As a classic Southern dish, biscuits and gravy are a staple breakfast item that has been enjoyed by generations.
The buttery, flaky biscuits combined with the creamy, savory gravy make for a filling and satisfying meal. However, sometimes it can be challenging to figure out what to serve with biscuits and gravy to elevate the dish even further.
Before diving into the best side dishes to serve with biscuits and gravy, it’s essential to understand the dish itself. Biscuits are a type of bread made with flour, butter, and milk or buttermilk.
They are typically served warm and split in half, with butter or jam added to taste. Gravy is a sauce made from meat drippings, flour, and milk or cream.
In the case of biscuits and gravy, the gravy is typically made with pork sausage and seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices.
When it comes to serving biscuits and gravy for breakfast, there are plenty of delicious options to pair with the dish. Classic breakfast items like scrambled eggs, bacon, and hash browns all make great companions for biscuits and gravy.
For those looking for a healthier option, steamed broccoli or a fresh fruit salad can balance out the richness of the dish.
Key Takeaways
- Biscuits and gravy are a classic Southern breakfast dish that combines buttery biscuits with savory pork sausage gravy.
- Classic breakfast items like scrambled eggs, bacon, and hash browns all make great companions for biscuits and gravy.
- For those looking for a healthier option, steamed broccoli or a fresh fruit salad can balance out the richness of the dish.
Understanding Biscuits and Gravy
As a Southerner, I grew up eating biscuits and gravy for breakfast. It’s a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and always hits the spot. Biscuits and gravy typically consist of buttermilk biscuits and a creamy sausage gravy.
The origin of biscuits and gravy can be traced back to the southern United States. It’s a beloved dish in the region and can be found on breakfast menus across the South. The dish is simple but delicious, and it’s no wonder why it’s become a staple of Southern cuisine.
Buttermilk biscuits are the perfect vessel for the rich and creamy gravy. The biscuits are flaky and buttery, and they soak up the gravy perfectly.
The gravy is made with sausage, flour, milk, and seasonings. It’s thick, creamy, and savory, making it the perfect complement to the biscuits.
Biscuits and gravy are a hearty breakfast that will keep you full all morning. It’s a popular dish in the South, but it’s becoming more and more popular across the country.
Whether you’re a Southerner or not, biscuits and gravy are a delicious and satisfying breakfast option that’s sure to please.
Best Breakfast Companions for Biscuits and Gravy
When it comes to serving biscuits and gravy, there are a variety of breakfast companions that can make for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Here are some of my favorite options:
1. Eggs
Eggs are a classic breakfast staple and pair perfectly with biscuits and gravy. Whether you prefer scrambled, poached, or fried eggs, they add a protein-packed punch to your meal and complement the rich flavors of the gravy.
2. Bacon
Crispy bacon is another great addition to biscuits and gravy. The salty and savory flavors of the bacon complement the creamy gravy and add a satisfying crunch to your meal.
3. Hash Browns
Hash browns are a popular breakfast side dish and make a great addition to biscuits and gravy. The crispy texture of the hash browns pairs well with the creamy gravy and adds a nice contrast of flavors and textures to your meal.
4. Breakfast Casserole
If you’re serving biscuits and gravy for a group, a breakfast casserole can be a great addition to the meal. A hearty casserole filled with eggs, sausage, cheese, and other breakfast favorites is a filling and satisfying option that will keep everyone full and happy.
5. Home Fries
Similar to hash browns, home fries are another great option for a breakfast side dish. The crispy texture of the potatoes pairs well with the creamy gravy and adds a nice crunch to your meal.
6. Breakfast Meats
Sausage, bacon, and ham are all great options for breakfast meats to serve with biscuits and gravy. The savory flavors of the meats complement the rich flavors of the gravy and add a satisfying protein boost to your meal.
7. Grits
Grits are a classic Southern breakfast dish and make a great addition to biscuits and gravy. The creamy texture of the grits pairs well with the creamy gravy and adds a nice contrast of flavors and textures to your meal.
Overall, there are plenty of breakfast companions that pair well with biscuits and gravy. From eggs to bacon to hash browns, these options are sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you full until lunchtime.
Side Dishes to Serve with Biscuits and Gravy
As someone who loves biscuits and gravy, I am always on the lookout for the perfect side dish to complement this hearty breakfast.
Here are some of my favorite options:
Vegetables
If you’re looking for a healthy option, vegetables are a great choice. Steamed broccoli is a simple and nutritious side that pairs well with the rich flavors of biscuits and gravy.
Roasted asparagus is another great option. The crispy texture and bold flavor of the asparagus is a perfect contrast to the creamy gravy.
Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are a classic southern side dish that pairs perfectly with biscuits and gravy. The tangy flavor of the tomatoes and the crispy coating make for a delicious and satisfying bite.
Fruit Salad
If you’re looking for a lighter option, a fresh fruit salad is a great choice. The sweetness of the fruit pairs well with the savory flavors of the gravy. Try mixing together your favorite fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled veggies are a great option if you’re looking for something with a bit more flavor. Try grilling some zucchini, bell peppers, and onions and serving them alongside your biscuits and gravy.
The smoky flavor of the grilled veggies pairs perfectly with the creamy gravy.
Mexican Chorizo
For a spicy twist on biscuits and gravy, try serving Mexican chorizo on the side. The bold flavors of the chorizo complement the rich flavors of the gravy and add a bit of heat to the dish.
Meatballs or Sausages
If you’re looking for a heartier side dish, meatballs or sausages are a great option. Try making homemade meatballs or serving up some grilled sausages alongside your biscuits and gravy.
Mixed Green Salad
If you’re looking for a refreshing side dish, a mixed green salad is a great option. Try mixing together some arugula, spinach, and kale and topping it with a simple vinaigrette. The fresh greens will help balance out the richness of the gravy.
Chicken Fingers
For a kid-friendly option, try serving up some chicken fingers alongside your biscuits and gravy. The crispy texture of the chicken fingers pairs well with the creamy gravy and is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Stir-Fries
Finally, if you’re feeling adventurous, try serving up a stir-fry alongside your biscuits and gravy. The bold flavors of the stir-fry will complement the rich flavors of the gravy and add a bit of variety to your breakfast.
Biscuits and Gravy for Dinner
When it comes to serving biscuits and gravy for dinner, there are a few options that can make for a satisfying and filling meal.
One classic option is to serve the biscuits and gravy with meatballs. Simply make or buy meatballs and add them to the gravy for a hearty and flavorful dish.
Another option is to serve the biscuits and gravy with chicken fried steak. This Southern classic pairs perfectly with the creamy gravy and flaky biscuits.
To make the chicken fried steak, pound out thin cuts of steak, coat them in a seasoned flour mixture, and fry until crispy. Serve with the biscuits and gravy for a delicious and indulgent dinner.
If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider serving the biscuits and gravy with a side salad. A simple green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory gravy.
For a complete dinner, you can also serve the biscuits and gravy with roasted vegetables. Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts make for a tasty and nutritious side dish.
Overall, biscuits and gravy can be a satisfying and versatile dinner option. Whether you prefer meatballs or chicken fried steak, or you’re looking for a lighter side dish, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Creating Your Own Biscuits and Gravy Combinations
As someone who loves experimenting with different flavors, I enjoy creating my own biscuits and gravy combinations.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Add Some Onions: Adding sautéed onions to your gravy can add a delicious depth of flavor. Simply sauté some diced onions in a bit of butter or oil until they are soft and translucent, then add them to your gravy as it cooks.
- Try Different Milks: While many people use whole milk or cream to make their gravy, you can experiment with different types of milk to achieve different flavors and textures. For example, using buttermilk can add a tangy flavor, while using almond milk can make your gravy dairy-free.
- Pair with Pancakes: While biscuits and gravy are a classic breakfast combination, they can also be paired with pancakes for a delicious brunch or breakfast-for-dinner option. Try making bacon pancakes to add an extra layer of flavor.
- Make a Fresh Fruit Salad: While biscuits and gravy are savory, pairing them with a fresh fruit salad can add a refreshing contrast. Try combining diced strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi for a colorful and tasty side dish.
- Experiment with Different Flours: While most people use all-purpose flour to make their biscuits, you can experiment with different types of flour to achieve different textures and flavors. For example, using cake flour can make your biscuits lighter and fluffier, while using whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor.
- Pair with Quiche: If you’re looking for a heartier breakfast option, try pairing your biscuits and gravy with a slice of quiche. The creamy filling and flaky crust pair perfectly with the rich gravy and buttery biscuits.
By experimenting with different ingredients and flavors, you can create your own unique biscuits and gravy combinations that are sure to impress.
Making Your Own Biscuits and Gravy
As someone who loves biscuits and gravy, I highly recommend making your own homemade version. Not only is it more cost-effective, but it also allows you to customize the dish to your liking.
To start, you’ll need to make the biscuits. There are numerous recipes available online, but a basic recipe typically calls for flour, baking powder, salt, butter, and milk. You can also add in herbs or cheese for added flavor.
Once you’ve mixed the ingredients together, use a biscuit cutter or glass to cut out the dough and bake in the oven until golden brown.
Now onto the gravy. The base of the gravy is typically made with flour, milk, and butter. From there, you can add in sausage or bacon for a meaty flavor, onions for added depth, and black pepper for a bit of heat.
There are also variations such as creamy sausage gravy or homemade sausage gravy that use different ingredients and cooking techniques.
One tip for making the gravy is to cook the meat first and then use the drippings to make the roux. This will give the gravy a richer, meatier flavor. Another tip is to add the milk slowly, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try making sausage balls to serve alongside the biscuits and gravy. These are typically made with sausage, flour, and cheese and baked until golden brown.
Overall, making your own biscuits and gravy is a fun and satisfying cooking project that yields delicious results. With a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to perfect your recipe and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good side dishes to serve with biscuits and gravy?
Biscuits and gravy are a classic southern dish that can be paired with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include scrambled eggs, bacon, hash browns, roasted asparagus, and fresh fruit salad.
Cheesy roasted tomatoes, buttery peas and mushrooms, and balsamic arugula salad are also great options to serve alongside biscuits and gravy.
What are some popular menu items to pair with biscuits and gravy?
Biscuits and gravy are a popular breakfast dish, but they can also be served for brunch or lunch. Some popular menu items to pair with biscuits and gravy include fried chicken, fried green tomatoes, and corned beef hash.
What are some creative ideas for serving biscuits and gravy?
If you want to get creative with your biscuits and gravy, try serving them in a bread bowl or on top of a waffle. You can also add some spice to your gravy by incorporating hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
What are some tasty vegetable options to serve with biscuits and gravy?
If you’re looking for some tasty vegetable options to serve with biscuits and gravy, try roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or steamed broccoli. You can also add some flavor to your vegetables by tossing them in a little bit of butter or olive oil.
What are some delicious meat options to pair with biscuits and gravy?
Biscuits and gravy are typically served with bacon or sausage, but you can also pair them with fried chicken, ham, or corned beef hash.
What are some unique ways to incorporate biscuits and gravy into a meal?
If you want to get creative with your biscuits and gravy, try using them as a topping for a breakfast pizza or incorporating them into a breakfast sandwich.
You can also use biscuits and gravy as a filling for a breakfast burrito or as a base for a breakfast casserole.