Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole
Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole is everything you love about a classic southern breakfast combined into one easy dish. It’s packed with soft, flaky biscuits, rich sausage gravy, and plenty…
Tip: save now, cook later.Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole is everything you love about a classic southern breakfast combined into one easy dish. It’s packed with soft, flaky biscuits, rich sausage gravy, and plenty of eggs to make it filling and satisfying. The mix of creamy gravy and fluffy biscuits creates this perfect comfort food that everyone seems to crave in the morning.
I really love making this casserole because it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I usually start it the night before, so all the flavors have time to soak in and blend together beautifully. It’s also a big crowd-pleaser, so when I bring it to brunch, I know it won’t last long. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding cheese, veggies, or extra sausage if you want.
My favorite way to serve it is straight out of the oven with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance all the richness. It’s also great for those lazy weekend mornings when you want breakfast to feel special but don’t want to spend forever cooking. This casserole feels like a treat but is surprisingly simple to put together, making it one of my go-to breakfast recipes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole
Breakfast sausage: I like using pork sausage for richness, but turkey sausage is a great leaner option. If you want extra flavor, try spicy or sage-flavored sausage.
Biscuits: Refrigerated biscuit dough saves time and still tastes great. You can swap for homemade biscuits if you prefer a handmade touch.
Milk: Whole milk makes the gravy creamier, but 2% or even unsweetened plant milk (like oat milk) can work in a pinch.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds nice tang and melts well. If you don’t have cheddar, Monterey Jack or Colby are tasty substitutes.
How Do You Make Smooth, Creamy Sausage Gravy?
Making gravy is simple but needs a bit of patience to get it right. Here’s how I do it:
- Cook sausage and save the drippings—this is your flavor base.
- Add butter to drippings and melt, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Stir constantly to avoid lumps.
- Slowly pour in milk while whisking to keep it smooth.
- Keep stirring on medium heat until it thickens nicely without burning.
- Add seasoning and sausage back in, then remove from heat.
Taking your time with the roux and adding the milk slowly really makes the difference between lumpy gravy and silky smooth. Plus, seasoning at the end lets you adjust the taste just right.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size for spreading out biscuits and gravy evenly.
- Large skillet – to cook the sausage and make the gravy in one pan, saving cleanup.
- Whisk – helps you mix the roux and milk smoothly without lumps.
- Slotted spoon – great for removing cooked sausage while leaving drippings behind.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy with flour, milk, and seasonings.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap breakfast sausage with spicy chorizo for a smoky, bold twist.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the gravy for extra veggies and depth.
- Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky crunch alongside sausage.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar to add a mild spicy kick.
Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 2 cans (16.3 ounces each) refrigerated biscuit dough
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake, totaling approximately 40-45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying breakfast option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so your casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage while breaking it into small pieces. Continue until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and keep the drippings in the skillet.
3. Make the Gravy:
Add butter to the sausage drippings and stir until melted. Slowly whisk in the flour and keep stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to form a roux (a thickening base). Gradually pour in the milk while whisking so the gravy becomes smooth. Keep stirring until it thickens to a creamy consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic and onion powders. Stir the cooked sausage back into the gravy and remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Cut the biscuit dough into small pieces or halves, depending on their size. Spread these pieces evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Pour the warm sausage gravy over the biscuits, making sure everything is nicely covered. Then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
5. Bake and Serve:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits turn golden brown and are cooked through, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like. Enjoy your delicious, comforting breakfast!
Can I Use Frozen Biscuit Dough Instead of Refrigerated?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the frozen biscuit dough completely in the refrigerator before using. This helps them bake evenly and ensures the casserole cooks through properly.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh in the morning for best results.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the sausage gravy adds flavor and nutrition. Just cook veggies with the sausage or separately before mixing into the gravy.
