Dive into the heart of Southern comfort with our Biscuits and Gravy Casserole recipe. This classic dish takes the beloved combination of flaky biscuits and creamy sausage gravy to new heights, creating a comforting casserole that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. Join us on a culinary journey as we guide you through the steps of crafting this soul-satisfying masterpiece that brings the warmth of a Southern kitchen to your table.
Ingredients
For Biscuits:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup milk
For Sausage Gravy:
- 1 pound pork sausage
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Crafting Southern Comfort:
1. Prepare Biscuits:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Add cold, cubed butter, and use a pastry cutter or fork to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pour in the milk and stir until just combined.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface, pat it into a rectangle, and fold it over itself a few times. Roll out to 1-inch thickness.
- Cut out biscuits using a round cutter and place them in a greased baking dish. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
2. Make Sausage Gravy:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the pork sausage until browned. Remove excess grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the skillet.
- Sprinkle flour over the sausage and stir to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
- Crumble the baked biscuits and spread them evenly in the baking dish.
- Pour the sausage gravy over the crumbled biscuits.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Cook’s Notes
- Flour for Gravy: Allow the flour to cook in the sausage grease for a couple of minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste in the gravy.
- Biscuit Consistency: For flakier biscuits, avoid overmixing the dough.
Variations
Bacon Lovers Delight:
- Incorporate crispy bacon bits into the sausage gravy for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
Vegetarian Twist:
- Replace pork sausage with vegetarian sausage crumbles for a meat-free alternative.
Keto Versions
Almond Flour Biscuits:
- Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour to create keto-friendly biscuits.
Cauliflower Gravy Base:
- Make a keto-friendly gravy using cauliflower puree as the base.
Low-Carb Versions
Cheesy Cauliflower Bites:
- Replace biscuits with bite-sized cheesy cauliflower tots for a low-carb alternative.
Turkey Sausage Option:
- Opt for lean turkey sausage to reduce the overall carb content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use store-bought biscuits for this casserole?
A: Absolutely! While homemade biscuits add a special touch, you can save time by using pre-made biscuits from the store.
Q: Can I make the casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake it when ready to serve.
Q: Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
A: Certainly! Wrap individual portions in foil and freeze for a quick and delicious meal later.
Q: Can I use a different cheese for topping?
A: Of course! Experiment with your favorite cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or Colby.
Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is more than a dish; it’s a journey to the heart of Southern comfort. The flaky biscuits, savory sausage gravy, and melted cheese come together to create a symphony of flavors that evoke the warmth of a Southern kitchen. Whether you’re savoring it for a leisurely brunch or sharing it with loved ones, this casserole captures the essence of comfort food. With options for keto and low-carb adaptations, everyone can partake in the joy of this Southern classic. Embrace the comfort, relish the flavors, and make every bite a tribute to the rich culinary heritage of the South.
