Ultimate Biscuits and Gravy Casserole: The Perfect Hearty Breakfast Bake

Biscuits and Gravy Casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, delivering ultimate comfort and satisfaction. This incredible dish takes the beloved classic of fluffy biscuits smothered in creamy, savory sausage gravy and transforms it into an easy-to-serve, crowd-pleasing casserole. Layered with tender biscuit pieces, rich homemade sausage gravy, scrambled eggs, and a generous blanket of melted cheese, it bakes to a golden perfection that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. Whether you’re planning a lavish brunch, a cozy weekend breakfast, or even a hearty weeknight dinner, this casserole offers a complete, delicious solution that effortlessly brings everyone to the table.

If you’re a devoted fan of the traditional Southern comfort food that is biscuits and gravy, prepare to have your culinary world rocked. This innovative casserole method elevates that classic to an entirely new level of convenience and flavor. Instead of juggling hot gravy, fresh biscuits, and perfectly scrambled eggs, everything bakes together in one glorious dish, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and develop an irresistible depth. It’s the ideal make-ahead option for busy mornings or when you need to feed a hungry crowd without all the last-minute fuss. We’ll be using readily available store-bought biscuit dough for a fantastic shortcut, paired with an easy-to-make homemade sausage gravy that truly makes all the difference. While tempting, resist the urge to use pre-made gravy mixes; the homemade version is simple, superior, and well worth the minimal extra effort!

Why This Breakfast Casserole Will Become Your New Favorite

Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of savory sausage, warm biscuits, and melted cheese, all without having to stand over a hot stove for an extended period. This Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is a true game-changer for several compelling reasons. Firstly, its make-ahead potential is an absolute lifesaver. You can meticulously assemble the entire dish the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and pop it into the fridge. Come morning, simply slide it into a preheated oven, and in under an hour, you’ll have a hot, bubbly, and incredibly satisfying meal ready to serve. This makes it an unparalleled choice for holiday brunches, family gatherings, or simply treating yourself to a leisurely weekend morning where culinary effort is minimized.

Secondly, this casserole masterfully combines all the essential elements of a hearty, fulfilling breakfast into one harmonious dish. You get the soft, slightly chewy texture of the biscuit pieces, the rich, peppery notes of a robust homemade sausage gravy, the comforting warmth and fluffiness of scrambled eggs, and the gooey delight of perfectly melted cheese in every single bite. It’s a truly complete meal that stands on its own, requiring no additional side dishes unless you wish to add a fresh fruit salad for a burst of freshness or a simple green salad for balance during brunch. While some might be tempted by the convenience of pre-made gravy mixes or canned gravy, we strongly encourage you to try our easy homemade sausage gravy recipe. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare and delivers a depth of authentic flavor that store-bought options just can’t replicate. Trust us, once you taste the difference, you won’t go back!

Gather Your Ingredients: What You’ll Need

For precise measurements and detailed instructions, please ensure you scroll down to the bottom of the post for the FULL PRINTABLE recipe card.

For the Flavorful Casserole Layers:

• Pillsbury Tube Biscuits: These refrigerated biscuits are a brilliant time-saver, offering that wonderfully flaky, tender biscuit texture without the effort of making them from scratch. Any brand of refrigerated biscuit dough will work beautifully. For extra fluffiness, consider using a “flaky layers” variety. Ensure they are the standard 8-count size.
• Shredded Cheese: A good quality shredded cheddar cheese is highly recommended for its classic sharp flavor and excellent melting capabilities, creating a gooey, irresistible topping. Approximately 1 cup is ideal, but for those who adore cheese, a little extra won’t hurt! Other fantastic options include Colby Jack, Pepper Jack (if you enjoy a hint of spice), or Monterey Jack.
• Large Eggs: Six large eggs form the essential, comforting base of the casserole. Beating them thoroughly ensures a light, fluffy, and evenly distributed egg layer throughout the dish.
• Milk (for Eggs): A small splash of milk, whisked together with the eggs, contributes to a more tender and moist texture in the cooked egg layer. The fat percentage of the milk isn’t critical here; use whatever you have on hand.
• Salt, Dry Mustard Powder, and Black Pepper: These seasonings are crucial for elevating the flavor of the egg mixture. Dry mustard powder, in particular, adds a subtle but noticeable tang and depth that beautifully complements the savory elements of the sausage and cheese.

For the Irresistible Sausage Gravy:

• Breakfast Sausage: One pound of savory breakfast sausage is undeniably the star of our creamy gravy. Traditional pork breakfast sausage is a classic choice, offering a rich, robust flavor that truly defines the dish. If you’re looking to lighten things up slightly, ground turkey sausage is a viable and tasty alternative. You can also opt for regular or spicy sausage depending on your preference for a kick!
• All-Purpose Flour: This pantry staple is absolutely essential for creating a roux, which is the thickening agent that transforms the pan drippings and milk into a wonderfully thick and creamy gravy.
• Milk (for Gravy): Four cups of milk will form the luxurious, creamy base of your homemade gravy. While whole milk is traditionally favored for the richest, most decadent gravy, skim, 1%, or 2% milk will also yield a delicious and perfectly thick gravy, perhaps with a slightly lighter feel. Feel free to use your preferred type of milk.
• Black Pepper: Generous amounts of freshly ground black pepper are characteristic of an authentic Southern sausage gravy. It adds a wonderful pungent warmth and a subtle spice that is integral to the flavor profile. Adjust the quantity to suit your personal taste preference.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Biscuits & Gravy Casserole

Creating this delightful Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is a simple process, even for those new to baking. Follow these clear, step-by-step instructions to achieve a truly memorable breakfast or brunch.

• 1. Prepare the Gravy (The Heart of the Casserole): Begin by preheating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pound of breakfast sausage, using a sturdy spoon or spatula to break it apart into crumbles as it cooks. Continue to cook until the sausage is thoroughly browned and no longer pink. Once cooked, you may drain any significant excess grease from the skillet, though leaving a small amount adds to the gravy’s richness. Next, sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the cooked sausage. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the flour is fully incorporated with the sausage drippings and has a chance to cook out any raw flour taste. Slowly, and while stirring constantly with a whisk, pour in the milk. This gradual addition and vigorous whisking are absolutely critical to preventing lumps in your gravy. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then season generously with black pepper. Allow it to cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy has thickened to a rich, creamy, and spoonable consistency. Taste and add salt as needed, remembering that many breakfast sausages are already quite salty.
• 2. Whisk the Egg Mixture: In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine the eggs, ½ cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of dry mustard powder, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk them vigorously until the mixture is a uniform pale yellow color and thoroughly combined. This ensures a fluffy and evenly seasoned egg layer that perfectly complements the savory gravy.
• 3. Layer the Casserole Components: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 13×9 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Open your tube of biscuits and, using a sharp knife or kitchen shears, cut each biscuit into 6-8 smaller, bite-sized pieces. Spread these biscuit pieces evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the biscuit pieces, ensuring every biscuit gets a cheesy topping. Carefully pour the whisked egg mixture over the cheese and biscuits, allowing it to seep down into all the crevices. Finally, take your warm, creamy sausage gravy and spoon it gently over the top of the egg layer, spreading it out to create a mostly even coverage across the surface of the casserole.
• 4. Bake to Golden Perfection: Place your expertly assembled casserole dish into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 40-45 minutes. You’ll know your casserole is ready when it is beautifully puffed up, golden brown on top, and the egg and gravy layers are visibly set. A knife or toothpick inserted into the egg portion should come out clean.
• 5. Rest and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. It’s crucial to let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the various layers to set further, making for cleaner, more defined slices and preventing the casserole from falling apart when you dish it out. Serve warm and prepare for rave reviews!

Expert Tips & Delicious Variations for Your Casserole

Elevate your Biscuits and Gravy Casserole experience with these tried-and-true tips and creative variations that cater to every taste and schedule.

• Make-Ahead Magic (A True Time Saver!): This casserole is truly a dream for those who love to prep ahead. You can fully assemble the entire casserole, including all layers, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before you plan to bake. On the day of baking, take the casserole out of the fridge when you start preheating your oven, allowing it to come closer to room temperature. This helps ensure even cooking. You might find that it needs an additional 5-10 minutes of baking time if it goes into the oven directly from a cold state.
• Gravy Shortcuts (When Time is Tight): While our homemade gravy recipe is undeniably superior for its rich, authentic flavor, we understand that sometimes you just need a quick fix. In such instances, you can use store-bought gravy or a pre-packaged sausage gravy mix. Aim to substitute with approximately 4 cups of prepared gravy. Be mindful that the flavor profile will differ from the homemade version, so you might want to adjust additional seasonings to taste.
• Cheese, Please! (Get Creative): Don’t feel confined to just shredded cheddar. The beauty of this casserole lies in its adaptability! Colby Jack offers a milder, creamier melt, while Pepper Jack can introduce a delightful, subtle kick. Monterey Jack is another excellent choice for its smooth melting properties. For an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal, consider using a blend of two or more cheeses.
• Sausage Swaps (Tailor to Your Taste): The classic pork breakfast sausage provides the most traditional and robust flavor. However, if you’re aiming for a lighter option, ground turkey sausage is a fantastic and flavorful alternative. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a spicy Italian sausage or even a touch of chorizo can add an exciting dimension to the gravy. For a vegetarian version, you could experiment with plant-based breakfast “sausage” crumbles, ensuring they are well-seasoned.
• Milk Matters (Consistency & Richness): Our recipe works perfectly with any type of milk you have on hand, from skim to whole milk. We often use skim or 2% milk with great results. However, if you’re seeking an ultra-rich and decadent gravy, opting for whole milk or even incorporating a splash of heavy cream will yield a thicker, more luxurious consistency and an even more indulgent mouthfeel.
• Fantastic Add-Ins & Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to customize your casserole! Sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even mushrooms can be added to the sausage as it browns, providing extra vegetable goodness and a boost of savory flavor. A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce stirred into the gravy can offer a pleasant warmth and spicy kick. Fresh herbs like finely chopped chives, parsley, or green onions sprinkled on top before serving add a lovely fresh finish and a pop of color.

Serving Your Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

This casserole is incredibly satisfying and hearty on its own, making it a complete meal that requires little else. It truly shines as the centerpiece of any breakfast or brunch spread. However, for a balanced meal, consider pairing it with a side of fresh fruit for a burst of sweetness and freshness, a light green salad if serving for brunch, or perhaps a crispy side of bacon or extra sausage links if you’re feeling extra indulgent. A hot cup of freshly brewed coffee, a glass of refreshing orange juice, or a mimosa completes the perfect breakfast experience. Its comforting and substantial nature also makes it an unexpected yet delightful option for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening, proving its versatility beyond just morning meals.

Storage & Freezing Options for Leftovers

One of the many convenient benefits of preparing a hearty casserole like this is how well it stores, ensuring you can enjoy delicious leftovers for days to come!

Refrigeration:

Should you be lucky enough to have any leftovers – which is often a rare occurrence with a dish this delicious – simply cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil or transfer individual slices to an airtight container. Store the covered casserole or portions in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat individual slices, you can warm them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. For larger portions or a more even reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed and bubbly again.

Freezing:

Remarkably, this Biscuits and Gravy Casserole freezes exceptionally well, making it an excellent option for future make-ahead meals, busy weekdays, or unexpected guests! For best results, it’s recommended to bake the casserole first according to the recipe instructions and then allow it to cool completely to room temperature before freezing. Once cooled, you have a couple of convenient options for freezing:

• Whole Casserole: If you wish to freeze the entire casserole, wrap the baking dish tightly with several layers of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. This dual wrapping method is crucial for keeping as much air out as possible and preventing freezer burn.
• Individual Portions: For ultimate convenience, you can slice the cooled casserole into individual serving sizes. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in freezer-safe bags or airtight containers. This method allows you to thaw and reheat only the exact amount you need, reducing waste.

Store the frozen casserole or individual portions in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until it is hot and bubbly throughout. For a whole casserole, this might take around 45-60 minutes (covered with foil to prevent drying), while individual slices will heat up much quicker, usually within 20-30 minutes. Enjoy this comforting dish any time the craving strikes!

More Must-Make Breakfast Recipes

If you loved this Biscuits and Gravy Casserole, you’re in for a treat! Discover more delightful and easy breakfast and brunch recipes that are sure to become new family favorites.

• Overnight French Toast Casserole – A perfect make-ahead dish for effortless entertaining.
• Breakfast Pizza – A fun, customizable, and crowd-pleasing meal everyone will adore.
• Bacon Cheese Egg Muffins – Ideal for on-the-go breakfasts or convenient meal prep.
• Breakfast Enchiladas – Bring a delicious Southwestern twist to your morning routine.
• Crockpot Breakfast Casserole – Wake up to a ready-made breakfast with minimal effort and maximum flavor.