Bob Evans' Famous Sausage Gravy is a beloved breakfast dish known for its creamy, savory goodness and hearty flavor. This recipe isn't just for fans of the restaurant; it's for anyone who wants to bring that comforting taste of Southern breakfast into their own kitchen. Here's how you can make this delicious sausage gravy at home:
1. Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start, make sure you have everything you need:
- 1 pound of bulk pork sausage (Bob Evans preferred, but any quality breakfast sausage will do)
- 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of milk (whole or 2% works best)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of sugar (optional, but recommended for balancing flavors)
2. Cook the Sausage
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, crumble the sausage into it. Cook the sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and there are no signs of pink:
- The sausage should release its fat, which you’ll use to make the roux.
- If your sausage is particularly lean, you might need to add a tablespoon or two of butter or oil.
3. Create the Roux
This step is crucial for the texture and flavor of your gravy:
- Once the sausage is cooked, sprinkle the flour over it, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Cook the flour and sausage mixture for about 1-2 minutes until the flour is lightly toasted. This step helps eliminate the raw flour taste and thickens the gravy.
⚠️ Note: Keep stirring to prevent the flour from burning, which can impart a bitter taste.
4. Add Milk and Season
Now it’s time to add milk to form the gravy:
- Gradually pour in the milk, continuously stirring to ensure smoothness.
- Continue to cook over medium heat until the gravy begins to bubble and thicken.
- Reduce heat to low, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
5. Simmer and Serve
The final step to perfection:
- Let the gravy simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If the gravy thickens too much, you can thin it with a little more milk.
- Serve hot over freshly baked biscuits, scrambled eggs, or hash browns.
With these steps, you’ll have recreated a dish that has become a staple in American breakfast culture, known for its comforting warmth and rich flavors. Enjoy the experience of bringing the restaurant to your home kitchen!
In summary, making Bob Evans’ Famous Sausage Gravy at home involves careful preparation with quality ingredients, a keen eye on the roux creation, and a gentle simmer to marry the flavors. This straightforward recipe ensures a delicious outcome that’s sure to be a hit at your breakfast table.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
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Yes, you can use other breakfast sausage brands or even turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version, but the flavor profile will differ from the original Bob Evans taste.
How can I make my gravy less thick?
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If your gravy becomes too thick, simply add more milk in small increments until you reach the desired consistency.
What if I’m lactose intolerant?
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You can substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk, but be aware that it might slightly alter the taste of the gravy.
Can I store this gravy for later use?
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Yes, you can store the gravy in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it gently on the stove, stirring occasionally, adding a bit of milk if it has thickened too much.
What are good sides to serve with this gravy?
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Aside from biscuits, this gravy pairs well with scrambled eggs, hash browns, or even as a topping for cornbread or pancakes.
