Creamy Dreamy: Dairy-Free Savory Sausage Gravy That Will Blow Your Mind!
Craving that classic comfort food, biscuits and gravy, but dairy is a no-go? Fear not, my friend! This dairy-free savory sausage gravy recipe is here to rescue your breakfast (or brunch, or dinner – no judgment!). It’s so rich, creamy, and flavorful, you won’t even miss the dairy. We’re talking about a luscious, peppery, sausage-studded gravy that’s perfect for smothering biscuits, mashed potatoes, or even a veggie scramble.
This recipe uses simple ingredients you probably already have on hand, and it comes together in under 30 minutes. Get ready to indulge in a guilt-free (and dairy-free!) gravy experience that will have you licking your plate clean.
## Why You’ll Love This Dairy-Free Sausage Gravy
* **Seriously Creamy:** We’re using clever tricks to achieve that signature gravy creaminess without any dairy. You won’t believe it’s dairy-free!
* **Packed with Flavor:** Savory sausage, aromatic herbs, and a generous dose of black pepper create a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
* **Quick and Easy:** This recipe is perfect for busy mornings or weeknight dinners. It’s ready in under 30 minutes.
* **Versatile:** Serve it over biscuits, mashed potatoes, polenta, or even a breakfast casserole. The possibilities are endless!
* **Dietary Friendly:** Perfect for those with dairy sensitivities or intolerances, and easily adaptable for gluten-free diets.
## Key Ingredients for Dairy-Free Sausage Gravy
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that make this dairy-free sausage gravy so incredibly delicious:
* **Sausage:** The star of the show! I recommend using a good quality breakfast sausage. Look for sausage that is already seasoned. Both pork sausage and plant-based sausage alternatives work great in this recipe. Just ensure your chosen sausage is gluten-free if needed.
* **All-Purpose Flour (or Gluten-Free Flour Blend):** This is our thickening agent. It helps create the creamy texture we all crave in a gravy. If you’re gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that is designed to replace all-purpose flour. Bob’s Red Mill and King Arthur Measure for Measure are great options.
* **Dairy-Free Milk:** This is what replaces the traditional milk or cream in gravy. Unsweetened almond milk, cashew milk, or oat milk all work well. Opt for the unsweetened variety to avoid adding unwanted sweetness to your gravy. Full-fat coconut milk from a can (just the thick part!) can also be used for an extra-rich and decadent gravy.
* **Olive Oil (or other cooking oil):** We need a little fat to sauté the sausage and create a roux with the flour. Olive oil, coconut oil, or avocado oil are all good choices.
* **Chicken Broth (or Vegetable Broth):** This adds depth of flavor to the gravy and helps to thin it out to the desired consistency. Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the final dish.
* **Nutritional Yeast:** This is the secret ingredient that adds a cheesy, savory flavor to the gravy without any dairy. It’s a deactivated yeast that’s commonly used in vegan cooking.
* **Spices:** Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme create a flavorful base for the gravy. Adjust the amount of pepper to your liking – I like a generous amount for a little kick!
## Step-by-Step Instructions with Photos
Now, let’s get cooking! Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to make the best dairy-free sausage gravy you’ve ever tasted:
**Yields:** 4 servings
**Prep time:** 5 minutes
**Cook time:** 20 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or plant-based), removed from casings if necessary
* 2 tablespoons olive oil (or other cooking oil)
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 flour blend)
* 3 cups unsweetened dairy-free milk (almond, cashew, or oat milk)
* 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
* 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
* 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
* 1-2 teaspoons black pepper (or to taste)
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
**Equipment**
* Large skillet or Dutch oven
* Whisk
* Measuring cups and spoons
**Instructions**
**Step 1: Brown the Sausage**
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage (removed from casings, if necessary) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Ensure there are no pink spots left in the sausage. If using plant-based sausage, follow the package instructions for cooking.
**Step 2: Make a Roux**
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage. Cook, stirring constantly with a whisk, for 1-2 minutes. This creates a roux, which is the base for our gravy. It’s important to cook the flour to remove the raw flour taste. Don’t let it burn!
**Step 3: Add Dairy-Free Milk and Broth**
Gradually whisk in the dairy-free milk, a little at a time, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Once all the milk is incorporated, whisk in the chicken broth. Stir constantly to prevent sticking.
**Step 4: Simmer and Thicken**
Bring the gravy to a simmer over medium heat. Continue to simmer, stirring frequently, for about 10-15 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency. The longer it simmers, the thicker it will become.
**Step 5: Add Seasonings and Nutritional Yeast**
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the nutritional yeast, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt or pepper to your liking. Don’t be shy with the pepper – it really enhances the flavor of the gravy.
**Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!**
Serve the dairy-free sausage gravy hot over biscuits, mashed potatoes, polenta, or your favorite breakfast side. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired. Enjoy!
## Tips and Tricks for the Best Dairy-Free Sausage Gravy
* **Use a Good Quality Sausage:** The better the sausage, the better the gravy will taste. Look for sausage that is flavorful and not too greasy.
* **Don’t Skip the Roux:** Creating a roux is essential for thickening the gravy and preventing it from being lumpy. Make sure to cook the flour for at least a minute or two to remove the raw flour taste.
* **Whisk Constantly:** Whisking the gravy constantly while it simmers will prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
* **Adjust the Consistency:** If the gravy is too thick, add a little more dairy-free milk or broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little extra heat.
* **Make it Ahead:** This gravy can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. You may need to add a little more dairy-free milk or broth to thin it out after it has been refrigerated.
## Variations and Additions
Want to customize your dairy-free sausage gravy? Here are a few ideas:
* **Mushroom Sausage Gravy:** Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the sausage and cook until softened. This adds an earthy flavor to the gravy.
* **Spicy Sausage Gravy:** Use hot breakfast sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the gravy for a spicy kick.
* **Vegetarian Sausage Gravy:** Use a high-quality plant-based sausage alternative and vegetable broth to make a vegetarian version of this gravy.
* **Add Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs like sage, rosemary, or oregano to add complexity to the flavor profile.
* **Creamy Coconut Milk Gravy:** For an extra-rich and decadent gravy, use full-fat coconut milk from a can (just the thick part!) instead of other dairy-free milk.
## Serving Suggestions
This dairy-free sausage gravy is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
* **Biscuits and Gravy:** The classic! Serve the gravy over warm, flaky biscuits for the ultimate comfort food breakfast.
* **Mashed Potatoes:** Smother creamy mashed potatoes in this savory gravy for a satisfying and flavorful side dish.
* **Polenta:** Top creamy polenta with sausage gravy for a hearty and delicious meal.
* **Breakfast Casserole:** Use the gravy as a topping for a breakfast casserole with eggs, vegetables, and your favorite breakfast meats.
* **Veggie Scramble:** Drizzle the gravy over a veggie scramble for a flavorful and satisfying breakfast.
* **Open-Faced Sandwiches:** Spoon the gravy over toasted bread or English muffins for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
## Gluten-Free Adaptation
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure your sausage and broth are also gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free sausage options, and most broths are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always a good idea to check the labels.
## Storing and Reheating Instructions
* **Storing:** Leftover dairy-free sausage gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the gravy gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. You may need to add a little more dairy-free milk or broth to thin it out, as it will thicken as it cools. You can also reheat the gravy in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
**Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?**
A: Yes! While breakfast sausage is the most common choice, you can use other types of sausage, such as Italian sausage or chorizo, for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly.
**Q: Can I freeze this gravy?**
A: While you *can* freeze this gravy, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Dairy-free milks can sometimes separate when frozen and thawed, resulting in a slightly grainy texture. If you do freeze it, let it thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating and whisk vigorously to re-emulsify.
**Q: What if I don’t have nutritional yeast?**
A: While nutritional yeast adds a unique savory flavor, you can omit it if you don’t have any on hand. The gravy will still be delicious, but it will be missing that cheesy, umami note.
**Q: Can I use coconut oil instead of olive oil?**
A: Yes, coconut oil can be used instead of olive oil. It will add a slight coconut flavor to the gravy, so keep that in mind.
**Q: The gravy is too thin. How can I thicken it?**
A: If the gravy is too thin, continue to simmer it over low heat for a few more minutes, stirring frequently. The longer it simmers, the thicker it will become. You can also make a slurry of 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or arrowroot starch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water and whisk it into the gravy. Simmer for a minute or two until thickened.
**Q: The gravy is too thick. How can I thin it?**
A: If the gravy is too thick, add a little more dairy-free milk or broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
**Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?**
A: While I haven’t tested this recipe in a slow cooker, it should work. Brown the sausage in a skillet first, then transfer it to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
## Conclusion
So, there you have it! A deliciously creamy and savory dairy-free sausage gravy recipe that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re dairy-free by choice or necessity, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments below!
Enjoy your creamy, dreamy, dairy-free sausage gravy! It’s a game changer.