If you have ever craved a breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than the Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe. This classic Southern comfort food delivers creamy, peppery sausage gravy with perfectly browned bits of breakfast sausage, creating a rich, hearty sauce that’s simply irresistible atop fluffy biscuits. It’s a dish that’s incredibly simple yet profoundly satisfying, making every morning feel like a special occasion or a cozy weekend treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe is a breeze because it relies on a handful of pantry staples. Each ingredient plays an essential role in crafting the dish’s signature creamy texture and savory flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: Choose a flavorful pork sausage with herbs and spices for that authentic richness and bold taste.
- 1/3 cup all purpose flour: This is the thickening agent that blends with the sausage drippings to create a luscious, smooth gravy.
- 3 cups whole milk: Whole milk provides the creamy base that makes the gravy comforting without being too heavy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the seasoning perfectly without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and a bit of spice to keep this gravy flavorful and interesting.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until it’s fully browned with no pink remaining. Don’t drain the drippings as they carry all the wonderful flavor that will enrich the gravy.
Step 2: Add the Flour
Sprinkle the all purpose flour evenly over the sausage. Stir continuously for a minute or two, allowing the flour to absorb the drippings and form a thick paste. This is your base for that signature gravy texture.
Step 3: Pour in the Milk Slowly
While stirring constantly, slowly pour in the whole milk to prevent lumps from forming. This step is crucial to keeping your gravy silky smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Thicken the Gravy
Continue cooking and stirring the mixture for about 5 to 7 minutes until the gravy reaches your desired thickness. It should coat the back of a spoon with a rich, velvety consistency.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finally, stir in the salt and black pepper. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve this delicious sausage gravy hot over freshly baked biscuits and prepare for a breakfast love affair.
How to Serve Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
While the gravy shines on its own, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a lovely touch of color and a fresh pop of flavor that brightens each bite.
Side Dishes
Pair your sausage gravy with crispy fried potatoes or fresh fruit for a balanced meal that offers both comfort and freshness. A side of scrambled eggs can also round out this classic breakfast beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by serving the Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe over mashed potatoes for a Southern-inspired dinner twist, or dollop it atop a savory breakfast casserole to add extra decadence and appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover sausage gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it easy to enjoy your favorite breakfast flavor without starting from scratch.
Freezing
This gravy freezes well too; just pop it into a freezer-safe container and it will keep for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve its creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat the gravy gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much during storage, whisk in a splash of milk to loosen it back up and restore that perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner option and works well in this recipe, though it may produce slightly less grease to form the gravy base, so you might need to add a bit of butter or oil for richness.
What can I substitute for whole milk?
You can use 2% milk if needed, but whole milk gives the richest, creamiest texture. For a dairy-free twist, unsweetened almond or oat milk can be tried, though the result will be a bit lighter.
How thick should the gravy be?
The ideal gravy consistency is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. If it’s too thick, stir in a little more milk. If too thin, let it cook a bit longer to reduce.
Can I make this gravy vegan?
To make a vegan version, use plant-based sausage crumbles and a dairy-free milk alternative, thickening with flour or cornstarch as usual. The flavor will differ but remains comforting.
What’s the best biscuit to pair with this gravy?
Fluffy, flaky buttermilk biscuits are the perfect match, soaking up the rich gravy while adding a tender crumb that enhances every bite wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
The Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that brings pure joy to the table. Its simplicity, combined with deep, comforting flavors, creates a dish you’ll find yourself craving again and again. Go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this hearty, soul-satisfying gravy the next time you want to elevate your breakfast game.
Print
Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Southern
Description
This classic Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy recipe is a creamy, savory breakfast staple featuring browned breakfast sausage simmered in a rich flour and milk gravy, seasoned simply with salt and black pepper. Perfect served hot over fluffy biscuits for a comforting and hearty meal.
Ingredients
Sausage Gravy Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1/3 cup all purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 pound of breakfast sausage. Break the sausage apart with a spoon and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned thoroughly with no pink remaining. Do not drain the drippings as they add flavor to the gravy.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle 1/3 cup all purpose flour evenly over the cooked sausage. Stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the flour to absorb the sausage drippings and form a thick, golden paste that will thicken the gravy.
- Incorporate Milk: Slowly pour in 3 cups of whole milk while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Ensure the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Simmer Until Thickened: Continue cooking and stirring the gravy for 5 to 7 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness. The gravy should coat the back of a spoon and have a velvety texture.
- Season and Serve: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the sausage gravy hot over freshly baked biscuits for a classic Southern breakfast treat.
Notes
- Do not drain the sausage drippings; they provide essential flavor and fat for thickening the gravy.
- Continue stirring constantly when adding the milk to prevent lumps from forming.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially if you prefer a spicier or saltier gravy.
- Serve immediately over warm biscuits for the best texture and flavor.
