Delicious Southern Biscuits and Gravy Recipe
Welcome to my kitchen, where I’m sharing my secret recipe for delicious Southern Homemade Biscuits and Gravy. When it comes to southern-style cuisine, this dish is an all-time favorite that satisfies any taste buds. Picture fluffy biscuits, warm from the oven and smothered in thick, creamy sausage gravy- it’s a heartwarming meal that brings people together at the dining table.
As a chef specializing in Southern comfort foods, let me tell you that there’s hardly anything more comforting or soulful than homemade biscuits and gravy. Whether you’re serving this recipe up for breakfast, brunch or even dinner, your family or guests are sure to be impressed.
In this recipe article, I’m going to walk you through step-by-step instructions and tips on how to make your own batch of warm homemade biscuits and savory gravy that will take your taste buds on a trip to the South without ever leaving your own kitchen.
So go ahead and grab some flour, milk, and other ingredients from the pantry that I’ll list below; let’s get started on making this beloved southern-style dish like never before.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of Southern cuisine, then this homemade biscuits and gravy recipe is definitely right up your alley! Not only is it a quintessentially Southern dish, but the flavors and aromas that will waft from your kitchen as you cook will make your mouth water in anticipation.
One of the main reasons why you’ll love this recipe is because it’s made from scratch. You won’t be using any shortcuts or pre-packaged mixes. Every biscuit will be handmade and flaky, just like they were when your grandmother used to make them. And the gravy will be thick and creamy, with just the right amount of seasoning to perfectly complement the biscuits.
Speaking of the biscuits, they’re a point all on their own. These southern-style biscuits are soft, fluffy and just the right amount of chewy. They’re made with shortening and self-rising flour for an extra light texture that melts in your mouth.
The sausage gravy takes this recipe over the top. It’s the perfect blend of savory pork sausage, milk, flour, and spices. The result is a rich and flavorful sauce that’s perfect for smothering your biscuits or dipping them in.
But why else should you love this recipe? Well, it’s highly customizable. You can substitute bacon grease for shortening, use different types of sausage such as chicken or turkey, or modify the spice level with more black pepper or even some hot sauce.
Overall, once you’ve tasted these homemade southern-style biscuits and gravy, we guarantee it’ll become a regular part of your breakfast rotation. So go ahead and give our recipe a try – you won’t regret it!
Ingredient List
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 1/4 cup shortening
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
For the Gravy:
- 1 pound ground pork sausage
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
- Bacon drippings or unsalted butter
The Recipe How-To
Let’s get started on making these mouth-watering Southern homemade biscuits and gravy!
Step One: Gather your ingredients
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients at hand. You’ll need the following:
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 1/4 cup shortening
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1 pound of pork sausage
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 4 cups of whole milk
- Ground black pepper and kosher salt to taste
Step Two: Make the Biscuits
Preheat your oven to 450°F.
In a large bowl, mix together the self-rising flour and shortening until crumbly. Slowly pour in the buttermilk, stirring just until the dough comes together.
Dump the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times. Roll out the dough to about half an inch thick.
Using a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass, cut out biscuits and place them on an ungreased baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter before baking for 12–15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
Step Three: Make the Gravy
While your biscuits are baking, heat up a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground pork sausage and cook it until browned.
Stir in the flour, making sure there aren’t any clumps. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Raise the heat to medium-high and continue whisking constantly as you bring everything to a simmer (small bubbles will be visible around the edges).
After three to five minutes, the gravy should thicken into a smooth consistency. If it seems too thick, you can thin it out with a little more milk. Season it with pepper and salt to taste.
Step Four: Assemble Your Dish
Once the biscuits are finished baking, split them open and place them on a plate. Ladle generous amounts of sausage gravy on top of each biscuit. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Southern-style biscuits and gravy!
Now that you know the basics for making homemade biscuits and gravy, get creative with it! Add in some veggies for a more nutritious twist, or experiment with different kinds of sausage for some variation. Once you have this recipe down pat, don’t be surprised if friends and family start requesting it every time they come over for breakfast!
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re looking to change up this recipe a bit, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try! Here are a few ideas:
– For a lighter biscuit, you can use butter or margarine instead of shortening. You could also use half shortening and half butter for the best of both worlds.
– If you don’t have self-rising flour on hand, you can make your own by combining 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
– Instead of sausage gravy, you could try making mushroom gravy by sautéing some sliced mushrooms in butter before adding the flour and milk. This would make for a delicious vegetarian option.
– For those who prefer a spicier dish, you can add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the sausage gravy. This will give it that extra kick that southern cuisine is known for.
– Adding cheese to the biscuit dough is also an excellent way to create cheesy biscuits that will melt in your mouth. Instead of shortening, use grated cheddar cheese and follow the recipe directions accordingly.
– If you want to make this recipe gluten-free, swap out the regular flour for special gluten-free flour mix.
No matter what substitutions or variations you choose to do in this recipe, be sure to keep true to its southern-style roots!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving and pairing these Southern Homemade Biscuits and Gravy, there are a few things to keep in mind. This classic breakfast dish is perfect for those lazy weekend mornings, but it can also be served for brunch or even dinner.
My personal favorite way to enjoy this dish is by adding a fried egg on top of the biscuits and gravy. The runny yolk adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory sausage gravy.
But if you’re looking for something a little bit lighter, you can serve this dish alongside some fresh fruit or a side salad. The acidity and sweetness of the fruit will cut through the richness of the gravy and help balance out the dish.
As for beverages, a cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk is the perfect accompaniment to these hearty biscuits and gravy. And if you’re feeling like indulging in something extra special, try whipping up some homemade orange juice or a classic Bloody Mary with your breakfast.
No matter how you choose to serve and pair your Southern Homemade Biscuits and Gravy, one thing’s for sure – it’s a comfort food classic that never fails to satisfy.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
The beauty of this Southern homemade biscuits and gravy recipe is that it can be prepared ahead of time and reheated without losing its flavor or texture. Making a large batch of the biscuits and sausage gravy recipe, also means that you can store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer for another day.
To make-ahead, follow the recipe instructions and allow the biscuits and sausage gravy to cool completely. Once cooled, place the biscuits on a baking sheet or airtight container, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days or in the freezer for up to a month.
For the sausage gravy, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days or in the freezer for up to three months. When reheating, pour the gravy into a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If necessary, add a splash of milk to thin-out the gravy.
To reheat the biscuits, preheat your oven at 350°F, place them on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a microwave by wrapping them in a slightly damp paper towel before heating for 20-30 seconds.
By taking advantage of make-ahead tips and properly storing your Southern-style biscuits and gravy recipe, you will be able to enjoy this dish any time you want!
Tips for Perfect Results
To create the best Southern Homemade Biscuits and Gravy Recipe, I have compiled a list of tips that will surely help you master this dish. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cook, these tips will guarantee success in creating a delicious and savory meal:
1. Gather All Your Ingredients: Before starting to prepare the recipe, make sure to have all your ingredients measured out accurately. This recipe requires a variety of dry and liquid ingredients so ensure that you have enough of each ingredient.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: One way to ensure the best flavor in your biscuits and gravy is by using fresh ingredients. Try to purchase fresh pork sausage, whole milk, unsalted butter, bacon drippings or grease, and self-rising flour.
3. Keep Your Measurements Precise: Make sure you follow the measurements provided in the recipe to avoid overusing or underusing any ingredients. Using too much flour can make your biscuits hard and tough.
4. Don’t Overwork the Dough: Once you mix the dough ingredients together, it’s essential not to overwork the dough. Kneading the dough too much can result in denser biscuits.
5. Preheat Your Oven: It’s crucial to preheat the oven to 450°F before placing your biscuit dough in it. This high temperature helps create a crispy crust around the biscuits.
6. Keep Your Gravy Simmering: When making the gravy for your biscuits, keep it at a simmering temperature since boiling can make it lumpy or greasy.
7. Cook Your Sausage Thoroughly: Ensure you cook your sausage until it’s entirely browned to prevent foodborne illnesses and help develop its full flavor.
8. Serve Warm: Serve your homemade biscuits hot right out of the oven with freshly made hot gravy; this helps add more flavor and aroma to your dish.
Use these tips while making this southern-style cuisine dish, and you will be sure to create a fantastic, mouth-watering meal reminiscent of the American South.
FAQ
So, you’ve decided to whip up some southern-style biscuits and gravy for breakfast or brunch. Congratulations, you’re in for a real treat! As you head into the cooking process, it’s normal to have questions come up along the way. To help ensure that your recipe is the best it can be, we’ve compiled some frequently asked questions and their answers to guide you through any unexpected hiccups.
What makes Southern biscuits different?
Southern-style biscuits have a distinctive taste that sets them apart from the rest. Their deliciousness is linked to a key ingredient, which is soft wheat flour. This type of wheat is best grown in conditions that are temperate and damp, making it readily available for cooks living in the mid-Atlantic region for a long time.
What is the difference between northern and southern biscuits?
While butter is the preferred fat of Northern cuisine, the South has a strong affinity for using lard or shortening in their dishes. In the South, biscuits are not only a staple food item but also a source of pride, so much so that a special kind of flour, known as White Lily, was created specifically for biscuit-making, exclusive to the Southern region.
Should you use butter or Crisco in biscuits?
After conducting a thorough comparison, it has been determined that butter reigns supreme in this recipe. The biscuits made with butter were noticeably more moist with a delectable buttery flavor and a texture that practically dissolves in your mouth. It might be worth experimenting with using half or just a small amount of shortening in addition to the butter to see if it yields a combination of the best qualities from both ingredients.
How do you make Paula Deen’s biscuits?
Here’s a recipe for delicious southern-style biscuits that you won’t want to miss. Use 4 cups of self-rising flour, 2 teaspoons of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt to make the dough. Cut in 1 cup of cold unsalted butter and mix in 1 ½ cups of cold whole buttermilk. Brush the biscuits with 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter before baking, and serve with even more butter on top. Yum!
Bottom Line
Now that you know how to make homemade Southern biscuits and gravy, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! There’s no need to wait for a special occasion or a fancy brunch – this recipe is perfect for any breakfast or brunch spread.
With its delicious blend of savory pork sausage and creamy milk-based gravy, this Southern-style biscuits and gravy recipe is sure to become a crowd favorite. And don’t forget the buttery homemade biscuits, which are the perfect vessels for sopping up every last drop of gravy.
So what are you waiting for? Make a batch of these mouthwatering biscuits and gravy, and be prepared to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. Trust me when I say that this recipe is worth the effort – once you taste it, you’ll never go back to store-bought biscuits and packaged gravy mix again.
Thank you for joining me on this culinary journey through the heart of the South. I hope this recipe brings a little bit of Southern comfort to your table, wherever you may be. Happy cooking!
Southern Homemade Bisquits and Gravy Recipe
Ingredients
- biscuit, recipe
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 1/4 cup all-vegetable shortening, butter or 1/4 cup lard
- 1 cup buttermilk or 1 cup you can use whole milk
- sausage gravy, recipe
- 1 lb fresh sausage
- 3 tablespoons shortening or 3 tablespoons bacon drippings
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 500 degrees F.
- In a mixing bowl, cut the shortening into the Self-Rising Flour with a pastry blender or fork or your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Blend in buttermilk with fork just until the dough comes together. The dough will be sticky.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently by folding the dough 8 to 10 times.
- Press into a circle that's 1 inch thick.
- Cut out biscuits with a 2-inch cutter, being sure to push straight down through the dough. Do not twist the cutter until the dough has been cut all the way through (twisting the cutter will cause the biscuits not to rise straight up.
- Place the biscuits on baking sheet so that they barely touch. Gather up the scrap dough, press it into a circle, working it as little as possible and continue cutting until all dough has been used.
- Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown.
- In a large heavy skillet (preferably cast iron), brown the sausage breaking it up with a spatula over medium high heat. Do not drain.
- Add the shortening, flour, salt and pepper.
- Cook stirring constantly until flour begins to brown.
- Slowly add milk while continuing to stir.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer and cook for one minute stirring occasionally. As the gravy cools it will thicken so if you want thinner gravy, add a little more milk.
- Cut the biscuits in half and pour the gravy over the biscuits.
- If you want just a plain milk gravy recipe, form the sausage into patties and brown. Remove them from the skillet to use to make sausage biscuits and continue the recipe the same way.
- I hope you enjoy this southern biscuits and gravy recipe!
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Nutrition
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