
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fats: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
(Note: Nutritional values will vary depending on substitutions and portion sizes.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make the biscuits ahead of time?
Yes! Biscuits can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore their flakiness.
How do I store leftover gravy?
Store leftover sausage gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding more milk if needed to loosen it up.
Can I freeze the biscuits?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked biscuits before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 450°F for about 20 minutes.
Biscuits and gravy is a hearty, comforting dish that brings a taste of Southern hospitality to your table. It’s easy to make and can be customized to suit different dietary needs or preferences. Try this recipe and experience the delicious flavors for yourself — whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, you’ll love the result.
