Drop Biscuits and Sausage Gravy: A Comfort Food Classic
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes evoke the warm, satisfying feelings quite like Drop Biscuits and Sausage Gravy. This delightful combination offers fluffy, buttery biscuits drenched in a rich, savory gravy that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner. Get ready to dive into this heartwarming recipe that’s simple to make yet utterly delicious.
Ingredients for Drop Biscuits
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup buttermilk (or milk with a splash of vinegar)
Ingredients for Sausage Gravy
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (or your choice of milk)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
Instructions
Preparing the Drop Biscuits
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add Butter: Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Incorporate Buttermilk: Pour in the buttermilk and mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing; the dough should be slightly sticky.
- Drop the Biscuits: Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each biscuit.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!
Making the Sausage Gravy
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the sausage, stirring to coat completely. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flour to absorb the fat and create a roux.
- Pour in Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken, about 5 minutes.
- Season: Add salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if desired. Adjust spices to taste.
Combining and Serving
- Serve Hot: Split the warm drop biscuits in half and ladle the sausage gravy generously over each half.
- Garnish and Enjoy: For an extra touch, sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives, adding a touch of color and flavor.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Drop Biscuits and Sausage Gravy
- Ingredient Temperature: For the best biscuits, ensure your butter is cold. This creates those perfect flaky layers.
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, simply combine milk and a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for five minutes.
- Sausage Options: Feel free to use spicy sausage for a kick or a leaner turkey sausage for a healthier alternative.
- Pairings: Serve with fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Variations to Explore
- Herb-Infused Biscuits: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the biscuit dough for an aromatic twist.
- Vegetarian Gravy: For a vegetarian option, replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of milk.
Elevating Your Dish
To enhance this already delightful dish, consider serving it with a sunny-side-up egg on top for added richness. This combination creates an excellent brunch centerpiece that is as beautiful as it is delicious.
As you venture into creating these drop biscuits and sausage gravy, remember that cooking is about creativity and comfort. Feel free to experiment with ingredients and ratios to discover the version you love best.
Sharing recipes like these not only enriches our kitchens but creates connections through food. So, why not share your experience or photo of your creation? Whether it’s through social media or a friendly conversation, let the world know about the comfort of Drop Biscuits and Sausage Gravy!
If you’re eager to dive deeper into the art of cooking, explore more recipes and tips that can elevate your culinary journey. Happy cooking!