Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

Soft biscuits with crisp tops sit over a luscious pool of savory gravy. Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is the perfect breakfast or brunch dish to feed a gathering, making it ideal for special occasions or cozy weekends at home. This delightful casserole combines comfort and flavor, ensuring your guests will leave satisfied and happy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Feeding a Crowd: This casserole serves ten, making it an excellent choice for brunch parties or family gatherings.
• Flavorful: The combination of beef sausage and creamy gravy creates a rich and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile: Serve it for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner; it’s a comforting dish for any time of day.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the casserole in advance and bake it just before serving to save time.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Glass baking pan
• Medium-sized pot
• Whisk
• Mixing spoon
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Glass baking pan: This allows for even cooking and browning, ensuring your casserole turns out perfectly every time.
• Medium-sized pot: Ideal for browning the sausage and making the gravy, providing enough space to combine ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth gravy by helping to blend the milk into the roux effectively.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Biscuits and Gravy Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Gravy

• 1 pound ground beef sausage
• 4 ½ cups milk
• 1/2 cup flour
• 3 Tablespoons butter
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Biscuits

• 2 7.5 ounce cans refrigerator biscuits or use our homemade drop biscuit recipe

How to Make Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 13 x 9 inch glass pan with oil cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a medium-sized pot, brown the ground beef sausage over medium heat until fully cooked. Transfer the sausage to your prepared baking dish using a slotted spoon. Use paper towels to blot out any excess grease from the sausage.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Add butter to the pot with any remaining drippings from the sausage. Melt it over medium heat. Once melted, add flour, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the roux starts to brown slightly.

Step 4: Create the Gravy

Gradually add milk while whisking continuously until smooth. Continue cooking on medium-low heat, stirring often until thickened (this should take several minutes). Pour this creamy gravy mixture over the browned sausage in your baking pan.

Step 5: Prepare the Biscuits

If using refrigerated biscuits, separate them and cut each into fourths. If you prefer homemade biscuits, prepare your biscuit dough according to your recipe and divide it into small portions. Arrange these biscuit pieces evenly on top of the gravy in your baking dish.

Step 6: Bake

Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until biscuits are golden brown on top. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

Biscuits and gravy casserole is a versatile dish that works well for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. It can be served with various sides and garnishes to enhance the meal experience.

Classic Breakfast Plate

• Fresh Fruit: Add a side of seasonal fruit like berries or sliced melons for a refreshing contrast.
• Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs make a great pairing, adding protein and richness to your plate.
• Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns bring a satisfying crunch that complements the softness of the biscuits.

Brunch Buffet Style

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the hearty casserole.
• Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a sweet, creamy option that guests will love.
• Assorted Pastries: Offer a variety of pastries, such as muffins or croissants, for those who enjoy baked treats.

Family Dinner Option

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal while providing great flavor.
• Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing bite that pairs well with the savory casserole.

How to Perfect Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

Creating the perfect biscuits and gravy casserole involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices enhance flavors. Opt for fresh ground black pepper and high-quality beef sausage for better taste.
• Make Your Own Biscuits: Homemade biscuits offer superior texture compared to store-bought options. Try our drop biscuit recipe for an easy alternative.
• Adjust Gravy Thickness: If your gravy is too thick, simply whisk in a bit more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for about 5-10 minutes after baking helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.
• Experiment with Spices: Add different spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika to customize your flavor profile.
• Garnish Creatively: Top with chopped green onions or parsley before serving for a burst of color and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

Pairing side dishes with biscuits and gravy casserole can turn it into an even more delightful meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Crispy Bacon Alternative: Use turkey bacon as a healthier option; it provides a satisfying crunch without pork.
2. Vegetable Medley: A sautéed mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and onions adds vibrancy and nutrients to your plate.
3. Creamy Grits: Southern-style grits offer a comforting addition; prepare them with butter and cheese for extra flavor.
4. Potato Wedges: Oven-baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a crispy side that’s easy to prepare.
5. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad brings sweetness to balance out the savory casserole; consider using citrus fruits for zest.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Moist cornbread muffins pair beautifully, offering a slightly sweet contrast to the dish’s richness.
7. Avocado Toast: Smashed avocado on whole-grain toast adds healthy fats and fiber—great as an additional bite alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Biscuits and Gravy Casserole, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Not browning the sausage properly: Ensure the ground beef sausage is fully browned before adding it to the casserole. This enhances the flavor of your dish.
• Skipping the roux stage: Don’t rush through creating your roux. Cook it until it’s slightly browned to develop a rich flavor in your gravy.
• Adding milk too quickly: Introduce milk gradually while whisking. This helps achieve a smooth consistency and prevents lumps in your gravy.
• Using cold biscuits: If you use refrigerated biscuits, let them sit at room temperature for a bit before cutting. This will help them bake more evenly.
• Overbaking the casserole: Keep an eye on your casserole towards the end of baking. You want golden brown biscuits but not overcooked ones.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Biscuits and Gravy Casserole in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

• For freezing, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power, checking every 1 minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Place portions in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Biscuits and Gravy Casserole.

Can I make Biscuits and Gravy Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just assemble everything without baking, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.

What can I substitute for ground beef sausage?

You can use ground turkey or chicken sausage as alternatives that still provide great flavor for your casserole.

Is there a vegetarian version of Biscuits and Gravy Casserole?

Absolutely! Simply replace the sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of meat products.

How can I customize my Biscuits and Gravy Casserole?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. You can also experiment with different types of cheese on top!

Final Thoughts

Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is a comforting dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Its versatility allows for customization based on personal tastes or dietary preferences. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!