The Ultimate Guide to Southern Sausage Gravy

Southern Sausage Gravy is a quintessential comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any breakfast table. With just seven ingredients, this quick and easy recipe delivers a rich, creamy gravy that pairs perfectly with a variety of breakfast favorites. Serve it over homemade biscuits, English muffins, fried potatoes, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, omelets, or toast for a hearty start to your day.

Ingredients and Preparation

Essential Ingredients

To make this delicious Southern Sausage Gravy, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb. ground pork sausage: Preferably an all-natural breakfast sausage like Jimmy Dean All Natural or Bob Evans Naturally.
• ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes: For a subtle hint of heat.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create the roux.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy to the perfect consistency.
• 2 ½ cups whole milk: The base of the creamy gravy.
• Kosher salt: For seasoning.
• Fresh ground black pepper: Adds a flavorful kick.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by browning the pork sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break up the sausage as it cooks to ensure even browning. This step is crucial for developing the rich flavor base of your gravy.

Tip:

• Don’t drain the fat from the sausage. The fat is essential for absorbing the flour and adds a lot of flavor to the gravy.

Step 2: Add Butter and Red Pepper Flakes

Once the sausage is browned, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the crushed red pepper flakes and unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, mixing it with the browned sausage.

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour

Sprinkle half of the flour over the sausage mixture, stirring continuously until the fat absorbs the flour. Then, add the remaining flour and continue to stir and cook until fully absorbed. This process forms the roux, which will thicken the gravy.

Tip:

• Make sure to cook the flour thoroughly to eliminate any raw flour taste.

Step 4: Add the Milk

Gradually stir in the whole milk, whisking continuously over medium-low heat. Cook the gravy for about 10 minutes or until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Tip:

• If the gravy becomes too thick, add a couple of tablespoons of milk at a time until you reach the perfect consistency.

Step 5: Season to Taste

Finally, season the gravy with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, sausage is naturally salty, so taste the gravy before adding additional salt.

Tip:

• A generous amount of fresh ground black pepper enhances the flavor of the gravy.

Serving and Storing

Serving Suggestions

For the best results, serve the sausage gravy promptly while it’s hot and creamy. It pairs exceptionally well with:

• Homemade biscuits
• English muffins
• Fried potatoes
• Mashed potatoes
• Scrambled eggs
• Omelets
• Toast

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm the gravy on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at reduced power.

Tip:

• Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore the creamy consistency.

Tips for Perfect Sausage Gravy

1. Keep It Simple: Sausage gravy is best with minimal ingredients and effort. Sometimes, simplicity is the key to a great recipe.
2. Use Quality Sausage: Opt for all-natural breakfast sausage for the best flavor and texture.
3. Don’t Drain the Fat: The fat from the sausage is essential for making a flavorful and well-thickened gravy.
4. Adjust Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, gradually add milk until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Taste Before Seasoning: Sausage can be salty, so always taste the gravy before adding more salt.

FAQs

Can You Freeze Sausage Gravy?

Yes, you can freeze sausage gravy. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How Do You Reheat Sausage Gravy?

Reheat sausage gravy on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, or in the microwave at reduced power. Add a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.

What Can You Serve with Sausage Gravy?

Sausage gravy is versatile and can be served over homemade biscuits, English muffins, fried potatoes, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, omelets, and toast.

How Do You Thicken Sausage Gravy?

If your sausage gravy is too thin, you can thicken it by cooking it a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mix a small amount of flour with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the gravy and cook until it thickens.

Is Sausage Gravy Gluten-Free?

Traditional sausage gravy is not gluten-free because it contains all-purpose flour. However, you can make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free flour blend.

Can You Make Sausage Gravy Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make sausage gravy ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

By following this guide, you can create a delicious Southern Sausage Gravy that will become a beloved breakfast staple in your home. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the rich, creamy texture that make this dish a true Southern classic.