Sausage Gravy Casserole with Cheddar-Cornmeal Biscuits: An Incredible Easter Brunch Delight

Sausage Gravy Casserole with Cheddar-Cornmeal Biscuits is an amazing dish perfect for an Easter brunch. This comforting casserole brings together the heartiness of sausage gravy and the delightful crunch of cheddar-cornmeal biscuits. It’s a dish that warms your soul and creates a feeling of home, making it a staple during festive occasions. If you’re searching for a recipe that’s both inviting and satisfying, look no further.
Imagine gathering around the table with family and friends, the aroma of savory sausage filling the air, combined with the melt-in-your-mouth texture of warm biscuits. That’s exactly what this casserole delivers. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and togetherness. In this guide, we’ll explore what makes Sausage Gravy Casserole such a beloved dish, provide details on how to prepare it, and share tips to ensure your brunch is a resounding success.
As we delve into this ultimate comfort food, you’ll find that it is straightforward, yet remarkably delicious, catering to all ages. What more could you wish for in a holiday brunch?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Sausage Gravy Casserole with Cheddar-Cornmeal Biscuits is filled with delightful elements that will leave you and your guests wanting more. Here are several reasons you’ll adore this recipe:
1. Hearty Ingredients: The combination of sausage and gravy in a casserole format makes it a substantial meal.
2. Easy Prep: With simple, straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can whip up this dish without hassle.
3. Flavor Combo: The savory sausage pairs perfectly with the rich, cheesy biscuits, creating a unique flavor profile.
4. Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole is sure to impress guests, making it ideal for Easter brunch or any gathering.
5. Versatile: You can add your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own.
6. Make Ahead: Prepare it the night before and pop it into the oven the next day for convenience.
This casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a sensory delight that adds joy to any gathering. With flavors that comfort and a presentation that dazzles, it’s no wonder this dish holds a special place in many hearts.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing the Sausage Gravy Casserole will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes in total. Below is a breakdown of the time needed:
– Preparation Time: 30 minutes
– Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
– Cooling Time: 10-15 minutes
These times may slightly vary based on kitchen equipment and your cooking experience, but they provide a solid guideline to follow.

Ingredients

– For the Casserole:
– 1 pound breakfast sausage
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– For the Cheddar-Cornmeal Biscuits:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
– ½ cup buttermilk
– ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating the Sausage Gravy Casserole with Cheddar-Cornmeal Biscuits follows these steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, brown the breakfast sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon until fully cooked.
3. Prepare the Gravy: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the sausage. Pour in the milk and cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Grease the Casserole Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Layer the Sausage Mixture: Pour the sausage gravy mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
6. Mix the Biscuit Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
7. Add Cheese and Wet Ingredients: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, followed by the buttermilk and melted butter. Mix until just combined.
8. Drop Biscuits: Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough over the sausage gravy mixture, leaving some gaps for the gravy to bubble through.
9. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown.
10. Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Following these instructions will guide you in crafting a dish that not only looks enticing but also tastes incredible!

How to Serve

To elevate your Sausage Gravy Casserole serving experience, you may want to consider the following:
1. Garnish with Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and flavor.
2. Serve with Sides: Pair it with fresh fruit, a light salad, or pastries to create a well-rounded meal.
3. Drinks to Accompany: Offer drinks like fresh juice, coffee, or mimosas to complement the rich flavors of the casserole.
4. Portion Control: Cut into generous portions, encouraging guests to enjoy seconds without overwhelming them initially.
By focusing on presentation and accompaniments, you’ll enhance the experience of enjoying this comforting dish, making your Easter brunch a memorable occasion for all.

Additional Tips

– Experiment with Proteins: Try using turkey sausage or chicken sausage as a lighter alternative to traditional breakfast sausage.
– Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the gravy for an extra kick.
– Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a burst of freshness in the casserole.
– Make it Cheesy: For a cheesier dish, mix additional cheddar into the sausage gravy before layering.
– Breakfast Variations: Add cooked, crumbled bacon or chorizo for an exciting twist on the classic recipe.

Recipe Variation

Get creative with these fun variations:
1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and black beans for a hearty vegetarian version.
2. Biscuit Alternatives: Use store-bought biscuit dough or puff pastry for a quicker prep time.
3. Flavorful Additions: Incorporate jalapeños or diced bell peppers into the sausage mixture for added flavor and texture.
4. Change the Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda, for a unique flavor profile.
5. Seasonal Updates: Enhance the dish with seasonal vegetables like zucchini or butternut squash.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Freezing: To freeze, slice the casserole into portions and wrap them tightly with plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
– Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Special Equipment

A few essential kitchen tools can help you prepare this casserole with ease:
– Large skillet for cooking the sausage
– Mixing bowls for combining ingredients
– 9×13-inch baking dish for layering the casserole
– Measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient measurement
– Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing and spreading ingredients

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance. Just refrigerate the assembled casserole and bake it fresh in the morning.
What if I don’t have cornmeal?
If you don’t have cornmeal, you can use an equal amount of all-purpose flour, though the texture may be slightly different.
Can I use non-dairy milk?
Absolutely! Almond milk or oat milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative in the gravy mixture.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just be sure to portion it out and wrap it properly to maintain flavor and freshness.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add spinach, diced tomatoes, or any favorite vegetables to make the casserole even more nutritious.

Conclusion

The Sausage Gravy Casserole with Cheddar-Cornmeal Biscuits is the ultimate indulgence for your Easter brunch or any family gathering. This delightful casserole combines comfort food classics, creating a dish that warms hearts and brings everyone to the table. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more. The combination of succulent sausage, creamy gravy, and cheesy biscuits ensures that this recipe will become a treasured part of your culinary repertoire for years to come.

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