Biscuit and gravy is a classic Southern comfort food that originated in the early 20th‑century American South, often served at diners and breakfast joints. It reflects the region’s love for hearty, inexpensive meals that combine flaky biscuits with a rich, peppery sausage gravy.

In the Deep South, biscuits are usually made with buttermilk and served with a thick, peppery sausage gravy. In Texas, the gravy may include diced ham or be spicier, while in the Carolinas, a lighter white gravy made with chicken stock is common.

Traditionally, a warm biscuit is split in half and smothered with a ladle of hot sausage gravy. It is often enjoyed with a side of eggs, hash browns, or fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast.

Biscuit and gravy is a staple at weekend brunches, family gatherings, and church potlucks. It’s also a popular comfort dish on holidays like Thanksgiving when a quick, satisfying breakfast is needed.

Authentic ingredients include buttermilk biscuits, pork breakfast sausage, whole milk, and self‑rising flour. Substitutes can be all‑purpose flour with baking powder, plant‑based milk, or vegetarian sausage, though the flavor profile will change slightly.

Biscuit and gravy pairs beautifully with fried eggs, country ham, grits, collard greens, or a simple fruit salad to balance the richness.

Common mistakes include over‑browning the flour roux, not whisking the milk slowly enough (causing lumps), and letting the gravy simmer too high, which can cause scorching. Also, be careful not to over‑season the sausage because it’s already salty.

Self‑rising flour adds a small amount of leavening and salt, giving the gravy a slightly lighter texture and reducing the need for extra baking powder. It also simplifies the ingredient list for home cooks.

Yes, the gravy can be prepared up to two days ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it thickens.

The gravy should be smooth, glossy, and coat the back of a spoon without dripping off too quickly. It should be thick enough to cling to the biscuit but still pourable.

The YouTube channel Mae Mae's Happy Table specializes in family‑friendly Southern comfort food, easy home‑cooking tutorials, and nostalgic recipes that bring comfort to everyday meals.

Mae Mae's Happy Table focuses on storytelling, personal family memories, and practical shortcuts (like using store‑bought biscuits) while still teaching classic techniques, making Southern dishes accessible to cooks of all skill levels.