Why You’ll Love these Southern Biscuits & Gravy
If you’re a fan of classic Southern comfort food, these homemade biscuits and gravy will absolutely make your weekend mornings worth waking up for. I can practically smell the savory sausage gravy bubbling on the stove already.
What’s not to love? Fluffy, buttery biscuits split open and smothered in thick, peppery gravy studded with crumbled sausage.
Top it with a sprinkle of shredded cheese that melts into creamy perfection. And those scrambled eggs on the side? Heaven.
The best part? This dish is surprisingly simple to make but tastes like you’ve been cooking all day.
What Ingredients are in Southern Biscuits & Gravy?
Southern-style biscuits and gravy is one of those stick-to-your-ribs breakfast dishes that brings comfort with every bite. The combination of fluffy, buttery biscuits topped with creamy, sausage-laden gravy creates the ultimate morning indulgence that’s been a staple on Southern tables for generations.
While restaurant versions are delicious, nothing beats the homemade version where you control the seasoning and can make it exactly how your family likes it.
- Baking powder biscuits (homemade or prepared)
- 1 pound pork sausage
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 quart milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Shredded cheese (optional topping)
- Scrambled eggs (for serving alongside)
When shopping for these ingredients, quality matters, particularly with the sausage. Look for a good-quality breakfast sausage with visible herbs and spices for the most flavorful gravy.
For the milk, whole milk creates the creamiest texture, but 2% will work in a pinch. And remember what the recipe warns – this hearty dish has an uncanny ability to “expand in your stomach at an alarming rate,” so maybe plan for a light lunch later!
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity, using pantry staples to create something truly special.
How to Make these Southern Biscuits & Gravy
Making Southern biscuits and gravy isn’t complicated, but there’s definitely a method to creating that perfect creamy consistency.
While your biscuits are baking in the oven (homemade or store-bought will work), it’s time to focus on that soul-satisfying gravy. Start by cooking 1 pound of pork sausage in a large, heavy skillet until it’s completely browned and cooked through.
Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked sausage from the pan, leaving behind that flavorful fat—this is liquid gold for your gravy base.
The secret to smooth, lump-free gravy lies in the roux. Leave about 4 or 5 tablespoons of sausage fat in the skillet (drain any excess), then sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour.
This is where you need to channel your inner whisking champion—stir quickly and constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Once your roux is smooth, it’s time for the most vital step: slowly pour in 1 quart of milk while whisking “like crazy” as the recipe colorfully puts it.
The gradual addition allows the liquid to incorporate without clumping. Keep whisking until your gravy reaches that perfect thick consistency that will cling beautifully to your biscuits.
For optimal results, consider investing in premium Greek cookware that distributes heat evenly and prevents scorching your delicate gravy mixture.
Many home chefs find using a tortilla soup maker provides excellent temperature control for delicate sauces like this gravy.
Now comes the personalization part. Taste your gravy and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Remember, the sausage already contributes salt and flavor, so start conservatively.
Add the cooked sausage back into the gravy, giving everything a good stir. When the biscuits come out of the oven, split them open and ladle that creamy, sausage-studded gravy generously over the top.
For a little extra indulgence, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top and watch it melt into gooey perfection. Serve with scrambled eggs on the side for a complete breakfast that might require a nap afterward—the recipe wasn’t kidding about its ability to “expand in your stomach at an alarming rate!”
Southern Biscuits & Gravy Substitutions and Variations
Several delicious variations can transform traditional Southern biscuits and gravy into something uniquely yours.
I love using turkey sausage for a lighter option, or adding heat with spicy chorizo or jalapeños mixed into the gravy.
Vegetarians can substitute mushrooms sautéed with herbs – they provide that meaty texture without the meat.
For the biscuits, try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or fold in some shredded cheese.
Dairy-free? Coconut milk makes surprisingly creamy gravy.
Going gourmet? Top with a poached egg or drizzle with hot honey.
The beauty of this dish is its adaptability while maintaining that comforting, stick-to-your-ribs quality we all crave.
What to Serve with Southern Biscuits & Gravy
While Southern biscuits and gravy can certainly stand alone as a hearty breakfast, pairing this rich dish with complementary sides creates a truly memorable meal.
I always recommend serving scrambled eggs alongside, just as the recipe suggests—their light, fluffy texture balances the heartiness of the gravy perfectly.
Fresh fruit adds a bright, acidic counterpoint that cuts through all that richness. Think sliced oranges or a simple berry medley.
For those with hearty appetites, crispy hash browns or country potatoes round out the plate nicely.
And don’t forget a strong cup of coffee to wash it all down!
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve planned your accompaniments, let’s talk about what makes Southern biscuits and gravy such an enduring classic.
It’s comfort food at its finest—warm, filling, and wonderfully unpretentious.
The magic happens when those flaky biscuits meet that creamy sausage gravy, creating a harmony of textures that’s simply irresistible.
And can we talk about that warning in the recipe? “This recipe has the ability to expand in your stomach at an alarming rate!” So true.
But isn’t that part of the charm?
For a different holiday option, consider serving alongside a hearty traditional stuffing that combines bread with savory ground meats and aromatics.
Much like chicken noodle soup, this dish offers that perfect combination of simple ingredients transformed into something deeply satisfying and comforting.
