Name: Country Gravy Recipe: Creamy and Peppery
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup sausage drippings or butter; 1/4 cup flour; 2 cups milk; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional); 1/4 tsp onion powder (optional); 8 oz cooked sausage (optional); Optional: Parsley or chives; Suggested Pairings: Biscuits (coffee)

Introduction

Country gravy, also known as white gravy or sausage gravy, is a Southern staple, celebrated for its creamy texture, savory flavor, and bold black pepper kick. Perfect for smothering biscuits, fried chicken, or mashed potatoes, it’s a comforting addition to breakfast or dinner. Its quick preparation makes it ideal for cooks of all levels. This recipe delivers a traditional country gravy, adaptable for dietary preferences, best served hot for cozy mornings or hearty meals.

Ingredients

For the Country Gravy:

1/4 cup sausage drippings (from 8 oz breakfast sausage) or unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk, warmed
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional, for depth)
1/4 tsp onion powder (optional, for savory notes)
8 oz cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled (optional, for sausage gravy)

For Serving:

Optional: Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Suggested Pairings: Buttermilk biscuits, fried chicken, or mashed potatoes
Suggested Beverage: Coffee, sweet tea, or orange juice

Step-by-Step Process

Cook Sausage (if using): In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 8 oz breakfast sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage with a slotted spoon, leaving 1/4 cup drippings in the skillet. If using butter, melt 1/4 cup in the skillet instead.
Make Roux: Sprinkle flour over the drippings or melted butter, whisking constantly to form a smooth paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring, until the roux is lightly golden and smells nutty, ensuring no raw flour taste.
Add Milk: Gradually pour in warmed milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Start with 1/2 cup, then add the rest in a slow stream, stirring until smooth.
Thicken Gravy: Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a simmer, whisking frequently. Cook for 3-5 minutes, until thickened to a creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon. If too thick, add more milk, 1 tbsp at a time.
Season: Stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using). Add cooked sausage (if using) and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more pepper for a bolder kick.
Serve: Transfer gravy to a serving bowl or ladle directly over warm biscuits, fried chicken, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with parsley or chives if desired. Serve hot with a beverage like coffee or sweet tea.

Tips for Better Country Gravy

Warm milk before adding to prevent lumps; cold milk can cause the roux to seize.
Whisk constantly when adding flour and milk to ensure a smooth, lump-free gravy.
Use sausage drippings for authentic flavor; butter is a good substitute for vegetarian or lighter versions.
Cook the roux until golden to eliminate raw flour taste, but avoid browning too much.
Adjust thickness by simmering longer for thicker gravy or adding milk for r thinner gravy.
Season generously with black pepper; it’s a signature flavor of country gravy.
Keep gravy warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, if not serving immediately.
Make ahead: Prepare and refrigerate; reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Variations and Customization

Vegetarian Gravy: Use butter instead of sausage drippings and vegetable broth instead of milk for a dairy-free option.
Low-Sodium Gravy: Reduce salt to 1/4 tsp and use low-sodium broth if substituting for milk.
Spicy Gravy: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or 1 tsp hot sauce with the seasonings.
Mushroom Gravy: Sauté 1 cup sliced mushrooms in the drippings before adding flour.
Gluten-Free Gravy: Replace flour with 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water, added after milk.
Herb Gravy: Stir in 1 tsp fresh thyme or sage with the seasonings for an aromatic twist.
Creamy Sausage Gravy: Increase sausage to 12 oz for a heartier, meatier gravy.
Vegan Gravy: Use vegan butter, plant-based milk, and omit sausage or use vegan sausage crumbles.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; the gravy may thicken.
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring in 1-2 tbsp milk or water to loosen, about 5 minutes.
Freeze in airtight containers for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge and reheat with added liquid.
Serve hot for the best texture; cold gravy can be thick and less appetizing.
Use leftovers as a base for breakfast casseroles or over toast for a quick meal.
Avoid leaving at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
Pair with flaky biscuits to soak up the creamy sauce; fried chicken adds crunch.
Stir well after reheating to restore smooth consistency.

Nutritional Information

Based on 4 servings (1/2 cup each, with sausage drippings, without sausage):

Calories: 220 kcal
Total Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 420mg
Total Carbohydrates: 12g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 6g
Vitamin A: 10% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 0% Daily Value
Calcium: 15% Daily Value
Iron: 4% Daily Value

Note: Nutritional values vary based on ingredient brands and optional add-ins. This gravy is moderate in calories and fat due to drippings and milk. For dietary needs, try vegetarian or gluten-free variations. Its nutrients come primarily from milk.

Conclusion

This country gravy recipe delivers a creamy, peppery sauce that’s perfect for elevating breakfast or dinner dishes, from biscuits to fried chicken. Its simple preparation and bold flavors make it a favorite for home cooks. The smooth texture and savory taste create a comforting addition. This recipe is sure to become a staple, cherished for its ease and heartiness.