Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Grilled Cornbread with Country Sausage Gravy?
It is a hearty breakfast or brunch dish featuring homemade cornbread with corn and peppers, which is sliced, grilled, and topped with a creamy sausage gravy.
What temperature should I preheat the oven to for the cornbread?
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
How do I prepare the baking dish for the cornbread?
Thoroughly grease an 8x8x2 inch baking dish to prevent the cornbread from sticking.
What are the main ingredients for the cornbread batter?
The batter consists of cornbread mix, one egg, milk, cooked corn, diced red pepper, and ground cumin.
How long does it take to bake the cornbread?
The cornbread should bake for 25-30 minutes.
How can I tell when the cornbread is done baking?
It is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
How do I start the sausage gravy?
Cook the bulk breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart until it is browned and no longer pink.
When do I add the flour to the gravy?
Once the sausage is browned, reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the flour over the meat.
Why do I need to stir the flour into the sausage for a minute?
Stirring for about one minute helps to mix the flour with the fat and cook out the raw flour taste.
What type of milk is used in the sausage gravy?
The recipe calls for two 12-ounce cans of unsweetened evaporated milk.
How do I prevent lumps from forming in the gravy?
Gradually add the evaporated milk and water while stirring continuously.
How long should the gravy simmer?
Let the gravy simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
What should I do with the cornbread before grilling it?
Allow the cornbread to cool slightly and then slice it into squares.
How do I grill the cornbread squares?
Melt butter in a frying pan or griddle over medium heat and grill the squares on both sides until golden and crispy.
How do I assemble the final dish?
Place the grilled cornbread on a plate and generously ladle the warm sausage gravy over the top.
Can I use canned corn for the cornbread?
Yes, you can use fresh or canned corn; if using canned, make sure it is drained first.
What kind of spice is added to the cornbread for flavor?
Ground cumin is added to the batter to provide a hint of earthy flavor.
What kind of red pepper is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of fresh diced red bell pepper.
What type of sausage is recommended?
Bulk breakfast sausage is recommended for the gravy.
Is water added to the gravy?
Yes, one cup of water is added along with the evaporated milk.
What seasonings are used for the gravy?
The gravy is seasoned with garlic salt and fresh ground black pepper.
Should this dish be served immediately?
Yes, it is best served immediately while the cornbread is crispy and the gravy is warm.
What is a good side dish for this meal?
A fresh green salad pairs well with this dish for a more balanced lunch or dinner experience.
How many cans of evaporated milk are needed?
You will need two 12-ounce cans of unsweetened evaporated milk.
What size cornbread mix box is required?
The recipe uses one 15-ounce box of dry cornbread mix.
Does the recipe use whole milk for the cornbread?
Yes, one cup of whole milk is used for the cornbread batter.
What type of texture does grilling provide to the cornbread?
Grilling provides a crisp exterior and a soft interior.
How much butter is needed for grilling?
Use butter as needed to sufficiently grease the pan and brown the cornbread.
What should the heat setting be when browning the sausage?
The heat should be set to medium for browning the sausage.
Can I make this as a lunch or dinner?
Yes, although it is a brunch favorite, it is filling enough to be served at any time of the day.