Oh my goodness, let me tell you about Southern biscuits and gravy! This dish is the epitome of comfort food, and it holds a special place in my heart (and my kitchen!). Growing up, Sunday mornings were all about the warm, flaky biscuits smothered in that rich, creamy sausage gravy. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone together, filling your home with a mouthwatering aroma that you just can’t resist. Trust me, when you take that first bite, the buttery biscuits paired with the savory gravy make for a heavenly combination! Whether it’s a cozy breakfast at home or a gathering with friends, Southern biscuits and gravy are sure to bring smiles all around. So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s just waiting to become a beloved staple in your household too!
Ingredients List
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
3/4 cup milk (plus more for the gravy)
1 pound breakfast sausage, crumbled
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for thickening gravy)
2 cups milk (for the gravy)
Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Southern Biscuits and Gravy
Preparing Southern biscuits and gravy is a delightful journey that ends with pure comfort on your plate! Let’s break it down into two easy parts: making those heavenly biscuits and whipping up that creamy sausage gravy. Trust me, you’re going to love every step of this process!
Making the Biscuits
First things first, let’s get those biscuits going! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) so it’s nice and hot when the biscuits are ready. In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. The secret to the fluffiest biscuits? Cold butter! So, grab that unsalted butter, cube it up, and cut it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. You want to see little pea-sized pieces of butter—it’s going to make your biscuits super flaky.
Next, pour in the milk and stir just until everything is combined. Don’t overmix! Gently turn the dough onto a floured surface, and knead it a few times until it comes together. Roll it out to about 1-inch thick and use a round cutter to cut out your biscuits. Place them on a baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until they’re golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Preparing the Gravy
While those biscuits are baking, let’s get to the gravy! In a skillet over medium heat, cook the crumbled breakfast sausage until it’s browned and crispy. The aroma is out of this world! Once it’s done, sprinkle the 1/4 cup of flour over the sausage and stir to combine. This will help thicken your gravy. Now, slowly add in the 2 cups of milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook until it thickens up to your desired consistency. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste! Once your biscuits are out of the oven, smother them generously with that luscious gravy. Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Southern biscuits and gravy turn out absolutely perfect! First off, don’t skip the cold butter—it’s essential for those flaky biscuits. If you want to make your biscuits even richer, feel free to swap out regular milk for buttermilk; it adds a delightful tanginess. Also, when it comes to the sausage, you can use turkey sausage for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor!
Another tip: when mixing your biscuit dough, remember to handle it gently. Overworking the dough can lead to tough biscuits, and nobody wants that! And for the gravy, if you prefer a creamier texture, try adding a splash of heavy cream right at the end. Trust me, those little tweaks can elevate your dish to a whole new level. Happy cooking!
Variations of Southern Biscuits and Gravy
Now, let’s get a little creative with our Southern biscuits and gravy! One of my favorite twists is to add some spice—try mixing in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the gravy for a kick that’ll wake up your taste buds. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider swapping out the breakfast sausage for chorizo. The smoky flavor gives the gravy an exciting twist!
Another delicious option is to incorporate herbs into your biscuits. Chopped fresh chives or parsley can add a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the gravy. And for those who are looking for a lighter version, using turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage can still deliver that savory goodness without the extra calories. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own favorite variation!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftovers (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), you’ll want to store them properly to maintain that delicious texture. To keep your biscuits and gravy fresh, place the biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For the gravy, store it in a separate container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, gently reheat the biscuits in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warm. For the gravy, warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen it up if it’s thickened too much. Trust me, you’ll want every bite to taste just as good as the first!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to comfort food like Southern biscuits and gravy, it’s good to know what you’re indulging in! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (that’s one biscuit with gravy):
Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 10g
Keep in mind, these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, like the type of sausage or milk. If you’re making any substitutions, just adjust accordingly, and enjoy every delicious bite of this classic dish!
FAQ Section
Can I use whole wheat flour for the biscuits?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in your biscuits. Just keep in mind that the texture might be a bit denser, so you may want to add a touch more milk to keep them moist and fluffy. I love the nutty flavor whole wheat brings to the table, making your Southern biscuits even more wholesome!
How can I make the gravy spicier?
If you’re looking to add a little heat to your sausage gravy, there are a few easy ways to do it! You can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while the gravy is simmering, or even better, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce. If you really want to kick it up a notch, consider using spicy sausage instead of the regular breakfast sausage. Your taste buds will thank you!
Can I make the biscuits ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the biscuit dough ahead of time. After cutting out the biscuits, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 30 minutes until firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag for storage. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw—just pop them in the preheated oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Fresh, warm biscuits will be just a moment away!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comforting and satisfying—perfect for any breakfast table!
Easy to make with simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
Flaky, buttery biscuits paired with creamy sausage gravy create a flavor explosion.
Customizable with spices, herbs, or different meats to suit your taste.
Great for feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy morning at home.
A dish that brings back memories and creates new ones around the table.
I share easy, flavorful recipes that make home cooking simple, fun, and totally satisfying. Let's get in the kitchen and create something delicious together!
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