Biscuits and Gravy Recipe: A Southern Classic

Discover the ultimate biscuits and gravy recipe that’s hearty, delicious, and perfect for any breakfast!

Introduction

Start your morning with our biscuits and gravy recipe. This classic Southern dish combines flaky biscuits with rich, savory gravy, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to become a family favorite. Additionally, it’s perfect for brunch gatherings or a hearty weekend breakfast.

For more culinary inspiration, visit Southern Living’s Biscuits and Gravy and Allrecipes’ Biscuits and Gravy. Furthermore, explore the history and variations of this beloved dish at History of Biscuits and Gravy.

History of Biscuits and Gravy

Biscuits and gravy have deep roots in Southern American cuisine. Originating in the rural South, this dish was a staple for farmers who needed a hearty meal to sustain them through long working days. Historically, biscuits were made without yeast, relying instead on baking powder for leavening, which made them quick and easy to prepare. The gravy, typically made from sausage drippings, provided a rich and flavorful sauce that complemented the soft biscuits perfectly.

Over time, biscuits and gravy have evolved, with various regions and families adding their unique twists. For example, some recipes incorporate bacon instead of sausage, while others might include additional herbs and spices to enhance the flavor. Despite these variations, the fundamental components remain the same: tender biscuits paired with a savory, creamy gravy.

Essential Ingredients

Creating the perfect biscuits and gravy recipe requires quality ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for both the biscuits and the gravy.

For the Biscuits

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of your biscuits, providing structure and tenderness.
• Baking Powder: Acts as the leavening agent to help the biscuits rise.
• Baking Soda: Balances the acidity in the dough, enhancing the rise and flavor.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the biscuits.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and flakiness to the biscuits.
• Buttermilk: Provides moisture and acidity, contributing to the biscuits’ tender crumb.

For the Gravy

• Sausage: The primary flavor component; breakfast sausage is commonly used.
• All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the gravy, giving it a creamy consistency.
• Milk: Creates the base of the gravy, making it smooth and rich.
• Salt and Pepper: Season the gravy to taste.
• Optional Add-Ins: Crushed red pepper flakes for heat, or fresh herbs like thyme for added flavor.

Step-by-Step Biscuits Recipe

Follow these steps to create light and flaky biscuits that perfectly complement the creamy gravy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3/4 cup buttermilk, cold

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add Buttermilk: Pour in the cold buttermilk and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Shape the Biscuits: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Use a biscuit cutter to cut out biscuits, pressing straight down without twisting to ensure they rise evenly.
6. Bake: Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and serve the biscuits warm with the prepared gravy.

Tip: For extra flaky biscuits, handle the dough as little as possible and ensure all ingredients are cold.

Step-by-Step Gravy Recipe

A rich and creamy gravy is essential for this dish. Follow these steps to make a savory sausage gravy that pairs perfectly with your biscuits.

Ingredients

• 1 pound breakfast sausage
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes, fresh thyme

Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove Excess Fat: If there’s excessive fat in the skillet, drain it, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan for flavor.
3. Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage. Stir well to combine and cook for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually Add Milk: Slowly pour in the milk while continuously stirring to prevent lumps. This ensures a smooth and creamy gravy.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. The gravy will thicken as it cooks. Stir frequently to avoid sticking or burning.
6. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. For added flavor, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or fresh thyme.
7. Serve: Once the gravy reaches your desired consistency, remove from heat and serve immediately over the freshly baked biscuits.

Tip: If your gravy becomes too thick, add a splash more milk to reach the desired consistency.

Combining Biscuits and Gravy

Now that both components are ready, it’s time to bring them together for a classic biscuits and gravy experience.

1. Prepare the Biscuits: Ensure your biscuits are warm and freshly baked. This helps them absorb the gravy better.
2. Serve the Gravy: Spoon a generous amount of gravy over each biscuit. The biscuits should be soft enough to hold the gravy without becoming soggy.
3. Garnish (Optional): For an extra touch, garnish with freshly cracked black pepper, a sprinkle of herbs, or a dash of hot sauce for added heat.
4. Enjoy Immediately: Biscuits and gravy are best enjoyed fresh. Serve immediately to experience the full flavor and texture of the dish.

Tips for Perfect Biscuits and Gravy

Achieving the perfect biscuits and gravy recipe requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out flawlessly every time.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Keeping your butter and buttermilk cold helps create flaky biscuits. Cold butter creates steam pockets during baking, resulting in a tender crumb.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can develop gluten, leading to tough biscuits. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
• Proper Gravy Thickness: Adjust the amount of milk to control the gravy’s thickness. Start with less milk and add more as needed.
• Seasoning: Taste your gravy before serving and adjust the seasoning. Sausage can be salty, so add salt gradually.
• Freshly Baked Biscuits: Serve biscuits warm for the best texture and flavor. Fresh biscuits hold up better when topped with gravy.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to add herbs or spices to your gravy for a unique twist. Thyme, sage, or a hint of cayenne can elevate the flavor profile.
• Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers, store the biscuits and gravy separately. Reheat the biscuits in the oven and warm the gravy on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent separation.

Variations and Add-Ins

While the classic biscuits and gravy recipe is delicious on its own, adding unique ingredients can enhance the dish and cater to different tastes.

Cheese Biscuits

Add shredded cheddar or your favorite cheese to the biscuit dough for a cheesy twist. This adds an extra layer of flavor and richness.

Herb Biscuits

Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley into the biscuit dough. This adds a fragrant and savory element to the biscuits.

Sausage Variations

Experiment with different types of sausage, such as turkey sausage for a leaner option or spicy Italian sausage for added heat.

Vegetarian Gravy

Replace sausage with mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute to create a vegetarian version of the gravy. Add mushrooms directly to the gravy base and cook until tender.

Sweet and Savory

Combine sweet and savory flavors by adding a touch of maple syrup to the gravy. This creates a delightful balance between the salty sausage and sweet syrup.

Gluten-Free Option

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the biscuits and gravy suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your biscuits and gravy recipe with these serving ideas to make the meal even more enjoyable.

• Side Dishes: Serve with scrambled eggs, hash browns, or fresh fruit for a complete breakfast.
• Beverages: Pair with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of fresh orange juice.
• Garnishes: Top with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of cheese, or a drizzle of hot sauce for added flavor.
• Presentation: Arrange the biscuits on a platter and pour the gravy over them for a rustic and inviting presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the formula for gravy?

The basic formula for gravy involves a fat (such as sausage drippings), flour to create a roux, and a liquid (like milk) to thicken. Typically, use equal parts fat and flour, then gradually add the liquid while stirring continuously until the desired consistency is achieved.

How much flour for 2 cups of milk for gravy?

For 2 cups of milk, use approximately 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. This ratio will create a thick, creamy gravy. However, you can adjust the amount of flour based on your preferred gravy consistency.

What is the gravy in biscuits and gravy made of?

The gravy in biscuits and gravy is typically made from the drippings of cooked breakfast sausage, combined with flour to create a roux, and milk to form a creamy sauce. Seasonings like salt and pepper are added for flavor, and optional ingredients such as herbs or spices can enhance the taste.

What flour to liquid ratio is required for biscuits?

A general ratio for biscuits is about 2 cups of all-purpose flour to 3/4 cup of buttermilk. However, this can vary slightly based on the specific recipe and desired consistency. The key is to achieve a dough that is moist but not overly sticky.

Conclusion

Our biscuits and gravy recipe offers a timeless and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. By following this comprehensive guide, you can create flaky biscuits and rich, savory gravy that will delight your taste buds and satisfy your hunger. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely weekend breakfast or serving guests, this classic Southern dish is sure to impress. Remember to use high-quality ingredients, follow the tips for perfection, and don’t hesitate to experiment with variations to make the recipe your own. Enjoy the delicious combination of biscuits and gravy, and cherish the warmth and comfort it brings to your table.