Description
This rich, creamy gravy gets its depth from perfectly browned turkey sausage and a classic roux. Seasoned with sage, thyme, and a touch of cayenne, it delivers the comforting Southern flavor without pork.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (16 oz) ground turkey breakfast sausage
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage and cook, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Do not drain the rendered fat; it is essential for flavor and the roux.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter to the skillet and stir until completely melted. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the sausage and butter mixture, then cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes. This eliminates the raw flour taste and creates a pale golden roux that should smell nutty.
- Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the gravy thickens and reaches a gentle simmer, about 3 to 4 minutes. The gravy should coat the back of a spoon thickly enough to hold a line drawn with your finger.
- Stir in the salt, black pepper, sage, thyme, and cayenne if using. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Let the gravy simmer for 1 more minute, then remove from heat. The gravy will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 1 to 2 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to settle to its final consistency.
Notes
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, transfer to a skillet over medium-low heat, whisking in a splash of milk if the gravy has thickened too much. Freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed.
Nutrition
- Calories: 393
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 648mg
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 143mg
Keywords: sausage gravy, turkey sausage gravy, southern gravy, breakfast gravy, stovetop gravy, creamy gravy, no pork gravy, alton brown inspired, turkey sausage, comfort food