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If you are searching for a comforting, hearty breakfast that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, the Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. This classic Southern dish marries perfectly seasoned sausage with a rich, creamy gravy that’s ideal for spooning over fluffy homemade biscuits or toast. Simple yet incredibly satisfying, it’s a meal that fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas and the promise of a delicious start to your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is essential and plays a unique role in creating the lush, flavorful gravy that everyone raves about. The combination of sausage, flour, and milk comes together into a perfect creamy texture, while salt and pepper bring that essential depth of flavor.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: The star protein that provides savory flavor and juicy richness, forming the hearty base of the gravy.
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour: This acts as the thickening agent, transforming the sausage drippings into a luscious, creamy sauce.
- 3 cups whole milk: Adds silkiness and smoothness while balancing out the savory sausage with a hint of sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and ensures every bite is perfectly seasoned.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Gives the gravy a little kick and the classic savory warmth that defines this dish.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat, then add your breakfast sausage. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until all the pink is gone and the sausage is browned beautifully. The drippings that remain in the pan are crucial as they carry the sausage’s delicious flavor forward; resist the temptation to drain them.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the cooked sausage in the skillet. Stir continuously for about 1 to 2 minutes. This step is important because the flour will absorb those flavorful drippings, cooking just enough to lose its raw taste and create a thick, pasty base for your gravy.
Step 3: Add the Milk Slowly
Pour in the whole milk gradually while stirring constantly. This careful technique prevents lumps from forming and helps you achieve that luxuriously smooth texture. As you add the milk, the mixture will start to loosen and become creamy.
Step 4: Simmer Until Thickened
Keep cooking and stirring the gravy over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes. Be patient here; you’ll notice the gravy thickening to a consistency that beautifully coats the back of a spoon. This is when your kitchen will fill with the mouthwatering scent of sausage and cream melded together.
Step 5: Season and Taste
Finally, stir in salt and black pepper. Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning if you desire more punch or savory depth. Once it’s just right, it’s ready to be ladled generously over your favorite biscuits!
How to Serve Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
While this dish shines on its own, simple garnishes can elevate it even more. Freshly chopped parsley or chives add a vibrant green contrast, making the gravy pop visually and adding a slight herbal freshness that balances the richness.
Side Dishes
This sausage gravy pairs wonderfully with flaky buttermilk biscuits, which soak up every bit of the creamy goodness. For variety, try serving it alongside crispy hash browns or homemade scrambled eggs to create a full Southern-style breakfast feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to mix things up? Pour this sausage gravy over a warm baked potato or even creamy grits for an indulgent twist. It also makes a fantastic gravy topping for open-faced breakfast sandwiches stacked with eggs and cheese for a crowd-pleasing brunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover gravy, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The flavors deepen even more as it rests, and it’s easy to reheat for a quick breakfast or even a comforting dinner side.
Freezing
For longer storage, let the gravy cool completely and freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Gently warm the gravy in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to bring back the creamy, luscious consistency that makes this Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of breakfast sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner option and will work well in this recipe. Just note that the flavor might be a bit milder, so you may want to adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Is whole milk necessary or can I use a different type?
Whole milk provides the creaminess that defines this gravy, but you can use 2% milk if that’s what you have. For a richer result, some people even add a splash of cream.
How do I prevent lumps when adding the flour and milk?
Sprinkling the flour evenly over the cooked sausage and stirring constantly helps create a smooth paste before adding milk. Then, pour milk slowly while stirring to avoid lumps.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
Traditional sausage gravy relies on sausage and dairy milk, which are not vegan. However, you could experiment with plant-based sausage and non-dairy milk alternatives, adjusting seasonings accordingly for a similar effect.
What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk biscuits?
Any flaky biscuit or even toast can work. You can also try English muffins, cornbread, or even over steamed rice for a creative twist on the classic.
Final Thoughts
This Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe is a true kitchen treasure that never fails to satisfy. Its blend of simple ingredients and straightforward technique makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, yet the result is pure comfort food magic. If you’re craving a meal that’s warm, hearty, and utterly delicious, definitely give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite way to start the day.
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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: Southern American
Description
Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy is a classic Southern-style breakfast gravy made with savory breakfast sausage, creamy milk, and a touch of seasoning. It is perfect for serving over warm biscuits for a hearty and comforting meal that comes together quickly in about 20 minutes.
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 spatula and cook until it is fully browned, with no pink remaining. Leave the drippings in the pan for flavor.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle 1/3 cup all purpose flour evenly over the cooked sausage in the skillet. Stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes so the flour absorbs the drippings and forms a thick paste, which will help thicken the gravy.
- Pour in Milk: Slowly pour 3 cups of whole milk into the skillet while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming in the gravy.
- Simmer and Thicken: Continue cooking and stirring the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken gradually to your desired consistency.
- Season the Gravy: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot over warm biscuits for a traditional southern breakfast.
Notes
- Do not drain the sausage drippings; they add flavor and help thicken the gravy.
- Stir constantly when adding milk to prevent lumps.
- If gravy becomes too thick, you can thin it with a little extra milk.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
- Use fresh biscuits for an ideal pairing.
