Name: sausage-gravy-biscuit-pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb sausage.; 2 cups milk.; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour.; 1 teaspoon salt.; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.; 1/2 teaspoon ground sage.; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick).; 1 package of puff pastry, thawed (or homemade if you prefer).

The Sausage, Gravy, and Biscuit Pie is a delightful twist on a classic Southern comfort dish. Imagine a savory sausage gravy, thick and full of flavor, nestled between layers of flaky puff pastry. This pie is not just a meal; it's a comforting experience that brings together the rich, spiced notes of sausage, the smooth, creamy texture of gravy, and the buttery, crisp bite of perfectly baked pastry. It's a dish that can be enjoyed at any time of day, whether as a hearty breakfast, a satisfying brunch, or even a warming dinner on a chilly evening. The pie's golden-brown crust encases the creamy gravy, ensuring every bite is filled with a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

This Sausage, Gravy, and Biscuit Pie is a delightful fusion of classic comfort foods. Imagine the rich, savory taste of sausage gravy, nestled beneath a golden, flaky puff pastry crust. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special weekend brunch, offering a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

INGREDIENTS

Sausage: 1 pound of ground sausage, preferably a flavorful variety like sage or spicy, to give the dish a robust, savory base.
Milk: 2 cups of whole milk, which helps create a creamy and luscious gravy that coats the sausage perfectly.
Flour: 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, essential for thickening the gravy to the right consistency, ensuring it's rich and smooth.
Seasonings: A blend of 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon ground sage, and an optional 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. These spices balance the richness of the gravy and enhance the overall flavor.
Puff Pastry: 1 package of puff pastry, thawed (or homemade if you're feeling ambitious), which provides a crispy, buttery crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy gravy underneath.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage Gravy: In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles as it browns. This should take about 7-10 minutes. Once the sausage is fully cooked and no pink remains, sprinkle the flour evenly over the sausage. Stir the flour into the sausage, allowing it to absorb the fat and create a roux. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste.
Step 2: Create the Gravy: Slowly pour in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Raise the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. As the gravy simmers, it will thicken. Stir frequently, scraping the bottom of the pan to prevent burning. After about 5 minutes, once the gravy has thickened, season it with salt, pepper, sage, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Once done, set the gravy aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to fit the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish, allowing some overhang around the edges. Gently press the pastry into the dish. Pour the slightly cooled sausage gravy into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry and place it over the top of the gravy. Trim any excess pastry and crimp the edges to seal. Use a sharp knife to cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
Step 4: Bake the Pie: Place the pie on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. If the edges of the pastry brown too quickly, cover them with strips of aluminum foil. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This rest period allows the gravy to set slightly, making for cleaner slices.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve the pie warm, sliced into generous wedges. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, adding a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the pie. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the pie with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

Helpful Notes

For a richer and more indulgent pie, consider adding some shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the sausage gravy before assembling the pie. The cheese will melt into the gravy, creating a deliciously creamy filling. If you prefer a bit of tang, a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dollop of Dijon mustard can be added to the gravy as it cooks, providing a subtle depth of flavor.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests always tasting your gravy before assembling the pie to ensure the seasoning is perfect. He also recommends brushing the top pastry with an egg wash (1 beaten egg with a tablespoon of water) before baking to achieve a beautiful, glossy finish. For an added touch of luxury, you can replace some of the milk with cream, making the gravy even richer and more velvety.