Sausage, Gravy, and Biscuit Pie: A Comforting Southern Classic
Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of this Sausage, Gravy, and Biscuit Pie, a delightful twist on a beloved Southern breakfast classic. Perfect for weekend brunches or cozy family dinners, this dish combines the rich, savory goodness of sausage gravy with the buttery, flaky perfection of golden biscuits. Each bite is a comforting embrace that brings warmth and joy to any meal.
Ingredients Overview
1 lb Sausage
- Choose your favorite breakfast sausage, whether it’s spicy, mild, or seasoned with herbs, to suit your taste.
2 Cups Milk
- Whole milk works best for a rich, creamy gravy, but you can substitute with 2% milk if desired.
1/4 Cup All-Purpose Flour
- This is essential for thickening the gravy to the perfect consistency.
8 Biscuits (Pre-made or Homemade)
- Use your favorite biscuit recipe or a reliable store-bought brand for convenience. For a special touch, try homemade buttermilk biscuits.
1 Teaspoon Salt
- Adjust the amount based on the saltiness of your sausage and personal preference.
1/2 Teaspoon Black Pepper
- Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle heat and enhances the overall flavor.
1/2 Teaspoon Ground Sage
- Sage adds a wonderful depth and earthiness to the gravy, making it taste truly homemade.
Optional: 1/2 Teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
- For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the red pepper flakes add a delightful spicy kick.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Cook the Sausage:
1. Brown the Sausage
- Heat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until it’s browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
Prepare the Gravy:
2. Add Flour to Sausage
- Sprinkle: Sprinkle the flour over the browned sausage. Stir well to combine, ensuring the flour coats the sausage evenly. Cook for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
3. Create the Gravy
- Pour: Gradually pour in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.
Season the Gravy:
4. Season
- Season: Add salt, black pepper, and ground sage to the gravy. If using, add the crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Stir to combine and remove from heat.
Assemble the Pie:
5. Preheat Oven
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
6. Arrange Biscuits
- Layer: Arrange the biscuits in a single layer in a 9×13 inch baking dish, ensuring they cover the bottom of the dish.
7. Pour Gravy Over Biscuits
- Pour: Carefully pour the sausage gravy over the biscuits, spreading it evenly to cover all the biscuits.
Bake to Perfection:
8. Bake
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the gravy is bubbling.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage:
- Cool Completely: Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
- Refrigerate: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Reheat individual servings in an oven-safe dish for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Microwave Method: Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking for doneness.
Helpful Tips for Enhancing the Recipe
Use Quality Sausage: The flavor of your sausage will greatly impact the overall taste of the dish, so choose a high-quality sausage that you love.
Homemade Biscuits: If time allows, make your own biscuits for a truly homemade touch. They add an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Consistency of Gravy: If the gravy seems too thick, add a bit more milk. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer or add a touch more flour.
Season to Taste: Always taste the gravy before pouring it over the biscuits. Adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your preference.
Extra Herbs: Add a touch of thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor in the gravy.
Make Ahead: Prepare the sausage gravy a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Spice It Up: For a spicier version, use hot sausage or add extra crushed red pepper flakes.
Presentation: For a rustic presentation, use a cast-iron skillet to cook the sausage and bake the pie.
Pairing: Serve with a side of scrambled eggs or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and spices for the best flavor.
Butter the Biscuits: Brush the tops of the biscuits with melted butter before baking for an extra golden and flavorful crust.
Rest Before Serving: Let the pie rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the gravy to set slightly.
Popular Questions and Answers
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
- Answer: Yes, turkey sausage is a great alternative if you prefer a lighter option. Just ensure it’s seasoned well to maintain the flavor.
What type of milk should I use?
- Answer: Whole milk is recommended for a rich, creamy gravy, but 2% milk can be used if you prefer a lighter version.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Answer: Yes, you can prepare the sausage gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the pie just before serving.
How do I prevent the biscuits from becoming soggy?
- Answer: Ensure the gravy is thick enough before pouring it over the biscuits. If it’s too thin, it may make the biscuits soggy.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
- Answer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Reheat in the oven for best results.
What can I serve with this dish?
- Answer: Pair it with a side of scrambled eggs, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I use a different type of flour?
- Answer: All-purpose flour works best for thickening, but you can use whole wheat flour for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Is it necessary to use sage?
- Answer: Sage adds a wonderful depth of flavor, but you can omit it or substitute with thyme or rosemary if preferred.
How can I make the dish spicier?
- Answer: Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or use a spicy sausage variety.
What if I don’t have a 9×13 inch baking dish?
- Answer: You can use a similar-sized dish, such as a deep-dish pie plate or a large cast-iron skillet. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Secrets for Achieving Culinary Perfection
Quality Ingredients: Use the best sausage and freshest biscuits you can find for the most flavorful results.
Thick Gravy: Ensure your gravy reaches the right thickness before pouring it over the biscuits to prevent sogginess.
Proper Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
Golden Biscuits: Brush biscuits with butter before baking for a beautiful golden crust.
Layering: Make sure the biscuits are arranged in a single layer and fully covered with gravy for even cooking.
Resting Time: Allow the pie to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the gravy set slightly.
Heat Distribution: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 375°F (190°C) to achieve even baking and a perfect crust.
Flavor Infusion: Let the cooked sausage sit in the gravy for a few minutes before baking to infuse more flavor into the dish.
Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed warm out of the oven for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Garnish with Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Enjoy this comforting Sausage, Gravy, and Biscuit Pie with your loved ones, and savor every bite of this warm, hearty dish
