Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

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If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting breakfast or brunch dish that’s sure to please a crowd, you’ve found it! Biscuits and Gravy Casserole combines all the elements of a traditional biscuits and gravy meal but in casserole form, making it even easier to serve and enjoy. Imagine flaky biscuits smothered in rich, creamy sausage gravy, baked to perfection in a cheesy, golden crust. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning.

This recipe has become a staple in our household. It’s the kind of dish I whip up on lazy weekends, or when we have family visiting and want to impress them without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of this casserole is that it’s easy to make, full of flavor, and can be prepped the night before for even more convenience. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll be on repeat in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

• Easy to make: Minimal prep time, and it’s assembled in a few simple steps.
• Comforting and satisfying: Everything you love about biscuits and gravy, but in casserole form.
• Perfect for a crowd: Whether it’s a family breakfast or a holiday brunch, this casserole serves a lot of people without any extra hassle.
• Make-ahead option: You can prep it the night before and bake it in the morning, saving time when you’re running on coffee and need something delicious fast.
• Customizable: Swap out ingredients based on dietary needs or preferences. You can make this dish gluten-free, vegetarian, or add a little extra heat with spicy sausage if you like it bold.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 45 minutes (if baking immediately) or 1 hour (if prepping overnight)
• Servings: 8-10 servings
• Calories per serving: 350-400 calories (depending on ingredients used)

Ingredients

This dish has a few key ingredients that work together to create the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cans (16.3 oz each) refrigerated biscuits: These are the shortcut that makes this casserole so easy to prepare. Flaky and buttery, the biscuits soak up the savory gravy, making each bite irresistible.
• 1 lb breakfast sausage: The star of the gravy! Use your favorite sausage (I recommend a mild or spicy variety, depending on your preference). If you want to make it halal, you can easily swap the pork sausage for turkey sausage or chicken sausage.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This is the thickening agent for the gravy.
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk: For that rich, creamy gravy.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For extra flavor in the gravy.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds savory depth to the gravy.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, since the sausage will provide some saltiness, you’ll want to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: A little cheese in the gravy is a game-changer. It makes the sauce extra creamy and adds a nice savory flavor to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon butter: For greasing the casserole dish and adding extra flavor.
• Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or chives, for a pop of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Casserole Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole will bake evenly and get that golden-brown crust we all love. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray. Set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

2. Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the 1 lb of breakfast sausage. Cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked through, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once the sausage is cooked, drain any excess grease, but leave a little behind to help cook the flour and form the gravy.

3. Make the Gravy

Add the 1/4 cup of flour to the cooked sausage and stir it around for about 1-2 minutes. This helps the flour absorb the fat and ensures the gravy won’t taste floury. Gradually pour in the 2 1/2 cups of whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens into a creamy gravy, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Season with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper. Taste the gravy and adjust the seasonings if necessary. If you like your gravy thicker, let it simmer a bit longer. Once you’re happy with the consistency, remove the skillet from the heat.

4. Prepare the Biscuits

Open the cans of refrigerated biscuits and cut each biscuit into quarters. This helps the biscuits evenly distribute throughout the casserole and soak up all that delicious gravy.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Now it’s time to put everything together! Layer the biscuit pieces in the bottom of your greased casserole dish. Pour the sausage gravy evenly over the top, making sure all the biscuit pieces are covered. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top for a melty, cheesy layer that will bake into a golden crust.

6. Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through, and the gravy is bubbling up around the edges. The cheese will melt and form a delicious, crispy layer on top.

7. Serve and Enjoy!

Once your casserole is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the gravy set a little so it won’t be too runny when you dish it up. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and a bit of freshness.

How to Serve Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

This casserole is hearty enough to be a stand-alone dish, but here are a few ideas for sides that will complete your breakfast or brunch spread:

• Fresh Fruit: A light, refreshing side like sliced strawberries, oranges, or a fruit salad helps balance out the richness of the casserole.
• Hash Browns: Crispy, golden hash browns add a nice crunch and another layer of comfort.
• Side Salad: A simple arugula or spinach salad with a lemon vinaigrette will bring a bit of freshness to cut through the heaviness.
• Hot Sauce: If you like a little spice, serve with a side of your favorite hot sauce to drizzle over the top of the casserole.

For drinks, consider serving this casserole with fresh orange juice or a steaming cup of coffee. If you’re in the mood for something special, a mimosa or bloody mary would pair perfectly for a festive brunch.

Additional Tips for Perfect Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

• Don’t Skip the Grease: When you cook the sausage, be sure to leave a little grease behind. This will help thicken the gravy and make it extra flavorful.
• Use Full-Fat Milk: For the creamiest gravy, avoid using skim milk. Whole milk gives the gravy a rich, indulgent texture.
• Let the Casserole Set: After baking, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the gravy firm up a bit and makes it easier to serve.
• Cut the Biscuits Small: Cutting the biscuits into quarters ensures they’ll absorb more gravy and cook evenly throughout the casserole.
• Make Ahead: You can prep this casserole the night before. Assemble everything, cover with foil, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just pop it in the oven to bake. This makes it the perfect dish for busy mornings or holiday gatherings.

Recipe Variations

Here are some fun variations on this classic casserole that you can try to make it your own:

• Vegetarian: Swap out the sausage for crumbled veggie sausage or sautéed mushrooms and onions for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy: If you like a little heat, use a spicy breakfast sausage or add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the gravy mixture.
• Cheese Variations: While cheddar is classic, you could use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Mozzarella for different flavors.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free biscuits and flour to make this casserole gluten-free. You can also substitute almond flour for the all-purpose flour if you’re on a low-carb or keto diet.
• Sausage Substitutes: For a leaner option, use turkey sausage or chicken sausage. You can also try beef bacon as a substitution for the sausage for a different twist.

Freezing and Storage

This casserole is perfect for making ahead and storing for later. Here’s how to handle leftovers and freeze any extras:

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual servings or reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
• Freezing: You can freeze the entire casserole after baking (or before baking if you prefer). If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 45 minutes, or until heated through.
• Freezing Unbaked Casserole: Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the bake time.

Special Equipment

To make this casserole, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:

• 9×13-inch casserole dish: The standard size for casseroles, this dish will hold all your ingredients and help everything bake evenly.
• Large skillet: For cooking the sausage and making the gravy.
• Whisk: To ensure your gravy is lump-free and smooth.
• Sharp knife: For cutting the biscuits into quarters.

FAQ Section

Can I use store-bought sausage gravy?

Yes! If you’re in a pinch, you can absolutely use store-bought sausage gravy. However, making your own gravy from scratch will give it a much fresher, more personalized flavor.

Can I make this casserole the night before?

Yes! In fact, it’s a great make-ahead option. Just assemble it the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

Can I substitute the sausage for something else?

Absolutely! You can substitute the sausage for turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version. You could also use ground beef or bacon for a different flavor.

Can I use dairy-free milk?

Yes! You can use a dairy-free alternative, such as almond milk or oat milk, to make this casserole dairy-free. Just keep in mind that the texture of the gravy may be slightly different depending on the milk substitute.

Conclusion

There you have it—your new go-to comfort food for breakfast or brunch. Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is easy to make, absolutely delicious, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself on a lazy morning, it’s sure to be a hit. I can’t wait to see how your version turns out! Be sure to leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram with your photos—I love seeing your creations!