There’s something deeply comforting about a hearty, savory pie — especially when it’s filled with rich sausage gravy and wrapped in buttery, flaky puff pastry. This Sausage Gravy Puff Pie is a modern twist on a Southern breakfast classic. Imagine creamy, peppery gravy encased in a golden, crispy crust — it’s pure comfort food bliss.
Perfect for brunch, cozy dinners, or even as a make-ahead weekend treat, this recipe is simple yet indulgent. With store-bought puff pastry, it comes together effortlessly, turning your favorite breakfast flavors into a showstopping meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp ground sage
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 package puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Sausage
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breakfast sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Stir occasionally for 7–8 minutes, until it becomes evenly browned and crumbly.
Drain any excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan to help form the roux. This small amount of fat will combine with the flour to create a creamy, smooth gravy base.
2. Add Flour to Create a Roux
Sprinkle the ¼ cup of all-purpose flour directly over the cooked sausage. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes to coat the sausage evenly and remove the raw flour taste.
This step is crucial for thickening the gravy later. The flour should absorb the remaining fat and form a slightly pasty texture that clings to the sausage.
3. Pour in the Milk
Slowly pour in the 2 cups of milk, a little at a time, whisking or stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Gradually incorporating the milk helps create a velvety, lump-free gravy.
Continue stirring as the mixture comes to a gentle simmer. Within a few minutes, it will start to thicken into a creamy, spoon-coating consistency.
4. Season the Gravy
Once the gravy has thickened, add the salt, black pepper, ground sage, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed — more pepper adds a traditional Southern kick, while the sage brings depth and warmth that pairs beautifully with sausage.
Reduce the heat to low and let the gravy simmer for about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When it reaches a smooth, rich texture, remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the crust.
5. Prepare the Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one sheet of puff pastry to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Gently press it into the bottom and up the sides, trimming any excess dough that hangs over the rim.
This bottom layer acts as a buttery, flaky foundation for the savory filling.
6. Assemble the Pie
Spoon the sausage gravy into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The filling should be thick but pourable — if it feels too stiff, stir in a splash of milk before adding it to the crust.
Next, roll out the second sheet of puff pastry and place it over the top of the pie. Press the edges together firmly, then crimp or twist the rim to seal it completely.
Using a sharp knife, cut a few small slits in the center of the top crust. These will allow steam to escape and help the pie bake evenly.
7. Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is puffed up and beautifully golden brown.
The aroma of buttery pastry and savory sausage will fill your kitchen — a sure sign that comfort food magic is happening in the oven.
When the crust is evenly browned and flaky, remove the pie and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This short cooling period allows the gravy to thicken slightly, making for clean, delicious slices.
Serving Suggestions
This Sausage Gravy Puff Pie is hearty enough to serve on its own, but a few sides can elevate it even more:
- With Breakfast Classics: Pair with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a full brunch spread.
- As a Dinner Dish: Serve with roasted vegetables, a green salad, or buttery mashed potatoes.
- For a Country Touch: Add a drizzle of homemade sausage gravy on top for extra indulgence.
Each bite delivers flaky pastry, creamy gravy, and flavorful sausage — a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Tips for Success
-
Use High-Quality Sausage:
A good sausage makes all the difference. Choose one with rich seasoning or even a hint of maple for a sweet-savory twist. -
Don’t Overfill the Pie:
Too much gravy can cause overflow during baking. Leave about ½ inch of space from the top edge of the crust. -
Vent the Top Properly:
The small slits help steam escape — without them, the pastry may puff unevenly. -
Egg Wash for Shine (Optional):
Brush the top crust with a beaten egg before baking for a glossy, golden finish. -
Make Ahead:
The sausage gravy can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Simply reheat it gently before assembling the pie.
Flavor Variations
Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, try experimenting with different versions:
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese into the gravy before assembling.
- Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and color.
- Spicy Southern: Use hot sausage and double the red pepper flakes for a bold, fiery kick.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the gravy for a more aromatic touch.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slices in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes, or until heated through. This keeps the pastry crisp and the filling creamy.
Avoid microwaving if possible — it tends to make the pastry soggy.
You can also freeze the pie before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, assemble the pie, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10 extra minutes to the cook time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients, big flavor: Everyday pantry staples come together in a restaurant-worthy dish.
- Perfectly balanced textures: Flaky pastry meets creamy filling for the ultimate comfort bite.
- Versatile meal: Works for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
- Make-ahead friendly: Great for meal prep or entertaining.
It’s everything you love about sausage gravy — rich, hearty, and comforting — tucked into a golden, buttery crust that’s irresistibly crisp on the outside and tender within.
Conclusion
This Sausage Gravy Puff Pie takes a humble Southern breakfast favorite and transforms it into a showstopping, all-in-one dish. With its creamy, savory filling and flaky pastry layers, it’s hearty enough for dinner yet elegant enough for a weekend brunch spread.
Each slice is a comforting bite of golden perfection — and once you make it, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Serve it warm, savor slowly, and enjoy the beautiful blend of flavors and textures that only a homemade pie can deliver.