Biscuits & Gravy Casserole

Biscuits & Gravy Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together classic breakfast flavors in a convenient casserole format. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a special weekend brunch, this recipe combines savory sausage, fluffy biscuits, creamy gravy, and melted cheese for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Biscuits & Gravy Casserole that will become a family favorite.

Ingredients:
For the Casserole:

• 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
• 6 cups biscuits, baked and cut into quarters (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

For the Gravy:

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground breakfast sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it apart into crumbles as it cooks. Once the sausage is browned and cooked through, remove it from the skillet and drain any excess grease.
3. In the same skillet, melt the 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Stir in the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes, until it turns a light golden color.
4. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk into the roux, making sure there are no lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the gravy thickens, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 6 large eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder.
6. Place the baked and quartered biscuits in the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked breakfast sausage evenly over the biscuits.
7. Pour the prepared gravy over the sausage and biscuits. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Pour the egg mixture over everything in the baking dish.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is set, and the top is golden brown.
10. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips:

• Ensure the gravy is thickened before pouring it over the casserole to prevent a runny consistency.
• Feel free to customize the recipe by adding diced bell peppers, onions, or other vegetables to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Serve the Biscuits & Gravy Casserole with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion:
With its layers of savory sausage, tender biscuits, creamy gravy, and melted cheese, this Biscuits & Gravy Casserole is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any breakfast or brunch occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family gatherings or simply craving a comforting morning meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the delicious flavors and comforting warmth of this classic dish with each bite.

1. Can I use different types of sausage for this casserole?
   Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile when it comes to sausage selection. While traditional breakfast sausage works wonderfully, you can also experiment with other types such as spicy sausage, turkey sausage, or even vegetarian sausage alternatives. Just ensure that the sausage is cooked thoroughly and drained of excess grease before adding it to the casserole for optimal flavor and texture.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare this Biscuits & Gravy Casserole ahead of time to streamline your breakfast or brunch preparations. One convenient option is to assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, simply preheat the oven and bake the casserole according to the recipe instructions. Alternatively, you can fully bake the casserole ahead of time, allow it to cool, and then refrigerate or freeze it. When ready to serve, reheat the casserole in the oven until warmed through.
3. Can I substitute the biscuits with another type of bread?
   While biscuits are the traditional choice for this casserole and provide a classic flavor and texture, you can certainly experiment with other types of bread if desired. Croissants, French bread, or even cubed sourdough bread can be used as substitutes for biscuits. Keep in mind that different types of bread may yield slightly different textures and flavors, so feel free to adjust seasonings and baking times accordingly to suit your taste preferences.
4. How do I store leftovers and reheat the casserole?
   If you have leftover Biscuits & Gravy Casserole, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat individual servings, simply microwave them until warmed through, or reheat them in the oven at a low temperature to maintain their texture. If reheating the entire casserole, cover it with foil to prevent the top from becoming too browned, and bake it in the oven until heated through. If freezing leftovers, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil before storing it in the freezer. Allow the casserole to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as directed.