Craving a taste of Cracker Barrel at home? Dive into my Copycat Cracker Barrel Biscuits & Gravy Casserole recipe! This dish is every bit as warm and comforting as the original, packed with delicious flavors you’ll love. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip this up for breakfast or brunch. Let’s transform your kitchen into a cozy eatery, so grab your apron and let’s get started!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food Classic: This casserole embodies the warm, hearty flavors of traditional biscuits and gravy, making it the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy mornings or feeding a crowd without the fuss.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer mild or spicy sausage, or want to add extra cheese, this dish allows for plenty of personal touches to suit your taste.
- One-Dish Wonder: This casserole makes cleanup a breeze, as everything cooks together in one dish, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal with family and friends.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients List
To make the Copycat Cracker Barrel Biscuits & Gravy Casserole, you will need:
– 1 can of refrigerated biscuits (8 pieces)
– 1 pound breakfast sausage (choose between mild or spicy)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
These main ingredients create a warm, hearty dish that is perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
To enhance the taste of your casserole, consider adding:
– Hot sauce for some kick
– Cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor
– Fresh herbs like thyme or chives for a fresh touch
These additions can make your casserole even more delightful and unique.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have some ingredients on hand, here are some easy swaps:
– Use turkey sausage instead of pork for a lighter option.
– Almond milk or oat milk can replace regular milk for a dairy-free version.
– Gluten-free biscuits work well if you need a gluten-free dish.
These substitutions help you customize the recipe to fit your needs without losing flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Overview
First, gather all your ingredients. This makes cooking smooth and fun. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for a great bake.
Cooking the Sausage and Making the Gravy
In a large skillet, add the breakfast sausage. Cook it over medium heat. Stir and break the sausage into small bits for even cooking. It should take about 7 to 10 minutes to brown. Once it’s cooked, sprinkle 1/4 cup of flour over the sausage. Stir for 2 minutes to make a thick roux. Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk, whisking as you go. This helps to avoid lumps. Keep cooking and stirring until the gravy thickens, which takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. These spices give the gravy a tasty kick.
Assembling the Casserole
In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, cut each biscuit into quarters. Spread these biscuit pieces evenly across the bottom of the dish. Pour the sausage gravy over the biscuits, making sure to coat all pieces well. If you like cheese, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. This adds a rich flavor. Bake the casserole in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Look for a golden color on the biscuits to know they are done. Once baked, take it out and let it cool a bit. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This step makes your dish look even better!
Tips & Tricks
Key Cooking Techniques
When making this casserole, focus on cooking the sausage well. Brown it over medium heat. This step adds great flavor. Use a spatula to break it into small pieces. This helps it cook evenly. Make sure to mix the flour in well. This creates a thick gravy that coats the biscuits.
How to Achieve the Best Texture
For the best texture, watch the gravy closely. Stir it often as it thickens. This prevents lumps and keeps it smooth. Don’t skip the cheese unless you want a lighter dish. The cheese adds creaminess and richness. Finally, bake until the biscuits rise and turn golden. This gives you a nice fluffy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your casserole warm right from the dish. It looks great and keeps it cozy. For a fun twist, add fresh fruit or a salad on the side. This balances the richness of the casserole. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color. It makes your dish look even more appealing!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Sausage: Fresh breakfast sausage will provide a more robust flavor compared to pre-cooked or frozen options.
- Customize Your Gravy: Feel free to add your favorite seasonings or herbs to the gravy, like thyme or cayenne pepper, for a personal touch.
- Layering for Flavor: For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the sausage mix before adding the flour.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook.
Variations
Different Meat Options
You can swap the breakfast sausage for other meats. Try using cooked bacon for a smoky flavor. Or, use diced ham for a heartier dish. You can even use ground turkey if you want a leaner option. Each choice adds a unique taste to your casserole.
Vegetarian or Vegan Alternatives
For a vegetarian version, replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms. This gives a nice earthy flavor. You can also use plant-based sausage if you want a meat-like texture. For a vegan option, use almond or oat milk. Choose a vegan cheese for extra creaminess. These swaps keep the dish tasty and inclusive.
Flavor Enhancements
Add spices for extra zing. A pinch of cayenne pepper adds heat. Smoked paprika gives a nice depth. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can brighten the dish. You can also mix in some diced bell peppers or onions for extra crunch. These enhancements elevate your casserole and make it even more delightful.
Storage Info
How to Properly Store Leftovers
After enjoying your delicious casserole, let it cool for about 30 minutes. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. This helps keep the flavors fresh. Store the casserole in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat it for about 20-25 minutes. This helps warm it evenly without drying it out. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
Freezing Tips
To freeze your casserole, cut it into portions before storing. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. Press out any air to prevent freezer burn. Label the bags with the date. Your casserole will stay good for up to two months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
What Can I Substitute for the Breakfast Sausage?
You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of breakfast sausage. Both options are leaner and still tasty. For a vegetarian choice, try crumbled tempeh or plant-based sausage. These alternatives will give you great flavor in your casserole. If you want a kick, add some red pepper flakes to your mix.
Can I Use Homemade Biscuits Instead of Refrigerated Ones?
Yes, you can use homemade biscuits! Just make sure they are baked and not raw. Cut them into quarters like you would with refrigerated ones. Homemade biscuits will add a fresh touch to your casserole. Plus, you can control the flavors and ingredients.
How Long Does the Casserole Last in the Refrigerator?
The casserole will last for about 3-4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you plan to eat it later, reheat it in the oven for the best taste. You can also heat it in the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
This blog covers all aspects of creating a delicious casserole. We explored key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for the best texture. You can even try different meats or go vegetarian.
Remember to store leftovers properly for future meals. With these insights, you can now cook with confidence. Enjoy your cooking journey and have fun experimenting with flavor
