You know those cozy, slow Sunday mornings when the house is still quiet, and all you want is something warm, hearty, and comforting? That’s exactly the vibe this sausage gravy brings to the table.
When I first made this dish, I was trying to recreate the magic my grandma used to whip up in her tiny kitchen. She always made it feel like love was the secret ingredient. And honestly, I think she was onto something. This southern sausage gravy recipe is everything: rich, creamy, peppery, and packed with flavor that hugs your soul.
If you’re short on time but still want to serve something that tastes like it took hours, this is your go-to. It’s fast, it’s easy, and it’s basically breakfast royalty in the South. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or impressing weekend guests, you’re gonna want this recipe in your back pocket.
Looking for more Southern-style goodness? Don’t miss our buttermilk biscuits recipe – they’re practically made to go with this gravy.
Why You’ll Love This Sausage Gravy Recipe
- Quick and easy: No fancy steps, no weird ingredients.
- Packed with flavor: Sage sausage and black pepper bring the heat.
- Old fashioned comfort: Feels like it came from Grandma’s stove.
- Budget-friendly: Minimal ingredients, maximum taste.
Whether you’re whipping it up on a lazy Saturday or pulling together a last-minute brunch, this best sausage gravy recipe is here to save the day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s keep it simple. Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic comfort dish:
1 lb (455 g) sage-flavored breakfast sausage
¼ cup (31 g) all-purpose flour
2 ½ cups (590 ml) whole milk
⅛ tsp crushed red pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Tip: Sage-flavored sausage really makes this dish pop, but feel free to use your favorite.
How to Make Southern Sausage Gravy Recipe
This is the kind of recipe that feels way fancier than it is. One pan. Five ingredients. Zero stress.
1. Brown the Sausage
Grab a large skillet, heat it over medium, and cook the sausage until it’s browned and crumbly. Break it up with a spatula as you go. Don’t drain the fat—it’s flavor gold!
2. Add the Flour
Sprinkle the flour right over the cooked sausage. Stir constantly for about 1 minute, letting the flour soak up all those tasty drippings.
3. Pour in the Milk
Slowly add the milk while stirring. This part is key to a smooth gravy. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Season to Taste
Add salt, plenty of cracked black pepper, and crushed red pepper if you like a kick. Let the gravy simmer and thicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring often.
5. Serve Hot
Spoon it generously over warm biscuits, toast, or even hash browns. The possibilities are endless (and delicious).
Pro Tips for the Best Sausage Gravy
- Use whole milk for that creamy, stick-to-your-ribs texture.
- Don’t skip the pepper. A good sausage gravy needs that peppery bite.
- Want it thinner? Add more milk until you hit your perfect consistency.
- Feeling fancy? Try adding a pinch of garlic powder or a splash of heavy cream for richness.
And hey, if your gravy ends up a little too thick? No worries! Grandma always said, “Just add more milk and stir with love.”
Don’t miss our Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs to round out the meal!
This Recipe in My Kitchen
I remember the first time I made this for my husband—he asked if I’d secretly ordered it from a diner. That’s how legit it tastes. And now, it’s part of our weekend ritual. Even my kids beg for “Mom’s famous sausage gravy” on biscuit mornings.
You can make this ahead and reheat it gently with a splash of milk. It’s also a winner for breakfast-for-dinner nights (aka my favorite cheat nights).
Looking for inspiration? Try Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble to go along with it!
FAQs About Sausage Gravy
Can I make this sausage gravy ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it over low heat with a splash of milk.
What’s the best sausage to use?
We recommend sage-flavored breakfast sausage for that classic Southern taste. You can use hot, mild, or even turkey sausage depending on your preferences.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Sure! Just swap the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
What goes best with this sausage gravy?
It’s perfect over homemade biscuits, toast, English muffins, or even mashed potatoes.
Is this a traditional Southern sausage gravy recipe?
Absolutely. This version is inspired by the old fashioned sausage gravy recipes passed down through generations in Southern kitchens.
You made it to the end—but honestly, I bet your kitchen already smells amazing! This sausage gravy recipe is a keeper. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a hug in a bowl—familiar, satisfying, and perfect every time.
Next time you need a breakfast that impresses without the stress, remember this one-pan wonder. And if you’re feeling extra Southern, make it with our Sister fluffy buttermilk biscuits for the full experience.