If you are craving a hearty and comforting breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Sausage Gravy Breakfast Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines the savory goodness of sausage, crispy potatoes, creamy sausage gravy, and melty cheddar cheese in one skillet, making it a perfect dish to gather around with family or friends. Each bite delivers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will have you coming back for seconds, whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special occasion morning.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sausage Gravy Breakfast Skillet Recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a crucial role. From the rich sausage to the golden potatoes and creamy gravy, every component adds depth and heartiness, while cheddar cheese ties it all together with its smooth, sharp flavor.
- Sausage (1 lb): Choose a flavorful breakfast sausage for a juicy, savory base that anchors the dish.
- Frozen diced potatoes (1 lb, thawed): These provide the perfect crispy and tender texture that complements the gravy and sausage.
- Sausage gravy mix (1 package, 2.75 oz) plus water: This mix creates the rich, creamy gravy that makes this skillet truly comforting.
- Large eggs (2): Whisked into the gravy, eggs add a custardy richness and help bind the dish together.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1½ cups): Cheddar melts beautifully, adding sharpness and gooeyness that makes every bite irresistible.
How to Make Sausage Gravy Breakfast Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, setting the perfect environment to bake your breakfast skillet to a golden, bubbling finish. This step ensures everything cooks evenly and the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a 10 or 12-inch cast iron skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until it’s browned and no longer pink. This allows the fat to render and infuse the dish with deep meaty flavor. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside, leaving behind the flavorful drippings.
Step 3: Brown the Potatoes
Using the sausage drippings, brown the thawed diced potatoes for about 5 to 6 minutes. This step is key for getting crispy edges and a tender center, contributing a lovely contrast to the creamy gravy. After the potatoes are browned, take the skillet off the heat and add the cooked sausage back in, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
Step 4: Prepare and Pour the Gravy Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sausage gravy mix, water as directed on the package, and the two large eggs. This mixture becomes the luscious sauce that binds all the ingredients with its smooth, savory creaminess. Pour it evenly over the potatoes, sausage, and cheese in the skillet, making sure every bite will have that wonderful gravy.
Step 5: Bake Until Set and Golden
Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. Baking allows the eggs in the gravy to firm up, the cheese to melt perfectly, and the flavors to harmonize. Once done, let it cool briefly before serving.
How to Serve Sausage Gravy Breakfast Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate your Sausage Gravy Breakfast Skillet Recipe to the next level. Consider sprinkling chopped green onions or fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and brightness. A dash of cracked black pepper or a few squirts of hot sauce adds a punch of flavor, balancing the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This skillet stands wonderfully on its own but pairs delightfully with simple sides to round out your breakfast spread. Crisp, buttered toast or warm biscuits are classic companions that help scoop up every last bit of gravy. A light fruit salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the skillet.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this skillet recipe in individual ramekins or smaller cast iron skillets for personal portions that look stunning on the table. You can also add toppings like avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream for an unexpected creamy layer that complements the savory flavors perfectly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from your Sausage Gravy Breakfast Skillet Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This way, you can enjoy the comforting flavors again without any hassle.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this skillet ahead of time for busy mornings, it freezes well. Simply cover the cooled skillet with foil or transfer portions into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place your leftover skillet or portions in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, but the oven method helps preserve the crispy edges and creamy texture best.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen diced potatoes?
Yes, fresh potatoes can be used. Just dice them evenly and parboil or precook slightly before browning in the skillet so they cook through properly and become tender.
Is it necessary to use a cast iron skillet?
While a cast iron skillet is ideal because it distributes heat evenly and can go from stovetop to oven, you can use any oven-safe skillet. Just be sure it is deep enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or crumbled seasoned tofu, and use vegetarian gravy to keep the same hearty texture and flavor without meat.
How do I ensure the gravy doesn’t curdle when mixing with eggs?
Whisk the gravy mix, water, and eggs together thoroughly before pouring over the skillet. Pouring the mixture evenly and baking at the right temperature helps the eggs set smoothly, preventing curdling.
Can I add other vegetables to the skillet?
Yes, feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms. Sauté them with the sausage or potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Gravy Breakfast Skillet Recipe is an absolute go-to for those mornings when you want something warm, satisfying, and full of flavor without a ton of fuss. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and joy to the breakfast table. I can’t wait for you to try it—you might just find your new favorite way to start the day!
Print
Sausage Gravy Breakfast Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Sausage Gravy Breakfast Skillet featuring savory cooked sausage, browned potatoes, rich sausage gravy mixed with eggs, all topped with melted cheddar cheese and baked to perfection. Perfect for a satisfying breakfast or brunch that serves six.
Ingredients
Sausage and Potatoes
- 1 lb sausage
- 1 lb frozen diced potatoes, thawed
Gravy Mixture
- 1 (2.75-oz) package sausage gravy mix
- Water according to package instructions (approximately 1½ cups)
- 2 large eggs
Topping
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ËšF to prepare for baking the skillet dish later.
- Cook Sausage: In a 10 or 12-inch cast iron skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until it is completely browned and no longer pink. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Brown Potatoes: Using the same skillet with the sausage drippings, add the thawed diced potatoes. Cook and brown them for 5-6 minutes until slightly crisp. Remove the skillet from heat and add the cooked sausage back into the skillet. Spread the sausage evenly and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Prepare Gravy Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the sausage gravy mix according to package instructions with the appropriate amount of water, then whisk in the two large eggs until fully combined.
- Combine and Bake: Pour the prepared gravy and egg mixture evenly over the potatoes, sausage, and cheese in the skillet. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the filling is set in the center and the top is lightly browned.
Notes
- Using a cast iron skillet helps achieve a crispy bottom and even baking.
- Make sure to thaw the frozen potatoes before cooking for best results.
- The eggs in the gravy mixture help to set the filling and add extra richness.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with fresh herbs or hot sauce for added flavor.
