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THE BEST BISCUITS AND GRAVY RECIPE

Recipe by Happily Homecooking

Fluffy, buttery homemade biscuits topped with a rich, peppery sausage gravy. This classic Southern comfort breakfast is quick enough for a weekday morning yet indulgent enough for a weekend treat.

EasyAmericanServes 4

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Source Video
20m
Prep
28m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
58m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$4.73
Total cost
$1.18
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Do not overwork the biscuit dough; minimal handling keeps biscuits fluffy.
  • Keep the butter cold and cut it into small pieces for flaky layers.
  • Bake biscuits at a high temperature (450°F) so they rise quickly and stay tender.
  • Cook sausage until fully browned to develop flavor and avoid raw pork.
  • Gradually whisk milk into the roux to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth gravy.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the hot oven and baking sheet with oven mitts to avoid burns.
  • Sausage must be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure safety.
  • Be careful when whisking hot milk; steam can cause splatter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of biscuits and sausage gravy in Southern American cuisine?

A

Biscuits and gravy originated in the rural South as a hearty, inexpensive breakfast for farm workers. The dish combines flaky, buttery biscuits with a protein‑rich sausage gravy, providing lasting energy for a day of labor.

cultural
Q

What are traditional regional variations of biscuits and gravy across the Southern United States?

A

In Texas, the gravy often includes chorizo and a touch of cumin. In the Carolinas, buttermilk biscuits are common, and the gravy may be spicier with cayenne. Some areas add cheese on top for extra richness.

cultural
Q

How is biscuits and gravy authentically served in the South?

A

Traditionally, the biscuits are split open, a generous ladle of hot sausage gravy is poured over the top, and the dish is eaten immediately, sometimes with a side of fried eggs or hash browns.

cultural
Q

During what occasions or celebrations is biscuits and gravy traditionally enjoyed in Southern culture?

A

Biscuits and gravy is a staple weekend breakfast, especially on Sunday mornings, and is also served at church potlucks, family gatherings, and as comfort food during colder months.

cultural
Q

How does biscuits and gravy fit into the broader Southern comfort food tradition?

A

It exemplifies Southern comfort food by using simple, pantry‑based ingredients—flour, butter, milk, and pork—to create a rich, satisfying dish that reflects the region’s emphasis on hearty, home‑cooked meals.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for biscuits and gravy versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include all‑purpose flour, cold unsalted butter, whole milk (or buttermilk), pork breakfast sausage, and sea salt. Acceptable substitutes are cake flour for a lighter biscuit, turkey sausage for a leaner option, and 2% milk if whole milk isn’t available.

cultural
Q

What other Southern dishes pair well with biscuits and gravy?

A

Classic pairings include fried chicken, country ham, scrambled eggs, hash browns, and a simple fruit salad to balance the richness.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making biscuits and sausage gravy at home?

A

Common mistakes include over‑mixing the biscuit dough, using warm butter, not cutting the biscuits quickly enough, and adding milk to the gravy too fast, which creates lumps.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use a quick‑buttermilk mixture instead of real buttermilk for the biscuits?

A

The vinegar‑milk mixture mimics the acidity of buttermilk, tenderizing the gluten and creating lift without requiring an extra ingredient, making the recipe quicker and more accessible.

technical
Q

Can I make the biscuits and sausage gravy ahead of time and how should I store them?

A

Yes. Store baked biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 hours or refrigerate for 3 days. Keep the gravy in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently and add a splash of milk if needed.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Happily Homecooking specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Happily Homecooking specializes in family‑friendly, comfort‑food recipes that are easy to follow, with a focus on classic American dishes and practical cooking tips for home cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Happily Homecooking's approach to Southern cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Happily Homecooking emphasizes step‑by‑step explanations, budget‑friendly ingredient choices, and real‑world kitchen shortcuts, making Southern classics like biscuits and gravy approachable for cooks of all skill levels, unlike some channels that focus on gourmet techniques.

channel

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