Easy Biscuits and Gravy Casserole Recipe

What is Biscuits and Gravy Casserole?

Are you searching for that ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and smiles to your family’s table, especially on a chilly morning or a lazy weekend? Biscuits and gravy casserole is a nostalgic dish, a hearty and satisfying combination that feels like a warm hug. It takes the beloved classic of fluffy biscuits smothered in creamy, savory gravy and transforms it into an easy-to-serve, bakeable casserole. This recipe is designed for simplicity, ensuring that even novice cooks can create a crowd-pleasing breakfast or brunch that’s rich in flavor and tradition.

This casserole is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Imagine layers of tender, flaky biscuits nestled in a rich, peppery sausage gravy, all baked together until golden and bubbling. It’s the perfect dish for holidays, family gatherings, or simply when you need a comforting start to your day. We’ll guide you through each step, offering tips and tricks to make your biscuits and gravy casserole absolutely unforgettable.

Ingredients for This Easy Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

The magic of this casserole lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Biscuits

• 2 cans (16.3 oz each) refrigerated flaky biscuits (e.g., Pillsbury Grands): These are our secret weapon for speed and ease. They bake up wonderfully flaky and golden.
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for brushing): Adds a lovely subtle richness and sheen.

For the Gravy

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your preference): The savory foundation of our gravy. Choose a good quality sausage for the best flavor.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This acts as our thickening agent, creating that luscious, creamy gravy consistency.
• 3 cups milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess): For that classic rich and smooth gravy.
• 1 teaspoon salt: To enhance all the delightful flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A touch of pepper is essential for that signature biscuits and gravy kick! Adjust to your heat preference.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional): Adds an extra layer of savory depth.
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional): Complements the sausage and adds a subtle aromatic note.

For the Sausage Layer

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your preference): Yes, you’ll use it for the gravy too! This ensures a deeply flavorful casserole.

Optional Additions

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For a cheesy, gooey layer of deliciousness.
• 1/4 cup chopped chives or green onions: For a fresh, vibrant garnish and a hint of oniony bite.

Timing for This Delightful Casserole

This recipe is designed for efficiency without sacrificing flavor. Compared to making biscuits and gravy from scratch separately, this casserole pulls it all together much faster.

The average homemade biscuits and gravy from scratch can take up to an hour or more, especially when considering the biscuit-making process itself. This casserole significantly cuts down that time by utilizing convenient canned biscuits and a streamlined gravy process.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! This recipe is straightforward and rewarding.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and cooked through. Break up any large chunks with a spoon. Once cooked, drain off most of the excess grease, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons in the skillet. This flavorful grease will be the base for our gravy.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage in the skillet. Stir well and cook for about 1 minute, allowing the flour to toast slightly. This is your roux, which will thicken the gravy.

Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens to your desired gravy consistency. Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. The gravy should be rich, creamy, and delightfully peppery.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour about half of the hot sausage gravy into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. This forms a luscious base.

Unroll the refrigerated biscuit dough. You can either place the biscuits whole (they will spread and connect as they bake), or cut them into quarters for smaller, more evenly distributed biscuit pieces. Arrange the biscuit pieces evenly over the gravy layer in the baking dish.

If using cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the biscuit layer now. Then, pour the remaining sausage gravy carefully over the biscuits, ensuring they are mostly covered but with some tops peeking through. If you brushed the biscuits with butter earlier, you can do a final light brush now for extra crispiness.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil (to prevent the biscuits from browning too quickly). Bake for 20 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and puffed up, and the gravy is bubbling around the edges. The internal temperature should be hot.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to scoop. Garnish with fresh chives or green onions if desired.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

As every ingredient and portion size may vary, this is an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming 6 servings per casserole):

• Calories: 500-650 kcal
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fat: 30-40g
• Carbohydrates: 35-45g
• Fiber: 2-4g
• Sodium: 1000-1500mg (can vary greatly based on sausage and biscuit choices)

Please note: These values are approximate and can differ based on specific brands and ingredients used.

Healthier Alternatives for Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

While this casserole is a treat, you can make lighter versions without sacrificing too much flavor:

• Leaner Sausage: Opt for turkey, chicken, or a reduced-fat pork sausage.
• Whole Wheat Biscuits: Use whole wheat biscuit dough or make your own from scratch using whole wheat flour.
• Lighter Gravy Base: Use a blend of milk and low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to reduce fat and calories. Slightly increase flour or cornstarch to achieve thickness.
• Reduced-Fat Dairy: Use low-fat milk (though it might be less creamy) and reduced-fat cheese.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the sausage mixture for added nutrients and bulk.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas to round out your feast:

• Fresh Fruit: A side of mixed berries, sliced melon, or a fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast.
• Eggs: Serve alongside scrambled or fried eggs for an even heartier breakfast.
• Simple Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette is a great way to balance the richness.
• Hot Sauce: For those who love an extra kick, a drizzle of hot sauce is always welcome.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Make your casserole even better by steering clear of these common pitfalls:

• Lumpy Gravy: Always whisk the flour into the fat before adding liquid, and gradually whisk in milk to prevent lumps.
• Over-Baking Biscuits: Watch the biscuits closely after removing the foil, as they can go from golden to burnt quickly.
• Undercooked Sausage: Ensure the sausage is fully cooked before adding flour to avoid a raw taste.
• Too Much Grease: Drain off excess grease from the sausage, otherwise, your gravy can become greasy.
• Not Resting: Allowing the casserole to rest helps it set up for easier serving.

Storing Tips

Leftovers can be stored for a delightful next-day meal:

• Refrigeration: Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through, or reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warm. You may need to add a splash of milk if the gravy has thickened too much.
• Freezing: While not ideal for the texture of biscuits, you can freeze the casserole. Ensure it’s completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Treat!

This Easy Biscuits and Gravy Casserole recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients and a little bit of love can create a truly comforting and delicious meal. It’s perfect for busy mornings, cozy brunches, or any time you crave a taste of home. The combination of flaky biscuits, savory sausage, and creamy gravy baked to perfection is a winner for all ages.

Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments below! We’d love to hear your variations or any special tips you have for making it your own. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions About Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

***Can I use store-bought biscuits?***

Absolutely! This recipe is specifically designed to use refrigerated canned biscuits for convenience and speed. They bake up nicely and complement the creamy gravy perfectly.

***How do I make the gravy thicker or thinner?***

For thicker gravy: Whisk a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with a little cold water or milk to make a slurry, then stir it into the simmering gravy and cook for another minute or two until it thickens.
For thinner gravy: Stir in a bit more milk or broth until you reach your desired consistency.

***Can I add other meats to this casserole?***

Yes, you can! Cooked and crumbled bacon, diced ham, or even cooked ground turkey can be added along with or instead of breakfast sausage for different flavor profiles.

***Is biscuits and gravy casserole good for meal prep?***

Yes, it’s excellent for meal prep! It stores and reheats well, making it a perfect candidate for preparing ahead of time for busy mornings or lunches.

***What temperature should the oven be for this casserole?***

The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C) for baking the casserole.