Pioneer Woman–Style Sausage Gravy

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks.
2. Once fully cooked, sprinkle the flour evenly over the sausage. Stir to coat and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Slowly pour in the milk while stirring constantly. Start with 3 cups and add more if you prefer a thinner gravy.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken while stirring often.
5. Season with black pepper, salt, and optional cayenne or crushed red pepper.
6. Reduce the heat to low and let the gravy cook for another 5–7 minutes until thick and creamy.
7. Serve hot over freshly baked biscuits.

Variations

• Use hot breakfast sausage for a spicier version.
• Add a small handful of cooked bacon crumbles for extra smokiness.
• Incorporate a dash of Worcestershire sauce for deeper savory flavor.
• Replace a cup of milk with half-and-half for an even richer gravy.
• Add a pinch of dried thyme or sage for a subtle herbal note.

Tips

• For ultra-rich gravy, stir in 1 tablespoon of butter right before serving.
• If the gravy becomes too thick, add a splash of milk and stir until smooth.
• Let the sausage brown well—it builds essential flavor.
• Use freshly cracked black pepper for the best aroma and taste.
• Serve immediately for the creamiest texture; reheating may require a bit of added milk.