There is nothing quite like the comforting embrace of homemade sausage gravy draped over warm, flaky biscuits, and the Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe delivers exactly that with effortless charm. This classic Southern-style gravy is rich, creamy, and packed with bursts of savory sausage flavor that make it a true breakfast game-changer. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weekend brunch or need a crowd-pleaser for your morning gathering, this recipe transforms just a handful of simple ingredients into a hearty, soul-satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen not only for flavor but also for texture and richness, coming together to create a perfectly balanced dish that’s both indulgent and easy to make.
- 1 lb breakfast sausage: Choose mild or spicy depending on your taste preference, as this is the star protein that sets the foundation of the gravy’s flavor.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: This acts as the thickening agent, creating that luscious gravy texture that clings beautifully to biscuits.
- 2-3 cups milk: Whole milk is best for creaminess, and adjusting the quantity allows you to control how rich or thick your gravy turns out.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together and elevate the savory profile.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat adds exciting depth and contrast to the creamy gravy.
- 1 tsp crushed garlic (optional): For an added layer of warmth and aromatic richness, which makes the gravy even more irresistible.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat, then add the breakfast sausage. Use a spatula to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. This allows the sausage to brown evenly while releasing its flavorful fats, which will infuse the entire gravy with richness. Cook until the sausage is no longer pink and has a nice golden hue, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Flour
Once your sausage is beautifully browned, sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the meat. Stir everything well to coat the sausage with the flour, then cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. This step helps get rid of that raw flour taste and starts building the thick base of your gravy.
Step 3: Pour in the Milk
Next, slowly add the milk while stirring continuously. This gradual incorporation ensures the mixture stays smooth without lumps. It will take about 5 minutes for the milk to thicken and transform into the classic creamy sauce you’re aiming for. Feel free to adjust the milk amount to make the gravy as thick or as saucy as you like.
Step 4: Season to Perfection
With the base gravy forming, season it with salt and pepper to taste. If you want to give your gravy a bit of a spicy kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. For those who love a touch of garlicky warmth, now’s the perfect time to add the crushed garlic. These additions personalize the dish to your liking.
Step 5: Finish Cooking to Desired Consistency
Keep stirring the gravy over medium heat as it thickens and becomes velvety smooth. Patience here pays off in a perfectly textured gravy that clings beautifully to whatever it’s served over. When it reaches your ideal thickness, it’s ready to enjoy.
Step 6: Serve Over Warm Biscuits
The final and most rewarding step is serving the sausage gravy hot and steaming over freshly baked biscuits. The contrast of flaky bread and creamy sausage makes for a breakfast experience that never fails to be comforting and satisfying.
How to Serve Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives can add a pop of color and a hint of fresh flavor to brighten the hearty dish. For extra richness, a pat of melting butter on top of the biscuits before ladling the gravy adds a lovely indulgent touch.
Side Dishes
This gravy pairs wonderfully with classic Southern sides like scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or fried green tomatoes. Fresh fruit salad or a simple green salad can provide balance if you’re aiming for a more rounded breakfast plate without overwhelming the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch twist, serve the Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe over waffles or even roasted potatoes. You can also use it as a decadent sauce for biscuits topped with poached eggs or add it to a breakfast casserole for extra creaminess and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the gravy is completely cooled before sealing to maintain its freshness and texture.
Freezing
Sausage gravy freezes well, making it a convenient option for busy mornings. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your gravy gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If needed, add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce and restore that creamy, pourable consistency. Avoid microwaving without stirring as it can cause uneven heating.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of breakfast sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner option and works well, though it may produce slightly less fat to cook the gravy in, so consider adding a bit of butter or oil for richness.
How can I make the gravy spicier?
Adding more red pepper flakes or using spicy breakfast sausage will increase the heat level. You can also incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Is this gravy gluten-free?
Traditional all-purpose flour contains gluten, so this recipe is not gluten-free as written. However, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to make a similar gravy.
How thick should the gravy be?
The ideal consistency is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon without being gloopy or pasty. It should pour smoothly over biscuits but not run off like a sauce.
Can I prepare the sausage ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the sausage a day in advance and store it separately in the fridge. When ready to make the gravy, just add flour and milk as usual to continue the recipe seamlessly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe that makes every breakfast feel like a celebration. It’s easy, satisfying, and endlessly versatile — perfect for anyone who loves a hearty, flavorful start to their day. I encourage you to give it a try soon, and watch how it quickly becomes one of your favorite go-to recipes for breakfast or brunch gatherings with friends and family.
Print
Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy recipe is a rich and creamy Southern classic made with browned breakfast sausage and a smooth, thick flour-based gravy. Perfect served over warm biscuits for a comforting breakfast or brunch, this simple skillet-cooked gravy combines savory sausage with a velvety sauce seasoned to taste with salt, pepper, and optional hints of garlic and red pepper flakes.
Ingredients
Sausage Gravy Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2–3 cups milk (whole milk works best)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, optional
- 1 tsp crushed garlic, optional (for added flavor)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage while breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Continue until the sausage is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Flour: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the cooked sausage. Stir thoroughly to combine and cook the mixture for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Pour in the Milk: Gradually add 2-3 cups of milk to the skillet, stirring constantly. Continue stirring until the gravy begins to thicken, which should take about 5 minutes. Adjust the milk quantity to reach your desired consistency.
- Season the Gravy: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If desired, incorporate red pepper flakes and crushed garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
- Thicken the Gravy: Continue stirring the gravy until it achieves a smooth and thick texture.
- Serve: Immediately spoon the sausage gravy over warm biscuits and enjoy.
Notes
- Use whole milk for creamier texture; low-fat milks may yield thinner gravy.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste preferences; red pepper flakes add a slight kick.
- For a spicier version, choose spicy breakfast sausage.
- This gravy is best served fresh but can be gently reheated on the stovetop with a splash of milk.
- Serve over freshly baked biscuits for a classic Southern breakfast experience.
