Description

Imagine waking up on a lazy Sunday morning, the sun gently streaming through the kitchen window, and the enticing aroma of a hearty breakfast wafting through the air. That’s the magic of a Biscuit & Gravy Casserole. This beloved Southern dish combines fluffy, buttery biscuits with a rich, savory sausage gravy, all baked together to create a warm, comforting casserole that is perfect for family gatherings or a special brunch. Originating from humble beginnings, this dish has become a staple in many households, celebrated for its delicious flavor and satisfying nature. What makes this casserole special is not only its mouthwatering taste but also its ease of preparation. You can throw it together in no time, making it an excellent choice for those busy mornings or when entertaining guests. The joy of gathering around the table to share a warm dish like this is truly something special.

Ingredients

• For the Biscuit Layer:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 cup buttermilk
• For the Gravy:
• 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
• For Topping (optional):
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation Method

To start creating your Biscuit & Gravy Casserole, begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step, as a properly preheated oven ensures your casserole cooks evenly, giving you that perfect golden-brown finish.

Next, let’s prepare the biscuit layer. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well mixed. The baking powder and baking soda work together to help your biscuits rise, so make sure they are evenly distributed.

Now it’s time to add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving that flaky biscuit texture; you want to see small pea-sized pieces of butter throughout the mixture.

Once the butter is incorporated, pour in the buttermilk. Stir gently with a fork until just combined. It’s vital not to overmix at this point, as overworking the dough can result in tough biscuits. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. If it feels too wet, you can sprinkle a little more flour as needed.

Now, turn the dough out onto a floured surface. With floured hands, gently pat the dough into a rectangle about 1-inch thick. Using a floured biscuit cutter or a glass, cut out biscuits and place them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. If you prefer a rustic look, you can simply tear the dough into pieces and scatter them in the dish.

Once the biscuit layer is ready, it’s time to make the gravy. In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the breakfast sausage and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break up the sausage as it cooks, ensuring it's evenly browned.

After the sausage is cooked, reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the flour over the sausage. Stir to combine and cook for about 2 minutes. This step helps to cook off the raw flour taste and begins to create a roux, thickening your gravy.

Gradually pour in the milk while continuously stirring. This helps prevent lumps from forming. Increase the heat back to medium and continue to stir until the gravy thickens, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth, creamy consistency. If you find it too thick, feel free to add a splash more milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

Once the gravy is thickened, season it with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. If you love a bit of heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile. Taste your gravy and adjust the seasonings if needed.

Now that your gravy is ready, pour it evenly over the biscuit layer in the baking dish. If you’ve decided to use cheddar cheese, sprinkle it generously over the top. The cheese will melt beautifully, adding extra flavor and richness to the casserole.

Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the gravy is bubbly. As it bakes, the biscuits will rise and soak up some of the gravy, creating a delightful texture that is both fluffy and hearty.

As the casserole bakes, your kitchen will fill with the delicious aroma of biscuits and gravy, making it hard to resist peeking into the oven. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is beautifully golden and the gravy is hot and steaming.

Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to dish out. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Tips and Conclusion

For a fun twist, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the sausage mixture for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also substitute the breakfast sausage with cooked bacon or a vegetarian sausage alternative if you prefer. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well, so you can prepare it ahead of time and bake it straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.



Preparing Biscuit & Gravy Casserole is not just about cooking; it’s about creating a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table. The combination of flaky biscuits and creamy sausage gravy is a delightful experience that will surely have everyone coming back for seconds. As you enjoy this savory casserole with your loved ones, you’ll appreciate the ease of preparation and the joyous moments shared over a delicious meal. Don’t forget to explore other related recipes on our site, like a classic French Toast Bake or a hearty Breakfast Burrito Casserole, to keep the breakfast inspiration flowing. Share this recipe with friends and family, and encourage them to join in on the fun of cooking together. Happy cooking!