5 Simple Steps to Perfect Biscuits and Gravy

Preparing Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, having all your ingredients ready is a great way to streamline your cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon of sugar
• 1 tablespoon of baking powder
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/3 cup of cold butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 cup of cold milk or buttermilk

For the gravy:

• 1 pound of sausage
• ¹⁄₃ cup of all-purpose flour
• 3 to 4 cups of whole milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Now, let’s delve into the journey of creating these delectable Southern delights.

🔍 Note: For the fluffiest biscuits, use cold butter and buttermilk, as these ingredients help in creating a layered texture.

Mixing the Dough for Fluffy Biscuits

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it’s warming up:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stirring these together ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents for rise consistency.

2. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to your dry mix. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter.

3. Add Milk: Gradually pour in the milk or buttermilk, stirring just until the dough comes together. Overmixing can lead to dense biscuits, so aim for a shaggy dough.

🔍 Note: For a flakier texture, you can fold the dough several times after initially mixing.

Shaping and Baking the Biscuits

1. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll or pat the dough out to about ¹⁄₂-inch thickness. Cut out biscuits using a floured biscuit cutter or the top of a glass.

2. Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange biscuits on an ungreased baking sheet with edges just touching. This helps them rise upwards rather than outwards.

3. Bake: Pop them into the oven for about 15-18 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. The scent of freshly baked biscuits will soon waft through your kitchen.

Cooking the Gravy

As your biscuits are baking, let’s get started on the gravy:

1. Brown the Sausage: In a skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s thoroughly browned. This usually takes about 10 minutes.

2. Thicken with Flour: Once cooked, sprinkle flour over the sausage. Stir well to ensure the flour is fully integrated and cooks for 1-2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.

3. Add Milk: Gradually pour in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

4. Season: Add salt and plenty of freshly ground black pepper. Simmer on low heat until the gravy thickens, which might take around 5-10 minutes.

🔍 Note: If your gravy becomes too thick, thin it with a splash of milk; if too thin, simmer a bit longer.

Assembling Biscuits and Gravy

With your biscuits baked and gravy ready:

1. Split the Biscuits: Gently slice each biscuit in half with a serrated knife.

2. Layer: Place one half on a plate, ladle a generous portion of sausage gravy over it, and then top with the other half or leave open-faced.

3. Serve: Enjoy your biscuits and gravy immediately for the best experience.

The warmth and savory richness of the gravy, paired with the fluffy, buttery biscuits, make for a delightful meal that speaks to the heart of Southern cuisine.

To round off this delightful experience, let’s wrap up with a few key points:

Creating the perfect biscuits and gravy involves a mix of preparation, attention to detail, and a love for rich, comforting flavors. By following these steps, you can master the art of making this beloved Southern dish at home, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your kitchen. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, biscuits and gravy are always a hit, offering layers of taste and tradition with each bite.

Can I use another type of milk for the gravy?

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Yes, while whole milk gives a richer texture, you can substitute with 2% or skim milk. The result will be a slightly less creamy gravy, but it will still be delicious. For a dairy-free option, consider using unsweetened almond or oat milk.

How can I prevent my biscuits from spreading too much while baking?

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To avoid spreading, ensure your oven is properly preheated before baking, your dough isn’t too wet, and place biscuits with edges touching for support. The cold butter also plays a crucial role in creating steam that helps biscuits rise rather than spread.

What are some good toppings or additions to biscuits and gravy?

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Beyond the classic, try adding a fried or poached egg on top, crispy bacon bits, or even a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese. For a touch of greenery, consider a light garnish of parsley or chives.