Biscuits and Gravy

Introduction

Biscuits and Gravy is a comforting, classic Southern dish that brings warmth to the breakfast table. Fluffy, golden biscuits smothered in a rich, creamy, and savory gravy make for the ultimate comfort food. This version avoids pork and bacon, offering a delicious vegetarian or chicken-based alternative that’s perfect for everyone. Whether enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or a satisfying brunch, Biscuits and Gravy is a timeless favorite that never fails to please.

I remember the first time I made this dish for a cozy weekend breakfast. The aroma of freshly baked biscuits and simmering gravy filled the kitchen, and everyone gathered eagerly around the table. What’s wonderful about Biscuits and Gravy is how adaptable it is—you can use a variety of seasonings to customize the gravy, from classic black pepper to a pinch of smoked paprika or fresh herbs for added depth of flavor.

This dish is surprisingly simple to prepare. With just a few pantry staples for the biscuits and a quick, creamy gravy made with butter, flour, and milk (plus your choice of vegetarian or chicken-based protein), you can create a meal that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether for a family breakfast, brunch with friends, or a comforting treat for yourself, Biscuits and Gravy is always a hit!

Perfect for:

• Weekend brunches
• Family breakfasts
• Casual gatherings
• Comfort food cravings
• Meal prepping for quick breakfasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Biscuits and Gravy is an irresistible dish:

• Fluffy Homemade Biscuits: Buttery and tender, these biscuits are easy to make and bake to golden perfection.
• Rich, Creamy Gravy: A savory, flavorful gravy made with wholesome ingredients and no pork or bacon.
• Customizable for Everyone: Whether vegetarian or using chicken, this recipe is versatile and easy to adapt.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: The combination of warm biscuits and creamy gravy is both filling and satisfying.
• Quick and Simple: Easy-to-follow recipe that comes together in no time for a delicious meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Biscuits and Gravy:

For the Biscuits:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ¾ cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice as a substitute)

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a deeper flavor)
• 1 cup cooked chicken sausage crumbles or sautéed mushrooms (for a vegetarian option)

Ingredient Highlights

• Buttermilk Biscuits: Buttermilk adds tang and makes the biscuits tender and fluffy.
• Vegetarian or Chicken-Based Gravy: Use chicken sausage or mushrooms for a pork-free, flavorful gravy.
• Milk: Creates a creamy texture for the gravy, with a rich and smooth consistency.
• Butter and Flour: The base for a classic roux that thickens the gravy perfectly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Biscuits:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Buttermilk: Slowly pour in the buttermilk, stirring until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
4. Shape and Cut Biscuits: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, gently pat into a 1-inch-thick rectangle, and fold the dough over itself 2-3 times. Use a biscuit cutter or round glass to cut out biscuits.
5. Bake: Place the biscuits on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Prepare the Gravy:

6. Cook the Sausage or Mushrooms: If using chicken sausage, crumble and cook it in a skillet over medium heat until browned. For mushrooms, sauté in butter until golden and tender. Remove from skillet and set aside.
7. Make the Roux: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
8. Add Milk Gradually: Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
9. Season: Stir in salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.
10. Combine: Add the cooked chicken sausage or mushrooms back into the gravy, stirring to combine.

Serve:

11. Plate the Dish: Split the warm biscuits in half and spoon the hot gravy generously over the top.
12. Garnish: Optionally garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for color.

How to Serve

• Classic Style: Serve biscuits smothered in gravy as a standalone dish.
• With Eggs: Pair with scrambled or fried eggs for a heartier breakfast.
• Add a Side: Enjoy with fresh fruit, hash browns, or a simple green salad.
• Brunch Board: Include as part of a breakfast or brunch spread with other items like pancakes, toast, and fresh juice.

Additional Tips

• Use cold butter for flakier biscuits.
• Don’t overwork the dough to keep biscuits tender.
• Cook the roux thoroughly to avoid a raw flour taste.
• Adjust the consistency of the gravy by adding more milk if needed.
• Make it vegetarian by using mushrooms or plant-based sausage.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian Mushroom Gravy: Use sautéed mushrooms instead of sausage for a meat-free option.
2. Spicy Gravy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for heat.
3. Herbed Biscuits: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the biscuit dough.
4. Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based milk and butter substitutes.
5. Whole Grain Biscuits: Swap in whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
6. Turkey Sausage Gravy: Use ground turkey sausage for a leaner option.
7. Cheddar Biscuits: Add shredded cheddar cheese to the biscuit dough for extra flavor.
8. Gluten-Free Biscuits: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the biscuits suitable for gluten-free diets.
9. Gravy with Vegetables: Stir in diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach for added texture and nutrients.
10. Sweet Potato Biscuits: Replace some of the flour with mashed sweet potatoes for a unique twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing Biscuits: Store baked biscuits in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
• Freezing Gravy: Freeze gravy in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen the consistency.
• Storage: Refrigerate biscuits and gravy separately for up to 3 days.

Special Equipment

• Biscuit cutter or round glass
• Large skillet
• Whisk for making the gravy
• Baking sheet for the biscuits

FAQ Section

1. Can I use store-bought biscuits? Yes, store-bought biscuits work well for convenience.
2. Can I make the gravy ahead of time? Yes, prepare the gravy a day in advance and reheat gently before serving.
3. Can I make this dairy-free? Yes, substitute with plant-based butter and milk.
4. Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but the biscuits may be denser.
5. How can I make it spicier? Add cayenne, hot sauce, or chili flakes to the gravy.

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Conclusion

Warm, flaky biscuits paired with rich, creamy gravy make for the ultimate breakfast indulgence. This pork-free version of Biscuits and Gravy is hearty, flavorful, and completely customizable to suit your preferences.

With its buttery, golden biscuits and velvety gravy made without pork, this dish is perfect for those seeking a classic Southern-style breakfast with a twist. Whether you’re preparing it for a weekend brunch, a holiday gathering, or simply treating yourself to a cozy morning, it’s guaranteed to satisfy.

This recipe is simple to prepare and versatile, allowing you to experiment with different flavors by adding herbs, spices, or your choice of sausage alternatives. Serve it hot and fresh for a comforting and delicious start to the day.

I’d love to see your pork-free Biscuits and Gravy creations! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me so I can enjoy your mouthwatering masterpiece. Happy cooking!