Southern Sausage Gravy — Giant Family Recipe
Introduction
Sausage gravy is one of the most comforting and soul-satisfying dishes that embodies the essence of Southern cuisine. Whether served over a warm biscuit, mashed potatoes, or even grits, this dish has a history rooted in Southern homes, making it a classic breakfast favorite. It’s rich, savory, and the perfect start to a hearty day. This giant family recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd and will leave everyone at the table wanting more.
Traditionally made with ground sausage, butter, flour, and milk, it’s simple but packs a punch of flavor. It’s a dish that’s been passed down from generation to generation, growing from a humble meal to a Southern staple.
Let’s dive into the ingredients and methods that will help you recreate this timeless dish at home!
Ingredients (For a Giant Family-sized Portion)
- 2 lbs ground beef sausage (you can use pork sausage for a more authentic flavor)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 12 cups whole milk (3 quarts)
- Salt & black pepper to taste (Southern sausage gravy is known for being well-seasoned, so don’t be shy with the seasoning!)
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, garlic powder, or onion powder for added flavor
Method & Instructions
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, crumble the ground sausage and cook it over medium heat until it’s fully browned. Make sure to break up the sausage into small pieces as it cooks.
- Once the sausage is fully cooked, remove any excess grease if needed. A small amount of fat will remain, which is perfect for making the gravy base.
- Create the Roux:
- To the sausage in the pan, add 1 cup of unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt into the sausage fat.
- Once the butter has melted, sprinkle 1 cup of all-purpose flour evenly over the mixture. Stir constantly to create a roux. Cook this mixture for about 3-4 minutes to ensure the flour loses its raw taste but doesn’t burn. It should take on a light golden color.
- Add Milk:
- Gradually add the 12 cups of whole milk, stirring continuously to ensure a smooth consistency. The milk will help thicken the mixture and create that creamy, velvety texture we love in sausage gravy.
- Continue stirring and allow the mixture to come to a simmer. The gravy will begin to thicken as it cooks, which should take around 10-15 minutes.
- Season:
- Once the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency, season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like a little heat, you can also add red pepper flakes, garlic powder, or onion powder to taste.
- Serve:
- Once the gravy is thick, creamy, and seasoned just right, pour it over biscuits, mashed potatoes, or any other dish that you prefer.
History of Sausage Gravy
Sausage gravy has roots deeply embedded in Southern culture. Historically, it evolved as a way to make use of inexpensive ingredients like sausage, flour, and milk, which were readily available in the rural South. These ingredients could stretch a small meal to feed a large family, which was crucial during tough economic times.
The dish became popular in the mid-1800s and was traditionally paired with biscuits, a Southern staple. The combination of crispy, fluffy biscuits with rich, creamy sausage gravy became a quintessential breakfast or brunch meal in Southern homes.
Though it was born out of necessity, sausage gravy eventually became a comfort food beloved by many. It transcended its humble beginnings and now enjoys a spot on diner menus and in Southern kitchens alike.
Formation of Sausage Gravy
The creation of sausage gravy is a simple process that takes very few ingredients and minimal equipment, making it easy for cooks of all experience levels to prepare. Its formation begins with the rendering of sausage fat, which then forms the base of the gravy through the addition of flour to create a roux. The milk is slowly added to the roux, which thickens into a creamy texture. The key to a good sausage gravy is balancing the sausage’s savory flavor with the richness of the gravy itself, while ensuring the right thickness. This balance gives the gravy its signature smooth yet hearty consistency.
Lovers of Sausage Gravy
There are many lovers of sausage gravy across the country, but it holds a special place in the hearts of Southerners. Families gather around the table, passing down recipes from generation to generation. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the experience of sharing a comforting meal together. From grandmothers making the gravy on a Sunday morning to modern-day brunch enthusiasts perfecting their own versions of the recipe, sausage gravy has become synonymous with Southern hospitality.
The best part about this recipe is that it can be made in large quantities, perfect for family reunions, holiday gatherings, or community breakfasts. It’s an easy dish to double or triple, and it always manages to bring people together, regardless of where they’re from.
Conclusion
Southern sausage gravy is more than just a dish; it’s a tradition. It’s a reminder of the rich history of the South and the resourcefulness of generations past. With simple ingredients and a little love, this recipe can nourish both the body and the soul. Whether you’re making it for your own family or sharing it with friends, sausage gravy brings a warmth to any table.
So, gather your loved ones, pull out the butter, sausage, and flour, and start cooking up a batch of this timeless Southern comfort food. Don’t forget the biscuits, and remember—good gravy is meant to be shared.
Pro Tips for Lovers of Sausage Gravy:
- Use full-fat milk for an extra creamy texture.
- For an even more flavorful gravy, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cheese.
- You can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it, though you may need to add a little extra milk to loosen it up before serving.