Easy Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole is a simple, hearty dish that brings together fluffy biscuits and creamy, sausage-filled gravy all baked into one cozy casserole. The biscuits get soft and soak up the rich gravy, making every bite full of comforting, classic breakfast flavors. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I love this casserole because it’s so quick to throw together, especially on busy mornings when you want something filling without too much fuss. I usually brown the sausage first to give the gravy a nice, meaty flavor and make sure the biscuits stay just the right texture. It’s one of those dishes where everything comes together in the oven, so you get a delicious breakfast without standing over the stove for too long.
My favorite way to serve this is with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance out all the rich flavors. It’s a real crowd-pleaser for weekend brunches or holiday mornings when you want to feed a bunch of people without lots of extra work. I always catch myself sneaking bites straight from the dish before anyone else arrives. It’s just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Biscuits: Using refrigerated biscuit dough saves time and offers consistent results. You can swap in homemade biscuits if you prefer a fresher taste or want to control ingredients.
Sausage: Breakfast sausage adds a bold, savory flavor. Turkey sausage is a leaner substitute if you’re looking for a lighter dish.
Flour & Milk: These thicken the gravy nicely. For dairy-free options, try almond or oat milk and a gluten-free flour blend.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the casserole and add richness. For egg-free diets, consider a flax or chia egg alternative, though texture will slightly change.
Cheese: Cheddar melts well and adds sharpness. Monterey Jack or Colby works great too. For less dairy, use a smaller amount or a vegan cheese.
How Do You Get the Sausage Gravy to Thicken Just Right?
Making sausage gravy with the perfect consistency can be tricky. Follow these tips for success:
- Cook the sausage fully, then sprinkle flour evenly over it. Stir and cook 1-2 mins to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add your milk slowly, stirring all the time to avoid lumps.
- Keep the heat medium-low and stir often while the gravy thickens. Don’t rush this step.
- If too thick, add a splash more milk. If too thin, cook a bit longer or stir in a tiny extra flour sprinkle dissolved in milk.
Patience here pays off. The gravy should be creamy and coat the back of a spoon before pouring it over your biscuits.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch baking dish – perfect size for layering biscuits and gravy and bakes evenly.
- Large skillet – great for cooking sausage and making the gravy in one pan.
- Whisk – helps you mix the gravy smoothly without lumps.
- Mixing bowl – to beat the eggs before adding them to the casserole.
- Spoon or spatula – for stirring sausage and scraping up tasty bits for the gravy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sausage for crumbled bacon or diced ham for a smoky twist.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies and flavor.
- Use spicy breakfast sausage or add a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.
- Mix in shredded pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a mild kick.
Easy Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (about 8 biscuits)
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare plus 30–35 minutes to bake. It’s a straightforward dish that comes together quickly and offers a comforting breakfast ready in just under an hour.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Biscuits:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. Take the biscuit dough and separate it into individual biscuits. Cut each biscuit into quarters or halves if they’re large. Spread these biscuit pieces evenly across the bottom of the baking dish, creating the base layer.
2. Make the Sausage Gravy:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned and fully cooked (about 7-8 minutes). Drain off any excess fat if necessary. Sprinkle the flour over the sausage and stir well, cooking for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly add the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens into a creamy gravy (about 5 minutes). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
3. Assemble and Bake the Casserole:
Pour the sausage gravy evenly over the biscuit pieces in the baking dish. In a bowl, lightly whisk the eggs and then pour them evenly over the gravy layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the biscuits are cooked through and golden on top. Once done, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if you like, then serve warm and enjoy your comforting breakfast casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Biscuit Dough for This Recipe?
Yes! If using frozen biscuit dough, make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before starting. This helps the biscuits bake evenly and absorb the gravy better.
Can I Make This Breakfast Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it the next morning, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Use Milk Alternatives in the Gravy?
Yes, you can substitute dairy milk with almond, soy, or oat milk, but be aware that the gravy may be a bit thinner and the flavor slightly different. Use unsweetened milk alternatives for best results.
