Turkey Sausage Gravy Recipe
Turkey sausage gravy is a creamy and savory classic that transforms any breakfast or brunch into a hearty, satisfying meal. Its comforting flavors and smooth texture pair beautifully with flaky biscuits, creating a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious.
Ingredients and Preparation Essentials
Turkey sausage forms the heart of this dish, offering a lighter yet equally flavorful base compared to traditional pork sausage. Cashew milk, or your preferred milk, provides a creamy texture that balances the richness of the sausage. Optional additions like maple syrup and hot sauce bring depth and a unique sweet-spicy contrast to the gravy.
For optimal flavor, choose high-quality, fresh turkey sausage. If dietary preferences call for a substitution, pork or chicken sausage can work, though adjustments to seasoning may be necessary. Unsweetened cashew milk ensures the gravy remains creamy without overpowering the flavor, but other plant-based or dairy milks are excellent alternatives. Customize the dish further with aromatic spices or fresh herbs to suit your taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Turkey Sausage Gravy
Cooking the Sausage
Begin by browning the turkey sausage over medium heat, breaking it into small, uniform pieces. This step ensures even cooking and creates a flavorful base. Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking, and cook until the sausage is golden and fully cooked through. Avoid overcooking, which can lead to dryness.
Incorporating the Flour and Milk
Once the sausage is cooked, sprinkle the flour evenly over the meat. This step is crucial for thickening the gravy. Stir and cook briefly to incorporate the flour and remove any raw flavor. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring constantly to create a smooth, lump-free mixture. Scrape the pan with a spatula to incorporate any browned bits, which add extra flavor.
Simmering and Final Seasoning
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil to activate the thickening process, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally to ensure the gravy remains smooth and doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan. Season to taste with salt and pepper, adding optional maple syrup for sweetness and hot sauce for a hint of spice. Adjust flavors gradually to achieve the perfect balance.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Classic Pairings
Serve the turkey sausage gravy over warm, homemade biscuits for a traditional breakfast. Pair with scrambled eggs, crispy hash browns, or sautéed greens for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Serving Ideas
Take this dish beyond breakfast by using the gravy as a topping for roasted vegetables or baked potatoes. For a unique twist, drizzle it over waffles or cornbread to create a delightful sweet-and-savory combination.
Recipe Tips
Perfect Gravy Consistency:
Add milk slowly while stirring to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
Avoid Over-Seasoning:
Season incrementally, especially when using flavorful sausages, to maintain balance.
Make-Ahead Option:
Prepare the gravy a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Classic Breakfast Sides:
Pair the gravy with bacon, fresh fruit, or roasted tomatoes for a balanced spread.
Dinner Twist:
Serve alongside roasted turkey breast, grilled chicken, or mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Pork Sausage Instead of Turkey?
Yes, pork sausage is a flavorful substitute. Adjust the seasoning as pork sausage tends to be saltier than turkey sausage.
What If My Gravy Is Too Thick or Thin?
To thin the gravy, add a splash of milk and stir well. To thicken, mix a small slurry of flour and water, then stir it into the simmering gravy.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely. Replace cashew milk with any plant-based milk and use dairy-free butter alternatives to keep the dish creamy.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Gravy?
Store the gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of milk to refresh the texture.
Turkey sausage gravy is the ultimate comfort food, offering a creamy, savory experience that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served over biscuits for breakfast or paired with hearty sides for dinner, this recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a satisfying and flavorful meal. Its versatility and ease make it a go-to dish that’s sure to please family and friends alike.
Ingredients
1 lb raw turkey breakfast sausage (store-bought or homemade following your preferred recipe)
4 cups unsweetened cashew milk (or your preferred milk)
½ cup all-purpose flour
3 tbsp pure maple syrup
½ tsp ground black pepper
1 large pinch kosher salt
A few dashes of hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
If you’re serving this gravy with biscuits, prepare and bake the biscuits first, as the gravy is best served hot and fresh.
Lightly coat a frying pan with cooking spray and heat over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked.
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the cooked sausage. Stir and cook for about 30 seconds, ensuring the flour is well incorporated and absorbed into the sausage mixture.
Gradually pour in the cashew milk, stirring constantly. Use your spatula to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan, ensuring a smooth mixture. Continue stirring until the flour dissolves completely and the gravy begins to thicken.
Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure an even consistency.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. For added flavor, stir in a few dashes of hot sauce and maple syrup, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
Ladle the rich, savory gravy over freshly baked biscuits and serve immediately. Enjoy this comforting dish!
Turkey Sausage Gravy Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb raw turkey breakfast sausage store-bought or homemade following your preferred recipe
- 4 cups unsweetened cashew milk or your preferred milk
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 large pinch kosher salt
- A few dashes of hot sauce optional
Instructions
- If you’re serving this gravy with biscuits, prepare and bake the biscuits first, as the gravy is best served hot and fresh.
- Lightly coat a frying pan with cooking spray and heat over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked.
- Sprinkle the flour evenly over the cooked sausage. Stir and cook for about 30 seconds, ensuring the flour is well incorporated and absorbed into the sausage mixture.
- Gradually pour in the cashew milk, stirring constantly. Use your spatula to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan, ensuring a smooth mixture. Continue stirring until the flour dissolves completely and the gravy begins to thicken.
- Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure an even consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. For added flavor, stir in a few dashes of hot sauce and maple syrup, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Ladle the rich, savory gravy over freshly baked biscuits and serve immediately. Enjoy this comforting dish!