Are you craving that incredibly rich and savory sausage gravy you get at Hardee's? Do you dream of fluffy biscuits drenched in that irresistible, peppery sauce? Well, stop dreaming and start cooking! This recipe is your ticket to recreating the magic of Hardee's sausage gravy right in your own kitchen. It's easier than you think, and the result? Pure breakfast bliss. This recipe is perfect for those looking for easy recipes, quick dinner ideas (yes, gravy for dinner!), or just a delicious dish to brighten your day. It's a homemade cooking triumph that's surprisingly healthy, too!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or a blend), removed from casings
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk (whole milk recommended for best flavor and creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, but adds a nice depth of flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional, for a slightly sweeter onion flavor)
Instructions:
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Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's nicely browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease. This step is crucial for developing that delicious sausage flavor.
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Make the Roux: Once the sausage is cooked, sprinkle the flour over the sausage and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes. This creates a roux, which will thicken the gravy. Don't rush this step; it’s important to cook out the raw flour taste.
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Gradually Add Milk: Slowly whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. This prevents lumps from forming and ensures a smooth, creamy gravy. Continue whisking until the gravy starts to thicken.
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Season and Simmer: Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), and onion powder (if using). Reduce heat to low and let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency. This gentle simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your homemade Hardee's copycat sausage gravy immediately over your favorite biscuits, grits, or even eggs!
Tips for the Best Sausage Gravy:
- Don't overcook the sausage: Overcooked sausage can become dry and tough. Aim for a good balance of browned and juicy.
- Whisk constantly: Consistent whisking prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, velvety gravy.
- Use whole milk: Whole milk creates a richer, creamier gravy. You can use 2% or skim milk, but the texture might be slightly thinner.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and other seasonings to your preference.
Variations:
- Spicy Sausage Gravy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Cheesy Sausage Gravy: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese during the last minute of simmering.
- Mushroom Sausage Gravy: Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the sausage for an earthy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the sausage and milk used. For a general idea, one serving (approximately 1/2 cup) contains roughly:
- Calories: 200-250
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
This homemade Hardee's sausage gravy recipe offers a delicious and satisfying breakfast (or any meal!) experience. It's a perfect example of how easy it is to create restaurant-quality food at home, utilizing simple ingredients and straightforward techniques. Enjoy!