Southern Biscuits and Gravy

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm plate of Southern Biscuits and Gravy. This classic dish has been a staple in many households across the South, loved for its hearty and satisfying flavors. Picture it: buttery, flaky biscuits topped with rich, creamy sausage gravy—this dish is the ultimate breakfast comfort food, giving you that warm, cozy feeling with every bite.

Whether you’re preparing it for a leisurely weekend brunch or need a quick, filling breakfast to kickstart your day, this recipe brings the essence of Southern hospitality to your table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved dish. Ready to dive in? Let’s make some Southern magic happen in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Southern Biscuits and Gravy is a recipe you’ll return to again and again:

• Ultimate Comfort Food: Perfect for a cozy morning meal or brunch.
• Quick and Easy: A straightforward recipe that doesn’t require fancy ingredients or techniques.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
• Customizable: Adjust spices, add herbs, or try different sausage flavors to make it your own.
• Perfect for Crowds: Great for feeding a hungry family or hosting brunch guests.
• Hearty and Filling: A stick-to-your-ribs breakfast that keeps you full and satisfied.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the biscuits or gravy ahead of time for even quicker assembly.
• Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters can’t resist its creamy, savory goodness.
• A Southern Tradition: Enjoy a dish that embodies the warmth and charm of Southern cooking.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbohydrates: 30g, Fat: 30g

Ingredients

For the Biscuits:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
• 3/4 cup buttermilk

For the Sausage Gravy:

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Ingredient Highlights

• Buttermilk: Adds tang and creates tender biscuits.
• Breakfast Sausage: The star of the gravy; choose your preferred flavor.
• Whole Milk: Creates a creamy texture for the gravy.
• Cold Butter: Essential for flaky biscuit layers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Biscuits

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cut in Butter: Add cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add Buttermilk: Pour in the buttermilk and stir gently until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing.
5. Shape the Biscuits: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, pat it into a 1-inch-thick rectangle, and fold it over itself a few times to create layers. Cut biscuits using a round cutter.
6. Bake: Place biscuits on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Prepare the Sausage Gravy

1. Cook Sausage: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces. Do not drain the grease.
2. Add Flour: Sprinkle flour over the sausage and stir, cooking for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Pour in Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Season: Add salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Simmer until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Assemble the Dish

1. Split Biscuits: Split the warm biscuits in half and place them on a plate.
2. Spoon Gravy: Generously ladle the sausage gravy over the biscuits.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or a dash of black pepper for added flavor and visual appeal.

How to Serve

Serve Southern Biscuits and Gravy hot, with these ideas to enhance your meal:

1. Family-Style: Serve biscuits on a platter with gravy in a bowl for self-serving.
2. Add Sides: Pair with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or fresh fruit for a complete breakfast spread.
3. Make It Brunch-Worthy: Add mimosas or freshly brewed coffee for a special occasion.

Additional Tips

• Keep Butter Cold: For flaky biscuits, use cold butter and handle the dough as little as possible.
• Taste the Gravy: Adjust seasonings to suit your preference, especially the salt and pepper.
• Avoid Lumps: Whisk constantly when adding milk to the gravy for a smooth texture.
• Double the Recipe: Easily scale up the recipe to feed a crowd.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Gravy: Use spicy sausage and add crushed red pepper flakes.
• Cheesy Biscuits: Mix shredded cheddar cheese into the biscuit dough.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for both the biscuits and gravy.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms.
• Herbed Biscuits: Add chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the biscuit dough.

freezing and storage

These tips should help you enjoy your biscuits and gravy at your convenience—whether you want to make a big batch ahead of time or enjoy leftovers later. You can even freeze portions for busy days, ensuring you always have this comforting meal ready to go when you need it most!

• Before Baking: You can freeze biscuit dough before baking for a fresh-baked taste on a later day. After preparing the dough, scoop and shape it into biscuits, then arrange them on a baking sheet. Freeze the biscuits on the tray for about 1-2 hours, then transfer them into an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• After Baking: If you’ve baked your biscuits and have leftovers, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then store them in a freezer-safe bag. When reheating, wrap them in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes for that just-baked texture.
• Freezing Gravy:
• How to Freeze: To freeze gravy, first let it cool completely. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top freezer bags. If using bags, try to lay them flat to make storage more efficient. Gravy can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the bags with the date so you know when it was made.
• Reheating: When ready to use, thaw the gravy overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water if it’s too thick. Stir constantly to keep it smooth.

FAQ Section

Curious about making the perfect Southern Biscuits and Gravy? You’re not alone! This dish might seem straightforward, but a few tips and tricks can make all the difference. Here, I’ve answered some of the most common questions to ensure your biscuits are fluffy, your gravy is rich, and your meal is unforgettable. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, these FAQs will help you master this Southern classic.

• What’s the secret to fluffy biscuits?
• The key to light, airy biscuits lies in handling the dough gently and using cold ingredients. Cold butter or shortening creates steam pockets when baked, giving biscuits their flaky texture. Overworking the dough can develop gluten, leading to tougher biscuits, so mix just until combined and handle with care.
• Can I use store-bought biscuits instead of homemade?
• Absolutely! While homemade biscuits provide the ultimate flavor and texture, refrigerated canned biscuits or frozen options work well in a pinch. Bake them according to package instructions and focus on making a standout gravy.
• What type of sausage works best for the gravy?
• A good-quality pork breakfast sausage is the traditional choice, especially one with a hint of sage. However, you can experiment with spicy, mild, or even turkey sausage for a twist on the classic flavor. Just make sure the sausage you choose complements the creamy gravy.
• How do I thicken the gravy?
• The most common way to thicken gravy is with a roux made from equal parts flour and fat (usually the sausage drippings). After adding the flour, cook it for a minute or two before gradually whisking in milk. If the gravy ends up too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce. For extra thickness, mix a little flour with water to form a slurry and add it to the gravy.

Print

Conclusion

Southern Biscuits and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food, made with rich, flavorful sausage gravy poured over buttery, flaky biscuits. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you’re craving something hearty and satisfying.

What I love about this dish is how it’s both comforting and versatile. You can tweak the recipe to suit your tastes, whether you like your gravy extra creamy or with a little extra spice. Add in a side of crispy bacon or a fresh fruit salad to balance out the richness—either way, you’ve got a meal that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

Biscuits and gravy is also a great dish for gathering with family or friends. There’s something about sharing a big plate of this classic Southern dish that brings people together, whether it’s a lazy weekend morning or a special occasion. Plus, it’s pretty easy to whip up, so it won’t take hours to prepare, yet still feels like a homemade masterpiece.

Give this recipe a try and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite in your house! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I’d love to see your delicious creations! Let me know in the comments what variations or sides you paired with your dish, and happy cooking!