Easy Sausage Gravy Recipe

I love a hearty breakfast, and nothing quite hits the spot like a plate of warm, fluffy biscuits smothered in sausage gravy. While it may seem like a daunting task to make from scratch, I've got an easy sausage gravy recipe that anyone can follow. With just a few essential ingredients and kitchen tools, you can whip up a delicious batch of sausage gravy in no time.

To make this easy sausage gravy recipe, you'll need ground pork sausage, flour, milk, salt, and pepper. You'll also need a skillet, wooden spoon, whisk, and measuring cups and spoons. Once you have your ingredients and tools ready, you can start preparing your sausage gravy by cooking the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until it's browned and crumbly.

Next, you'll sprinkle flour over the sausage and stir until it's well combined. Gradually add milk to the skillet, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking and whisking until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Serve your sausage gravy over warm biscuits for a comforting and satisfying breakfast.

• This easy sausage gravy recipe requires just a few essential ingredients and kitchen tools.
• To make the gravy, you'll need to cook browned sausage in a skillet, sprinkle flour over it, and gradually whisk in milk until the gravy thickens.
• Serve your sausage gravy over warm biscuits for a delicious and comforting breakfast.

Essential Ingredients for Easy Sausage Gravy Recipe

 

When it comes to making a delicious sausage gravy, there are a few essential ingredients that you cannot skip. These ingredients are the backbone of the recipe and give the gravy its signature flavor and texture. Here are the key ingredients you will need:

Ground Sausage

Ground sausage is the star of the show when it comes to making sausage gravy. It is what gives the gravy its savory, meaty flavor and provides a hearty texture that pairs perfectly with biscuits or toast. You can use either mild or hot sausage depending on your preference, but make sure to choose a high-quality sausage for the best results.

Flour

Flour is used to thicken the gravy and give it a smooth, creamy consistency. All-purpose flour works well for this recipe, but you can also use self-rising flour if you prefer a slightly fluffier texture. When adding flour to the gravy, make sure to stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

Milk

Milk is the liquid that combines all the ingredients together and gives the gravy its creamy, smooth texture. You can use whole milk, 2% milk, or even heavy cream depending on your preference. For a lighter version, you can use skim milk, but keep in mind that the gravy will be less rich and creamy.

Salt and Pepper

Salt and pepper are the essential seasonings that bring out the flavors of the sausage and give the gravy its savory taste. Make sure to season the gravy to taste and adjust the amount of salt and pepper as needed.

By using these essential ingredients, you can create a delicious and comforting sausage gravy that is perfect for breakfast or brunch. With a few simple steps and the right ingredients, you can make a gravy that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Required Kitchen Tools

To make an easy sausage gravy recipe, you will need a few essential kitchen tools. These tools are not only necessary but also make the cooking process much easier and efficient. Here are the tools you will need:

Skillet

A skillet is a must-have kitchen tool when making sausage gravy. It is used to cook the sausage and make the gravy, and a non-stick skillet is preferred. A 10-inch skillet is ideal for making this recipe, but you can use a larger one if you are cooking for more people.

Whisk

A whisk is used to mix the flour and milk in the skillet to make the gravy. It is essential to use a whisk to prevent lumps from forming in the gravy. You can use a manual or an electric whisk, whichever you prefer.

Measuring Cups and Spoons

Measuring cups and spoons are necessary to measure the ingredients accurately. You will need a ¼ cup measuring cup to measure the flour and a ½ cup measuring cup to measure the milk.

Wooden Spoon

A wooden spoon is used to stir the sausage and flour mixture in the skillet. It is also used to scrape off any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet, which adds flavor to the gravy.

Plate and Paper Towels

A plate and paper towels are used to drain the cooked sausage of excess grease. Place the cooked sausage on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb the grease. This step is crucial to prevent the gravy from becoming too greasy.

Using these essential kitchen tools will make the process of making an easy sausage gravy recipe much smoother and enjoyable.

Preparation Steps for Easy Sausage Gravy Recipe

Making easy sausage gravy requires only a few simple steps. Here is how I make it:

1. Cook the sausage: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the sausage. Cook until browned and fully done, which takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Use a spatula or spoon to break up the meat as it cooks.
2. Add butter and flour: Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside. Add butter to the skillet and stir it until it melts. Sprinkle flour, garlic, and pepper on top of the butter and stir until well coated and grease is fully absorbed. Continue stirring and let the flour cook fully for about 2 minutes.
3. Add milk: Slowly pour in milk, increase heat to medium-high, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until thickened, which takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and any other preferred seasonings.
4. Add the sausage back in: Once the gravy has thickened, add the cooked sausage back into the skillet. Stir well to combine and let it all cook together for another minute or two.
5. Serve hot: Easy sausage gravy is best served hot over biscuits, toast, or fried chicken. Enjoy!

By following these simple preparation steps, you can make a delicious and hearty sausage gravy that is perfect for breakfast or any time of day.

Cooking Instructions for Easy Sausage Gravy Recipe

 

To make an easy sausage gravy, I start by cooking the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it is browned and crumbly. I usually use pork sausage, but any type of sausage will work. Once the sausage is cooked, I remove it from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set it aside.

Next, I reduce the heat to medium-low and add flour to the skillet. I stir the flour into the remaining grease until it is absorbed, creating a roux. This roux will thicken the gravy.

I gradually pour in milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. The amount of milk needed will vary depending on how thick you want your gravy. I usually use about 2 cups of milk for 1 pound of sausage.

As the gravy begins to thicken, I add salt, pepper, and any other seasonings I like. Some people like to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick.

I then return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir it into the gravy. I let the gravy simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Finally, I serve the sausage gravy over warm biscuits, toast, or fried chicken. It's a hearty and delicious breakfast that is sure to satisfy.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving my easy sausage gravy recipe with warm buttermilk biscuits. The combination of the creamy gravy and flaky biscuits is simply irresistible. However, there are many other ways to enjoy sausage gravy. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Over Toast: Pour the sausage gravy over a slice of toasted bread for a quick and easy breakfast.
• With Grits: Serve the sausage gravy over a bowl of creamy grits for a hearty Southern breakfast.
• With Eggs: Top scrambled or fried eggs with sausage gravy for a protein-packed breakfast.
• With Potatoes: Serve the sausage gravy over roasted or mashed potatoes for a filling breakfast or dinner.

For a complete breakfast, serve the sausage gravy with a side of bacon or sausage links and a fresh fruit salad. Don't forget to garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for added flavor and color.

If you're serving a crowd, consider setting up a biscuit bar with a variety of toppings such as grated cheddar cheese, sliced jalapenos, and diced tomatoes. Let your guests customize their own biscuits with their favorite toppings and a generous ladle of sausage gravy.

Whether you're serving a family breakfast or hosting a brunch with friends, my easy sausage gravy recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and let me know what you think!

Variations and Substitutions

Meat Varieties

While the traditional sausage gravy recipe calls for ground pork sausage, you can try different meat varieties to add a unique flavor to your gravy. You can use ground turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even bacon to make your gravy. You can also use a combination of meats for a more complex flavor. Keep in mind that different meats have different fat contents, so you may need to adjust the amount of fat in the recipe accordingly.

Dairy Alternatives

If you're lactose intolerant or vegan, you can substitute dairy products with non-dairy alternatives. You can use almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk instead of whole milk or heavy cream. You can also use vegan butter or margarine instead of butter. Keep in mind that non-dairy alternatives may affect the texture and taste of your gravy, so you may need to adjust the recipe accordingly.

Seasoning Adjustments

The seasoning is what gives the gravy its flavor. While the traditional recipe calls for salt, black pepper, and thyme, you can experiment with different herbs and spices to add a unique flavor to your gravy. You can try adding sage, rosemary, or paprika for a more complex flavor. You can also adjust the amount of seasoning to your taste. Keep in mind that some spices are stronger than others, so you may need to adjust the amount of seasoning accordingly.

Storage and Reheating

As a busy person, I love making a big batch of sausage gravy and storing it for later. Sausage gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for three to four days. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it in airtight heavy-duty freezer bags for up to one month.

When reheating sausage gravy, the quickest and easiest way is by using a microwave. Simply transfer your leftover sausage gravy into a microwave-safe bowl or container. Cover the bowl or container loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until the gravy is heated through.

If you don't have a microwave, you can reheat sausage gravy on the stovetop. Transfer the gravy to a saucepan and heat over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Be careful not to overheat the gravy, as it can become too thick or develop a skin.

It's important to note that once you've reheated sausage gravy, you should not reheat it again. Reheating the gravy multiple times can increase the risk of foodborne illness. To avoid waste, only reheat the amount of sausage gravy you plan to use.

In summary, sausage gravy can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. When reheating, use a microwave or stovetop and avoid reheating multiple times.

Nutritional Information

As with any recipe, it's important to understand the nutritional information of the dish you're making. Here's a breakdown of the key nutrients in an Easy Sausage Gravy Recipe.

Calories

One serving of Easy Sausage Gravy typically contains around 300-400 calories. This is due to the high fat content of the dish, which comes from the sausage and butter used in the recipe. If you're watching your calorie intake, it's important to keep this in mind and adjust your portion sizes accordingly.

Protein

Sausage is a good source of protein, and one serving of Easy Sausage Gravy can contain around 15-20 grams of protein. This is important for maintaining muscle mass and promoting feelings of fullness after a meal.

Fat

As mentioned earlier, Easy Sausage Gravy is high in fat due to the use of sausage and butter. One serving can contain around 20-30 grams of fat. While some types of fat can be beneficial for our health, it's important to keep our overall intake in check to avoid negative health outcomes.

Sodium

Sausage is also high in sodium, which can be a concern for people with high blood pressure. One serving of Easy Sausage Gravy can contain around 600-800 milligrams of sodium. To reduce the sodium content of the dish, consider using low-sodium sausage or omitting the added salt in the recipe.

Overall, Easy Sausage Gravy is a delicious and satisfying breakfast dish, but it's important to be mindful of its nutritional content. By understanding the key nutrients in the dish, you can make informed choices about portion sizes and ingredient substitutions to fit your dietary needs.

My Personal Experience with Easy Sausage Gravy Recipe

 

I recently tried making an easy sausage gravy recipe that I found online, and I have to say, it turned out really well. I followed the recipe closely, using mild sausage as suggested, and it came out creamy, flavorful, and delicious.

One thing I appreciated about this recipe was how simple it was to make. I didn't need any special ingredients or equipment, and the steps were easy to follow. I also liked that I could modify the recipe if I wanted to by using hot sausage or turkey sausage instead.

To make the recipe even easier, I used pre-made biscuits from the store instead of making them from scratch. The combination of the warm, flaky biscuits and the creamy sausage gravy was a perfect comfort food breakfast that my whole family enjoyed.

Overall, I would definitely recommend this easy sausage gravy recipe to anyone looking for a delicious and simple breakfast dish. It's perfect for a lazy weekend morning or for a special occasion like Christmas morning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are used to enhance the flavor of sausage gravy?

To enhance the flavor of sausage gravy, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, or a teaspoon of dried sage. Some recipes also call for onion powder, garlic powder, or paprika. Experiment with different ingredients to find the perfect flavor for your taste buds.

How can I thicken sausage gravy if it's too runny?

If your sausage gravy is too runny, you can add a slurry of flour and water. Mix equal parts flour and water in a small bowl until smooth, then slowly pour the slurry into the gravy while stirring constantly. Let the gravy simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.

What distinguishes country gravy from sausage gravy?

Country gravy is a blanket term for any type of gravy that is typically served with breakfast foods like biscuits and gravy. Sausage gravy is a type of country gravy that is made with ground pork sausage, flour, milk, and seasonings. Other types of country gravy may be made with bacon, ham, or no meat at all.

What are the essential components of a classic sausage gravy?

The essential components of a classic sausage gravy are ground pork sausage, flour, milk, salt, and pepper. Some recipes may also call for butter, onion, garlic, or other seasonings. The key to a good sausage gravy is to cook the sausage until it is browned and crumbled, then whisk in the flour and milk to create a smooth, creamy gravy.

Can I substitute butter in my sausage gravy recipe, and if so, how?

Yes, you can substitute butter for the sausage drippings in your sausage gravy recipe. Melt ¼ cup of butter in a skillet over medium heat, then whisk in ¼ cup of flour to create a roux. Slowly pour in 2 cups of milk while whisking constantly, then add cooked and crumbled sausage and seasonings to taste. Cook the gravy until it thickens to your desired consistency.

What are some tips for making the best biscuits to accompany sausage gravy?

To make the best biscuits to accompany sausage gravy, use cold butter and buttermilk and handle the dough as little as possible. Cut the butter into small pieces and work it into the flour mixture with a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs. Add the buttermilk and stir until the dough just comes together. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut the biscuits with a biscuit cutter and bake them in a hot oven until they are golden brown.

 

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