There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of homemade biscuits and sausage gravy. Picture this: you rise on a peaceful Saturday morning, the scent of freshly baked biscuits filling your kitchen and inviting you to indulge in a moment of pure bliss. These biscuits are delightfully crispy on the outside and wonderfully fluffy on the inside, while the rich, peppery gravy envelops them in a warm embrace of savory goodness.
If you’ve found yourself growing weary of the usual breakfast options, this classic recipe is your delightful solution. With straightforward techniques and accessible ingredients, making this classic comfort food is not just easy; it’s an enjoyable way to start your day. Perfectly paired with family or friends gathered around the table, each bite will take you back to those nostalgic moments that remind us why we love homemade food. Get ready to impress your loved ones (and yourself!) with this irresistible morning treat.
Why Will You Love Biscuits & Gravy?
Comforting, Warm Embrace: There’s nothing quite like a plate of homemade biscuits and sausage gravy to kickstart your morning. Flaky, Crispy Biscuits are complemented by a Rich, Savory Gravy that offers a taste of nostalgia. Easy to Prepare, this recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple techniques, making it accessible for cooks of all levels. Plus, it’s Perfect for Sharing—ideal for gatherings or cozy brunches with loved ones. Don’t forget to check out my other comforting breakfast ideas to keep your mornings exciting!
Biscuits & Gravy Ingredients
For the Biscuits
• All-Purpose Flour – The base for flaky biscuits; consider using whole wheat for added nutrition.
• Baking Powder – This leavening agent provides lift; avoid substituting with baking soda.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the savory elements; optional for less sweetness.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; sea salt works as a good substitute.
• Unsalted Butter (very cold) – Ensures a rich, flaky texture; keep it cold until ready to use.
• Buttermilk – Adds moisture and tang; regular milk with vinegar can be used as a substitute.
For the Sausage Gravy
• Breakfast Sausage – The star protein; choose between spicy and mild based on your preference.
• Milk – Creates a creamy consistency in the gravy; whole milk or 2% works best.
• Cayenne Pepper – Infuses heat into the gravy; adjust according to your taste or omit for a milder dish.
• Black Pepper – Freshly ground offers the best flavor for seasoning.
Immerse yourself in the world of homemade Biscuits & Gravy with these essential ingredients!
How to Make Biscuits & Gravy
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 425ºF (220ºC) to ensure it’s hot and ready for your biscuits. This temperature is key for achieving the perfect crispiness.
Prepare Biscuit Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, and salt. Grate your very cold butter into this mixture and gently combine it, then stir in buttermilk until just combined.
Knead Dough: Lightly flour a surface and shape the dough into a 1” thick rectangle. Fold it in thirds, roll it out again, and repeat this process twice more to create layers. Cut the dough into eight even pieces.
Bake Biscuits: Place the dough pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter for an extra touch of richness. Bake for 20-22 minutes until they’re golden brown and flaky.
Cook Sausage for Gravy: In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned, about 8 minutes. Sprinkle the cooked sausage with flour, stirring to combine, then slowly whisk in milk. Cook until the mixture thickens, around 5-7 minutes.
Season and Serve: Season your gravy with salt, cayenne, and freshly cracked black pepper according to your taste. Split your warm biscuits in half, ladle the gravy over the top, and serve immediately for a delightful breakfast experience.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Biscuits & Gravy
Keep It Cold: Always use very cold butter and buttermilk. This is essential for achieving the flaky texture in your biscuits.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough biscuits instead of light and fluffy ones.
Layering Technique: Folding and rolling out the dough creates layers. This technique is key for those melt-in-your-mouth biscuits.
Gravy Consistency: If your gravy becomes too thick during reheating, simply add a splash of milk to bring it back to the desired consistency.
Seasoned Savory: Adjust cayenne pepper and black pepper according to your taste preferences; start with less if you’re unsure!
How to Store and Freeze Biscuits & Gravy
Room Temperature: Both biscuits and gravy are best enjoyed fresh, so avoid leaving them at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Fridge: Store leftover sausage gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it thickens.
Freezer: Biscuits can be frozen uncooked for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cooking time. Gravy can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw before reheating.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat biscuits in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes. For gravy, use a skillet over medium heat or microwave for short intervals.
Make Ahead Options
These Biscuits and Sausage Gravy are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting breakfast on busy mornings! You can prepare the biscuit dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. The sausage gravy can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, reheat the gravy gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much. When you’re ready to serve, bake the biscuits straight from the refrigerator and top them with the warmed gravy for a delightful meal that tastes just as delicious as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Biscuits and Sausage Gravy?
To create a memorable brunch experience, consider these delightful companions that enhance the flavors of your classic comfort dish.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits adds natural sweetness and freshness, perfectly balancing the savory gravy.
Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide additional protein and creamy texture, making your breakfast spread even more satisfying.
Crispy Bacon: Its salty and smoky crunch complements the rich gravy, enhancing each bite with a burst of flavor that makes your taste buds sing.
Roasted Potatoes: These crispy, herb-seasoned potatoes add heartiness to your meal, offering a delightful contrast to the softness of the biscuits.
Coffee or Tea: Whether you prefer a robust coffee or soothing herbal tea, these beverages provide the perfect pairing to sip alongside your savory dish.
Buttermilk Pancakes: For an extra indulgence, fluffy pancakes drizzled with maple syrup can create a mouthwatering combination of sweet and savory flavors.
Cheese Grits: Creamy, cheesy grits serve as a comforting side, bringing Southern charm to your breakfast table and complementing the biscuit and gravy beautifully.
Biscuits & Gravy Variations
Feel free to explore these delectable twists that will allow you to put your own unique spin on the classic taste.
Whole Wheat: Substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a heartier biscuit that adds a nutty flavor.
Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheese, like cheddar or pepper jack, into the biscuit dough for a gooey, melty surprise.
Herb-Infused: Add chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the biscuit mix for an aromatic touch that’ll elevate your breakfast experience.
Spicy Kick: Swap your breakfast sausage for chorizo or add a pinch of crushed red pepper to the gravy for an extra layer of spice.
Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based sausage or mushrooms in place of meat for a delicious vegetarian-friendly gravy that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Creamy Mushroom Gravy: Sauté mushrooms along with onions before adding flour; then proceed with the gravy for rich umami notes.
Southern Twist: Incorporate a splash of hot sauce into your gravy for a kick of heat that complements the savory profile beautifully.
Sweet Variation: Try adding a bit of honey or maple syrup to the biscuit dough for a subtly sweet contrast to the savory gravy.
Biscuits & Sausage Gravy Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my buttermilk is fresh enough to use?
Absolutely! Fresh buttermilk should smell tangy and have a creamy consistency. If it has an off odor or shows signs of curdling, it’s best to discard it. Generally, buttermilk lasts about 1-2 weeks past its sell-by date, but always trust your senses.
How should I store leftover sausage gravy?
Very simple! Store your leftover sausage gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 days. To reheat, use medium heat on the stovetop and add a little splash of milk to revive its creamy texture. Stir gently until heated through.
Can I freeze the biscuits and gravy?
Of course! You can freeze uncooked biscuits for up to 3 months. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time. As for the gravy, it can be frozen for up to 1 month; just thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I do if my biscuits turn out too dense?
If your biscuits are dense, it might be due to overmixing or using warm butter. To prevent this, ensure you’re using very cold butter and mix the dough only until combined to avoid developing gluten. Light folds can help keep them flaky as well.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage alternative. For those who may have allergies, be mindful that buttermilk can be replaced with a dairy-free option by mixing plain almond or soy milk with a teaspoon of vinegar to mimic the same tangy flavor.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Biscuits & Gravy for a Cozy Morning
Equipment
- - Oven
- - Mixing bowl
- - Skillet
- - Baking sheet
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Biscuits
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Consider using whole wheat for added nutrition.
- 1 tbsp Baking Powder Avoid substituting with baking soda.
- 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar Optional for less sweetness.
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt Sea salt works as a good substitute.
- 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter (very cold) Keep it cold until ready to use.
- 3/4 cup Buttermilk Regular milk with vinegar can be used as a substitute.
For the Sausage Gravy
- 1 lb Breakfast Sausage Choose between spicy and mild based on preference.
- 2 cups Milk Whole milk or 2% works best.
- 0.5 tsp Cayenne Pepper Adjust according to taste or omit for a milder dish.
- 1 tsp Black Pepper Freshly ground offers the best flavor for seasoning.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220ºC).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, and salt. Grate very cold butter into the mixture and gently combine it, then stir in buttermilk until just combined.
- Lightly flour a surface and shape the dough into a 1” thick rectangle. Fold in thirds, roll out again, and repeat this process twice more to create layers. Cut the dough into eight even pieces.
- Place dough pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter. Bake for 20-22 minutes until golden brown and flaky.
- In a skillet, cook breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned, about 8 minutes. Sprinkle cooked sausage with flour, stir to combine, then slowly whisk in milk. Cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season gravy with salt, cayenne, and black pepper to taste. Split warm biscuits in half, ladle gravy over the top, and serve immediately.