Looking for a breakfast that’s hearty, satisfying, and screams Southern comfort? This Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole brings together everything you love about the classic dish—fluffy biscuits, savory sausage, creamy gravy, and cheesy eggs—all baked into one easy, make-ahead casserole. Whether you’re feeding a holiday crowd or just want a special weekend brunch, this stick-to-your-ribs breakfast will hit the spot. Don’t miss our Creamy Roasted Garlic Potato Soup for another cozy meal idea!
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Why Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole Is a Southern Classic
The heartwarming origins of this breakfast tradition
Biscuits and gravy have long been a staple in Southern kitchens. Originating from humble beginnings, this meal was developed to provide maximum comfort and energy using simple, affordable ingredients. Farmers would start their mornings with fluffy biscuits smothered in creamy, peppery sausage gravy—a tradition that lives on today, especially during holidays and family gatherings.
Why it remains a family favorite across generations
There’s something about the aroma of breakfast sausage sizzling and gravy bubbling that brings everyone to the table. This casserole turns a time-consuming stovetop dish into a hands-off baked version, making it even more appealing for busy families. The casserole also lends itself well to customization, so everyone from kids to grandparents can enjoy it just the way they like.
What makes this dish stand out from other casseroles
While breakfast casseroles are nothing new, this one captures the soul of a true Southern dish. It balances creamy, crunchy, savory, and cheesy in every single bite. With layers of biscuit dough, seasoned meat, eggs, and velvety gravy, it’s more than just breakfast—it’s a warm, comforting experience. Discover great ideas like our Chicken and Stuffing Casserole for another crowd-pleasing bake.
Key Ingredients That Make This Casserole Irresistible
Biscuits: Store-bought vs. homemade options
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can grab a can of Pillsbury Grands or go all out with flaky homemade buttermilk biscuits. Either way, cutting the biscuits into quarters helps them bake evenly and absorb the flavors from the layers above.
| Type of Biscuit | Texture | Prep Time |
|---|---|---|
| Store-bought (Grands) | Flaky & consistent | 1 min |
| Homemade Buttermilk | Rich & buttery | 20 min |
Check out our Sweet Potato Muffins Recipe if you’re into homemade baked breakfast goodies.
Sausage selection: Mild, spicy, or maple?
Traditional breakfast sausage is the go-to for this dish, but don’t feel boxed in. Mild sausage offers a classic flavor, spicy sausage adds a kick, and maple sausage brings a subtle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the peppered gravy. You could even swap it out for turkey sausage or crumbled bacon if you prefer leaner or smokier options.
The creamy gravy factor: Mix or made-from-scratch?
Most versions call for a quick peppered gravy mix, but homemade gravy isn’t hard to make. Just combine butter, flour, and milk with a pinch of salt and pepper, and you’ve got yourself a rich, homemade sauce. Want more gravy? Double the batch and serve extra on the side.
| Gravy Type | Ingredients Needed | Time to Make |
|---|---|---|
| Packaged Mix | Water, mix | 5 min |
| Homemade | Butter, flour, milk, pepper | 8 min |
Looking for inspiration? Try our Old-Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole for another comfort food classic.
Eggs and cheese: Binding flavor with texture
The eggs in this recipe don’t just add flavor—they act as a binder to hold the layers together. Whisked with milk and seasoned, they pour over the top and fill in the gaps as they bake. The cheese (cheddar, typically) adds creaminess and depth, but feel free to swap in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little variety.
Optional ingredients for added flavor and texture
Want to elevate this dish even more? Toss in diced onions, bell peppers, or chopped spinach for extra nutrition and crunch. A dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of paprika can bring in extra flavor, especially for spice lovers. You could even try layering in leftover veggies or cooked hash browns for more bulk.
Don’t miss our Winter Veggie Coleslaw Recipe for a fresh side that balances this casserole’s richness.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole
Prepping the ingredients: Tips to save time
Before you even turn on the oven, having everything ready makes this dish a breeze. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13 baking dish. Brown your sausage in a skillet until fully cooked—drain off the excess grease for a less oily texture. While that’s sizzling, cut your biscuits into quarters to ensure even baking and that flaky, golden finish.
Looking for a dessert to prep while your casserole bakes? Check out our Homemade Cherry Pie for a classic finish.
Assembling the layers for the perfect bite
Layering is what gives this casserole its signature structure. Start by spreading the biscuit pieces across the bottom of your baking dish. Next, evenly distribute your cooked sausage over the biscuits. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top for that rich, gooey layer.
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk—season lightly with salt and pepper. Pour this mixture over the top of the cheese, letting it seep into the gaps. Lastly, prepare your gravy (either from a mix or homemade) and drizzle it evenly across the surface. It may look soupy at this stage, but everything firms up beautifully in the oven.
Don’t miss our Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread for another morning favorite.
Baking instructions and doneness tips
Slide your assembled casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is firm, the biscuits are golden, and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean. If the top starts browning too fast while the inside remains soft, cover it with foil to prevent overbaking.
Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing—this helps the layers set and makes serving easier. Discover great ideas like our Pumpkin French Toast Recipe for more cozy breakfast bakes.
Make-ahead method for busy mornings
Want to make your morning hassle-free? This casserole can be assembled the night before. Just follow all the steps except baking. Once assembled, wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator overnight.
The next morning, remove the wrap and bake as directed. You may need to add an extra 5–10 minutes of baking time since it’ll be cold from the fridge. This make-ahead feature is a game changer for holidays or hosting brunches.
Check out our Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Casserole for another set-it-and-forget-it meal idea.
Easy Variations to Keep It Exciting Every Time
Swapping sausage for bacon or turkey
Classic pork sausage is great, but don’t be afraid to switch things up. Bacon adds a smoky depth and crispy texture. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and crumble it before layering. Turkey sausage is a leaner alternative that still delivers bold flavor—just season it well. For a meatless twist, go with vegetarian sausage crumbles.
| Protein Option | Flavor Profile | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pork Sausage | Savory & bold | Traditional |
| Turkey Sausage | Mild & lean | Add seasoning |
| Bacon | Smoky & crispy | Pre-cook fully |
| Veggie Sausage | Plant-based | Season generously |
Adding veggies like peppers, onions, or spinach
Want to sneak in some greens or add texture? Toss in diced red peppers, chopped onions, or fresh spinach between the sausage and cheese layers. These additions add a subtle crunch and help balance the richness. Just sauté harder veggies like onions beforehand so they soften during baking.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Cranberry Apple Crockpot Oatmeal for a fruit-filled start to the day.
How to make it spicy or gluten-free
Spice lovers can stir chopped jalapeños into the egg mixture or top with a drizzle of hot sauce. To go gluten-free, swap out the canned biscuits for a GF version or make a homemade biscuit dough using almond or coconut flour. Be sure your sausage and gravy mix are gluten-free, too.
Using different cheeses for flavor twists
Cheddar is classic, but switching up the cheese changes the whole vibe. Pepper Jack adds heat, Swiss brings a nutty note, and Colby Jack melts like a dream. Mixing cheeses is another great way to layer flavors.
| Cheese Type | Flavor | Melting Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Cheddar | Sharp & classic | Excellent |
| Pepper Jack | Spicy & bold | Great |
| Swiss | Mild & nutty | Good |
| Colby Jack | Creamy & balanced | Excellent |
Storage, Reheating, and Freezing Tips That Work
How long will it last in the fridge?
Once baked, this Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before transferring to an airtight container or wrapping the baking dish tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
Best way to reheat without drying it out
To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 30-second intervals until heated through. For larger portions, use a 300°F oven and cover the dish with foil to lock in moisture—this helps preserve the creamy texture and prevents rubbery eggs.
Freezer-friendly tips for meal prep lovers
This casserole freezes beautifully. Slice it into portions, wrap each piece tightly, and store in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed. It stays good in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Expert Tips to Elevate Your Breakfast Casserole Game
Prevent soggy bottoms and over-baked tops
Always preheat the oven and bake uncovered at 350°F. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil halfway through. Avoid placing raw vegetables directly on the biscuits, as they release moisture that can make the base soggy.
How to get perfectly fluffy eggs every time
Whisk your eggs thoroughly with milk to aerate the mixture. Add cheese before pouring in the eggs to keep the top from overcooking and ensure a velvety texture throughout.
Doubling the recipe for large crowds
Hosting a brunch? Simply double the ingredients and bake in a large roasting pan or two separate dishes. Add 5–10 extra minutes of baking time and rotate pans halfway for even cooking.
What to Serve with Biscuits and Gravy Casserole
Best drinks: Coffee, tea, or something stronger?
This rich, savory dish pairs well with hot coffee, sweet iced tea, or even a brunch cocktail like a Bloody Mary or mimosa.
Side dish pairings: Fruit, hash browns, or cinnamon rolls
Since the casserole is hearty, light sides like fresh fruit, yogurt parfaits, or hash brown patties balance it out nicely. Want to go big? Serve with Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Rolls for a complete brunch spread.
Holiday and brunch menu inspiration
Make this casserole the star of your next holiday breakfast. Pair it with French Toast Casserole or a baked donut station for a festive, make-ahead-friendly menu.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make my own gravy instead of using a mix?
Absolutely. Homemade gravy made with butter, flour, milk, and pepper tastes even better and takes only about 8 minutes.
What kind of sausage works best?
Mild breakfast sausage is the standard, but spicy, maple, or turkey sausage also work well. You can even use crumbled Italian sausage or bacon.
Can I use crescent rolls instead of biscuits?
Technically yes, but the texture won’t be the same. Crescent rolls are softer and less fluffy than traditional biscuits, so they may not hold up as well in layers.
How do I make it in a slow cooker?
Layer all ingredients in your slow cooker, but add the biscuit pieces on top instead of the bottom. Cook on high for about 4–5 hours. Keep in mind the texture will be softer compared to oven-baked.
Is it okay to freeze this casserole?
Yes, once fully cooked and cooled. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Recipe That Never Fails
Whether it’s a cozy weekend brunch, a holiday tradition, or a make-ahead breakfast for busy weekdays, this Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole checks all the boxes. It’s hearty, customizable, and packed with Southern flavor. Try it once, and it might just earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Don’t miss our Cinnamon Crumble Banana Bread for your next baking day.
PrintBiscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole
This Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole is a hearty Southern-style breakfast combining flaky biscuits, savory sausage, creamy peppered gravy, eggs, and melted cheese in one easy, make-ahead dish perfect for holidays or family brunches.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 1 package Pillsbury Grands biscuits (8 count)
- 6 eggs
- 1 package peppered gravy mix (2.3 oz, makes 2 cups)
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or preferred flavor)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook sausage in a skillet until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
- Cut each biscuit into 4 pieces and layer evenly on the bottom of the baking dish.
- Spread cooked sausage over the biscuit pieces.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the sausage layer.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour over the cheese layer.
- Prepare the gravy according to package directions and pour it over the egg mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes or until eggs are set and biscuits are fully cooked through.
- Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Cover with foil if the top begins to brown too quickly during baking.
- Refrigerate overnight before baking for a make-ahead option. Add 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
- Freeze fully baked and cooled casserole for up to 3 months.
- Try spicy sausage, bacon, or turkey sausage for variations.
- Add veggies like spinach, onions, or bell peppers for more flavor and nutrition.
- Use homemade gravy for richer taste—combine 3 tbsp butter, 3 tbsp flour, and 1.5 cups milk with salt and pepper.
