Hearty Southern Sausage Gravy
This Hearty Southern Sausage Gravy is a comforting and nostalgic dish that transports you to a cozy kitchen in the heart of the South. Growing up, we savored this rich and savory gravy over fluffy biscuits, slices of fresh ripe tomatoes, light scrambled eggs, and soft white bread. The combination of pork sausage, hearty seasonings, and creamy milk creates a robust flavor profile that is versatile enough for any breakfast table. Feel free to customize it with maple sausage for sweetness, minced onions for texture, or a kick of crushed red pepper for heat. Perfect for lazy weekends or hearty family breakfasts!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
pork sausage
1 lb (bulk, for browning)
butter or bacon grease
3 tablespoons (for cooking)
all-purpose flour
1/4 cup (for thickening)
milk
3 cups (for gravy base)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (for seasoning)
ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, brown the pork sausage over medium-high heat until fully cooked and nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Ensure to break it apart as it cooks for even browning.
2
Once the sausage is cooked, transfer it to a bowl and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
3
Stir in the butter or bacon grease into the reserved drippings and let it melt over medium heat.
4
Add the flour to the melted fat and whisk constantly, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture turns a golden brown, forming a roux.
5
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form, and continue stirring until the gravy is smooth and begins to thicken, about 5-8 minutes.
6
Return the browned sausage to the skillet and mix well to incorporate.
7
Season the gravy with salt and ground black pepper, adjusting to taste.
8
Reduce the heat to low and let the gravy simmer for an additional 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to develop the flavors further.
9
Serve hot over biscuits, bread, or as desired. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Southern Sausage Gravy?
It is a comforting and nostalgic Southern dish featuring pork sausage, a flour-based roux, and creamy milk.
What type of sausage is best for this recipe?
Bulk pork sausage is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
Can I use maple sausage?
Yes, maple sausage can be used if you prefer a touch of sweetness in your gravy.
How can I make the gravy thicker?
You can thicken the gravy by simmering it longer or ensuring your flour and fat roux is well-developed before adding milk.
How can I make the gravy thinner?
If the gravy is too thick, gradually whisk in a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
What are traditional items to serve with this gravy?
It is traditionally served over fluffy biscuits, sliced tomatoes, scrambled eggs, or soft white bread.
Can I use bacon grease instead of butter?
Yes, bacon grease is an excellent substitute for butter and adds a smoky depth to the gravy.
How long does it take to brown the sausage?
The pork sausage typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes to fully cook and brown over medium-high heat.
What is a roux and how is it used here?
A roux is a mixture of fat and flour cooked together; in this recipe, it serves as the thickening agent for the milk base.
How long should I cook the flour mixture?
Cook the flour with the fat for about 3 to 4 minutes until it turns golden brown.
Why must I whisk the milk in gradually?
Adding milk slowly while whisking constantly prevents lumps from forming, ensuring a smooth gravy.
Can I add vegetables like onions?
Yes, minced onions are a great addition for those who want extra texture and a savory boost.
How do I add heat to the recipe?
To make it spicy, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the gravy.
How long does the gravy need to simmer?
The gravy should simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the gravy in advance and store it in the refrigerator for later use.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat the gravy on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen it if it has thickened in the fridge.
Is sausage gravy freezer-friendly?
Yes, it can be frozen, though the texture of the milk-based sauce may change slightly once thawed and reheated.
What kind of milk should I use?
Whole milk provides the richest and most traditional flavor, but other varieties will also work.
Can I use a milk alternative?
You can use unsweetened non-dairy milk, though the flavor profile will differ from traditional Southern gravy.
What if I do not have all-purpose flour?
All-purpose flour is standard, but you can try a gluten-free flour blend or a cornstarch slurry if necessary.
How many main ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 6 main ingredients: pork sausage, butter or grease, flour, milk, salt, and pepper.
Is this considered a breakfast dish?
Yes, it is a classic staple of a hearty Southern breakfast.
Can I serve this over toast?
Yes, serving this gravy over soft white bread or toast is a popular alternative to biscuits.
Why is my gravy lumpy?
Lumps usually form if the milk is added too quickly or if the mixture isn't whisked thoroughly.
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?
Yes, turkey sausage works, though you may need to add more butter or grease since turkey is leaner than pork.
What are the primary seasonings?
The gravy is simply seasoned with salt and ground black pepper to let the sausage flavor shine.
Should I drain the sausage fat?
Keep the drippings in the pan as they provide the essential base flavor for the roux and gravy.
Can I add heavy cream for richness?
Substituting a portion of the milk with heavy cream will result in an even richer, more decadent gravy.
Is this recipe suitable for large groups?
Yes, this recipe is very easy to double or triple for family gatherings or holiday breakfasts.
What is the best technique for browning the sausage?
Use a spatula to break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks to ensure even browning and a consistent texture.