How To Make Sausage Gravy

Learning how to make sausage gravy will change the way you do breakfast forever. This southern classic is simple to make and elevates your standard bread to a satisfying meal. 

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Whether you’re whipping up a hearty breakfast, brunch, or breakfast-for-dinner, sausage gravy is the ultimate comfort food that adds a punch of flavor to any meal.

Buttermilk biscuits were one of the first things I learned to make as a new wife. My grandmother made a pan of biscuits every day, so it was ingrained in me that’s just what wives do. It took me a lot of trial and error before finally getting it just right. 

After learning to make biscuits sausage gravy was the natural next step. The southern biscuit isn’t complete without a heaping spoonful of delicious sausage gravy. 

How To Make Sausage Gravy

So, what’s the secret to making the perfect sausage gravy? Let’s break it down step by step.

Equipment:

• Cast Iron Skillet- If you’re new to cooking with cast iron, check out my tips for cooking with cast iron.
• Whisk

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound ground sausage
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• ½ tsp Salt
• ½ tsp Pepper 
• Optional: Additional spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor

Step For Making Sausage Gravy

1. First, gather your ingredients. You’ll need ground sausage, flour, milk, salt, and pepper. And hey, if you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some extra spices like garlic powder or paprika to jazz it up a bit.
2. Now, heat a skillet over medium heat and toss in your ground sausage. Break it up with a spoon and let it sizzle away until it’s nice and browned. The aroma alone will have your mouth watering!
3. Once your sausage is cooked through, you may need to drain some of the fat. You’ll need 3-4 tablespoons of fat left over in the skillet. Next, sprinkle in some flour. This is what’s gonna give your gravy that thick, creamy consistency we all know and love. Stir it around until the flour gets all cozy with the sausage grease and forms a roux.
4. Next up, slowly pour in your milk while stirring constantly. This is where the magic happens, folks. As the milk heats up, the flour will work its thickening magic and transform the mixture into a rich, velvety gravy.
5. Remember to season it up! A generous pinch of salt and pepper will do the trick. Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Remember, you’re the boss of your gravy!
6. Now, just let it simmer away for a few minutes until it’s nice and thick. Keep stirring to prevent any lumps from forming. And trust me, the smell wafting through your kitchen right now? That’s what dreams are made of.
7. Once your sausage gravy reaches the perfect consistency, it’s time to dig in! Pour it over some warm, flaky biscuits or crispy hash browns for the ultimate comfort food experience. If you’re feeling extra fancy, top it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use different types of sausage for my gravy?

Absolutely! You can use any type of sausage you prefer, whether it’s spicy Italian sausage, mild breakfast sausage, or even turkey sausage. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

How do I store leftover sausage gravy?

Allow the gravy to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Can I make sausage gravy ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the sausage gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to adjust the consistency.

 Can I make sausage gravy without milk?

While milk is traditionally used to make sausage gravy, you can substitute it with alternative dairy-free options like almond milk or coconut milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor and consistency may vary slightly.

Tips for Making Sausage Gravy:

• Choose Quality Sausage: The flavor of your gravy largely depends on the sausage you use. Opt for high-quality sausage with a good balance of spices and fat content for the best results. We only use sausage from our pigs raised right here on the farm. 
• Brown the Sausage Well: Don’t rush the browning process. Let the sausage develop a deep, caramelized color to enhance its flavor and richness.
• Use the Right Flour-to-Milk Ratio: The ratio of flour to milk determines the thickness of your gravy. Start with the recommended measurements, but feel free to adjust as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
• Whisk Constantly: When adding the milk to the sausage and flour mixture, whisk continuously to prevent lumps from forming. A smooth, creamy gravy is what we’re aiming for!
• Season Gradually: It’s easier to add more seasoning than to fix an overly salty or peppery gravy. Start with a conservative amount of salt and pepper, and gradually adjust to taste.
• Let it Simmer: Allowing the gravy to simmer not only thickens it but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Be patient and let it work its magic!

Dishes that Pair Well with Sausage Gravy:

• Biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits are the classic pairing for sausage gravy. Whether homemade or store-bought, biscuits and gravy are a match made in comfort food heaven.
• Hash Browns: Crispy, golden hash browns are another fantastic companion to sausage gravy. The contrast in textures and flavors is simply irresistible.
• Fried Chicken: For a hearty and indulgent meal, serve sausage gravy over crispy fried chicken. It’s a Southern-inspired dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
• Eggs: Whether scrambled, fried, or poached, eggs add an extra layer of protein and richness to your breakfast with sausage gravy.
• Toast or English Muffins: If biscuits aren’t your thing, toast or English muffins are a great alternative for soaking up all that delicious gravy goodness.

And there you have it! With just a handful of ingredients and a little love, you’ve mastered the art of making sausage gravy from scratch. So whip up a batch, and let your taste buds do the happy dance. Trust me, they’ll thank you for it!

If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it! Thanks for visiting my farm. 

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