Few breakfast dishes capture the essence of Southern comfort like Traditional Sausage Gravy. Served over fluffy biscuits, this rich, savory gravy is a morning staple in many households, delivering a perfect balance of creamy texture, hearty sausage flavor, and just the right amount of seasoning. It’s simple to make but incredibly satisfying—perfect for lazy weekend mornings or feeding a hungry family.
Ingredients:
Serves 4–6 people
1 pound (450 g) breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups (600 ml) whole milk
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper or paprika for extra flavor
Freshly chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Biscuits, for serving (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet or sauté pan, cook the sausage over medium heat.
Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks until browned and fully cooked.
Remove excess fat if there’s too much in the pan, leaving about 2–3 tablespoons to form the base of the gravy.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage in the pan.
Stir constantly for 2–3 minutes to combine the flour with the fat and sausage.
This forms a roux that will thicken the gravy.
Step 3: Add Milk
Gradually pour in the milk while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens.
This should take about 5–7 minutes.
Step 4: Season the Gravy
Taste the gravy and add salt and black pepper to your liking.
For a little extra kick, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper or paprika.
Step 5: Serve
Spoon the sausage gravy generously over warm biscuits.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for the Perfect Sausage Gravy
Choose the Right Sausage: Breakfast sausage with a good blend of fat and seasoning works best. Avoid lean sausage, as the gravy may turn out dry.
Consistent Stirring: Stirring prevents lumps and ensures a creamy texture.
Adjust Thickness: If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of milk; if too thin, cook a bit longer to reduce.
Make-Ahead Option: You can make the gravy ahead and reheat gently, adding a little milk to restore creaminess.
Why You’ll Love This Gravy
Sausage gravy is more than just a breakfast topping—it’s a comforting, hearty dish that evokes memories of cozy mornings and family gatherings. The creamy, savory flavor of the gravy perfectly complements the buttery, flaky texture of fresh biscuits. Pair it with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, or a cup of strong coffee for a complete Southern-style breakfast experience.