Best Ever Biscuits and Gravy

There’s a certain magic to waking up on a crisp autumn morning, the air filled with the promise of something warm and comforting. For me, that something has always been biscuits and gravy. I remember countless Sunday mornings at my grandmother’s farmhouse, the entire family gathered around the table as she presented a platter piled high with golden biscuits, smothered in a rich, savory gravy. The aroma alone was enough to chase away any lingering sleepiness. It’s a dish that speaks of love, tradition, and pure, unadulterated comfort food.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 8-10
• Dietary Type: Comfort Food

Ingredients

• 16 ounces roll Jimmy Dean sausage
• 4 ounces chopped fresh mushrooms
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
• 1/4 cup flour
• 4-5 cups milk
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 (19 ounce) cans Pillsbury Grands refrigerated buttermilk biscuits

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or saucepan
• Baking sheet
• Oven
• Whisk

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for the biscuits.
2. Place the Pillsbury Grands refrigerated buttermilk biscuits on a baking sheet, following the instructions on the can. Typically, this will involve placing them slightly apart to allow for even baking.
3. Bake the biscuits as directed on the packaging. This usually takes around 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
4. While the biscuits are baking, begin preparing the gravy. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
5. Add the chopped yellow onion and chopped fresh mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté them until they are soft and slightly browned, approximately 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Add the roll Jimmy Dean sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula. Cook the sausage until it is browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease.
7. Stir in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and fresh ground pepper to the sausage mixture. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
8. Sprinkle the flour over the meat mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, for about a minute. This step is crucial for thickening the gravy and preventing lumps. Ensure the flour is fully incorporated.
9. Slowly add 3 cups of milk to the skillet, stirring constantly over medium-low heat. Continue stirring until the gravy begins to thicken. Scrape the bottom of the saucepan to prevent sticking and ensure that any browned bits are incorporated into the gravy for added flavor.
10. Add more milk, 1/2 cup at a time, until the gravy reaches your desired consistency. Some prefer a thicker gravy, while others prefer it thinner. Adjust the amount of milk accordingly.
11. Once the gravy has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Stir in the butter for a velvety finish. The butter adds richness and helps to create a smooth, glossy texture.
12. Stir the gravy right before serving to ensure the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
13. Once the biscuits are baked and the gravy is ready, serve immediately. Split the warm biscuits in half and spoon a generous amount of gravy over each half.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the gravy.
• If your gravy becomes too thick, add a little more milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.
• For a creamier gravy, use whole milk or half-and-half instead of skim milk.
• To prevent lumps in your gravy, make sure to whisk constantly while adding the milk.
• If you want to make the gravy ahead of time, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a little more milk to thin it out.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the biscuits and gravy immediately while the biscuits are warm and the gravy is hot. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Leftover gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also freeze the gravy for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Biscuits are best served fresh, but leftover biscuits can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	796.1 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	433 g	54%
Total Fat	48.1 g	74%
Saturated Fat	16.1 g	80%
Cholesterol	61.2 mg	20%
Sodium	2307.8 mg	96%
Total Carbohydrate	70.8 g	23%
Dietary Fiber	2.5 g	9%
Sugars	11.6 g	N/A
Protein	21.2 g	42%

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian Biscuits and Gravy: Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots.
• Spicy Biscuits and Gravy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy for an extra kick. You can also use a spicy sausage.
• Cheesy Biscuits and Gravy: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese into the gravy right before serving.
• Gluten-Free Biscuits and Gravy: Use gluten-free biscuit mix and gluten-free flour for the gravy. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
• Herbaceous Gravy: Add fresh herbs like sage, thyme, or rosemary to the gravy for a more complex flavor profile.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A: Absolutely! While Jimmy Dean sausage is classic, feel free to experiment with other varieties like spicy sausage, maple sausage, or even chorizo for a different flavor profile.

Q: Can I make the biscuits from scratch instead of using canned biscuits?
A: Yes, you can certainly make your own biscuits from scratch. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Q: How do I prevent the gravy from being lumpy?
A: The key to preventing lumps is to whisk constantly while adding the milk and to make sure the flour is fully incorporated into the sausage mixture before adding any liquid.

Q: Can I freeze the biscuits and gravy together?
A: While you can freeze them together, the biscuits may become slightly soggy after thawing. It’s best to freeze the gravy and biscuits separately for the best texture.

Q: Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the milk with a plant-based milk alternative like almond milk or soy milk. Also, use a dairy-free butter substitute.

Final Thoughts

There you have it – my recipe for the best ever biscuits and gravy! It’s a dish that has brought joy to my family for years, and I hope it brings the same warmth and comfort to yours. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own. Whether you’re serving it for a lazy weekend brunch or a cozy weeknight dinner, I guarantee this recipe will become a new favorite. I encourage you to try it out, share your feedback, and perhaps pair it with a side of crispy bacon or a refreshing glass of orange juice. Happy cooking!