Easy Sausage Gravy Recipe: A Simple Guide to Southern Comfort Food
Are you craving a hearty, delicious breakfast or a comforting side dish? Look no further than this easy sausage gravy recipe! This recipe is perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike, offering a simple yet flavorful experience that will leave you wanting more. Forget complicated instructions and long ingredient lists; this recipe focuses on simplicity and maximum taste. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful weekend brunch. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 pound sausage: Choose your favorite type – breakfast sausage, Italian sausage, or even chorizo will work wonderfully. Removing the casings before cooking is recommended for a smoother gravy.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This is the base of our gravy, creating the perfect thick and creamy texture.
- 3 cups milk: Whole milk is preferred for its richness, but you can use 2% or skim milk as well. Just be aware that the final product might be slightly thinner.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key to enhancing the flavors. Don't be shy with the salt and pepper!
- Optional additions: Consider adding some black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these easy steps to create a mouthwatering sausage gravy that's sure to impress:
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Crumble the sausage into the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Make the Roux
- Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage, stirring constantly to combine.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously, until the flour is lightly browned and fragrant. This creates a roux, which will thicken your gravy.
Step 3: Add the Milk
- Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring no lumps form.
- Continue whisking until the gravy is smooth and thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 4: Season and Serve
- Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can't take it away!
- Simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve immediately over biscuits, mashed potatoes, grits, or your favorite breakfast staple.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Gravy:
- Don't rush the roux: Take your time and whisk continuously to prevent lumps.
- Adjust the milk: If your gravy is too thick, add a little more milk. If it's too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Get creative with seasonings: Experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize your gravy.
- Make it ahead: The gravy can be made ahead of time and reheated gently.
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Conclusion:
This easy sausage gravy recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity and delicious flavor make it a perfect addition to any meal. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the comforting taste of homemade sausage gravy! Let us know in the comments how your sausage gravy turned out!