If you have ever craved a soul-warming, hearty breakfast that wraps you in comfort from the very first bite, then you are going to adore this Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe. This classic southern-style dish combines savory, perfectly seasoned sausage crumbles with a rich, creamy gravy that’s just thick enough to coat every forkful. Whether spooned generously over buttery, flaky biscuits or paired with your favorite breakfast sides, this gravy is pure comfort food magic that invites you to slow down and savor every flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is all it takes to create this soul-satisfying gravy. Each component plays an essential role in delivering the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that signature creamy appearance.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or hot): This forms the savory base of the gravy, bringing rich flavor and a meaty texture.
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour: Acts as the thickening agent, giving the gravy its luscious, velvety consistency.
- 3–4 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps achieve your desired gravy thickness; whole milk gives the best richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle heat and earthiness; freshly cracked black pepper is best for vibrant flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt (optional): Enhances the overall seasoning with a subtle savory hint.
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a touch of warmth and a faint kick that livens up the gravy beautifully.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat, then add your sausage. As it cooks, break it apart with a wooden spoon so that each piece is bite-sized and evenly browned. Resist the urge to drain all the drippings; about two to three tablespoons of that flavorful fat will give your gravy richness and depth.
Step 2: Incorporate the Flour
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the cooked sausage and stir to coat every crumb. Cooking this mixture for 1 to 2 minutes is crucial because it removes the raw flour taste and begins the thickening process for the gravy.
Step 3: Add the Milk and Stir
Slowly pour in 3 to 4 cups of whole milk while stirring constantly. Be diligent here—scrape up those delicious browned bits from the skillet’s bottom as they’re full of concentrated flavor. Keep stirring until the gravy thickens, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk to reach just the right texture.
Step 4: Season to Perfection
Finish by stirring in black pepper, seasoned salt, and that pinch of cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Taste as you go and adjust the seasonings to suit your palate. This part personalizes the Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe and makes it truly yours.
How to Serve Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little fresh chopped parsley or chopped chives on top to add a pop of color and a subtle hint of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich gravy. A dusting of extra black pepper can also add a pleasing visual and flavor kick.
Side Dishes
This gravy shines served over classic split buttery biscuits for a quintessential breakfast experience. It also pairs wonderfully with crispy fried potatoes, scrambled eggs, or even poured over fluffy waffles for a fun and indulgent twist.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing brunch, ladle warm Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe into small ramekins and surround with mini biscuits for dipping. You can also drizzle it over a breakfast casserole or use it as a hearty topping for oven-baked breakfast potatoes for a delightful layering of flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover gravy in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Because it’s meat-based, it’s important to keep it chilled promptly to maintain freshness and safety.
Freezing
You can freeze this sausage gravy by transferring it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. It freezes well for up to two months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the gravy gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Add a splash of milk to thin it out as needed and revive that creamy texture we all crave.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Absolutely! While traditional recipes call for breakfast sausage, turkey sausage can be a leaner alternative and still deliver tasty results. Just keep an eye on the seasoning and add a bit more salt or spices if needed.
How do I prevent lumps in the gravy?
The key is to sprinkle the flour evenly and stir constantly when adding the milk. Cooking the flour and sausage mixture before pouring in milk helps form a smooth base, which minimizes lumps perfectly.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
While this specific Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe relies on sausage drippings, you can make a vegetarian version using plant-based sausage and vegetable broth, but it will have a different flavor profile.
Can I use low-fat or skim milk?
Yes, you can, but be aware that the gravy won’t be as rich and creamy. If you use low-fat milk, consider adding a bit of butter to boost the flavor and texture.
What’s the best biscuit to pair with this gravy?
Flaky, buttery homemade biscuits or a good-quality flaky store-bought biscuit work beautifully. The biscuit should be sturdy enough to hold up under the thick gravy but tender enough to soak up all those savory juices.
Final Thoughts
This Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, delivering flavor and comfort in every spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for a family breakfast or an indulgent weekend treat, this recipe never fails to impress and satisfy. So grab your skillet, make those biscuits, and dive into the creamy, meaty goodness that will become a fast favorite in your kitchen.
Print
Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy is a classic Southern breakfast dish featuring flavorful breakfast sausage simmered in a creamy, peppery white gravy. This easy-to-make recipe combines savory sausage crumbles with a luscious milk-based gravy, perfect for serving over buttery biscuits, making it a comforting weekend brunch favorite.
Ingredients
Sausage Gravy Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or hot)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3–4 cups whole milk (adjust for desired thickness)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt (optional)
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the sausage is fully browned and cooked through, being careful not to drain the fat unless there is excessive grease. Retain about 2 to 3 tablespoons of drippings in the pan.
- Add the Flour: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the browned sausage in the skillet. Stir well to coat the sausage evenly with the flour. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Incorporate the Milk: Gradually pour in 3 to 4 cups of whole milk while stirring constantly. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to lift up the browned bits for added flavor. Continue stirring as the mixture simmers and thickens, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Season the Gravy: Add black pepper, seasoned salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper if using. Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning as needed to reach your preferred flavor balance.
- Serve Warm: Once the gravy has thickened to your liking, serve it warm over split, buttery biscuits for a classic Southern breakfast.
Notes
- If the gravy becomes too thick, stir in a little more milk to loosen it to your desired consistency.
- Using freshly cracked black pepper enhances the flavor of the gravy.
- This gravy is perfect for a comforting weekend brunch or any Southern-style breakfast meal.
