Biscuits and Gravy Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Biscuits and Gravy Casserole: the ultimate comfort food reimagined! Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of warm, fluffy biscuits nestled in a creamy, savory sausage gravy. This isn’t just breakfast; it’s an experience, a hug on a plate, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any brunch or potluck.

Biscuits and gravy, a Southern staple, has humble beginnings, born out of necessity and resourcefulness. It’s a dish that speaks of hearty breakfasts fueling long days of hard work. While the classic version is beloved, this casserole takes all those comforting flavors and transforms them into an easy-to-assemble, bake-and-serve masterpiece.

What makes this Biscuits and Gravy Casserole so irresistible? It’s the perfect marriage of textures: the soft, pillowy biscuits contrasting beautifully with the rich, creamy gravy. The savory sausage adds a depth of flavor that’s simply addictive. Plus, the convenience factor is a game-changer! Forget standing over a hot stove flipping individual biscuits; this casserole allows you to enjoy all the deliciousness with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a brunch with friends, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Get ready to experience breakfast bliss!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (I prefer Jimmy Dean regular)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (whole milk is best for richness)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 1 (16 ounce) can refrigerated biscuit dough (I like Pillsbury Grands!)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions, for garnish (optional)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, for topping (optional)

Preparing the Sausage Gravy:

Okay, let’s get started with the heart of this casserole – the sausage gravy! This is where all the flavor comes from, so pay attention to the details. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, crumble the breakfast sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is fully browned and no longer pink. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Make sure to break up any large clumps of sausage as it cooks. I like to use a wooden spoon or spatula for this.
2. Drain Excess Grease: Once the sausage is browned, carefully drain off any excess grease from the skillet. You can do this by tilting the skillet and spooning the grease out, or by using a grease separator. Leaving too much grease in the skillet will make the gravy greasy, so don’t skip this step!
3. Add Flour: Reduce the heat to medium. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the cooked sausage. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes. This step is crucial because it creates a roux, which will thicken the gravy. Make sure the flour is fully incorporated into the sausage and there are no dry clumps. The mixture should start to look a little pasty.
4. Gradually Add Milk: Slowly pour in the milk, about 1/2 cup at a time, while whisking constantly. Whisking is key here to prevent lumps from forming. Continue adding the milk, whisking until the gravy is smooth and creamy. Don’t rush this step! Adding the milk too quickly can cause lumps.
5. Season and Simmer: Add the salt and pepper to the gravy. Bring the gravy to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency. The gravy should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, continue simmering it for a few more minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper, depending on your preference.

Preparing the Biscuits:

While the gravy is simmering, let’s get the biscuits ready. This part is super simple, thanks to refrigerated biscuit dough!

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the Biscuits: Open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough. Separate the biscuits and cut each biscuit into quarters. I find that using kitchen shears makes this process quick and easy. You can also use a knife, but be careful!

Assembling the Casserole:

Now for the fun part – putting it all together! This is where the magic happens.

1. Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish. You can use cooking spray or butter to grease the dish.
2. Layer the Biscuits: Spread the cut biscuit pieces evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Try to distribute them so they cover the entire bottom of the dish.
3. Pour the Gravy: Pour the sausage gravy evenly over the biscuit pieces. Make sure all the biscuits are covered in gravy.
4. Drizzle with Butter (Optional): Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the gravy. This will add a nice richness and help the biscuits brown nicely.
5. Add Cheese (Optional): If you’re using cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the gravy.

Baking the Casserole:

Almost there! Now it’s time to bake this beauty until it’s golden brown and bubbly.

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the gravy is bubbly. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to make sure the biscuits don’t get too brown. If they start to brown too quickly, you can tent the casserole with aluminum foil.
2. Let it Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the gravy to thicken slightly and the biscuits to cool down a bit.

Serving and Garnishing:

The moment you’ve been waiting for! Time to serve up this delicious biscuits and gravy casserole.

1. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with chopped fresh chives or green onions, if desired. This adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor.
2. Serve: Serve warm. This casserole is best served immediately.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it Up: For a spicier gravy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the gravy while it’s simmering.
• Add Vegetables: You can add chopped vegetables, such as onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms, to the sausage while it’s browning.
• Use Different Sausage: Feel free to use different types of sausage, such as Italian sausage or chorizo, for a different flavor.
• Make it Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage crumbles and vegetable broth instead of milk.
• Add Eggs: For an even heartier casserole, you can add scrambled eggs to the biscuit layer before pouring the gravy over.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this biscuits and gravy casserole as much as I do! It’s the perfect comfort food for a weekend brunch or a cozy weeknight dinner. Let me know in the comments if you try it and how it turns out!

Conclusion:

Well, there you have it! I truly believe this Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is destined to become a new family favorite. It’s the ultimate comfort food, reimagined in a way that’s both incredibly easy and unbelievably delicious. From the flaky, golden-brown biscuits to the creamy, savory gravy, every bite is a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more. But why is this casserole a must-try? It’s more than just a convenient breakfast or brunch option. It’s a hug on a plate, a warm and inviting dish that’s perfect for lazy weekend mornings, holiday gatherings, or even a comforting weeknight dinner. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. You can easily customize it to suit your own tastes and preferences. Looking for serving suggestions? This casserole is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, or a crisp green salad. For a heartier meal, consider adding some cooked sausage or bacon directly into the gravy mixture before baking. And speaking of variations, the possibilities are endless! If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different types of cheese in the biscuit dough, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan. You could also add some chopped vegetables to the gravy, like mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers, for extra flavor and nutrients. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the gravy or use a spicy sausage. Another fun variation is to use different types of biscuits. Instead of the classic buttermilk biscuits, you could try using sweet potato biscuits, cheddar biscuits, or even garlic and herb biscuits. The key is to experiment and find what you love! This Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is also a fantastic make-ahead dish. You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. This makes it perfect for busy mornings or when you’re entertaining guests. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of a homemade, comforting casserole. I’ve poured my heart into creating a recipe that’s both easy to follow and incredibly satisfying, and I truly believe you’ll love it as much as I do. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece! Don’t be afraid to get creative and put your own spin on the recipe. After all, cooking is all about having fun and experimenting with flavors. Once you’ve tried this recipe, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you think of the flavor? What did your family and friends think? Please share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. I can’t wait to see your creations! Happy baking, and enjoy your delicious Biscuits and Gravy Casserole!

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