If there’s one dish guaranteed to put smiles all around the breakfast table, it’s the Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy. Creamy, peppery, generously loaded with sausage, and ready in just 20 minutes, this southern staple is the kind of comfort food that gets passed down and recreated time and time again. Whether you’re gathering a hungry crowd or just craving a cozy start to your day, this recipe delivers a rich, hearty gravy that’s perfect for smothering fluffy biscuits or even just sneaking spoonfuls straight from the pan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how just a handful of everyday ingredients come together and transform into something seriously crave-worthy. Each part plays a special role—whether adding savoriness, silkiness, or a touch of spice, these simple pantry staples are the real secret to the irresistible taste and texture found in every batch of Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy.
- Breakfast Sausage (1 lb, mild or spicy): The base for all that savory flavor, choose mild for classic comfort or spicy if you want to wake up your taste buds.
- All-Purpose Flour (1/3 cup): Acts as the magic thickener for our gravy; it soaks up all those delicious pan drippings.
- Whole Milk (3–4 cups): Creates that signature creamy consistency—start with 3 cups and add more for your preferred thickness.
- Seasoned Salt (1/2 tsp): Amplifies every flavor in the gravy and gives it a well-balanced, robust taste.
- Black Pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds the classic, cozy peppery punch that sausage gravy devotees love.
- Cayenne Pepper (optional pinch): For just a hint of background heat—totally optional but highly recommended for a gentle kick!
How to Make Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating up a large skillet over medium heat, then crumble in the breakfast sausage. Use a wooden spoon or sturdy spatula to break it up as it cooks, working it into bite-sized pieces so every spoonful of gravy gets packed with sausage. Cook for about 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is beautifully browned and fully cooked. No need to drain the fat—those flavorful drippings are pure gold for our gravy base!
Step 2: Make the Roux
With your sausage sizzling and fragrant, it’s time to transform all those fats and juices into creamy, dreamy Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy. Sprinkle the flour right over the sausage and stir it in well, making sure every piece is nicely coated. Let this cook together for 1 to 2 minutes—this helps the flour absorb all the flavor and ensures your gravy is ultra-smooth with no raw flour taste.
Step 3: Add the Milk
Now comes the liquid magic! With your skillet still over medium heat, start pouring in the milk slowly, just a little at a time. Stir constantly as you go—this keeps the gravy silky smooth and prevents any lumps. Start with 3 cups, give it a minute or two to thicken while you stir, and then add more milk if you want a looser consistency. The aroma at this stage is irresistible!
Step 4: Season and Finish
Once your gravy is thickened to perfection, sprinkle in the seasoned salt, black pepper, and that optional pinch of cayenne if you’re after a touch of gentle heat. Give everything a good stir, taste, and adjust the seasoning as you like. If you’re feeling decadent, you can finish your Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy with a little pat of butter right at the end for extra richness. Serve it piping hot—I promise you’ll be tempted to sneak a taste before anyone else gets a spoon!
How to Serve Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy
Garnishes
A finishing sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper on top adds that classic peppery look and extra kick, while a bit of chopped parsley or chive brings a bright pop of color to each plate. If you love bold flavor, a pinch of smoked paprika or an extra dash of cayenne on top is a fun way to add some flair to your Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy.
Side Dishes
This gravy practically demands to be spooned over warm, homemade biscuits, but don’t stop there! Try it on hash browns, toasted English muffins, or even crispy fried chicken for a true brunch feast. Fresh fruit on the side offers a sweet, refreshing contrast and rounds out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to go beyond a classic plate, pour your Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy into a big serving bowl with a mountain of biscuits on the side, so everyone can help themselves. You can also bake your favorite biscuits in a skillet, split them, and ladle gravy right on top for skillet biscuits and gravy. For parties or potlucks, serve small cups of gravy with mini biscuits for a breakfast bite that everyone will remember.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Have leftover gravy? Lucky you! Just let it cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll keep fresh for up to three days, and the flavors often become even richer overnight.
Freezing
Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy is absolutely freezer-friendly! Freeze in single-serve portions for quick breakfasts or in a larger container for family meals. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating—it warms up beautifully.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your gravy is gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often. If it seems too thick, add a splash of milk to bring back that perfect creamy consistency. You can also microwave it, stopping to stir every 30 seconds for even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Breakfast
Absolutely! While pork breakfast sausage is traditional for Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy, you can try turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausage for a different twist. Just make sure your sausage has plenty of flavor since that’s the heart of this dish.
What if my gravy is too thick or too thin?
If your gravy turns out thicker than you like, simply whisk in a splash or two more milk until it loosens up. For gravy that’s too thin, continue simmering for a few minutes—it will thicken as it cooks.
Can I make Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy ahead of time?
Definitely! Prepare the gravy fully, let it cool, and refrigerate or freeze as mentioned above. Reheat with a bit more milk to restore its creamy goodness before serving.
Is seasoned salt necessary or can I use regular salt?
Seasoned salt adds extra depth thanks to a blend of onion, paprika, and other spices, but regular salt works in a pinch! Just taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking before serving.
What should I serve with Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy for brunch?
Alongside biscuits and gravy, try scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, roasted potatoes, and a colorful fruit salad. These bright flavors balance out the rich, savory gravy for a brunch spread that makes everyone happy.
Final Thoughts
I just know you’re going to fall in love with this Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy. It’s a recipe that brings warmth and a little bit of southern magic to any morning, whether it’s a holiday gathering or simply a well-deserved treat. Grab your skillet and give it a go—you’re just twenty minutes away from the best comfort breakfast ever!
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Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy recipe is a classic Southern breakfast favorite. Creamy, savory sausage gravy served over warm, flaky biscuits is comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3–4 cups whole milk (as needed)
Seasonings:
- 1/2 tsp seasoned salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional pinch of cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned, about 7–10 minutes.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle flour over the sausage, stir well, and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Pour in Milk: Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until thickened, about 5–8 minutes.
- Season and Serve: Add seasoned salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Adjust seasoning and serve over biscuits.
Notes
- For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end.
- Gravy can be made ahead and reheated gently with a splash of milk.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
