Sawmill Gravy
Sawmill Gravy offers a hearty, savory flavor with rich sausage and a creamy, buttery base. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this comforting gravy pairs well with biscuits, toast, or mashed potatoes, appealing to those who enjoy classic Southern-style comfort food with a slightly seasoned twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, stirring until it crumbles and is no longer pink.
- Remove the sausage and drain on paper towels, reserving 1 tablespoon of drippings in the skillet.
- Melt the butter with the drippings in the skillet over low heat.
- Whisk in the flour until smooth.
- Cook, whisking constantly, for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cook, whisking constantly, until thickened and bubbly.
- Stir in the cooked sausage, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier gravy, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Be sure to whisk continuously to prevent lumps while cooking the gravy. This recipe is a great base for other dishes, so feel free to get creative with seasonings.
Serving Suggestions
Sawmill gravy is best served over freshly baked biscuits, but it also pairs beautifully with scrambled eggs or fried chicken. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside hash browns or grits. This comforting dish works well for breakfast or as an indulgent topping for mashed potatoes. Don't forget to explore more American recipes for side dishes that complement this hearty gravy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sawmill gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring often. If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency. It can also be microwaved in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sawmill Gravy contains roughly 730 calories, with 39g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (78% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1657mg per serving (72% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make sawmill gravy without sausage?
Yes, you can create a vegetarian version by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth instead of drippings. You can add mushrooms for a savory flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain the richness of the gravy.
How can I thicken my sawmill gravy if it's too thin?
If your gravy is too thin, you can thicken it by making a slurry with equal parts cold water and cornstarch. Whisk this mixture into the gravy while it's simmering until it reaches the desired thickness. Alternatively, you can cook it a bit longer to reduce and thicken naturally.
Can I freeze sawmill gravy?
Yes, sawmill gravy can be frozen, but its texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).