Southern Sausage Gravy

Southern Sausage Gravy is a rich, creamy, and comforting breakfast classic that’s easy to make with just four ingredients. Perfect for pouring over warm homemade biscuits, crispy hash browns, or toast, this savory gravy brings all the flavors of Southern comfort food right to your table. Quick and simple, it’s the ideal way to start the day on a delicious note!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Southern Sausage Gravy is the definition of comfort food. It’s creamy, flavorful, and perfectly spiced. The turkey sausage provides a savory base, while the flour and cream thicken the gravy into a luscious, velvety sauce. The optional red pepper flakes add a bit of heat, but you can easily skip them if you prefer a milder flavor. It’s a satisfying dish that’s perfect for weekend breakfasts, brunches, or anytime you want something indulgent and comforting!

Ingredients

• 1 pound turkey sausage

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Chives or fresh parsley for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat a skillet (cast iron works great) over medium-high heat and add the turkey sausage. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink. Do not drain the fat.

2. Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage and stir. Cook for another minute, allowing the flour to absorb into the sausage.

3. Reduce the heat to medium and add in the milk, heavy cream, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until combined.

4. Simmer the mixture until it thickens, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve hot over homemade biscuits, toast, or crispy hash browns. Garnish with chives or fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

• Servings: 6 servings

Variations

• Spicy Sausage Gravy: For an extra kick, use spicy sausage or add more red pepper flakes to the gravy.

• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based sausage or crumble tofu in place of turkey sausage for a vegetarian option.

• Cheese Lovers: Stir in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.

• Mushroom Gravy: Add sautéed mushrooms to the gravy for a richer, earthy flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Freezer-Friendly: Sausage gravy can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding extra milk or cream to restore its creamy consistency.

• Reheating: Reheat the gravy on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to thin it out if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular sausage instead of turkey sausage?

Yes, you can use regular sausage, which will provide a richer flavor and a bit more fat. Just adjust the seasoning to taste.

2. Can I make this gravy without heavy cream?

Yes, you can use all milk instead of a combination of milk and cream for a lighter version of the gravy. It will still be creamy but less rich.

3. How do I make this gravy thicker or thinner?

To thicken the gravy, let it simmer longer, allowing it to reduce. To thin it out, add more milk or cream a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this gravy ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove and add a splash of milk or cream to bring it back to the right consistency.

5. Can I freeze this gravy?

Yes, this gravy freezes well. Just make sure it cools completely before transferring to an airtight container. Reheat slowly over low heat when you’re ready to serve.

6. What can I serve with this gravy?

Serve this gravy over biscuits, toast, or hash browns for a classic Southern breakfast. It’s also great over mashed potatoes, fried chicken, or even scrambled eggs.

7. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can use chicken sausage or even plant-based sausage for a different flavor profile.

8. Can I skip the flour for a gluten-free version?

Yes, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to make this recipe gluten-free.

9. How can I make this gravy richer?

For a richer flavor, try using full-fat milk and increase the amount of butter or sausage fat used in the recipe.

10. Can I make this gravy spicier?

Yes! Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or use hot sausage, to make the gravy spicier.

Conclusion

Southern Sausage Gravy is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for serving over warm biscuits, crispy hash browns, or toast. The combination of savory turkey sausage, rich cream, and aromatic garlic makes this gravy a standout dish at any breakfast or brunch table. With its creamy texture and bold flavors, this Southern Sausage Gravy is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!

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