Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy: A Comforting Southern Classic

Pioneer Woman’s Sausage Gravy is the epitome of Southern comfort food. Creamy, flavorful, and hearty, this dish is a breakfast staple that is both rich and satisfying. Perfectly paired with warm, fluffy biscuits, this sausage gravy brings the perfect balance of savory and smooth textures. Whether you’re preparing it for a weekend brunch or a cozy family meal, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and joy to your kitchen.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound breakfast sausage (preferably spicy or mild, depending on preference)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 cups whole milk (adjust for desired consistency)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Sausage:
    In a large skillet, heat the breakfast sausage over medium heat. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Stir occasionally, ensuring the sausage browns evenly. Once the sausage is fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes), remove any excess grease if needed.
  2. Make the Roux:
    Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage. Stir well to coat the sausage in the flour, and let it cook for 1-2 minutes. This will help thicken the gravy and eliminate the raw flour taste.
  3. Add the Milk:
    Slowly pour in the milk while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency (usually about 3-5 minutes). If the gravy is too thick, add a little more milk to loosen it up.
  4. Season:
    Add salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. You can also add garlic powder for a mild extra layer of flavor.
  5. Simmer and Adjust:
    Reduce the heat to low and let the gravy simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
  6. Finish and Serve:
    If you want a richer flavor, stir in a tablespoon of butter just before serving. Taste the gravy one last time to adjust the seasoning, then serve hot over freshly baked biscuits.
  7. Garnish and Enjoy:
    For a touch of color, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve alongside scrambled eggs, hashbrowns, or any other breakfast favorites for a complete, satisfying meal.

Pro Tips:

  • Sausage Choice: Experiment with different types of sausage to customize the flavor. Spicy sausage adds a little kick, while mild sausage is more neutral for those who prefer a less intense heat.
  • Thickening Tips: If the gravy isn’t thickening as desired, you can add a little extra flour or let it simmer longer to achieve the perfect consistency.
  • Serving Suggestions: While this gravy is traditionally served with biscuits, it can also be poured over mashed potatoes or even roasted vegetables for a unique twist.

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