Biscuits and gravy is a beloved Southern dish that has stood the test of time. Whether you’re enjoying it for a hearty breakfast, a comforting brunch, or even a quick dinner, this dish never disappoints. The combination of fluffy, buttery biscuits with creamy sausage gravy makes for a comforting and satisfying meal. In this article, we’ll walk you through the best biscuits and gravy recipe, covering everything from the ingredients to the step-by-step preparation. Get ready to make this classic dish at home and impress your family with a homemade Southern favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Biscuits and Gravy Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 40 minutes.
- Deliciously Comforting: A rich, creamy sausage gravy paired with soft biscuits is the ultimate comfort food.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for breakfast, brunch, or even a special family gathering.
Ingredients for Biscuits and Gravy
Before you start cooking, gather these simple ingredients.
For the Biscuits:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 3/4 cup buttermilk, cold
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
For the Sausage Gravy:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork sausage works best)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kick)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Biscuits
Homemade biscuits are the best choice for this dish. They are soft, flaky, and buttery, making the perfect base for the creamy gravy.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cut in the butter: Add the cold butter cubes to the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the buttermilk: Pour in the buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
- Shape the dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Fold it over itself a few times to create layers.
- Cut the biscuits: Use a biscuit cutter or a glass to cut out biscuits and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage Gravy
Now that your biscuits are baking, it’s time to prepare the creamy sausage gravy.
- Cook the sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
- Add the butter: Once the sausage is cooked, add the butter and stir until melted.
- Make the roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sausage and stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes. This helps eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Pour in the milk: Slowly add the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Season the gravy: Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir well and let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
- Split a warm biscuit in half and place it on a plate.
- Ladle the rich sausage gravy generously over the biscuit halves.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or additional black pepper, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting classic!
Tips for the Best Biscuits and Gravy
- Use cold butter: Keeping the butter cold is crucial for flaky biscuits.
- Don’t overmix the dough: Overworking the dough can result in tough biscuits.
- Let the gravy simmer: Allowing the gravy to simmer ensures a thick and creamy consistency.
- Season to taste: Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
Variations of Biscuits and Gravy
While the classic version is always a hit, here are some variations you can try:
1. Cheesy Biscuits and Gravy
Add shredded cheddar cheese to the biscuit dough for an extra layer of flavor.
2. Spicy Sausage Gravy
Use spicy breakfast sausage or add more cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
3. Herb-Infused Biscuits
Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives into the biscuit dough for added depth.
Looking for more delicious breakfast and dessert recipes? Check these out:
4. Gluten-Free Biscuits and Gravy
Use a gluten-free flour blend for the biscuits and substitute a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch for the gravy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Biscuits and Gravy Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the gravy ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen it up. Biscuits can also be made in advance and stored in an airtight container.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The sausage gravy should be refrigerated and consumed within 3 days.
Can I Freeze Biscuits and Gravy?
Yes! Freeze biscuits in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months. The gravy can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Final Thoughts
Biscuits and gravy is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to the breakfast table. With this easy homemade recipe, you can enjoy restaurant-quality biscuits and gravy right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re making this for a weekend brunch or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please everyone. Try it out and let us know how it turned out!
Looking for more delicious breakfast recipes? Check out our other Southern-inspired dishes on MLNRecipe.com!