Few dishes define Southern comfort food as perfectly as rich, creamy sausage gravy ladled over warm, flaky biscuits. This Southern-style sausage gravy is a staple in classic country breakfasts, known for its savory, peppery flavor and velvety smooth texture. Whether you’re making a weekend brunch, a cozy family breakfast, or even a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy.
The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make. With just four main ingredients and a few easy steps, you can whip up a hearty, delicious meal that tastes like it came straight from a Southern diner.
Why You’ll Love This Sausage Gravy Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: Made with crumbled breakfast sausage, this gravy is loaded with savory goodness.
- Creamy and Velvety: The combination of flour and milk creates a smooth, luscious texture.
- Easy to Make: Requires only one pan and less than 20 minutes to prepare.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for brunch, holidays, or cozy mornings at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Sausage Gravy:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage – The key to a flavorful gravy. Use mild for a classic taste or spicy for a kick.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the gravy to a perfect, silky consistency.
- 2 cups whole milk – Creates a rich, creamy texture. You can substitute half-and-half for extra richness or 2% milk for a lighter version.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Enhances the flavors and adds a subtle heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Southern Sausage Gravy
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage and cook, breaking it up into small crumbles with a spoon or spatula. Stir occasionally until the sausage is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
Tip: Do not drain the grease. The rendered fat is what gives the gravy its depth and richness.
Step 2: Make a Roux
Reduce the heat slightly and sprinkle 1/4 cup of flour evenly over the cooked sausage. Stir continuously to coat the sausage and absorb the grease.
Let the flour cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This step removes any raw flour taste and helps create a smooth, lump-free gravy.
Step 3: Add the Milk
Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Increase the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
As the gravy heats up, it will start to thicken into a creamy, luscious consistency. This should take about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Reduce the heat to low and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well and let the gravy simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
If the gravy becomes too thick, add a splash of milk and stir until smooth.
Step 5: Serve Over Biscuits
Remove from heat and serve immediately over warm, buttery biscuits.
Pro Tips for the Best Sausage Gravy
- Use a Well-Seasoned Sausage: A high-quality breakfast sausage makes all the difference. Try one with sage or a bit of spice for extra flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Roux: Cooking the flour for a minute or two prevents a raw, floury taste.
- Adjust Thickness: If your gravy is too thick, add a splash of warm milk. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a little longer.
- Season at the End: Sausage already contains salt, so taste the gravy before adding additional salt.
What to Serve with Southern Sausage Gravy
The classic way to serve sausage gravy is over warm, flaky biscuits, but there are plenty of delicious options:
- Over Buttermilk Pancakes: A fun twist on classic biscuits and gravy.
- On Toast or English Muffins: A quick and easy breakfast option.
- With Hash Browns or Home Fries: Adds crispy texture to your plate.
- Over Scrambled or Fried Eggs: A protein-packed breakfast idea.
- As a Side for Fried Chicken: A Southern classic that never disappoints.
For a complete Southern-style breakfast, serve with crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and a hot cup of coffee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Gravy Ahead of Time?
Yes! Sausage gravy reheats well. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture.
Can I Freeze Sausage Gravy?
Yes! Let the gravy cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! While breakfast sausage is traditional, you can use:
- Spicy sausage for a bolder flavor
- Turkey sausage for a leaner option
- Sage sausage for a more herbaceous taste
Can I Make It Without Flour?
If you need a gluten-free option, replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch (use half the amount of cornstarch).
Why This Southern Sausage Gravy Recipe is a Must-Try
This Southern-style sausage gravy is more than just a breakfast staple—it’s a warm, comforting dish that brings people together. It’s quick, easy, and packed with rich, hearty flavors. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a brunch, or just craving a cozy meal, this recipe delivers every time.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never made homemade sausage gravy, this is the perfect recipe to start with. Simple, delicious, and deeply satisfying, it’s a classic dish that’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Try it today and enjoy the rich, creamy goodness of authentic Southern sausage gravy. And don’t forget to share your experience in the comments—we’d love to hear how it turned out for you!