Sausage gravy is a beloved Southern comfort dish known for its rich texture and bold, savory flavor. The heart of the recipe lies in the breakfast sausage, whose natural fats create the base for a smooth, flavorful roux. As the sausage browns in a large skillet over medium-high heat, it releases seasoned drippings that blend beautifully with flour to form a thick foundation. After the sausage is fully cooked and crumbled, sprinkle in one-third cup of all-purpose flour and stir constantly for about 30 seconds to lightly toast it. This step removes any raw flour taste and gives the gravy a subtle nuttiness. Season with half a teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. The pepper is key, adding the signature warmth that defines classic Southern gravy.
Once seasoned, slowly whisk in three cups of whole milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Keep the heat at medium and allow the mixture to gently simmer as it thickens, stirring often so it doesn’t stick. In just a few minutes, the gravy transforms into a silky, creamy sauce that coats the back of a spoon perfectly. If it becomes too thick, a splash of milk will loosen it to the ideal consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. To serve, split warm biscuits in half and ladle the hot sausage gravy generously over each one. The result is hearty, peppery, and deeply comforting—perfect for a relaxed weekend breakfast or a cozy family brunch.