If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to a comfort breakfast that warms your soul and fills your kitchen with irresistible aroma, this Easy Sausage Gravy Recipe is your new best friend. Silky, creamy gravy studded with savory, browned sausage bits creates that classic Southern charm right on your plate. Whether you’re serving it over fluffy biscuits or straight from the skillet, this dish turns simple pantry staples into a breakfast masterpiece you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Good food starts with good ingredients, and this recipe is no exception. The simplicity of the ingredients allows each flavor to shine through while working together to create that perfect creamy texture and rich, savory taste.
- 1 pound bulk ground pork breakfast sausage: Using either mild or hot sausage lets you control the spice level and adds that essential meaty depth.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This acts as the thickening agent, giving the gravy its luscious, velvety consistency.
- 2 to 2 1/2 cups milk: Whole milk or 2% works best to make the gravy creamy without being too heavy.
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the other flavors subtly and perfectly.
- Pepper: Black pepper is a must for seasoning, adding that classic kick that transforms simple gravy into something unforgettable.
How to Make Easy Sausage Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat and adding the bulk sausage straight into the pan. Crumble it up as it cooks, and make sure you let it brown well — don’t rush this part! The browning process creates those deep, caramelized flavors that form the backbone of this gravy. Remember, keep all that tasty fat in the pan; don’t drain it off.
Step 2: Add the Flour
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the browned sausage. Stir it constantly for 2 to 3 minutes. This cooks off the raw flour taste and helps build the roux base, which is crucial for that perfect, thick gravy texture.
Step 3: Slowly Add Milk and Simmer
Now, the magic begins — slowly pour in your milk, stirring well after every addition. This gradual incorporation prevents lumps and encourages a smooth, creamy sauce. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and stir frequently as the gravy thickens. Adjust the milk amount depending on how thick or thin you prefer your gravy. Finally, season generously with salt and plenty of black pepper. Your Easy Sausage Gravy Recipe is ready as soon as it reaches that perfect, silky coating consistency. Serve straight away for the best experience.
How to Serve Easy Sausage Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is all about adding a little extra freshness or texture to complement the rich gravy. Try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and mild freshness, or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you love a sneaky bit of heat. A light dusting of cracked black pepper just before serving also heightens the aroma and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
While biscuits are the timeless companion to this Easy Sausage Gravy Recipe, don’t hesitate to switch things up. Cornbread, toast, or even crispy hash browns work beautifully to soak up that creamy goodness. For a heartier breakfast, serve it alongside scrambled eggs or sautéed greens for a well-rounded plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking outside the biscuit? Use this gravy over baked potatoes, morning waffles, or spoon it generously atop a breakfast casserole. For a brunch party, offer it as a gravy bar with various bread options and toppings like shredded cheese, fried onions, or diced jalapeños so everyone can customize their plates.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers of this Easy Sausage Gravy Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should keep beautifully for up to 3 days, maintaining that rich flavor and creamy texture.
Freezing
Freezing the gravy is a great way to save time on busy mornings. Cool the gravy completely, place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Just be aware the texture can change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy the gravy again, thaw it overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to bring back the smooth texture. If the gravy thickens a bit too much, simply add a splash of milk to loosen it up and stir well before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional pork breakfast sausage is classic, you can experiment with turkey sausage or even spicy Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful of the seasoning adjustments needed since some sausages come pre-seasoned.
Is there a dairy-free version of this gravy?
You can substitute the milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk. Choose an unsweetened and plain variety to keep the savory flavor intact. Keep in mind the texture may be slightly different but still delicious.
How can I make this gravy spicier?
To turn up the heat, start with hot sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes while cooking. Adding freshly ground black pepper generously at the end also boosts the spiciness naturally.
What’s the best biscuit to serve with this gravy?
Buttery, flaky homemade biscuits are ideal, but flaky store-bought biscuits or even flaky croissants work beautifully as well. The key is having something sturdy enough to handle soaking up the creamy gravy without falling apart.
Can I prepare any steps ahead of time?
You can brown the sausage and prepare the roux with flour ahead of time, refrigerating it for up to a day. When ready to serve, just add the milk, simmer, and finish the seasoning for fresh, hot gravy in minutes.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Easy Sausage Gravy Recipe enough for those cozy mornings or whenever you want that soul-satisfying taste of home. It’s straightforward, quick, and delivers big on flavor every time. Give it a whirl, and I promise it will become a priceless staple in your breakfast routine.
Print
Easy Sausage Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
A classic Southern breakfast favorite, this easy sausage gravy recipe is creamy, flavorful, and perfect served over warm biscuits. Made with browned breakfast sausage, a simple flour roux, and rich milk, it comes together in just 20 minutes for a comforting start to your day.
Ingredients
Sausage Gravy
- 1 pound bulk ground pork breakfast sausage (mild or hot)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 to 2 1/2 cups milk
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, crumble and cook the sausage until browned, allowing it to develop a deep, flavorful crust. Do not drain off the grease as it will help create the gravy base.
- Add flour: Sprinkle the flour evenly over the browned sausage. Stir constantly for 2 to 3 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and form a roux that will thicken the gravy.
- Incorporate milk: Gradually add milk, about 1/2 cup at a time, stirring well after each addition to combine. Reduce heat to a simmer and continue stirring frequently until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
- Season and serve: Season the gravy with salt and plenty of freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately over warm biscuits or your choice of bread.
Notes
- Use either mild or hot breakfast sausage depending on your spice preference.
- For thinner gravy, add more milk gradually. For thicker gravy, stick closer to 2 cups of milk.
- Don’t drain the sausage grease as it adds essential flavor and richness.
- Serve the gravy immediately after cooking for the best texture and flavor.
- Leftover gravy can be refrigerated and gently reheated over low heat with a splash of milk to loosen it.
