Indulge in the comfort of homemade sausage gravy: a simple recipe for savoring every bite
What To Know
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Opt for a breakfast sausage with a blend of spices and herbs for maximum taste.
- Cooking the flour in the fat from the sausage removes the raw flour taste and creates a rich, nutty flavor.
Indulge in the warm, comforting embrace of homemade sausage gravy, a Southern culinary staple that transforms breakfast into a feast. With its rich, savory flavor and velvety texture, this gravy is a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Follow this step-by-step guide to master the art of making sausage gravy from scratch and elevate your breakfast game to new heights.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground breakfast sausage, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Sprinkle in the Flour: Once the sausage is browned, sprinkle the flour over the sausage and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Gradually Whisk in the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
4. Season to Taste: Season the gravy with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed.
5. Serve Warm: Serve the warm sausage gravy over biscuits, toast, or grits.
Tips for Perfect Sausage Gravy
- Use a flavorful sausage: The quality of the sausage will significantly impact the flavor of the gravy. Opt for a breakfast sausage with a blend of spices and herbs for maximum taste.
- Cook the flour: Cooking the flour in the fat from the sausage removes the raw flour taste and creates a rich, nutty flavor.
- Whisk constantly: Whisking constantly while adding the milk prevents lumps from forming.
- Adjust the consistency: The thickness of the gravy can be adjusted by adding more milk if it’s too thick or more flour if it’s too thin.
- Season to your liking: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings to create your own unique flavor profile.
Variations on Sausage Gravy
- Add vegetables: Sauté chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms with the sausage for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use different cheeses: Stir in shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.
- Add herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage can enhance the flavor of the gravy.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Pairing Suggestions
Sausage gravy pairs perfectly with:
- Biscuits: Fluffy, homemade biscuits are the classic accompaniment to sausage gravy.
- Toast: Toast provides a crispy base for the rich gravy.
- Grits: Creamy grits are a Southern staple that complements the savory gravy.
- Eggs: Fried, scrambled, or poached eggs are a protein-packed addition to a gravy-topped breakfast.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftover sausage gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze sausage gravy in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat the gravy over low heat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
The Ultimate Comfort Food
Sausage gravy from scratch is the epitome of comfort food. Its warm, savory flavors and velvety texture will warm your soul and fill your belly with satisfaction. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this homemade gravy will become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
A: Yes, you can substitute turkey sausage for pork sausage for a leaner option.
Q: What can I do if my gravy is too thick?
A: Add more milk, 1/4 cup at a time, until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
Q: Can I make sausage gravy ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make sausage gravy up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it over low heat before serving.
Q: What other spices can I add to the gravy?
A: Try adding paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder for extra flavor.
Q: Can I freeze sausage gravy?
A: Yes, you can freeze sausage gravy for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
