Introduction:
Sausage Gravy Biscuit Pie is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the savory goodness of sausage gravy with the flaky perfection of biscuits. This dish is perfect for breakfast or brunch, offering a deliciously warm and filling meal that’s easy to prepare. With a rich gravy base and golden, buttery biscuits on top, this pie is a Southern-inspired favorite that’s sure to please a crowd.
Overview of the Recipe:
This recipe takes the classic elements of sausage gravy and biscuits and turns them into a one-dish meal that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. The dish starts with browned breakfast sausage that’s cooked until perfectly crumbled. A quick homemade gravy is made directly in the skillet with flour and milk, seasoned to taste. The gravy is then poured into a pie dish, topped with refrigerated biscuit dough, and baked until the biscuits are golden brown. Optional shredded cheddar cheese can be added for an extra layer of flavor.
History and Origin:
Sausage gravy and biscuits are a staple in Southern U.S. cuisine, with origins tracing back to early American settlers who made do with simple, readily available ingredients. The dish became popular in the South during the late 19th century, particularly as a hearty breakfast option for farmers and workers. Over time, variations of this dish emerged, including the Sausage Gravy Biscuit Pie, which combines all the elements into a single, easy-to-serve dish. This recipe continues to be a beloved comfort food across the country, celebrated for its rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Sausage:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat. Break the sausage into crumbles as it cooks, ensuring it’s evenly browned and fully cooked. This should take about 5-7 minutes. The sausage should be well-cooked, with no pink remaining. Important: do not drain the grease after cooking, as it will be used to make the gravy.
- Make the Gravy:
- Once the sausage is fully cooked, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sausage in the skillet. Stir to evenly coat the sausage with the flour. The flour will combine with the sausage grease to form a roux, which is the base for the gravy.
- Gradually pour in the whole milk, stirring constantly. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens into a smooth gravy. This process should take about 5 minutes.
- Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. Be mindful of the salt, as the sausage may already be seasoned.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Pour the sausage gravy into a 9-inch pie dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough and separate the biscuits. Arrange the biscuits on top of the gravy in the pie dish, covering the surface as evenly as possible. The biscuits may touch or slightly overlap, which is fine.
- If you’re using shredded cheddar cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the biscuits for an added cheesy layer.
- Bake:
- Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The pie is done when the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through, and the gravy is bubbling around the edges.
- Serve:
- Once the Sausage Gravy Biscuit Pie is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the gravy to set slightly and makes it easier to cut into slices.
- Serve slices of the pie warm, and enjoy this savory, satisfying dish as a hearty breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.
Serving Suggestions:
Sausage Gravy Biscuit Pie is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side of scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, or a green salad for a more balanced breakfast or brunch. For a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes over your slice.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions:
- Beverage Pairings: Pair this dish with a hot cup of coffee, a glass of fresh orange juice, or a cold glass of milk. For a special occasion, serve it with a freshly brewed iced tea or a refreshing mocktail.
- Side Dishes: Complement the pie with a side of sautéed greens, such as spinach or kale, or serve with a fruit salad for a touch of sweetness. For a heartier meal, add a side of roasted potatoes or hash browns.
Variations of the Recipe:
- Spicy Sausage Gravy Biscuit Pie: Add some heat by using spicy breakfast sausage or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the gravy.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of milk to make a vegetarian version of the gravy.
- Cheesy Biscuit Pie: Mix 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the gravy before pouring it into the pie dish for a cheesier filling.
Health Benefits Notes:
While this dish is rich and indulgent, you can make a few adjustments to lighten it up. Consider using turkey sausage instead of pork sausage for a leaner protein option. You can also use low-fat milk or a plant-based milk alternative, though this may slightly alter the texture of the gravy. Additionally, opting for reduced-fat cheese can help lower the overall calorie content.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the sausage gravy a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply reheat the gravy, assemble the pie, and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use homemade biscuit dough? A: Absolutely! Homemade biscuit dough works well with this recipe. Just ensure the dough is rolled out to about 1/2 inch thickness before placing it on the gravy.
Q: Can I freeze Sausage Gravy Biscuit Pie? A: This dish is best served fresh, but you can freeze it after baking. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to eat, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q: What other cheeses can I use? A: Besides cheddar, other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a sharp white cheddar would complement the flavors of this dish nicely.
Conclusion:
Sausage Gravy Biscuit Pie is the perfect dish when you’re craving something warm, hearty, and comforting. It’s a wonderful blend of rich, savory gravy and tender, golden biscuits, all baked together in one easy pie. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Simple to make and packed with flavor, it’s an ideal recipe for any occasion where comfort food is on the menu.