What To Know
- You can use a white gravy, brown gravy, or even a cream sauce instead of the chicken gravy.
- Sausage casserole with gravy is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy evening or a chilly day.
- Whether you serve it with crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Embark on a culinary adventure and discover the heartwarming flavors of sausage casserole with gravy. This comforting dish is a symphony of savory sausage, tender vegetables, and a velvety gravy that will tantalize your taste buds. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delectable masterpiece that will warm your soul and leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery sticks, diced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, brown the ground sausage over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet with the sausage. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Make the Gravy: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and chicken broth. Gradually add the mixture to the skillet while whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Season with thyme, sage, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer to a Casserole Dish: Pour the sausage and gravy mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish.
6. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives and serve immediately.
Tips for a Perfect Casserole:
- Use a flavorful sausage: Choose a sausage with a blend of spices that you enjoy. Italian sausage or breakfast sausage are popular options.
- Sauté the vegetables well: Sautéing the vegetables until softened will enhance their flavor and create a more flavorful gravy.
- Whisk the gravy thoroughly: Whisking the gravy constantly will prevent lumps from forming and ensure a smooth and velvety texture.
- Season to taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add more thyme, sage, salt, or pepper if desired.
- Let it rest before serving: Allow the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and the gravy to thicken slightly.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your casserole, such as potatoes, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Use a different type of gravy: You can use a white gravy, brown gravy, or even a cream sauce instead of the chicken gravy.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the casserole before baking for a cheesy twist.
The Ultimate Comfort Food
Sausage casserole with gravy is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy evening or a chilly day. Its savory flavors, tender ingredients, and velvety gravy will warm your heart and soul. Whether you serve it with crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use precooked sausage in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use precooked sausage. Simply brown it in a skillet to crisp it up before adding it to the casserole.
Q: How can I make a gluten-free version of this casserole?
A: Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
