Crockpot Sausage Gravy

There’s something so comforting about a warm, hearty breakfast that makes you feel like you can conquer the day ahead. For me, few things hit that note quite like a creamy, flavorful sausage gravy served over fresh biscuits. And the best part? You can make it effortlessly in a crockpot, which frees up your morning for everything else — coffee, flipping through a magazine, or just savoring a slow start.

I love this recipe because it takes the classic Southern sausage gravy everyone adores and simplifies it without losing any of that rich, savory flavor. Using a slow cooker transforms what might seem like a labor-intensive breakfast into one of the easiest breakfasts to prep ahead. By the time you’re ready to eat, the house smells amazing, and the gravy is perfectly thick and creamy.

If you’ve ever tried your hand at homemade gravy, you know that timing and consistency can be tricky. That’s where this easy sausage gravy recipe really shines. It’s forgiving, adaptable, and gives you that comfort-food satisfaction without hovering over the stove. I’ve even made it with turkey sausage for a slightly lighter twist that’s just as indulgent and perfect for family breakfasts or brunches with friends.

What I adore most is that this isn’t just a breakfast dish. This Crock Pot sausage gravy works beautifully as part of a casual weekend brunch spread or even a cozy dinner. Pair it with warm biscuits, or get creative with toast, mashed potatoes, or even a skillet of roasted veggies. It’s the kind of Southern sausage gravy that makes everyone at the table ask for seconds, and because it’s made in the crockpot, cleanup is a breeze.

Why You’ll Love It

• Hands-Off Cooking: Once you throw everything into the crockpot, you can walk away and let it work its magic. No standing over the stove stirring constantly — just set it and forget it until your kitchen fills with that irresistible sausage aroma.
• Rich, Creamy Flavor: This isn’t your average gravy. The slow cooking allows the sausage to release all its savory goodness, resulting in a perfectly thick, creamy sauce that clings to biscuits or toast beautifully.
• Versatile and Adaptable: While I love it with traditional pork sausage, you can easily swap in turkey sausage for a lighter version. You can also adjust the seasoning to your taste, making it a simple sausage gravy that fits your family’s flavor preferences.
• Perfect for Any Meal: Breakfast? Yes. Brunch? Absolutely. Dinner? Why not! This Southern sausage gravy works any time of day, making it a comforting option that’s more than just a morning treat.
• Easy Crockpot Dinners Made Simple: Beyond breakfast, this dish proves that sausage crockpot recipes aren’t just for soups and stews. It’s a reminder that easy crockpot dinners can be indulgent, satisfying, and downright comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Sausage Gravy:

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, but I love it!)
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)

For Serving:

• Freshly baked biscuits, split
• Chopped parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Notes

• I always use a mild breakfast sausage for this — it gives just the right balance of savory flavor without being too spicy.
• Butter and flour are the base for the gravy; don’t skip them! They make it rich and perfectly thick.
• For the milk, whole milk is my go-to. It makes the gravy creamy and smooth. You can use 2% if you prefer, but it won’t be quite as luxurious.
• If you’re using turkey sausage, make sure it’s well seasoned — sometimes it needs a pinch more salt to hit that classic Southern flavor.
• Biscuits are non-negotiable here. I like mine fluffy and fresh from the oven, but even store-bought biscuits work in a pinch.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Crockpot/Slow Cooker: The star of the show! Perfect for hands-off cooking and keeping the gravy warm. I love my 6-quart Crock-Pot for family-sized batches.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring the sausage and making sure the flour cooks evenly.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Essential for accuracy, especially with flour and milk.
• Whisk: Helps get a smooth, lump-free gravy — I always use a stainless steel one.
• Skillet (Optional): If you want to brown the sausage before adding it to the crockpot, it adds extra flavor.
• Serving Spoon or Ladle: For easy portioning over biscuits without making a mess.

Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage (Optional but Flavorful)

• Heat a skillet over medium heat and add your breakfast sausage.
• Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
• Cook until browned and no longer pink.
  Pro Tip: Browning the sausage first adds extra depth of flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and cook it directly in the crockpot.

2. Prepare the Crockpot

• Spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray or lightly butter it.
• Add the browned sausage (or raw sausage if skipping step 1).
• Stir in butter so it starts melting into the sausage as the base for your gravy.

3. Make the Roux

• Sprinkle the flour over the sausage and butter mixture in the crockpot.
• Stir well to coat the sausage evenly with the flour.
  Pro Tip: Stir continuously for 1–2 minutes to cook the flour slightly — this helps prevent a raw flour taste in your gravy.

4. Add the Milk and Seasonings

• Gradually pour in the milk, stirring as you go to blend it with the roux.
• Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes if using.
  Pro Tip: Whisk continuously as you pour to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.

5. Cook on Low

• Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 3–4 hours.
• Stir occasionally, about every 30–45 minutes, to prevent sticking and help thicken the gravy evenly.
  Pro Tip: If the gravy seems too thick toward the end, stir in a splash of milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Split your warm biscuits and ladle the sausage gravy generously over the top.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if you like a fresh, colorful touch.
• Grab a fork, a plate, and get ready for that rich, comforting Southern flavor!

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Stir Occasionally: Even in a slow cooker, giving the gravy a stir every 30–45 minutes keeps it smooth and prevents sticking.
• Use Whole Milk: For the creamiest, richest texture, whole milk is best. You can try 2% but the gravy won’t be as velvety.
• Adjust Thickness Last: If your gravy ends up too thick, simply whisk in a little more milk until it reaches the perfect consistency.
• Season Gradually: Start with a little salt and pepper, then taste toward the end — sausage can be salty on its own.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the sausage and roux a day ahead and store in the fridge. In the morning, just add milk and cook in the crockpot.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Turkey Sausage: Swap pork sausage for turkey sausage for a lighter version that still tastes delicious.
• Milk Options: Use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free twist, though the gravy won’t be quite as creamy.
• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a little heat in your Southern sausage gravy.
• Biscuits Alternatives: Serve over toast, English muffins, or even roasted potatoes for a fun twist.
• Extra Flavor: Sauté onions or mushrooms with the sausage before adding to the crockpot for a richer, heartier gravy.

Serving Suggestions

• I love serving this Crockpot sausage gravy over warm, flaky biscuits for a classic Southern breakfast that feels indulgent but effortless.
• Spoon it over toasted bread or English muffins for a quick weekday breakfast that still feels special.
• Serve alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a complete brunch spread — the creaminess of the gravy pairs beautifully with light, fruity flavors.
• Ladle it over roasted or mashed potatoes for a cozy dinner twist — it’s like breakfast for dinner, but elevated!
• For a fun variation, drizzle it over a breakfast casserole or even waffles for a savory-sweet combo that surprises everyone.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftover gravy in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freeze: Gravy freezes well for up to 2 months. Portion into freezer-safe containers for easy reheating.
• Reheat on Stove: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk if it’s too thick.
• Reheat in Microwave: Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
• Do Not Boil: High heat can separate the gravy; gentle warming keeps it creamy and smooth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this sausage gravy with turkey sausage?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage works beautifully and gives a slightly lighter version. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned for the best flavor.

Can I skip browning the sausage first?

Yes! Cooking it directly in the crockpot works fine, but browning first adds extra depth and a richer flavor.

How do I thicken the gravy if it’s too runny?

Simply whisk in a little more flour mixed with milk, or let it cook a bit longer on low. Stir occasionally to avoid lumps.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prep the sausage and roux a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Add the milk and cook in the crockpot when ready.

Can I freeze leftover sausage gravy?

Yes, it freezes well in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.

Is this recipe spicy?

It’s mildly seasoned by default, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne if you like a little heat.

Did you try this Crockpot sausage gravy? Let me know in the comments how it turned out — I’d love to hear your tips and tweaks!