Sausage, Gravy, and Biscuit Pie Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic for Cozy Days
Craving a warm, hearty dish that combines the savory goodness of sausage, the creamy richness of gravy, and the flaky perfection of biscuits? This Sausage, Gravy, and Biscuit Pie is the ultimate comfort food that brings family and friends together. Whether it’s a lazy weekend brunch or a quick weekday dinner, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your home.
Ingredients Overview
Let’s break down the star players of this recipe:
- Ground Sausage (1 lb): Choose a high-quality sausage for maximum flavor. Spicy, mild, or herbed varieties can bring unique twists.
- All-Purpose Flour (1/4 cup): This pantry staple thickens the gravy to a luscious consistency.
- Milk (2 cups): Whole milk works best for a creamy texture, but you can substitute with 2% or even plant-based milk for dietary needs.
- Salt and Pepper: These enhance the natural flavors of the sausage and gravy. Don’t skimp!
- Refrigerated Biscuits (1 can): Fluffy, golden biscuits crown this pie with a buttery finish. Opt for buttermilk biscuits for added richness.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even baking and perfectly golden biscuits.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked. Break it into crumbles as it cooks to ensure even browning.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the cooked sausage. Stir continuously for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste and create a roux.
Step 4: Add Milk and Thicken
Gradually pour in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook the mixture until it thickens into a creamy gravy, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Assemble the Pie
Pour the sausage gravy into a greased pie dish. Spread it evenly to ensure every bite is loaded with flavor.
Step 6: Add the Biscuit Topping
Arrange the refrigerated biscuits on top of the gravy, overlapping slightly to create a beautiful crust.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot and enjoy this hearty dish with your favorite sides, like a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use homemade biscuits instead of refrigerated ones? Absolutely! Homemade biscuits add a personal touch and elevate the dish.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sausage gravy ahead and refrigerate it. Add the biscuits and bake just before serving.
3. What can I substitute for sausage? Ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative works well.
4. How can I make this dish spicier? Use spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes to the gravy.
5. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
6. How do I avoid soggy biscuits? Ensure the gravy is thick before baking and don’t over-soak the biscuits in the gravy.
7. Can I use gluten-free flour? Yes, a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute works fine.
8. Can I add vegetables to this pie? Absolutely! Peas, carrots, or mushrooms are great additions.
9. Can I use half-and-half instead of milk? Yes, it’ll make the gravy richer.
10. How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
11. Can I double the recipe? Yes, use a larger baking dish and adjust baking time as needed.
12. How do I reheat leftovers? Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
13. Can I use plant-based milk? Yes, unsweetened almond or oat milk are great options.
14. How do I know when the biscuits are done? They should be golden brown on top and fluffy inside.
15. Can I add cheese to this recipe? Yes! Sprinkle shredded cheese over the gravy before adding biscuits.
16. What side dishes pair well with this pie? A fresh green salad or roasted veggies complement this dish.
17. How can I make the dish healthier? Use turkey sausage, low-fat milk, and whole-grain biscuits.
18. Can I add herbs to the gravy? Yes, thyme, sage, or parsley add depth of flavor.
19. What’s the best way to serve this dish? Serve it hot with a dollop of butter on the biscuits.
20. Can I use a cast-iron skillet instead of a pie dish? Yes, it works perfectly and adds a rustic charm.
20 Helpful Tips
1. Use a high-quality sausage for maximum flavor.
2. Cook the sausage until deeply browned for the best taste.
3. Don’t rush the roux—give it time to develop a nutty aroma.
4. Add milk slowly to avoid lumps in the gravy.
5. Season gradually and taste as you go.
6. Grease the pie dish to prevent sticking.
7. Use buttermilk biscuits for extra tangy flavor.
8. Preheat the oven fully before baking.
9. Arrange biscuits with slight overlap for a prettier presentation.
10. Brush biscuits with melted butter before baking.
11. Let the pie cool for 5 minutes before serving.
12. Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal.
13. Use a cast-iron skillet for a rustic look.
14. For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the gravy.
15. Double-check biscuit doneness with a toothpick.
16. Don’t overcrowd the biscuits—leave some space for even baking.
17. Add a splash of cream for ultra-rich gravy.
18. Use a pizza cutter to divide biscuits evenly.
19. Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
20. Pair with a fruity iced tea for a refreshing drink.
10 Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container.
- Freeze individual portions for easy meals.
- Reheat in the oven for crispy biscuits.
- Avoid microwaving biscuits—they’ll get soggy.
- Store gravy separately if possible.
- Use freezer-safe containers for freezing.
- Label containers with the date.
- Thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat gravy on the stove with a splash of milk.
- Refresh biscuits with a quick toast in the oven.
20 Recipe Secrets
- Use sausage drippings for extra flavorful gravy.
- Stir in a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Add caramelized onions for sweetness.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese between gravy and biscuits.
- Use garlic butter on top of the biscuits.
- Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or sage in the gravy.
- Toast the flour slightly for a deeper flavor in the roux.
- Opt for freshly cracked black pepper for a bolder taste.
- Replace some of the milk with chicken broth for added depth.
- Layer the pie with cooked potatoes for a heartier dish.
- Add diced bell peppers for color and crunch.
- Include mushrooms for an earthy note.
- Mix in crumbled bacon for extra indulgence.
- Drizzle a touch of honey over the biscuits before baking.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream for tanginess.
- Add cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
- Pair with a side of pickles to cut through
- Use smoked paprika in the gravy for a smoky flavor.
- Add a layer of cooked spinach for extra nutrients.
- Top with fried eggs for a breakfast twist.
