Homemade Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is a delightful comfort food that combines the classic flavors of biscuits and gravy into a hearty and satisfying dish. This casserole is perfect for breakfast or brunch, making it a go-to for family gatherings or lazy weekends at home. The combination of flaky biscuits layered with rich sausage gravy creates a scrumptious meal that warms the belly and brings everyone to the table. This recipe allows you to enjoy the beloved Southern dish in a new, easy-to-prepare form, and it’s sure to become a favorite for your friends and family.
Picture this: golden-brown biscuits nestled beneath a creamy, savory sausage gravy, all baked together for a warm and inviting breakfast experience. Each bite provides a delightful mix of textures and flavors—soft, fluffy biscuits paired with the robust taste of well-seasoned sausage. It’s not just food; it’s a nostalgic journey back to simpler times when comfort food was the highlight of any meal.
The beauty of this casserole lies not only in its taste but also in its simplicity. Using pre-made refrigerated biscuits makes the preparation quick and easy, while the sausage gravy is made from scratch for an authentic homemade touch. Whether you enjoy it on a quiet morning or serve it to a crowd, Homemade Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is a dish that feels good to make and even better to eat.
Ingredients for Homemade Biscuits and Gravy Casserole
To whip up this mouthwatering casserole, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 package refrigerated biscuits
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional ingredient substitutions
Feel free to make adjustments based on dietary needs or preferences. For instance, you can use low-fat milk instead of whole milk for a lighter version. Additionally, turkey sausage can replace traditional ground breakfast sausage for a healthier option. If you want to make it vegetarian, try using plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
How to Make Homemade Biscuits and Gravy Casserole Directions
Creating this delicious casserole involves several straightforward steps. Don’t worry if it sounds complicated; it’s quite simple to put together. Follow these easy instructions to enjoy a comforting meal.
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure nothing sticks during the baking process. Set the dish aside for later.
Step 2: Prepare the biscuits
Next, take half of the refrigerated biscuits and bake them according to the package instructions. Once they are baked, allow them to cool slightly before cutting each biscuit in half. Arrange the halved biscuits evenly in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they provide a solid base for the gravy.
Step 3: Cook the sausage
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground breakfast sausage. Cook the sausage thoroughly, breaking it apart into crumbles with a spatula. Once it is fully browned, drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
Step 4: Make the gravy
Now that the sausage is cooked, lower the heat to medium and sprinkle the flour over the sausage. Stir well to coat the sausage with flour and cook for about 3-5 minutes. This helps to eliminate any raw flour taste. Gradually add in the milk and beef broth, mixing well to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, allowing it to thicken. You can add more broth if you prefer a thinner gravy. Once it reaches your desired consistency, season it with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine the biscuit and gravy
Pour the freshly made sausage gravy evenly over the biscuit halves in the baking dish. It’s important to cover all the biscuit pieces to ensure they soak in all that rich flavor.
Step 6: Add the remaining biscuits
Finally, take the remaining uncooked biscuit halves and arrange them evenly on top of the gravy. Brush the tops of these biscuit pieces with a little milk. This brushing will help them brown beautifully as they bake.
Step 7: Bake the casserole
Place the baking dish on a baking sheet to catch any overflow while baking. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the tops of the biscuits are golden brown. If you notice they are browning too fast, cover the dish with foil for the last 10 minutes to prevent burning.
Step 8: Serve and enjoy
Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period will let the dish set a little, making it easier to scoop and serve.
How to Serve Homemade Biscuits and Gravy Casserole
The best part about Homemade Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is that it is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some great ideas:
Best ways to serve Homemade Biscuits and Gravy Casserole
Serve the casserole warm, straight from the oven, so the biscuits are still soft and the gravy is creamy. You can present this dish in the baking dish for a rustic look, allowing everyone to help themselves.
Serving suggestions or pairings
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a balanced breakfast or brunch spread. If you want a bit of kick, consider offering hot sauce or red pepper flakes on the side for those who enjoy a little spice in their life. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top can also elevate the dish’s presentation and flavor.
How to Store Homemade Biscuits and Gravy Casserole
If you find yourself with leftovers (or want to enjoy this dish again later), it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its deliciousness.
Proper storage methods
Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay good for about 3-4 days. Ensure the container is well-sealed to avoid any absorption of odors from other foods.
Tips for reheating or freezing
To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 160°C (320°F) until warmed through, which usually takes 15-20 minutes. If you’re freezing the casserole, it’s best to do so before baking. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap, and freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake it straight from the freezer; just add extra time to ensure it’s cooked through.
Tips to Make Homemade Biscuits and Gravy Casserole
When making this casserole, keep these tips in mind for the best results.
Common mistakes to avoid
One common mistake is not draining the excess grease from the sausage. This can make your casserole overly greasy and unappetizing. Also, be careful not to rush the gravy cooking process; allowing it to thicken properly is key to achieving a creamy texture. Lastly, don’t skip the resting time after baking, as it helps with serving.
Helpful tips for better results
To enhance the flavor of your sausage, consider adding spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika. Also, if you’d like even fluffier biscuits, cut the dough into larger pieces instead of halving them. Lastly, using high-quality sausage can make a significant difference in the taste of your gravy.
Variation of Homemade Biscuits and Gravy Casserole
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are many fun variations you can try with this recipe.
Suggested variations or twists on the recipe
You can add cheese, such as shredded cheddar or pepper jack, on top of the casserole for an extra layer of flavor. For a bit of sweetness, you could mix in some caramelized onions or chopped bell peppers with the sausage. Alternatively, you could incorporate sautéed mushrooms for an earthy addition.
Adjustments for dietary preferences
For a lighter version, use low-fat sausage or a plant-based alternative. If you’re trying to go gluten-free, use gluten-free biscuits and flour. There are plenty of ways to customize this recipe to fit your dietary needs or preferences.
FAQs
If you have more questions about making your Homemade Biscuits and Gravy Casserole, here are some common queries:
What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?
If the gravy isn’t thickening, try cooking it a bit longer, or add more flour, making sure to cook it out properly. If the biscuits are not browning nicely, ensure you’ve brushed them with milk and adjust the oven temperature accordingly.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a night. Just bake it when you’re ready to enjoy it. Alternatively, you can assemble it and freeze before baking, then cook it directly from the freezer.
What can I substitute for ingredients?
You can replace the ground breakfast sausage with any kind of sausage you prefer or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian version. Use any broth you have on hand if you run out of beef broth. For a lighter casserole, you can switch to low-fat milk or a non-dairy option.
Homemade Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is a joyous dish that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. It’s an easy recipe, packed with flavor, and a wonderful way to share warmth and love through food. Enjoy making it and serving it to those you cherish!
