Traditional Southern Sausage Gravy Recipe – A Comfort Food Classic

Few breakfasts are as iconic and comforting as biscuits and sausage gravy. This hearty Southern staple has been enjoyed for generations, often passed down through family kitchens as a simple yet satisfying dish. With creamy, peppery gravy and flavorful sausage poured over warm, fluffy biscuits, this recipe brings together everything you want in a comforting morning meal.

In this guide, we’ll go beyond just the basic recipe—we’ll talk about the history, ingredients, variations, serving suggestions, and even tips for making the gravy ahead of time. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to prepare a restaurant-quality sausage gravy at home.

What Is Sausage Gravy?

Sausage gravy is a traditional Southern-style gravy made by cooking breakfast sausage, stirring in flour to absorb the drippings, and slowly whisking in milk until the mixture thickens into a creamy, savory sauce. It is usually seasoned with plenty of black pepper and served hot over buttermilk biscuits.

This dish became popular in the American South because it was inexpensive to make and incredibly filling—perfect for feeding large families or farm workers before a long day of work. Today, it’s considered one of the ultimate comfort foods.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make a classic sausage gravy, you only need a handful of simple ingredients:

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild, spicy, or sage-flavored depending on preference)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (helps thicken the gravy)
• 3 cups whole milk (for the richest flavor)
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• Optional add-ins: pinch of cayenne, garlic powder, or red pepper flakes for a flavor boost

Step-by-Step Instructions

 

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Place a large skillet (cast iron works best) over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage and cook, breaking it up into crumbles with a wooden spoon. Continue cooking until the sausage is fully browned with no pink remaining, usually about 7–8 minutes.

Tip: Do not drain the fat—this is what will combine with the flour to create the base of your gravy.

Step 2: Add the Flour

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the sausage in the pan. Stir it in well, making sure all the sausage crumbles are coated and the fat is absorbed. Cook this mixture for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Whisk in the Milk

Slowly pour in the milk, starting with about ½ cup at a time. Whisk constantly as you add the milk to avoid lumps. Continue until all 3 cups have been added.

Step 4: Simmer Until Thick

Allow the mixture to cook over medium heat, stirring frequently. Within 5–7 minutes, the gravy will thicken into a creamy consistency. Add salt and plenty of black pepper to taste.

Tip: If your gravy gets too thick, just add a splash of milk and stir until it loosens to the right texture.

How to Serve Sausage Gravy

 

The most classic pairing is with buttermilk biscuits—split open and generously topped with gravy. But that’s just the beginning! Here are other ways to enjoy sausage gravy:

• Over toast for a quick weekday breakfast
• On top of crispy hashbrowns or home fries
• Paired with fried chicken or chicken-fried steak
• Served alongside scrambled eggs or omelets
• Even as a topping for mashed potatoes for a hearty dinner twist

Recipe Variations

 

• Spicy Sausage Gravy – Use hot breakfast sausage and add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Cheesy Sausage Gravy – Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese for a richer flavor.
• Herb-Infused Gravy – Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage for a gourmet touch.
• Turkey or Chicken Sausage Gravy – A lighter version that still tastes delicious.
• Dairy-Free Gravy – Use plant-based milk and vegan sausage for a unique twist.

Storage & Reheating

 

• Refrigerate: Store leftover gravy in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to thin it out.
• Freeze: Place cooled gravy in freezer bags or containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, whisk well to restore the creamy consistency.

Expert Tips for Success

 

1. Use a cast iron skillet – It holds heat evenly and adds depth of flavor.
2. Don’t skimp on the pepper – Black pepper is what gives sausage gravy its signature taste.
3. Adjust consistency to preference – Add more milk for thinner gravy, or cook longer for a thicker version.
4. Make biscuits fresh – Homemade or refrigerated biscuits elevate the whole dish.

Final Thoughts

 

This Traditional Southern Sausage Gravy is more than just a recipe—it’s a comforting dish that brings people together. Whether you’re enjoying it on a quiet Sunday morning, serving it at a family brunch, or introducing friends to true Southern comfort food, this recipe will never disappoint.

The creamy texture, bold sausage flavor, and peppery kick make it a breakfast you’ll come back to again and again. Pair it with fresh biscuits, and you’ll have a meal that feels both nostalgic and satisfying.