Easy Sausage Gravy Recipe (No Drippings Needed!) – A Comforting Breakfast Favorite
If you love a hearty and comforting breakfast, then you’re in for a treat! This Easy Sausage Gravy Recipe is creamy, rich, and full of savory flavor, making it the perfect addition to warm, flaky biscuits, toast, or even hash browns. Best of all, this homemade sausage gravy is made without drippings, so you don’t need to worry about excess grease or complicated steps.
Whether you’re preparing a lazy weekend brunch, a holiday breakfast, or a quick weekday meal, this no-drippings sausage gravy will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. It’s made with simple ingredients and comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a great option for both beginners and seasoned home cooks. Let’s dive into this classic Southern-style sausage gravy that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Introduction
Sausage gravy is a comfort food staple that has been loved for generations. Traditionally served over buttermilk biscuits, this creamy, peppery, and savory dish is the perfect way to start the day. While many recipes rely on drippings from the sausage, this version eliminates that extra grease, making it lighter without sacrificing flavor.
What makes this recipe special? It’s quick, easy, and requires minimal ingredients. Whether you’re a fan of Southern-style breakfasts or just need a simple yet satisfying meal, this homemade sausage gravy is a must-try. Serve it over biscuits, toast, scrambled eggs, or even mashed potatoes for a rich and creamy experience.
Ingredients
To make this delicious and creamy sausage gravy, you’ll need the following:
Essential Ingredients
- 1 lb sausage (pork, turkey, or chicken sausage)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/4 tsp ground thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt (or more to taste)
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder for a rich depth of flavor
- 1/4 tsp onion powder for a savory boost
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat
- 1 tbsp butter for extra creaminess
How to Make Easy Sausage Gravy (Without Drippings)
1. Cook the Sausage
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it into small crumbles. Cook until the sausage is browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If there is excess grease, you can drain it off, but this recipe is designed to work without using drippings.
2. Add the Flour
Once the sausage is cooked, sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the sausage crumbles. Stir well to coat the sausage and allow the flour to absorb any moisture. Cooking the flour for about 1 minute will help eliminate any raw flour taste and ensure a smooth, lump-free gravy.
3. Add the Milk
Gradually pour in the whole milk while stirring continuously. This step is crucial for creating a smooth and creamy texture. Adding the milk slowly while stirring ensures there are no lumps in the gravy.
4. Season the Gravy
Now it’s time to add flavor! Stir in the ground thyme, black pepper, and salt. If you’re using any additional spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes, add them now for extra depth. Keep stirring to evenly distribute the seasonings.
5. Thicken the Gravy
Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer and continue cooking for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. As the gravy cooks and thickens, it will develop its signature rich and creamy consistency. If the gravy becomes too thick, you can add a splash of milk to thin it out to your desired consistency.
6. Serve & Enjoy
Your homemade sausage gravy is now ready to serve! Spoon it generously over warm biscuits, toast, or your favorite breakfast dish. Garnish with extra black pepper or fresh herbs for added flavor.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Sausage Gravy
- Use a Good Quality Sausage – The flavor of your sausage gravy will largely depend on the sausage you use. Opt for pork, turkey, or even spicy sausage for a unique twist.
- Avoid Lumps – Stirring constantly while adding milk helps prevent lumps from forming in the gravy. If lumps do appear, use a whisk to smooth them out.
- Adjust the Thickness – If the gravy is too thick, add a little more milk to loosen it. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to thicken naturally.
- Enhance the Flavor – Adding garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of cayenne can take your gravy to the next level.
Cooking Tips
To elevate your homemade sausage gravy, try these additional tips:
- Make it Extra Creamy – Add 1 tbsp of butter at the end for a richer, silkier texture.
- Spicy Kick – Use hot sausage or add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Double the Batch – This gravy stores well in the refrigerator, so make extra for easy breakfasts.
Serving Suggestions
This easy sausage gravy pairs perfectly with:
- Buttermilk Biscuits – The classic combination that never fails.
- Toast or English Muffins – For a lighter alternative.
- Scrambled Eggs – A protein-packed breakfast option.
- Hash Browns or Home Fries – For a hearty and crispy contrast.
- Breakfast Burritos – Use the gravy as a creamy filling.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
- Freezing: Sausage gravy can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this sausage gravy ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in the fridge and reheat gently when ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of milk?
Whole milk is recommended, but you can use 2%, half-and-half, or even almond milk.
Is this gravy gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
Check out these other delicious breakfast recipes:
- Teriyaki Salmon Bowls with Crispy Brussels Sprouts
- Crispy Fish Batter Recipe
- Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Oyster Stew – A Classic Comfort Dish
Conclusion
This Easy Sausage Gravy (No Drippings) recipe is a must-try for breakfast lovers. Rich, creamy, and full of flavor, it’s the perfect addition to any breakfast spread. Try it today and enjoy comfort food at its finest! 🍽️