Classic Pioneer-Style Sausage Gravy
Introduction: Enjoy the comforting flavors of a Southern classic with our Pioneer-Style Sausage Gravy. This rich and creamy dish is perfect served over warm, fluffy biscuits for a hearty breakfast or brunch. While traditional sausage gravy is indulgent, we’ve added a few healthier twists to lighten it up without sacrificing flavor. This dish is sure to become a family favorite while offering a balance of flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground sausage (turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil for a healthier fat source)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (use whole wheat flour for more fiber)
- 2 1/2 cups low-fat milk (or unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon as it browns. Cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving some of the rendered fat in the skillet.
- Make the Roux:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter (or add olive oil) over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, whisking constantly, until the mixture becomes lightly golden and smooth. This forms the roux, which thickens the gravy.
- Add the Milk:
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue whisking as the mixture simmers and thickens, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, and salt to taste.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir it into the gravy. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the gravy to thicken to your desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Serve the sausage gravy hot over warm biscuits, toast, or even mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley for an added burst of flavor and color.
Health Benefits:
- Lean Protein: By using lean sausage or a turkey/chicken sausage alternative, this dish is lower in fat while still providing high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Whole Grains and Fiber: If using whole wheat flour, you add fiber to the dish, supporting digestive health and providing a more nutritious alternative to refined flour.
- Reduced Fat: Using low-fat milk or a plant-based milk option helps reduce the overall fat content, making this a lighter version of the traditional gravy.
Conclusion: Our Classic Pioneer-Style Sausage Gravy offers all the flavor and comfort of the traditional recipe with a few healthy adjustments. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this dish is a satisfying way to enjoy a Southern classic while keeping an eye on your health.
