Biscuits and gravy is a staple of Southern cuisine, beloved for its rich, hearty flavors and comforting textures. Transforming this classic dish into a casserole makes it even more convenient and perfect for feeding a crowd, whether for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This Biscuits and Gravy Casserole combines fluffy biscuits, savory sausage, creamy gravy, and melty cheese into one delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Here’s a detailed guide on how to prepare this comforting casserole, along with tips and variations to suit your taste.
Ingredients
To make Biscuits and Gravy Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- Cooking spray
- 1 (10-ounce) can refrigerated biscuit dough (such as Pillsbury Grands!)
- 1 pound bulk pork sausage
- 1 ½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
- 6 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups cold water, or more as needed
- 1 (1.5-ounce) package pork gravy mix
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup later.
Step 2: Arrange the Biscuits
Open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough and separate the biscuits. Line the bottom of the prepared baking dish with the biscuits, arranging them in a single layer. This will form the base of your casserole.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bulk pork sausage to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until the sausage is browned and crumbly, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, drain and discard any excess grease. Evenly scatter the cooked sausage over the biscuit layer in the baking dish.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the sausage layer. The cheese adds a rich, creamy element that pairs perfectly with the sausage and biscuits.
Step 5: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cheese layer. The eggs will help to bind the casserole together as it bakes, creating a cohesive dish with layers of flavor.
Step 6: Make the Gravy
In a medium saucepan, mix the water and pork gravy mix together. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer until the gravy is thickened, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes. If you prefer a thinner gravy, you can add more water until you reach your desired consistency. Pour the prepared gravy evenly over the egg layer in the baking dish.
Step 7: Add More Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded Cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This final layer of cheese will melt and create a golden, bubbly topping as the casserole bakes.
Step 8: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake until the eggs are set and fluffy, and the cheese is melted and bubbling, about 30 minutes. The biscuits should be golden brown and cooked through.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will make it easier to cut into squares and serve. Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is best enjoyed hot, straight from the oven. Serve it with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
While the basic recipe for Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is delicious, there are several ways to customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs:
Tips
- Use Pre-Cooked Sausage: To save time, you can use pre-cooked sausage crumbles or sausage links that have been sliced into rounds.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and refrigerated. In the morning, simply bake it as directed. This makes it a great option for busy mornings or holiday breakfasts.
- Check the Biscuits: Depending on the brand and size of biscuits you use, the baking time may vary. Check the center biscuits to ensure they are cooked through before removing the casserole from the oven.
Variations
- Sausage and Gravy Casserole with Vegetables: Add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sausage mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Version: Use spicy sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a kick of heat.
- Cheese Variations: Substitute the Cheddar cheese with other types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Pepper Jack, for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free biscuits and a gluten-free gravy mix to make this casserole suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
The Tradition of Biscuits and Gravy
Biscuits and gravy is a quintessential Southern dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It originated as a hearty breakfast for farmers and laborers who needed a substantial meal to start their day. The dish typically consists of soft, flaky biscuits topped with a creamy sausage gravy made from milk, flour, and pork sausage. Transforming this classic into a casserole makes it even more convenient and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Serving Suggestions
While Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is traditionally enjoyed for breakfast or brunch, it can also make a comforting dinner. Pair it with a fresh fruit salad, a side of roasted vegetables, or a green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven until warmed through.
Conclusion
Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that brings the classic flavors of Southern biscuits and gravy into a convenient, easy-to-prepare casserole. With its layers of fluffy biscuits, savory sausage, creamy gravy, and melty cheese, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. By following these simple steps and tips, you can create a delicious, crowd-pleasing casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Southern comfort.
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Biscuits and Gravy Casserole: A Comforting Southern Classic
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is a hearty and comforting breakfast dish that combines fluffy biscuits with rich sausage gravy, all baked together in one dish. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weekend brunch.
Ingredients
cooking spray
1 (10 ounce) can refrigerated biscuit dough (such as Pillsbury Grands!)
1 (1 pound) bulk pork sausage
1 ½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
6 large eggs
½ cup milk
salt and ground black pepper to taste
1 ½ cups cold water, or more as needed
1 (1.5 ounce) package pork gravy mix
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Line the bottom of the prepared baking dish with biscuits.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir sausage in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes; drain and discard grease. Scatter sausage over biscuit layer and top with 1 cup Cheddar cheese.
Whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper together in a bowl and pour over cheese layer.
Mix water and gravy mix together in a saucepan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until gravy is thickened, 1 to 2 minutes, adding more water for a thinner gravy. Pour gravy over egg layer. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup Cheddar cheese over casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven until eggs are fluffy and cheese is bubbling, about 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg