If you are craving a comforting and savory breakfast classic, you simply must try this Sausage Gravy Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that instantly wraps you in warmth, with its creamy texture and rich, flavorful sausage bits perfectly spiced and simmered into a luscious gravy. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself to a weekend brunch, this recipe delivers hearty satisfaction while remaining surprisingly easy to make. It’s a timeless southern favorite that turns simple ingredients into pure breakfast magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Sausage Gravy Recipe is straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in building those deep, inviting flavors and that silky texture. From the savory sausage to the creamy milk, these components come together effortlessly to create a dish that tastes way more complex than it actually is.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: Opt for pork or turkey sausage depending on your preference—this is the star protein giving the gravy its bold, meaty flavor.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Acts as the thickening agent, turning the sausage drippings and milk into a velvety gravy.
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk: Adds creamy richness that balances the savory sausage and smooths the texture perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every bite with subtle heat and depth.
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes: A little kick of spice to wake up your palate if you like just a hint of heat.
How to Make Sausage Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding your breakfast sausage. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks so that the pieces are small and evenly browned. This step should take about 8 minutes, allowing the fat to render and the sausage to develop that rich, caramelized flavor essential to a great gravy base.
Step 2: Add the Flour
Once your sausage is cooked through and beautifully browned, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over it and stir thoroughly to coat every bit of sausage with the flour. This quick cooking for 1 to 2 minutes removes any raw flour taste and begins the thickening process that transforms the mixture into gravy.
Step 3: Pour in the Milk
Slowly stream in the whole milk while continuously stirring the sausage and flour mixture. This constant stirring is key to preventing lumps and creating that smooth, creamy texture we’re aiming for. The gradual addition of milk allows the gravy to thicken evenly and soak up all those yummy sausage flavors.
Step 4: Simmer and Season
Continue cooking and stirring the gravy over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes as it thickens. You want it thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. At this stage, taste and season with salt, black pepper, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for an exciting touch of heat.
Step 5: Serve Hot
As soon as your gravy reaches the perfect consistency and flavor, remove it from the heat and get ready to serve. This Sausage Gravy Recipe is absolute perfection poured hot over freshly baked warm biscuits or crispy toast for the ultimate breakfast experience.
How to Serve Sausage Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can elevate your sausage gravy to next-level deliciousness. Consider a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the richness. A dash of cracked black pepper on top also adds visual appeal alongside a tiny extra kick.
Side Dishes
This hearty sausage gravy pairs beautifully with traditional southern sides like buttery biscuits, but don’t stop there! Try serving it over crispy hash browns, soft scrambled eggs, or even creamy grits to switch things up. The versatility of this sauce means it’s ready to complement just about any breakfast or brunch plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or treat yourself with a fun twist, use this Sausage Gravy Recipe as a base for a breakfast casserole. Pour the gravy over layers of bread cubes and cheese, then bake until bubbly. Alternatively, drizzle it over a stack of fluffy waffles or spoon it into a savory breakfast bowl topped with a fried egg and some sautéed greens.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the sausage gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain the best quality and safe storage.
Freezing
This sausage gravy freezes beautifully, making it a great recipe to batch cook. Transfer cooled gravy into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Reheating
Reheat the gravy gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking and to bring back its silky consistency. Add a splash of milk if it’s too thick after refrigeration or freezing. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage works wonderfully in this Sausage Gravy Recipe for a leaner option while still providing plenty of flavor. Just choose a breakfast-style turkey sausage with good seasoning.
What can I use if I don’t have whole milk?
Whole milk gives the gravy its rich texture, but you can substitute with 2% milk or even half-and-half for an extra creamy finish. Just avoid using skim milk as it might make the gravy too thin.
How do I make the gravy spicier?
To add more heat, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper when seasoning. You can also use spicy breakfast sausage to boost the fiery flavor effortlessly.
Can I make this Sausage Gravy Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (use half the amount and mix with a bit of water before adding) to keep it thick without gluten.
What’s the best way to keep the gravy from separating?
The key is slow, steady cooking and constant stirring as you add milk. Avoid boiling vigorously, which can cause separation. Adding milk gradually while stirring helps keep the texture smooth and creamy.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Gravy Recipe truly feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple enough for any home cook but rich and comforting enough to make every breakfast special. Once you master this classic Southern staple, you’ll find it hard to eat your morning biscuits any other way. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the deliciously hearty flavors that have won hearts for generations.
Print
Sausage Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Classic Southern-style sausage gravy made with browned breakfast sausage, all-purpose flour, and creamy whole milk. Perfect for serving over warm biscuits or toast for a comforting breakfast or brunch dish.
Ingredients
Sausage Gravy
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes.
- Add flour: Sprinkle flour over the cooked sausage and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour flavor.
- Incorporate milk: Slowly pour in milk while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Thicken gravy: Continue to cook and stir until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season: Add salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes to taste, stirring well to combine.
- Serve: Serve the sausage gravy hot over warm biscuits or toast for a delicious, hearty meal.
Notes
- Use turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Adjust milk quantity slightly for preferred gravy thickness.
- Add extra black pepper or red pepper flakes to kick up the spice.
- Leftover gravy can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop with a splash of milk to thin.
- Perfect accompaniment to biscuits, toast, or even scrambled eggs.
