Description of this recipe
Southern Sausage Biscuits are a quintessential comfort food, deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of the American South. These aren’t just any biscuits; they’re a hearty, hand-held symphony of savory flavors and fluffy textures. Picture warm, golden-brown biscuits enveloping a generous filling of seasoned breakfast sausage, all brought together with the rich, sharp tang of cheddar cheese. This recipe is a tribute to those cozy, soulful breakfasts that evoke memories of family gatherings, Sunday mornings, and the simple pleasures of homemade goodness. They are perfect for a quick breakfast, a satisfying brunch, or even a comforting dinner side.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll fall in love with this recipe for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy and quick to make, making it perfect for busy mornings or impromptu gatherings. Second, the combination of flaky biscuits, savory sausage, and melted cheese is irresistible. Each bite delivers a satisfying burst of flavor that’s both comforting and energizing. Third, it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize the filling with your favorite cheeses, herbs, or spices to create a unique flavor profile. The biscuits are also a great way to use up leftover sausage or cheese, making them an economical and sustainable option. Finally, they are a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them to family, friends, or guests, these Southern Sausage Biscuits are guaranteed to be a hit. They bring people together with their homey charm and delicious taste.
Ingredients:
Canned buttermilk biscuits: 8 biscuits (1 can) – Provides the base for the recipe, offering a convenient and consistent texture. Buttermilk biscuits add a slight tang and richness.
Breakfast sausage (pork): 1 pound (uncooked) – The heart of the filling, offering a savory, meaty flavor that is quintessential to Southern breakfasts. Pork sausage provides a classic, rich taste that complements the biscuits.
Shredded cheddar cheese: ¼ cup – Adds a sharp, creamy element that binds the sausage filling together and enhances the overall flavor profile. Cheddar cheese provides a sharpness and meltiness that complements the sausage.
Optional Add-ons:
Dash of black pepper or cayenne for heat – Allows for customization of the flavor profile, adding a subtle kick for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
Honey butter or jam for serving – Offers a sweet counterpoint to the savory biscuits, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Egg wash on top for a golden finish – Provides a beautiful, glossy finish to the biscuits, enhancing their visual appeal and adding a slight richness to the crust.
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the biscuits bake evenly and achieve a golden-brown color. Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. This prevents the biscuits from sticking and ensures easy removal. Greasing or lining the baking sheet is crucial for a hassle-free baking experience.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook 1 pound of breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked. Ensure that the sausage is fully cooked to eliminate any health risks and achieve the best flavor. Drain excess grease and let it cool slightly. Removing excess grease prevents the biscuits from becoming soggy and maintains a desirable texture. Allowing the sausage to cool slightly prevents the cheese from melting too quickly when mixed.
Step 3: Mix in the Cheese
Once the sausage has cooled a bit, stir in ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese until combined. This binds the sausage together and adds a creamy, sharp flavor to the filling. You can add a pinch of black pepper or a touch of hot sauce if you like a little kick. This is an opportunity to customize the flavor profile to suit your personal preferences. Adding spices or hot sauce enhances the overall flavor complexity of the filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Biscuits
Take each canned biscuit and gently flatten it into a small disk using your fingers or a rolling pin. This makes it easier to enclose the sausage filling and create a uniform shape. Place a spoonful of the sausage-cheese mixture into the center of each biscuit. Be generous with the filling but avoid overfilling, which can make the biscuits difficult to seal. Fold the edges up and pinch to seal, forming a ball or dumpling shape. Ensure that the biscuits are tightly sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking. Place seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. This ensures that the biscuits bake evenly and the seams don’t open up.
Tip: If you want a golden top, brush each biscuit with egg wash (1 beaten egg + 1 tbsp water). Egg wash creates a beautiful, glossy finish and adds a slight richness to the crust, enhancing the overall appearance and texture of the biscuits.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 13–15 minutes, or until biscuits are puffed up and golden brown. Monitor the biscuits closely to prevent burning and ensure even baking. Remove and let cool slightly before serving. Allowing the biscuits to cool slightly prevents burns and allows the flavors to meld together.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
Serve warm with honey butter or jam for a sweet and savory combination. Pair with a side of scrambled eggs or fresh fruit for a complete breakfast. Offer alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting start to the day.
Tips:
For a spicier kick, use hot breakfast sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling. Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack or Monterey Jack, to customize the flavor. Prepare the sausage filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a quicker assembly in the morning. To freeze the biscuits, bake them as directed, let them cool completely, and then wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information: (per biscuit, approximate)
Calories: 250 Protein: 10g Sodium: 500mg
Conclusion
Southern Sausage Biscuits are more than just a recipe; they’re an experience. They bring the warmth and comfort of Southern hospitality right to your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward, adaptable, and guaranteed to deliver a delicious result. These biscuits are perfect for any occasion, from a casual family breakfast to a festive brunch with friends. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to indulge in the simple yet profound pleasure of homemade Southern Sausage Biscuits. They are a testament to the enduring appeal of classic comfort food and a delightful way to start your day.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of sausage? A: Absolutely! While this recipe calls for breakfast sausage, you can easily substitute it with Italian sausage, chorizo, or even a plant-based sausage alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed and drain any excess grease.
Q2: Can I make these biscuits ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the sausage filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake the biscuits, simply assemble them and follow the baking instructions. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked biscuits and reheat them as needed.
Q3: What if I don’t have buttermilk biscuits? A: If you don’t have buttermilk biscuits on hand, you can use regular canned biscuits or even make your own from scratch. Keep in mind that homemade biscuits may require a slightly different baking time, so be sure to monitor them closely.
Q4: Can I add vegetables to the filling? A: Of course! Feel free to add diced onions, bell peppers, or spinach to the sausage filling for added flavor and nutrition. Sauté the vegetables along with the sausage until they are tender before mixing in the cheese.
Q5: How do I prevent the biscuits from getting soggy? A: To prevent the biscuits from getting soggy, make sure to drain any excess grease from the cooked sausage and avoid overfilling the biscuits. Placing the assembled biscuits on a wire rack after baking can also help to keep them crisp. Additionally, serving them immediately after baking ensures the best texture and flavor.
