Ree Drummond, widely known as the Pioneer Woman, has made a significant impact on the world of comfort food through her approachable cooking style and heartwarming recipes. Her focus on wholesome, hearty dishes resonates with home cooks everywhere, inspiring a love for home-cooked meals that nourish the body and soul. Among her many beloved recipes, sausage gravy shines as a true comfort food classic, deeply rooted in Southern cuisine.

Sausage gravy, rich and savory, is a quintessential dish often served over warm, flaky biscuits, making it an irresistible option for breakfast or brunch. Its origins can be traced back to the South, where it has long been a staple, typically enjoyed by families gathering around the breakfast table. The smooth and creamy texture of the gravy, combined with the savory taste of sausage, creates a satisfying meal that evokes feelings of nostalgia and warmth.

Learning to make a delicious sausage gravy is a valuable skill for any home cook, not only elevating everyday breakfasts but also impressing guests during special occasions. Whether enjoyed on a lazy Sunday morning or during a festive brunch, mastering this recipe promises to bring comfort and joy to your culinary repertoire.

The Pioneer Woman’s Famous Sausage Gravy Recipe

Ree Drummond’s sausage gravy recipe is a shining example of her ability to transform simple ingredients into a heartwarming dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This recipe stands out not only for its flavor but also for its ease of preparation, making it accessible for home cooks of all levels. Filled with comforting flavors, it captures the essence of Southern cuisine while evoking a sense of nostalgia for those familiar with hearty breakfast spreads.

What makes this sausage gravy recipe special is the combination of quality breakfast sausage and a creamy, well-seasoned sauce that is thickened with just the right amount of flour. The end result is a rich and savory gravy that pairs beautifully with warm, flaky biscuits, elevating any breakfast or brunch experience. The simplicity of the ingredients allows for creativity too, as you can easily customize it with additional spices or heat according to your preference. Cooking this dish represents a joyful partnership between flavorful ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques, making it a staple in many kitchens.

Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy

To recreate the Pioneer Woman’s sausage gravy, gather the following ingredients:

Breakfast Sausage: Choose a good-quality pork sausage for a traditional flavor, or opt for turkey sausage as a lighter alternative. Look for brands that use simple spices and avoid fillers for the best results.
All-Purpose Flour: This ingredient is crucial for thickening the gravy. It forms a roux with the sausage drippings, creating a silky texture.
Milk: Whole milk is recommended for its richness and creaminess, leading to a thicker, more luxurious gravy. However, you can use skim or low-fat milk if you prefer a lighter option, keeping in mind that the consistency may be slightly less creamy.
Salt and Pepper: These essential seasonings enhance the flavors of the gravy. Adjust to taste, remembering that the sausage often adds saltiness.
Optional Additions: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a few dashes of hot sauce, or incorporate herbs like thyme or parsley for added depth of flavor.

Step-by-Step Directions

Making Ree Drummond’s sausage gravy is a straightforward process that can elevate any breakfast or brunch. Follow these step-by-step directions to achieve a creamy and flavorful result.

Cook the Sausage: Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Allow it to brown thoroughly for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked. The sausage should be crumbly and golden brown.
Make the Roux: Once the sausage is cooked, sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the sausage in the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes. This step will help to remove any raw flour flavor and start building a rich base for your gravy.
Add Milk: Gradually pour in the milk while continuously stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Keep the heat at medium and continue stirring until the mixture thickens to your desired consistency, which should take about 5-10 minutes.
Season: Taste the gravy and add salt and pepper according to your preference. If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a few dashes of hot sauce at this point.
Serve: Once your gravy is thickened and seasoned, remove it from heat. Serve it hot over freshly baked biscuits, toast, or your favorite breakfast items for a heartwarming meal.

Tips for Perfecting Sausage Gravy

To enhance your sausage gravy experience, keep the following tips in mind:

Cooking Technique: For a richer and creamier texture, try to use whole milk or even half-and-half in place of some of the milk. This will yield a luxurious, velvety gravy.
Flavor Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonings. Adding a bit of garlic powder, onion powder, or even cayenne pepper can personalize the flavor to your liking.
Storage and Reheating: If you have leftover gravy, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of milk to restore consistency, as the gravy may thicken upon cooling.

Pairing Suggestions

For an unforgettable breakfast or brunch experience, consider serving your sausage gravy with the following side dishes:

Biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits are the classic pairing for sausage gravy. You can use store-bought or homemade versions for the perfect accompaniment.
Hash Browns or Fried Potatoes: Crispy hash browns or seasoned fried potatoes complement the creamy gravy beautifully, adding texture to your meal.
Eggs: Scrambled or poached eggs served alongside sausage gravy create a filling and balanced breakfast plate.

The History of Sausage Gravy

Sausage gravy has its roots deep in Southern cuisine, where it has been a beloved breakfast staple for generations. This dish exemplifies the simplicity and heartiness that characterize Southern cooking, often enjoyed as a comforting meal for families gathering around the table.

Historically, sausage gravy was a practical dish, utilizing leftover sausage drippings and transforming them into a creamy sauce to accompany biscuits. Over time, it evolved into a breakfast icon, found on tables across the South and beyond.

As American households adopted this dish, regional variations blossomed, with different spices and ingredient substitutions reflecting local tastes and availability. Despite its evolution, the comforting essence of sausage gravy remains a cherished tradition, representing the deep-rooted culture of Southern hospitality and home-cooked meals.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content of sausage gravy can help you make informed choices about your meal. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional aspects per serving, based on a typical recipe:

Calories: Approximately 300-400 calories per serving, depending on the type of sausage and milk used.
Fat: Sausage gravy can be high in fat, mainly from the sausage and milk, with around 25-30 grams of fat per serving.
Protein: A good source of protein, offering about 12-15 grams depending on the sausage used.

For those looking to make the gravy healthier, consider using lean turkey sausage or reducing the amount of sausage in the dish while keeping the flavorful seasoning. You can also substitute whole milk with low-fat options or a non-dairy alternative to reduce calorie content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions regarding Ree Drummond’s sausage gravy, along with helpful answers:

What kind of sausage is best for sausage gravy? A good-quality pork sausage is traditional, but turkey sausage can be a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.
Can I use plant-based sausage? Yes, plant-based sausages can work well for a vegetarian or vegan version of sausage gravy. Look for options that are well-seasoned for the best results.
How do I store and reheat sausage gravy? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore consistency if needed.
What are good alternatives for milk in the recipe? Non-dairy milk options such as almond, oat, or soy milk can be used, although they may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
Can sausage gravy be made in advance? Yes, you can prepare sausage gravy ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Keep in mind that it may thicken when stored, so adjust with milk as necessary.

Conclusion

Ree Drummond’s sausage gravy is a quintessential comfort food that embodies the warmth and heartiness of Southern cuisine. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it promises to bring joy to your breakfast or brunch table. Whether enjoyed on a quiet Sunday morning or at a gathering with loved ones, this dish is sure to evoke feelings of nostalgia and satisfaction in every bite.