Easy Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole: A Hearty Morning Meal
Transform the classic Southern breakfast of biscuits and gravy into a convenient and delicious casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. This comforting dish combines flaky biscuits, savory sausage gravy, and eggs into one hearty breakfast casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Why This Recipe Works
This casserole takes all the beloved elements of traditional biscuits and gravy and transforms them into an easy-to-serve format. The layered approach ensures every bite contains the perfect combination of flaky biscuits, creamy gravy, and savory sausage, while the addition of eggs adds extra protein and helps bind everything together.
Essential Ingredients
For the Biscuit Layer:
- 2 cans (16.3 oz each) refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
For the Sausage Gravy:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried sage
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
For the Egg Mixture:
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Required Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Pastry brush
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Biscuits
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Prepare the biscuits:
- Cut each biscuit into quarters
- Arrange in greased baking dish
- Brush with melted butter
- Set aside
Making the Sausage Gravy
- Cook the sausage:
- Brown in large skillet
- Break into small pieces
- Drain excess fat if desired
- Create the gravy:
- Sprinkle flour over sausage
- Cook for 2-3 minutes
- Gradually add milk
- Whisk constantly
- Add seasonings
- Simmer until thickened
Preparing Egg Mixture
- In a mixing bowl:
- Whisk eggs and milk
- Add salt and pepper
- Beat until well combined
Assembly and Baking
- Layer the casserole:
- Pour sausage gravy over biscuits
- Add shredded cheese if using
- Pour egg mixture evenly over top
- Bake:
- Cover with foil
- Bake 30 minutes
- Remove foil
- Bake 10-15 minutes more
- Let rest 10 minutes before serving
Pro Tips for Success
- Biscuit Preparation:
- Keep biscuits cold until ready to use
- Cut pieces uniformly
- Don’t compress biscuits too much
- Space evenly in dish
- Gravy Making:
- Cook flour thoroughly
- Add milk gradually
- Whisk constantly
- Season generously
- Assembly Advice:
- Let gravy cool slightly
- Pour ingredients carefully
- Don’t overmix layers
- Watch carefully when baking
Make-Ahead and Storage Options
Make-Ahead Tips:
- Prepare sausage gravy night before
- Assemble morning of baking
- Add extra milk if gravy thickens
- Adjust baking time if cold
Storage Guidelines:
- Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days
- Reheat individual portions
- Add milk when reheating
- Don’t freeze assembled casserole
Variations and Adaptations
Meat Options:
- Spicy breakfast sausage
- Turkey sausage
- Bacon
- Ham
Add-ins:
- Diced bell peppers
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Caramelized onions
- Extra cheese
Seasoning Variations:
- Cajun seasoning
- Italian herbs
- Red pepper flakes
- Fresh herbs
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes:
- Fresh fruit
- Hash browns
- Breakfast potatoes
- Green salad
Toppings:
- Extra gravy
- Hot sauce
- Fresh herbs
- Cheese sauce
Troubleshooting Tips
Gravy Too Thick:
- Add warm milk gradually
- Whisk continuously
- Keep heat moderate
- Check consistency
Gravy Too Thin:
- Simmer longer
- Make additional roux
- Reduce liquid
- Add more flour if needed
Baking Issues:
- Check oven temperature
- Rotate dish if needed
- Adjust cooking time
- Let rest before serving
Special Occasion Adaptations
Holiday Brunch:
- Double the recipe
- Add festive garnishes
- Serve with mimosas
- Prepare night before
Potluck Version:
- Transport in insulated carrier
- Bring extra gravy
- Use disposable pan
- Reheat if needed
This Easy Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole combines all the comfort of traditional biscuits and gravy with the convenience of a make-ahead casserole. Perfect for holiday mornings, weekend brunches, or any time you want to treat your family to a special breakfast, this hearty dish is sure to become a requested favorite.