If you have a soft spot for classic Southern comfort food, then the Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. This rich, creamy, and perfectly seasoned gravy pairs flawlessly with fluffy biscuits, creating a hearty dish that satisfies every craving for warmth and flavor. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy weekend breakfast or feeding a crowd, this recipe brings together simple ingredients that transform into a luscious sauce loaded with savory sausage goodness and peppery zing. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind the Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe lies in how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are. Each item plays a crucial role: the sausage brings meaty richness, the flour thickens the gravy to just the right texture, and the milk creates that silky smooth finish you’ll crave. The salt and pepper balance the flavors perfectly, making every bite a pure joy.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: Use a good quality sausage for the best flavor and fat content which enhances the gravy’s richness.
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour: This absorbs the sausage drippings to create a thick and creamy sauce.
- 3 cups whole milk: Whole milk ensures a velvety texture and adds a gentle creaminess that’s key to authentic gravy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances the overall flavor of the gravy.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a subtle spiciness that perfectly complements the sausage.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Brown the sausage
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding the breakfast sausage. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks and let it brown fully until there are no pink bits left. Don’t drain the drippings because those flavorful fats form the base of your gravy’s richness.
Step 2: Add the flour
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the browned sausage. Stir it constantly for 1 to 2 minutes so the flour can soak up all those lovely drippings and transform into a roux-like paste. This step is crucial because it prevents lumping later and thickens your gravy beautifully.
Step 3: Pour in the milk
Slowly pour the whole milk into the skillet while continuing to stir vigorously. Adding the milk gradually and stirring constantly keeps the mixture smooth and lump-free, setting you up for that silky consistency that makes this Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe so irresistible.
Step 4: Thicken the gravy
Keep cooking and stirring the gravy over medium heat for another 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll notice it gradually thickening—when it coats the back of a spoon to your liking, you’ve hit the perfect spot for serving.
Step 5: Season and taste
Finish by stirring in salt and black pepper. Give the gravy a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remember, good seasoning is the secret to turning a simple dish into something spectacular, and this recipe knows exactly how to nail it every time.
How to Serve Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, chives, or even a little shredded cheddar on top can add a colorful, fresh touch to your sausage gravy. These garnishes not only elevate the presentation but also bring subtle bursts of flavor that complement the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
This sausage gravy is classic when served over warm, flaky buttermilk biscuits, but don’t stop there. Try it alongside crispy fried potatoes, scrambled eggs, or even spooned over roasted vegetables for a truly comforting breakfast or brunch experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe to the next level by serving it over pancakes or waffles for a sweet-savory twist. Or create a hearty breakfast casserole by layering biscuits, sausage gravy, and cheese before baking until golden. These fun presentations are perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftover sausage gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days, giving you plenty of time to enjoy second helpings without any hassle.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe handy for longer, it freezes beautifully. Place it in a freezer-safe container and keep for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it slowly in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat the gravy gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. Adding a splash of milk while warming can help bring back its creamy consistency if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving as direct heat can cause uneven heating or separation.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of breakfast sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage can be a leaner alternative and will still provide great flavor, though the gravy may be slightly less rich. Just be sure to use a flavorful turkey sausage to keep that classic taste.
What can I substitute for whole milk?
Whole milk is preferred for creaminess but you can use 2% milk if needed. Avoid skim milk as it won’t provide the desired thickness or richness in your gravy.
How do I prevent lumps in my gravy?
The key is to sprinkle the flour evenly over the cooked sausage and stir continuously to create a smooth paste before adding milk slowly while stirring constantly. Patience here makes all the difference!
Is this recipe spicy?
The pepper adds a nice mild heat but this gravy is not spicy. You can always adjust the amount of black pepper or add a pinch of cayenne for a little extra kick if you like.
Can I make this sausage gravy vegetarian?
Traditional sausage gravy depends on the sausage drippings for flavor, but you could try using a plant-based sausage alternative and vegetable broth with some butter or oil. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will differ from the classic Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting about a generous helping of sausage gravy smothered over warm biscuits, and the Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe nails that nostalgic feeling with every creamy, peppery bite. It’s simple, dependable, and downright delicious—just like a hug on a plate. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this Southern classic. You won’t regret it!
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
This classic Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy recipe features hearty breakfast sausage cooked in a rich and creamy flour-thickened milk gravy, flavored with salt and black pepper. Perfectly served over warm biscuits, this comforting Southern favorite comes together quickly in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying and savory breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
Sausage Gravy
- 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, stirring occasionally, until it is fully browned with no pink remaining. Do not drain the drippings as they will add flavor and fat needed for the gravy.
- Add the Flour: Sprinkle 1/3 cup all purpose flour evenly over the cooked sausage in the skillet. Stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the flour to absorb the sausage drippings, cooking off the raw flour taste and forming a thick paste.
- Pour in the Milk: Slowly pour in 3 cups of whole milk while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Make sure to incorporate the milk thoroughly into the sausage and flour mixture.
- Simmer to Thicken: Continue cooking and stirring the mixture over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Stir regularly to avoid sticking or burning on the bottom of the pan.
- Season and Serve: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the sausage gravy hot over freshly baked biscuits for a comforting breakfast treat.
Notes
- Do not drain the fat from the sausage; it is essential for creating rich gravy.
- Use whole milk for a creamy texture, but you can substitute with 2% milk for a lighter version.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste preference, especially the black pepper, which adds the characteristic flavor.
- This gravy freezes well; store in airtight containers and reheat gently on the stovetop while stirring.
- For gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
