There’s something special about a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning. Sausage gravy and biscuit pie is exactly that—a delicious blend of flaky biscuits and creamy sausage gravy, baked together to create a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you’re preparing it for a family breakfast or treating yourself to something indulgent, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create the perfect sausage gravy and biscuit pie from scratch.
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Why Sausage Gravy and Biscuit Pie is the Ultimate Comfort Food
When you think of comfort food, sausage gravy and biscuit pie undoubtedly tops the list. This dish is not just about filling your stomach—it’s about creating a memory. Maybe it’s a recipe passed down through generations or one that you found on a chilly day when nothing sounded better than something warm and satisfying. Whatever your connection, this dish evokes feelings of warmth, comfort, and nostalgia.
Sausage gravy and biscuit pie isn’t just a delicious dish; it’s a reminder of the simple joys in life. The savory flavors of the sausage combined with the richness of the gravy and the buttery biscuits create a mouthwatering combination. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether it’s for a Sunday brunch, a holiday gathering, or a quiet Saturday morning. This pie is not just food; it’s a moment to savor.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Sausage Gravy and Biscuit Pie
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s take a moment to gather everything you’ll need. Here’s a simple list of ingredients for your sausage gravy and biscuit pie. You can modify this as per your liking.
Table: Recipe Ingredients
Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
Sausage | 1 lb | Breakfast sausage works best |
Biscuits | 1 can | Pre-made for convenience or homemade |
Milk | 2 cups | Whole milk preferred |
Flour | 3 tbsp | For thickening the gravy |
Butter | 2 tbsp | Adds richness to the gravy |
Salt and Pepper | To taste | For seasoning |
Garlic Powder | 1 tsp | Optional, for extra flavor |
How to Make Sausage Gravy and Biscuit Pie: Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to start cooking! Making sausage gravy and biscuit pie might seem a bit intimidating, but don’t worry—we’ll break it down into easy-to-follow steps that even beginners can manage.
Step 1 – Prepare the Biscuit Base
The foundation of this dish is the biscuit crust. You can go the homemade route or take the shortcut with pre-made biscuits—either way, it’s going to be delicious.
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to the temperature recommended on the biscuit packaging or your homemade recipe. This will ensure the biscuits bake evenly.
- Prepare the Biscuit Dough: If you’re using store-bought biscuits, open the can and separate the biscuits. If you’re making your own, prepare the dough and form it into small rounds.
- Press the Biscuits into a Pie Dish: Take a pie dish and press the biscuit dough into the bottom, ensuring it covers the bottom evenly. Don’t worry if the dough doesn’t cover the edges completely; it will spread out during baking.
- Bake: Place the pie dish with the biscuits in the oven and bake them until they are golden brown. This usually takes about 10–12 minutes.
Step 2 – Cook the Sausage
The sausage gravy is where the magic happens. The sausage provides the rich, savory flavor that’s the star of this dish.
- Cook the Sausage: Warm a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage to the pan, crumbling it with a spatula as it cooks. Make sure the sausage gets evenly browned. This should take about 5–7 minutes.
- Drain the Grease: Once the sausage is cooked, you may notice excess grease in the pan. Drain most of it off, leaving about 1–2 tablespoons for flavor.
- Add Seasonings: Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Stir the mixture to ensure even seasoning.
Step 3 – Make the Sausage Gravy
The gravy is the creamy component that ties everything together. If you’ve ever wondered how to get that perfect, smooth texture, follow these steps.
- Create the Roux: Add butter to the pan with the sausage and let it melt. Once the butter is melted, add the flour and stir, cooking for 1–2 minutes. This forms a roux that helps thicken the gravy.
- Add Milk: Slowly pour in the milk while continuously stirring. This will prevent any lumps from forming. Keep stirring until the mixture reaches a thick consistency, approximately 5 minutes.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or garlic powder as needed. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4 – Assemble the Pie
Now that your gravy is ready and your biscuits are baked, it’s time to assemble the pie.
- Pour the Gravy: Once the biscuits are baked and golden, pour the sausage gravy evenly over the top, making sure the biscuits are fully covered.
- Add a Second Layer of Biscuits (Optional): For a more filling pie, you can add a second layer of biscuit dough over the gravy and bake it for an additional 10–12 minutes.
- Bake: Return the pie to the oven and bake until the top biscuits are golden and the gravy is bubbling.
Tips for the Perfect Sausage Gravy and Biscuit Pie
Making this dish is simple, but here are a few tips to make sure it turns out perfectly every time:
- Use Quality Sausage: The flavor of the sausage is key to the success of this dish. Opt for high-quality breakfast sausage for the best taste.
- Don’t Rush the Roux: The roux is essential for creating a smooth, lump-free gravy. Cook the flour for a minute or two before adding the milk to get the perfect texture.
- Customize the Gravy: If you like your gravy extra creamy, add a bit more milk or even some cream for richness. For a spicier kick, a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes can elevate the flavor.
- Layer the Biscuits: If you prefer a heartier pie, don’t hesitate to add more biscuit dough for an extra layer. The more biscuits, the more satisfying the pie!
Healthier Alternatives for Sausage Gravy and Biscuit Pie
While the classic version of sausage gravy and biscuit pie is rich and indulgent, there are several ways to make it a bit lighter without compromising the flavor.
- Turkey or Chicken Sausage: A leaner alternative to traditional pork sausage that still provides great flavor.
- Whole Wheat Biscuits: Swap out regular biscuits for whole wheat biscuits for a healthier option.
- Low-Fat Milk: Replace whole milk with low-fat or plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
How to Store and Reheat Sausage Gravy and Biscuit Pie
Leftovers are inevitable with a dish as filling as sausage gravy and biscuit pie. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
- Refrigeration: Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well! Let it cool completely, then wrap it securely in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until warmed through.
Variations of Sausage Gravy and Biscuit Pie
While the classic version of sausage gravy and biscuit pie is unbeatable, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Here are additional variations you can consider:
- Vegetarian Version: For a meatless option, substitute plant-based sausage for the regular sausage. This works wonderfully for a vegetarian breakfast.
- Spicy Sausage Gravy: Add some jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sausage for an extra spicy twist. If you love heat, this variation is for you!
- Cheesy Gravy: If you’re a fan of cheese, sprinkle shredded cheddar on top of the pie before baking for a melty, cheesy topping that complements the gravy perfectly.
The History Behind Sausage Gravy and Biscuit Pie
This dish has deep roots in Southern cuisine. Originating as a hearty breakfast in the South, sausage gravy and biscuits became a symbol of home-cooked comfort. Over time, this dish evolved into variations like the biscuit pie, where gravy and biscuits are baked together for a satisfying, one-pan meal.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sausage Gravy and Biscuit Pie
Can I Make Sausage Gravy and Biscuit Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare both the sausage gravy and the biscuit base a day ahead. Simply store the gravy and biscuits separately in airtight containers. When you’re ready to assemble, just heat up the gravy and bake the biscuits before putting everything together.
Can I Freeze Sausage Gravy and Biscuit Pie?
Absolutely! After preparing the pie, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until warmed through.
Can I Use Homemade Biscuits for the Crust?
Yes, homemade biscuits work beautifully in this dish. They add an extra layer of flavor and texture, making the pie even more special. Just make sure the biscuit dough is firm enough to hold up as a crust.
How Do I Keep the Sausage Gravy from Being Too Thick?
If your gravy thickens too much while cooking, simply add a splash of milk and stir until it reaches your desired consistency. Be sure to do this gradually to avoid making it too runny.
How Can I Make the Gravy Less Greasy?
To reduce the grease in the gravy, make sure to drain excess fat from the sausage before making the gravy. You can also opt for leaner sausage to start with.
Conclusion
Sausage gravy and biscuit pie is the kind of dish that brings comfort, warmth, and joy to any meal. With its savory sausage gravy and buttery biscuit crust, it’s a comforting, flavorful treat that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite.
Now that you have all the steps, tips, and variations, it’s time to get cooking! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones—they’ll be grateful for it. And remember, the best part of making sausage gravy and biscuit pie is sharing it with those you care about, creating memories around the table. Happy cooking!