A sausage and gravy casserole is the perfect choice if you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that brings rich flavors and a hearty texture to your breakfast table. This dish combines the savory taste of sausage, the creamy richness of homemade gravy, and the soft, flaky texture of biscuits, making it an irresistible meal for any time of the day. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy weekend brunch, a family gathering, or a special holiday breakfast, this casserole is sure to become a favorite.
One of the best things about a sausage and gravy casserole is its simplicity. It requires just a handful of pantry staples yet delivers an indulgent and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can customize it with different types of sausage, add cheese for an extra layer of flavor, or incorporate vegetables for added texture and nutrition.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect sausage and gravy casserole from scratch. From detailed step-by-step instructions to pro tips and variations, this article will help you master this dish with ease. Let’s dive into what makes this casserole unique and how to prepare it like a pro!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s no shortage of breakfast casseroles out there, but this sausage and gravy casserole stands out for several reasons:
- Classic Comfort Food: The combination of sausage, creamy gravy, and soft biscuits creates a comforting, homestyle meal.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this casserole the night before and simply bake it in the morning, making it ideal for busy mornings or holiday gatherings.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer spicy sausage, extra cheese, or even a few veggies, this recipe is easy to tweak based on your preferences.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole is always a hit at brunch gatherings, potlucks, and family breakfasts.
Detailed Ingredients and Instructions
Before jumping into the full recipe, let’s break down the ingredients and cooking process so you understand precisely how to achieve the best results.
Ingredients:
To make this sausage and gravy casserole, you’ll need:
- Sausage: A pound of breakfast sausage (mild, hot, or sage-flavored) works best.
- Biscuits: You can use store-bought refrigerated biscuits or make homemade ones for an extra touch.
- Milk & Flour: These are essential for making the creamy sausage gravy.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth texture in the gravy.
- Cheese (optional): A sprinkle of shredded cheddar can add a deliciously gooey texture.
- Eggs: Help bind the casserole together, adding extra protein and structure.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder enhance the overall flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain excess grease.
- Make the Gravy: Sprinkle flour over the cooked sausage and stir until absorbed. Slowly pour the milk while stirring, letting the mixture thicken into a creamy gravy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare the Biscuits: If using store-bought biscuits, cut them into quarters. If making homemade biscuits, roll them out and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a baking dish, then layer the biscuit pieces on the bottom. Pour the sausage gravy over the top, ensuring even coverage.
- Add the Egg Mixture: Whisk eggs with a splash of milk in a separate bowl and pour over the casserole. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake for 25–30 minutes until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Serve & Enjoy: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips, Variations, and Storage Options
To help you perfect this sausage and gravy casserole, here are some helpful tips, creative variations, and storage solutions.
Pro Tips for the Best Casserole
- Use High-Quality Sausage: The flavor of your casserole depends heavily on the sausage you use. Opt for a good-quality breakfast sausage with balanced seasoning.
- Don’t Overcook the Gravy: The gravy should be thick but still pourable. If it gets too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
- Layer Properly: Ensure the biscuits are evenly spread at the bottom to absorb the gravy while baking, creating a soft yet structured texture.
- Whisk the Eggs Thoroughly: For a fluffy, well-set casserole, ensure the eggs are well-mixed with the milk before pouring them over the dish.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Giving the casserole 5–10 minutes to cool after baking allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Variations to Try
Want to customize your sausage and gravy casserole? Here are some fun variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add hot sausage and a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the gravy for some heat.
- Cheesy Goodness: Mix shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese into the egg mixture for extra flavor.
- Veggie-Packed: Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for a nutritious boost.
- Southern-Style: Instead of traditional biscuits, layering the casserole with cornbread pieces for a unique twist.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the biscuits with a layer of scrambled eggs for a keto-friendly version.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the baked casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before storing.
- Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 30–45 seconds or reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Equipment Needed
To make this sausage and gravy casserole, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:
- Skillet: For browning the sausage and making the gravy.
- Mixing Bowls: Whisk the eggs and mix the gravy ingredients.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth and creamy gravy.
- Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch casserole dish works best for even cooking.
- Oven Mitts: Essential for safely handling the hot dish after baking.
Related Recipes
If you love this sausage and gravy casserole, here are some other delicious breakfast ideas to try:
- Biscuits and Gravy: A classic Southern favorite featuring fluffy biscuits smothered in sausage gravy.
- Breakfast Burritos: Packed with eggs, sausage, cheese, and potatoes, these burritos are perfect for meal prep.
- Hashbrown Casserole: A cheesy, crispy dish that pairs well with breakfast meats.
- French Toast Bake: A sweet alternative for those who love indulgent morning meals.
Pairing/Serving Suggestions
A warm, hearty sausage and gravy casserole is a meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides and drinks can make it even better. Here are some serving suggestions to complete your breakfast or brunch spread.
Best Side Dishes to Serve With This Casserole
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the casserole.
- Hash Browns or Home Fries: Crispy potatoes add texture and a satisfying crunch.
- Scrambled Eggs: If you want to stretch the meal for a larger group, serve extra eggs on the side.
- Buttery Grits: A Southern classic that pairs perfectly with sausage gravy.
- Avocado Slices: The creaminess of avocado adds a nice balance to the dish.
Beverages That Pair Well
- Freshly Brewed Coffee: A strong cup of coffee complements the hearty flavors.
- Orange Juice: The acidity and sweetness help cut through the richness.
- Sweet Tea: If serving this dish for brunch, iced tea with lemon is a great choice.
- Mimosas: Pair the casserole with a classic mimosa (orange juice and champagne) for a special occasion.
Serving Ideas for Different Occasions
- Weekend Brunch: Serve alongside fruit, muffins, and fresh juice for a well-rounded meal.
- Holiday Breakfast: Pair with cinnamon rolls or French toast for a festive touch.
- Breakfast-for-Dinner: Serve with roasted veggies or a green salad for a balanced meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions and answers about making sausage and gravy casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. In the morning, simply bake it as directed.
Can I Use Turkey Sausage Instead of Pork Sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner option and works just as well in this recipe.
What’s the Best Way to Prevent a Soggy Casserole?
Ensure your biscuits are not overcrowded, and avoid adding too much gravy. Letting the casserole rest after baking also helps set the layers.
Can I Freeze the Casserole Before Baking?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to two months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.
How Do I Know When the Casserole Is Fully Cooked?
The casserole is done when the eggs are set and no longer jiggly in the center. You can also insert a knife into the middle—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
Nutrition Information
While the exact nutrition may vary based on the ingredients used, here’s an estimate for one serving of sausage and gravy casserole (based on eight servings per dish):
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: ~18g
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
- Fat: ~28g
- Sodium: ~900mg
Consider using turkey sausage, low-fat milk, and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version.
Seasonal and Occasion Variations
One of the best things about sausage and gravy casserole is how easily it can be adapted for different seasons, holidays, and special occasions. Whether you’re making it for a festive brunch or a cozy winter morning, here are some fun ways to customize the recipe.
Holiday & Special Occasion Twists
- Christmas Morning Casserole: Add red and green bell peppers for a festive look, and sprinkle extra cheese on top for a gooey, indulgent touch.
- Easter Brunch Version: Incorporate diced ham or bacon alongside the sausage for extra flavor, and serve with a fruit salad.
- Mother’s Day Breakfast: Use turkey sausage for a lighter option and pair it with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Game Day Brunch: Spice it up with jalapeños and pepper jack cheese, and serve with crispy hash browns for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal.
Seasonal Variations
- Spring & Summer: Lighten up the casserole by using chicken or turkey sausage, adding fresh herbs like chives or parsley, and serving with fresh fruit.
- Fall: Add a sprinkle of nutmeg or sage to the gravy for a warm, earthy flavor, and serve with roasted sweet potatoes.
- Winter: Stick to classic sausage and biscuits, but layer in extra cheese and a drizzle of hot sauce for a cozy, comforting dish.
My Recipe Tips
Want to make sure your sausage and gravy casserole turns out perfect every time? Here are some expert tips:
- Use Pre-Cooked Sausage for Convenience: If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked sausage crumbles instead of browning your own.
- Make It Extra Creamy: Use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk for an ultra-rich gravy.
- Try Homemade Biscuits: While store-bought biscuits work well, homemade buttermilk biscuits take this casserole to the next level.
- Balance the Salt: If your sausage is salty, be mindful of how much additional salt you add to the gravy.
- Reheat in the Oven for the Best Texture: Microwaving leftovers is quick, but reheating in the oven at 350°F helps maintain the texture of the biscuits.
Conclusion
A sausage and gravy casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines a hearty breakfast’s best parts into one easy-to-make dish. Whether you’re preparing it for a weekend brunch, a special occasion, or just a simple family meal, this casserole is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
With its rich, creamy gravy, flavorful sausage, and fluffy biscuits, this dish delivers the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Plus, with all the tips and variations in this guide, you can easily customize it to fit your tastes and dietary preferences.
Now that you have everything you need to make the perfect sausage and gravy casserole, why not give it a try? Serve it with your favorite sides, enjoy it with loved ones, and don’t forget to experiment with new flavors to make it your own!
🍽️ Sausage and Gravy Casserole 🥓🍳
Ingredients
- For the Casserole: • 1 lb breakfast sausage your choice of pork, turkey, or beef
- 1 small onion chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can 10.5 oz refrigerated biscuit dough (such as Pillsbury)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese optional
- For the Gravy: • 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk dairy or non-dairy
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme optional
Instructions
- 1- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- 2- Cook the sausage: In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened. Drain any excess fat.
- 3- Prepare the casserole: Cut the biscuit dough into quarters and layer the biscuit pieces evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with the cooked sausage mixture.
- 4- Make the gravy: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the flour is lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes. Add salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- 5- Assemble the casserole: Pour the gravy over the sausage and biscuit layers in the baking dish, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
- 6- Bake the casserole: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the biscuits are cooked through.
- 7- Optional: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking, allowing it to melt.
- 8- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
- Enjoy this comforting and hearty Sausage and Gravy Casserole for breakfast or brunch!