Pioneer Woman Sausage Gravy: A Comfort Food Classic

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

1. Heat the Pan:
   Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. If you’re using a cast-iron skillet, that’s ideal as it retains heat well.
2. Add the Sausage:
   Once the skillet is hot, add the 1 lb of breakfast sausage. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the sausage into small pieces.
3. Cook Until Browned:
   Cook the sausage for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is nicely browned and cooked through. The sausage should be well-crumbled and have a nice golden color.
4. Do Not Drain the Grease:
   This step is crucial! Do not drain the grease from the pan. The rendered fat from the sausage will provide flavor and richness to the gravy.

Step 2: Create the Roux

1. Add the Flour:
   Sprinkle the 1/4 cup of flour directly over the cooked sausage in the skillet.
2. Stir to Combine:
   Stir the flour into the sausage and grease, making sure it’s evenly coated. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to absorb the fat and cook slightly. This process helps eliminate any raw flour taste.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

1. Pour in the Milk:
   Gradually pour in the 2 cups of milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
2. Bring to a Simmer:
   Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. As the gravy heats, it will begin to thicken. Keep stirring to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
3. Season to Taste:
   Once the gravy has reached your desired thickness (about 5-7 minutes), season with salt and pepper to taste. The amount of seasoning will depend on your preference and the saltiness of the sausage.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve Hot:
   Once the sausage gravy is ready, remove it from the heat and serve it immediately. It’s best enjoyed hot over freshly baked biscuits, toast, or even scrambled eggs.
2. Garnish (Optional):
   If you like, you can garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips for the Perfect Sausage Gravy

• Sausage Choice:
  The type of sausage you choose will affect the flavor of your gravy. For a spicier kick, consider using a hot sausage blend.
• Adjusting Consistency:
  If your gravy is too thick, you can whisk in a bit more milk until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, continue to simmer until it thickens.
• Leftovers:
  Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
• Variations:
  Feel free to customize your gravy! You can add sautéed onions, garlic, or even a splash of hot sauce for extra flavor.

Conclusion

The Pioneer Woman’s sausage gravy is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any breakfast or brunch table. With its creamy texture and savory flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients and whip up this delicious dish—your taste buds will thank you!