Hardee’s Sausage Gravy Recipe Made Easy and Delicious

If you’ve ever craved the comforting, hearty taste of a classic Southern breakfast, then you’re in for a treat with this Hardee’s Sausage Gravy Recipe. This rich, creamy gravy smothered over fluffy biscuits is a beloved staple that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite.

Whether you’re cooking for a lazy weekend brunch or want to impress your family with a homemade twist on a fast-food favorite, this recipe delivers that perfect blend of savory sausage and smooth, peppery gravy.

It’s simple to prepare, uses common pantry ingredients, and will quickly become a go-to comfort food in your kitchen.

The beauty of this sausage gravy lies in its versatility and the depth of flavor achieved with just a few ingredients. You’ll love making it from scratch because it tastes fresher and more indulgent than anything store-bought or even from a restaurant.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover biscuits or make your own. Ready to dive in?

Let’s explore why this recipe is a must-try and how you can master it effortlessly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hardee’s-style sausage gravy is the perfect balance of creamy and savory, making it an irresistible addition to your breakfast rotation. It’s loaded with browned sausage pieces that add texture and a robust meaty flavor, while the gravy itself is thickened just right to coat every bite of biscuit.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes.

The recipe is customizable too—want it spicier? Add more black pepper or a pinch of cayenne.

Prefer it milder? Simply reduce the seasoning.

It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to every meal.

Plus, making sausage gravy at home means you control the quality of ingredients—no preservatives, no additives, just wholesome goodness. It’s a nostalgic, hearty dish that’s perfect for cold mornings, family gatherings, or whenever you want a taste of Southern comfort in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground breakfast sausage (preferably pork, seasoned)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk (warm)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (more if you like it spicy)
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for heat
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for added flavor depth

Equipment

• Large non-stick skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Medium mixing bowl (if making biscuits from scratch)
• Whisk
• Serving bowls or plates

Instructions

1. Brown the sausage: Heat your skillet over medium heat. Add the ground sausage and cook, breaking it apart with your spoon, until fully browned and no longer pink. This should take about 7-10 minutes. Make sure the sausage is cooked evenly and some crispy bits develop for extra flavor.
2. Drain excess fat: Depending on your sausage’s fat content, you may want to drain some of the grease, leaving about 3 tablespoons in the pan. This fat adds flavor and helps with the gravy’s texture.
3. Add butter: Stir in the butter until melted, combining it with the sausage fat to create a flavorful base for the gravy.
4. Make the roux: Sprinkle the flour evenly over the sausage and fat mixture. Stir constantly with your spoon or spatula to cook out the raw flour taste. This should take about 2-3 minutes and the mixture will thicken and look paste-like.
5. Slowly add milk: Gradually pour in the warm milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. The mixture will begin to thicken as it heats. Continue whisking until the gravy is smooth and creamy.
6. Season the gravy: Add salt, black pepper, and any optional spices like garlic powder or red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed for your preferred flavor profile.
7. Simmer gently: Reduce the heat to low and let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently. This allows it to thicken to the perfect consistency. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
8. Serve hot: Spoon the sausage gravy generously over warm, freshly baked biscuits. For an authentic Hardee’s experience, make sure your biscuits are fluffy and buttery.

Tips & Variations

For extra creaminess, substitute half the milk with heavy cream. This makes the gravy richer and more decadent.

Tip: Use freshly ground black pepper for a more vibrant flavor. Pre-ground pepper can sometimes taste flat.

Variation: Try swapping breakfast sausage with spicy Italian sausage for a zesty twist. Just be mindful of the extra seasoning.

Make it vegetarian: Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth instead of milk for a meatless alternative. Adjust seasoning accordingly.

Storage: Leftover gravy can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat, stirring often and adding a splash of milk if needed.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This sausage gravy is best served hot over warm, flaky biscuits. To recreate the full Hardee’s breakfast experience, pair it with crispy hash browns and scrambled eggs.

You can also drizzle it over toasted bread or fried potatoes for a hearty brunch.

For a twist, try serving the gravy over waffles or thick-cut toast. Adding a side of sautéed greens or fresh fruit balances the richness and adds color to your plate.

If you love heat, top with a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños.

Conclusion

Making Hardee’s sausage gravy at home is a rewarding experience that brings classic Southern comfort right to your table. This recipe is straightforward, uses everyday ingredients, and yields a luscious, flavorful gravy that perfectly complements biscuits or any breakfast dish you love.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging yourself, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

With a little practice, you can customize the seasoning and texture to suit your taste, making it as mild or as spicy as you like. Don’t forget to explore other comforting breakfast recipes like homemade buttermilk biscuits, classic scrambled eggs, and crispy hash browns to complete your meal.

Enjoy the warmth, the flavor, and the memories created with every bite of this delightful sausage gravy!

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