Biscuits & Gravy Casserole: A Hearty Southern Breakfast Classic
Biscuits & gravy casserole is the ultimate comfort food. This casserole version takes the beloved Southern classic and transforms it into a one-dish meal that’s perfect for brunches, holiday gatherings, or just a cozy family breakfast. With layers of fluffy biscuits, savory sausage, creamy gravy, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to satisfy anyone craving hearty, homemade goodness.
The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity. It brings together everything you love about Southern biscuits and gravy, but with the ease of preparing it in one pan. Whether you’re using store-bought ingredients or making everything from scratch, this casserole is adaptable to any skill level. For an added twist, you can check out the Delish Biscuits and Gravy Casserole Recipe.
What Is Biscuits & Gravy Casserole?
The traditional Southern biscuits and gravy consists of fluffy, buttery biscuits topped with rich sausage gravy. But when you turn this dish into a casserole, it becomes something even more special.
In this version, layers of buttermilk biscuits are combined with crumbled sausage, eggs, shredded cheese, and thick, creamy gravy. The ingredients meld together beautifully as they bake, resulting in a casserole that’s both indulgent and comforting. This dish is versatile—you can easily customize it to suit your preferences by adding bacon, extra cheese, or even some vegetables for added texture.
For another take on a classic breakfast dish, visit AllRecipes Sausage Gravy Breakfast Casserole.
Key Ingredients for Biscuits & Gravy Casserole
Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients you’ll need to make biscuits & gravy casserole:
- Biscuits: You can use either store-bought canned biscuits or make your own from scratch. Buttermilk biscuits are a great option for a classic Southern flavor.
- Sausage: Ground pork sausage works best, whether you prefer mild, hot, or maple-flavored varieties. The sausage provides richness and flavor.
- Gravy Mix: Using peppered gravy mix is a time-saver, but you can also make homemade gravy for a more personal touch.
- Eggs: Eggs add protein and help bind the ingredients together, making the casserole more filling.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese works well for melting and adding a layer of creaminess.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Biscuits & Gravy Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
Step 2: Prepare the Biscuits
- Cut the biscuit dough into 1-inch pieces and place them evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground sausage, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat.
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients
- Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the biscuit pieces in the dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the sausage layer.
Step 5: Make the Egg Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs and ½ cup of milk. Season with salt and pepper, then pour the egg mixture over the biscuits, sausage, and cheese.
Step 6: Prepare the Gravy
- Prepare 2 cups of peppered gravy mix according to package directions. Pour the gravy evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
- Bake the casserole for 35-45 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown, and the eggs are fully set. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
Step 8: Let It Rest and Serve
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. Serve hot, with extra gravy on the side if desired.
Recipe Variations for Biscuits & Gravy Casserole
This recipe can be customized in countless ways to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Bacon Biscuits & Gravy Casserole
- For a variation with extra flavor, swap the sausage for crispy bacon or use both sausage and bacon in the same dish.
- Vegetarian Biscuits & Gravy Casserole
- To make a meat-free version, replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers for a hearty alternative.
- Crescent Roll Casserole
- Instead of using biscuit dough, try using crescent roll dough for a lighter, flakier texture. This can add a buttery sweetness to the dish.
- Spicy Sausage Casserole
- Use hot sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the egg mixture for a kick of heat.
Tips for Making the Best Biscuits & Gravy Casserole
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly:
- Prepare Ahead of Time: You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from chilled.
- Watch for Over-Browning: If the top of the casserole starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
- Extra Gravy: If you’re a gravy lover, consider doubling the amount of gravy and serving extra on the side. This ensures every bite is saucy and satisfying.
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the ingredients to settle, making it easier to slice and serve.
Serving Suggestions for Biscuits & Gravy Casserole
Here are a few ways to serve this hearty casserole:
- With Fresh Fruit: A light fruit salad with berries and melon balances the richness of the casserole and adds a refreshing element to your meal.
- Serve with Toast or Cinnamon Rolls: Add a side of toast or cinnamon rolls for extra carbs and sweetness to complement the savory flavors.
- Top with Hot Sauce: For those who love a little heat, drizzle the casserole with hot sauce or serve with salsa on the side.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make biscuits and gravy casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before. Store it covered in the refrigerator, then bake it the next morning. Just be sure to add an additional 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
2. What kind of sausage works best for this casserole?
Any type of sausage works well, including breakfast sausage, hot sausage, or even turkey sausage. Choose based on your flavor preference or dietary needs.
3. Can I freeze biscuits and gravy casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
4. Can I use homemade gravy?
Absolutely! You can make gravy from scratch using sausage drippings, flour, and milk. Just make sure you have at least 2 cups of gravy for the casserole.
5. How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven for the best results.
Conclusion: A Hearty Breakfast That’s Perfect for Any Occasion
Biscuits & gravy casserole is a comforting, filling dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or holiday gatherings. With its layers of biscuits, sausage, eggs, cheese, and creamy gravy, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you customize it with extra bacon, spice it up with hot sausage, or stick to the classic version, this casserole offers endless possibilities for deliciousness.
For more ideas on breakfast casseroles, check out The Spruce Eats Biscuits and Gravy Casserole.
