There’s something about a plate of warm, flaky biscuits smothered in rich, creamy sausage gravy that just feels like home. I still remember Sunday mornings growing up in the mountains, when my grandmother would stand at the stove, stirring a big cast-iron skillet of gravy while biscuits baked golden in the oven. The smell alone would wake the whole house.
Now, I make this same Homemade Biscuits Gravy for my own daughters, and it never fails to bring everyone to the table with a smile. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a weekend morning or looking for the ultimate comfort food breakfast, this Homemade Biscuits Gravy recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs.
It’s simple, satisfying, and made with ingredients you probably already have on hand. Today, I’m walking you through every step so you can create this classic Southern breakfast right in your own cozy kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Biscuits Gravy Recipe
This Homemade Biscuits Gravy is the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a kitchen hero without any fuss. First, it comes together in under 30 minutes, which means you can have a hearty, soul-warming breakfast on the table even on busy mornings. Second, the creamy sausage gravy is perfectly seasoned with just the right amount of black pepper and savory flavor.
Third, the buttery homemade biscuits are tender and fluffy, providing the perfect base for all that luscious gravy. Additionally, this recipe is incredibly forgiving—perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. You’ll love how versatile it is, too.
Serve it for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner when you want something deeply comforting. Most importantly, this biscuits and gravy dish brings people together. It’s the kind of meal that invites conversation, laughter, and second helpings. Trust me, once you make this Homemade Biscuits Gravy, it’ll become a regular in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating the perfect Homemade Biscuits Gravy. I’ve broken everything down into two simple parts: the biscuits and the gravy. You likely have most of these staples in your pantry already, which makes this recipe even more wonderful.
For the Biscuits:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Baking powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Cold butter, cubed | 6 tablespoons |
| Whole milk | 3/4 cup |
For the Sausage Gravy:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Breakfast sausage (mild or spicy) | 1 pound |
| All-purpose flour | 1/3 cup |
| Whole milk | 3 cups |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon (or to taste) |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon (adjust as needed) |
These simple ingredients come together to create the most comforting biscuits and sausage gravy you’ve ever tasted. The key is using cold butter for flaky biscuits and whole milk for a rich, creamy gravy.
Substitutions & Variations
One of the beauties of this Homemade Biscuits Gravy recipe is how adaptable it is to your family’s tastes and dietary needs. Here are some easy swaps and creative twists you can try:
For the Biscuits: If you’re short on time, you can absolutely use store-bought refrigerated biscuits. They work wonderfully and save you a few minutes. However, homemade biscuits truly elevate this dish.
You can also substitute buttermilk for regular milk to add a lovely tangy flavor. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and almond or oat milk.
For the Gravy: Swap breakfast sausage for ground turkey or chicken sausage if you prefer a leaner option. For a vegetarian twist, use plant-based sausage crumbles—they work surprisingly well. If you like a little heat, opt for spicy sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
You can also stir in fresh herbs like thyme or sage for extra depth. Some folks love adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick.
Cheese Lovers: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese into the gravy just before serving for an extra creamy, indulgent touch. This variation of Homemade Biscuits Gravy is a family favorite in our house.
Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own. That’s what home cooking is all about—making dishes that fit your life and your loved ones.
One of the beauties of this Homemade Biscuits Gravy recipe is how adaptable it is to your family’s tastes and dietary needs. If you’re looking for another delightful brunch option, check out Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread – Perfect for Brunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Homemade Biscuits Gravy from scratch is easier than you might think. I’ll guide you through each step with clear, simple instructions so you can feel confident in your kitchen.
Step 1: Make the Biscuits
Preheat your oven to 450°F. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Pour in the milk and stir gently until the dough just comes together. Don’t overmix—this keeps your biscuits tender and flaky. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a rectangle about 1 inch thick.
Use a biscuit cutter or a glass to cut out rounds. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown on top.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
While the biscuits bake, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t drain the fat—it’s essential for building flavor in your gravy.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the cooked sausage. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring often. The gravy will start to thicken beautifully after a few minutes. Season with black pepper and salt, tasting as you go.
If the gravy gets too thick, simply add a splash more milk. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Split your warm biscuits in half and place them on serving plates. Ladle the hot, creamy sausage gravy generously over the top. Serve immediately while everything is warm and comforting. This classic Homemade Biscuits Gravy is pure breakfast bliss.
Pro Tips for Success
After making biscuits and gravy countless times over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make all the difference. Here’s what I’ve learned:
Keep Your Butter Cold: Cold butter is the secret to flaky biscuits. I even pop my flour in the freezer for a few minutes before mixing. This keeps everything chilly and creates those beautiful, tender layers.
Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix your biscuit dough just until it comes together. Overworking develops gluten, which makes biscuits tough instead of tender.
Use Fresh Baking Powder: Old baking powder won’t give you the rise you need. Check the expiration date to ensure your biscuits turn out light and fluffy.
Stir Constantly When Adding Milk: This prevents lumps in your gravy. Pour the milk in slowly while stirring, and you’ll have a perfectly smooth, creamy sauce every time.
Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the black pepper in your sausage gravy. It’s a key flavor component. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Serve Immediately: Homemade Biscuits Gravy is best enjoyed fresh and hot. The biscuits are at their flakiest, and the gravy is at its creamiest right after cooking.
After making biscuits and gravy countless times over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make all the difference. For a sweet treat that complements your breakfast, try Homemade Banana Bread Made Easy: Simple & Delicious.
Storage & Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s rare in my house), storing and reheating your Homemade Biscuits Gravy is simple.
Storing: Place leftover biscuits in an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Store the gravy separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Biscuits: Wrap biscuits in foil and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. You can also microwave them for 20-30 seconds, but the oven keeps them flakier.
Reheating Gravy: Reheat the gravy gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk to thin it out if it has thickened too much in the fridge. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
Freezing: You can freeze the baked biscuits in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven. The gravy can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding milk as needed to reach your desired consistency.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This Homemade Biscuits Gravy is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a few simple sides makes breakfast even more special. Here are some of my favorite accompaniments:
Scrambled or Fried Eggs: A couple of eggs on the side add protein and round out the meal beautifully. The runny yolk mixed with the gravy is absolutely heavenly.
Crispy Bacon or Sausage Links: Even though there’s sausage in the gravy, a few strips of crispy bacon or extra sausage links are always welcome at our breakfast table.
Fresh Fruit: A bowl of fresh berries, sliced melon, or a simple fruit salad adds a refreshing, sweet contrast to the rich, savory biscuits and gravy.
Hash Browns or Home Fries: Golden, crispy potatoes are a classic breakfast side that pairs wonderfully with this dish.
Southern-Style Grits: If you really want to embrace Southern comfort food, serve your Homemade Biscuits Gravy alongside a bowl of creamy, buttery grits.
Hot Coffee or Fresh Orange Juice: A steaming mug of coffee or a glass of cold orange juice completes this cozy, comforting breakfast spread.
This Homemade Biscuits Gravy is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a few simple sides makes breakfast even more special. For a cozy fall drink to enjoy alongside, consider The Best Homemade Apple Cider Recipe for a Cozy Fall Day.
FAQs
Can I make biscuits and gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare components ahead. Bake the biscuits and store them in an airtight container. Make the gravy and refrigerate it separately.
Reheat both just before serving. However, Homemade Biscuits Gravy is truly best enjoyed fresh for maximum flavor and texture.
How do I keep my gravy from getting lumpy?
The key is to stir constantly while adding the milk to the flour and sausage mixture. Pour the milk in gradually, whisking or stirring continuously. If lumps do form, whisk vigorously or use an immersion blender to smooth out the gravy.
What kind of sausage is best for biscuits and gravy?
Traditional breakfast sausage works best—either mild or spicy, depending on your preference. I usually use pork breakfast sausage because it has great flavor and the right amount of fat to make a rich, creamy gravy. Ground turkey or chicken sausage are leaner alternatives that also work well.
Can I use a different type of milk for the gravy?
Whole milk gives the creamiest, richest gravy, but you can use 2% milk if that’s what you have on hand. For a dairy-free version, try unsweetened almond milk or oat milk. Just note that the flavor and thickness may vary slightly, so you may need to adjust the consistency with a bit more flour or milk.
Why is my gravy too thick or too thin?
If your sausage gravy is too thick, simply stir in a little more milk, a few tablespoons at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken, or whisk in a small amount of flour mixed with milk (a slurry) and cook for another minute or two.
Homemade biscuits and gravy is a classic dish that embodies comfort food, often enjoyed during breakfast or brunch. This dish typically features flaky biscuits topped with a creamy sausage gravy, making it a beloved staple in Southern cuisine, as detailed in this Southern cuisine.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
This nutritional breakdown is based on one serving of Homemade Biscuits Gravy, which includes two biscuits and a generous ladleful of sausage gravy. Keep in mind that exact values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 |
| Total Fat | 32g |
| Saturated Fat | 13g |
| Cholesterol | 75mg |
| Sodium | 980mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Protein | 18g |
This hearty Homemade Biscuits Gravy is a comfort food classic that’s meant to be enjoyed and savored. It’s perfect for special weekend mornings, holiday breakfasts, or any time you want to treat your family to something warm and delicious straight from the heart.
Homemade Biscuits Gravy
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 450°F. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Pour in the milk and stir gently until the dough just comes together. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a rectangle about 1 inch thick. Use a biscuit cutter or a glass to cut out rounds. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown on top.
- While the biscuits bake, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it's browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Don't drain the fat.
- Sprinkle the flour evenly over the cooked sausage. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring often. Season with black pepper and salt, tasting as you go.
- Split your warm biscuits in half and place them on serving plates. Ladle the hot, creamy sausage gravy generously over the top. Serve immediately.