Easy Biscuits and Gravy Casserole Recipe

Craving Comfort Food? Meet Your New Go-To Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

Are you looking for a breakfast or brunch dish that’s both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to whip up? Studies show that nostalgic comfort foods, like biscuits and gravy, can evoke feelings of warmth, security, and happiness. This Easy Biscuits and Gravy Casserole Recipe takes all the beloved flavors of the classic dish – flaky, buttery biscuits and rich, creamy sausage gravy – and transforms them into a convenient, make-ahead-friendly casserole. It’s the perfect way to bring a little extra comfort and joy to your family’s table, especially on those lazy weekend mornings.

Ingredients: The Heart of Your Hearty Casserole

Gathering your ingredients is the first delicious step. We’ve aimed for simplicity and classic flavors, but feel free to play with these based on your preferences. Think of the aroma as you prepare them – the savory pork, the creamy dairy, the tender biscuits – it’s all part of the magic!

Timing is Everything: When to Make and Serve

This recipe is designed for busy mornings, but the timing is flexible. Preparing the gravy and biscuits takes about 45 minutes in total, which is slightly quicker than many traditional casserole recipes that might involve making biscuits from scratch or require longer simmering times for the gravy. This makes it an ideal weeknight comfort meal or a relaxed weekend brunch option.

Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Step 1: Prep the Biscuits

Preheat your oven according to the biscuit package directions (usually around 375-400°F or 190-200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Open both cans of biscuits. You can either cut each biscuit into quarters, or if you prefer larger biscuit pieces, you can halve them. Arrange the biscuit pieces in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are relatively close together but not overly crowded. The goal is for them to bake up into a fluffy, slightly connected base for our gravy.

Step 2: Make the Gravy

In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the breakfast sausage. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s nicely browned and crumbled. If using onion, add it during the last 5 minutes of browning the sausage and cook until softened and translucent. Drain off most of the excess grease, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons in the pan for flavor. Sprinkle the flour over the sausage mixture and stir well, cooking for about 1 minute to toast the flour and coat the sausage. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no flour clumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the gravy begins to thicken. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to your taste. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – this is your chance to get the gravy just right!

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Carefully pour the hot, thickened sausage gravy evenly over the biscuit pieces in the baking dish. Ensure that most of the biscuits are covered by the gravy, allowing some to peek through for those delightful crispy edges. If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the gravy and biscuits.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through, the gravy is bubbly around the edges, and the cheese (if used) is melted and lightly golden. Keep an eye on it to prevent the biscuits from over-browning.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve and preventing the gravy from being too runny. Garnish with fresh chopped chives or parsley, if desired, for a touch of freshness and color.

Nutritional Snapshot

While individual results may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, a typical serving of this Easy Biscuits and Gravy Casserole provides a hearty balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Please note these are estimates:

• Calories: Approximately 450-600 per serving (depending on sausage type and cheese)
• Protein: Rich in protein from the sausage and milk.
• Carbohydrates: Primarily from the biscuits and flour in the gravy.
• Fat: Contributes healthy fats from sausage and milk, with cheese adding extra richness.

For precise nutritional information, it’s recommended to use a recipe calculator with your specific ingredients.

Lighter, Yet Delicious: Healthier Alternatives

Looking to make this comfort classic a bit lighter without sacrificing flavor? Here are a few swaps that work wonderfully:

• Leaner Sausage: Opt for turkey or chicken breakfast sausage instead of pork.
• Whole Wheat Biscuits: If making from scratch, incorporate whole wheat flour into your biscuit recipe. For store-bought, look for reduced-fat or whole wheat options if available.
• Reduced Fat Milk: Use 1% or skim milk for a creamier gravy. While it might be slightly less rich, it still thickens beautifully.
• Vegetable Boost: Add finely diced bell peppers or mushrooms along with the onion for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Skip the Cheese (or use less): While delicious, cheese adds extra fat and calories. You can significantly reduce it or omit it entirely.

Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Meal

This casserole is a meal in itself, but here are a few ideas to complement it:

• Fresh Fruit: A side of mixed berries or sliced melon provides a refreshing contrast.
• Side Salad: A light, crisp green salad can balance the richness.
• Fried Eggs: Top each serving with a perfectly fried egg for an extra protein boost and a runny yolk that melts into the gravy.
• Hot Sauce: For those who love an extra kick, a dash of your favorite hot sauce is a must.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

• Gravy Too Thin: Don’t rush the simmering process. Allow the gravy enough time to thicken properly after adding the milk. If it’s still too thin, you can dissolve a tablespoon of cornstarch in a little cold water and whisk it into the simmering gravy until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Overcrowding Biscuits: While you want them to touch a bit, packing them too tightly can lead to doughy, undercooked centers.
• Baking Too Long: Overbaking can dry out the biscuits and make them tough. Watch for golden-brown perfection and bubbly gravy.
• Not Resting: Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes allows the flavors to meld and the gravy to set, making it much easier to serve neatly.

Storing Your Casserole

Leftovers are a delicious prospect! Once cooled, store any remaining biscuits and gravy casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You might need to add a splash of milk to the gravy if it has thickened considerably during storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Enjoy Your Ultimate Comfort Food Casserole!

This Easy Biscuits and Gravy Casserole Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience of pure comfort and deliciousness. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but special enough for a weekend brunch. Gather your loved ones, get cooking, and savor every warm, savory bite. Don’t forget to share your creations with us in the comments below – we love seeing your culinary triumphs!

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