There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a warm, hearty breakfast that starts with a rich, flavorful sausage gravy. Southern Country Sausage Gravy is the epitome of Southern comfort food, perfect when poured generously over fluffy biscuits. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weekend breakfast or a special brunch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can bring the taste of the South to your table in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground pork sausage (preferably seasoned)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (more if needed for thinning)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
• 2 tablespoons butter (optional for extra richness)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

1. In a large skillet, over medium heat, crumble the pork sausage.
2. Cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
3. Once cooked, leave the rendered fat in the pan; do not drain it, as it will help create the gravy’s rich flavor. (If your sausage is very lean, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of butter for extra fat.)

Step 2: Make the Roux

1. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the cooked sausage and fat. Stir well to combine the flour with the sausage, ensuring it soaks up all the fat. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, stirring frequently.

Step 3: Add the Milk

1. Gradually pour in the milk, about 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. The mixture will thicken quickly.
2. Continue adding the milk until all 2 cups have been incorporated, stirring until smooth and thickened.

Step 4: Season and Simmer

1. Once the gravy begins to thicken, reduce the heat to low. Season with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy reaches your desired consistency. If it becomes too thick, add a little more milk to thin it out.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove the skillet from the heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
2. Serve the sausage gravy over freshly baked biscuits, hash browns, or even toast for a delicious Southern breakfast.

Cook Notes

• Make It Extra Rich: If you want an extra creamy gravy, add 2 tablespoons of butter after the sausage is cooked. It will give the gravy a luxurious richness.
• Seasoned Sausage: For even more flavor, use a breakfast sausage that’s already seasoned with herbs like sage or thyme.
• Control the Spice: If you like your sausage gravy with a little heat, cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes will do the trick. For a milder version, simply omit them.

Variations

• Bacon Sausage Gravy: Cook a few slices of bacon with the sausage for added smokiness. Crumble the bacon into the gravy at the end.
• Creamy Gravy with Cream: Replace 1 cup of milk with heavy cream for an ultra-creamy texture.
• Keto Version: To make this sausage gravy keto-friendly, replace the flour with almond flour or coconut flour, and use a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum.
• Low-Carb Version: Similar to keto, you can substitute the flour with a low-carb alternative and use unsweetened almond milk or heavy cream to reduce the carb content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make sausage gravy ahead of time?

Yes! Sausage gravy can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to thin it out as it warms.

Can I freeze sausage gravy?

Yes, you can freeze sausage gravy. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet with a little extra milk.

What should I serve with sausage gravy?

The classic pairing is biscuits, but you can also serve sausage gravy over mashed potatoes, toast, scrambled eggs, or even waffles for a savory breakfast twist.

What type of sausage works best?

Use ground pork sausage, either mild or hot, depending on your preference. For added flavor, use a sausage that’s seasoned with herbs like sage or pepper.

How can I make the gravy thicker or thinner?

To thicken the gravy, let it simmer longer and add more flour if needed. For a thinner consistency, simply add more milk until it reaches your desired thickness.

Southern Country Sausage Gravy is a true comfort food that brings the warmth of Southern hospitality right to your kitchen. Whether you serve it over biscuits, toast, or potatoes, this hearty dish will satisfy any appetite. Plus, with its simple ingredients and easy instructions, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this savory gravy is a must-try for anyone who loves the rich, down-home flavors of the South. Enjoy!