Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal that’s surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Food Network-inspired biscuits and gravy recipe is the perfect blend of fluffy, homemade biscuits and rich, savory sausage gravy. It's a classic Southern breakfast, but it's so good, it can be enjoyed any time of day. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, weekend brunches, or impressing your guests with a truly homemade, delicious dish. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food!
Ingredients:
For the Biscuits:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
For the Sausage Gravy:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your choice!)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Making the Biscuits:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cut in Butter: Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Work quickly to prevent the butter from melting.
- Add Buttermilk: Gradually add the buttermilk, mixing until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Shape & Bake: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it to about 1-inch thickness. Use a biscuit cutter or a knife to cut out biscuits. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Making the Sausage Gravy:
- Cook Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
- Make Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to make a roux. This will thicken the gravy.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. Avoid lumps by whisking continuously.
- Simmer & Season: Bring the gravy to a simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency (about 5-7 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving:
Spoon the creamy sausage gravy generously over the warm, fluffy biscuits. Serve immediately and enjoy this hearty and flavorful meal!
Tips and Variations:
- For Flaky Biscuits: Use very cold ingredients and avoid overmixing the dough.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or your favorite cheese into the biscuit dough for extra flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy for a spicy kick.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the gravy for a more sophisticated taste.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with mushrooms, vegetables, or plant-based sausage crumbles.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a serving of biscuits and gravy generally contains around 400-500 calories, with varying amounts of fat, protein, and carbohydrates. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use an online nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.
This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes, healthy meals (when made with lean sausage and whole wheat flour variations), and quick dinner ideas. It’s perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts and those looking for some delicious dishes. You can easily adapt it to your preferences and dietary needs, making it one of the best recipes for any occasion. Enjoy!