Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy

If you’re in search of a delicious, comforting breakfast that will satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul, look no further than this classic Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy recipe. Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, this sausage gravy pairs perfectly with homemade or store-bought biscuits, making it an ideal choice for a hearty morning meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound mild breakfast sausage
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cups milk
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• Homemade or store-bought biscuits

Instructions:

FIRST STEP: Cook the Sausage

1. Crumble the sausage into a skillet.
2. Fry the sausage over medium heat until thoroughly cooked, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks.

SECOND STEP: Prepare the Pan

1. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Do not drain the fat from the pan; this will be used to make the gravy.

THIRD STEP: Make the Roux

1. Add the flour to the skillet with the remaining sausage fat.
2. Using a whisk, stir constantly to combine the flour with the fat and cook until the mixture is golden brown. This creates a roux, which will thicken your gravy.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and stir well to incorporate the flavors.

FOURTH STEP: Add the Milk

1. Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps.
2. Continue to cook and stir the mixture until the gravy thickens and reaches your desired consistency.
3. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the gravy.

FIFTH STEP: Simmer and Serve

1. Let the gravy simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
2. Serve the sausage gravy hot over biscuits.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

1. Serve Hot: For the best flavor and texture, serve the sausage gravy hot. It will be at its creamiest and most flavorful when freshly made.
2. Pair with Biscuits: Traditional sausage gravy is served over biscuits, but it can also be enjoyed over toast, scrambled eggs, or even hash browns. For a complete meal, pair it with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad.
3. Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like chopped parsley or chives, for a touch of color and a hint of freshness. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
4. Serving Utensils: Use a ladle or large spoon to serve the gravy over the biscuits or other base. This will ensure an even distribution of the sausage and gravy mixture.
5. Temperature Control: If you’re serving the gravy at a brunch or gathering, keep it warm in a slow cooker or warming tray. Stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on the top.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: Store leftover sausage gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it cools to room temperature before transferring to the fridge to maintain the best texture.
2. Freezing: You can freeze sausage gravy for longer storage. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When freezing, consider portioning it into smaller containers for easier reheating.
3. Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen gravy in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure it heats evenly. You can add a splash of milk to adjust the consistency if it thickens too much during storage.
4. Avoid Overheating: When reheating, avoid overheating as it can cause the gravy to separate or become too thick. Stir often and heat just until warmed through.
5. Consistency Adjustments: If the gravy thickens too much after refrigeration or freezing, simply whisk in a bit of milk or broth while reheating to reach your desired consistency.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy remains delicious and ready to enjoy any time you crave a comforting, hearty meal!

Variations:

1. Spicy Sausage Gravy

• Details: For a spicier kick, use hot breakfast sausage instead of mild. You can also add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy while it’s simmering. Adjust the level of heat to your preference.

2. Country Sausage Gravy

• Details: Swap out the breakfast sausage for country sausage, which typically has more robust seasoning and flavor. This variation adds a heartier taste to the gravy.

3. Sausage and Mushroom Gravy

• Details: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet after cooking the sausage. Sauté the mushrooms until they are golden brown before adding the flour. This adds an earthy flavor and extra texture to the gravy.

4. Cheesy Sausage Gravy

• Details: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese into the gravy during the final simmer. This will create a creamy, cheesy variation that pairs wonderfully with biscuits.

5. Sausage and Green Chili Gravy

• Details: Mix in 1/2 cup of diced green chilies (canned or fresh) to the gravy. This adds a touch of heat and a unique flavor profile. Perfect for those who enjoy a southwestern twist.

6. Herbed Sausage Gravy

• Details: Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to the gravy. This variation gives the gravy a more aromatic and complex flavor, enhancing its richness.

7. Low-Fat Sausage Gravy

• Details: Use turkey or chicken sausage in place of pork sausage to cut down on fat. Substitute skim or 1% milk for the heavy cream and use a low-fat flour blend. The result is a lighter version of the classic sausage gravy.

8. Creamy Sausage Gravy

• Details: For an ultra-creamy texture, replace 1 cup of the milk with heavy cream. This will make the gravy richer and smoother. You can also add a bit of cream cheese for extra creaminess.

9. Gluten-Free Sausage Gravy

• Details: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure your sausage is also gluten-free and use a gluten-free broth if needed. This ensures that those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy the gravy too.

10. Veggie-Packed Sausage Gravy

• Details: Add 1 cup of finely diced vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté the vegetables until tender before proceeding with the recipe. This adds nutrients and extra flavor to your gravy.

These variations offer creative twists on the classic Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy recipe, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Experiment with these options to find your perfect version of this beloved comfort food!

FAQs:

1. Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
   • Yes, turkey sausage can be used as a leaner alternative to pork sausage. Just be aware that turkey sausage may have a slightly different flavor and texture, but it will still work well in this gravy recipe.
2. How can I make this gravy spicier?
   • To add more heat, use hot sausage instead of mild or add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the sausage gravy ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little milk if needed to reach the desired consistency.
4. Is it possible to make this gravy dairy-free?
   • To make a dairy-free version, use dairy-free milk (such as almond or oat milk) and a dairy-free alternative to butter. Note that the texture and flavor may vary slightly from the original recipe.
5. Can I freeze sausage gravy?
   • Yes, you can freeze sausage gravy. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding milk as needed.
6. What should I do if the gravy is too thick?
   • If the gravy becomes too thick, whisk in a little more milk or broth until you reach the desired consistency. Heat gently to ensure it warms through evenly.
7. Can I use a different type of flour?
   • Yes, you can use alternative flours like whole wheat, almond, or gluten-free flour. Be aware that different flours may affect the texture and flavor of the gravy slightly.
8. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   • Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour and ensure your sausage is gluten-free. You may also want to use a gluten-free broth to be safe.