Biscuits and Gravy Casserole – Easy Cracker Barrel Copycat

Introduction

Few breakfast dishes are as comforting and nostalgic as biscuits and gravy. This classic combination has long been associated with cozy mornings, family gatherings, and hearty meals that satisfy both body and soul. The Biscuits and Gravy Casserole takes everything people love about the traditional dish and transforms it into an easy, oven-baked recipe that is perfect for modern kitchens and busy schedules.

Inspired by the familiar flavors served at Cracker Barrel, this casserole version delivers the same savory richness but with far less effort. Instead of preparing biscuits, gravy, eggs, and sausage separately, everything is layered into one dish and baked together until golden, creamy, and irresistible. The result is a filling breakfast or brunch recipe that feels indulgent while remaining practical and approachable.

This dish is ideal for weekends, holidays, family breakfasts, and even make-ahead meals for the week. It feeds a crowd, reheats beautifully, and relies on simple ingredients that are easy to find. The combination of fluffy biscuits, seasoned sausage, creamy gravy, soft eggs, melted cheese, and gentle seasoning creates a balanced and satisfying meal that appeals to both adults and children.

In this detailed article, you will learn how to prepare the perfect Biscuits and Gravy Casserole step by step. You will also discover helpful tips, serving ideas, storage guidance, and answers to common questions, ensuring consistent and delicious results every time you make it.

Ingredients Overview

This recipe uses straightforward ingredients that work together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a specific role in achieving the classic taste and comforting feel of a biscuits and gravy breakfast.

Meat

Breakfast sausage is the heart of this dish. Using one pound of breakfast sausage provides enough savory flavor to season the entire casserole. As it cooks, it releases fat and spices that enrich the overall taste and bring depth to the gravy and egg mixture.

Refrigerated Ingredients

Eggs act as the structural backbone of the casserole. Six eggs are whisked with milk to form a custard-like mixture that binds all the ingredients together. Once baked, the eggs become soft and fluffy, holding the biscuits and sausage in place while keeping the dish tender.

Baking and Spices

Gravy mix is essential for achieving the signature creamy texture and peppery flavor associated with biscuits and gravy. Using one packet ensures consistency and convenience. Salt and pepper enhance the overall flavor, but should be used lightly since the sausage and gravy already provide seasoning.

Bread and Baked Goods

Canned biscuits form the foundation of the casserole. When cut into pieces and baked with the gravy and eggs, they absorb moisture while remaining soft and pillowy. This creates the comforting texture that defines the dish.

Dairy

Cheese adds richness, creaminess, and a lightly golden topping. Two cups of cheese ensure a generous layer that melts evenly throughout the casserole. Milk is used to loosen the egg mixture and help create a smooth, creamy consistency.

Preparation Method

Preparing this Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is simple and efficient. With minimal prep work and one baking dish, the recipe comes together quickly and delivers reliable results.

Step One: Cook the Sausage

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage and cook it thoroughly, breaking it into small crumbles as it browns. Continue cooking until the sausage is no longer pink and has developed a rich, golden color. Once fully cooked, remove it from the heat and set it aside. Properly browning the sausage enhances flavor and prevents excess moisture in the casserole.

Step Two: Prepare the Biscuits

Open the can of biscuits and cut each biscuit into small, bite-sized pieces. This allows them to cook evenly and ensures that every serving contains a good balance of biscuit, sausage, and gravy. Lightly grease a baking dish and spread the biscuit pieces evenly across the bottom.

Step Three: Add the Sausage Layer

Distribute the cooked sausage evenly over the biscuit pieces. This layering ensures that the savory sausage flavor is present in every bite and prevents the sausage from sinking to the bottom during baking.

Step Four: Mix the Eggs and Milk

In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add the milk. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Season lightly with salt and pepper. The egg mixture should be well blended to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the casserole.

Step Five: Prepare the Gravy

Prepare the gravy mix according to the package instructions. Once cooked, the gravy should be smooth, thick, and pourable. Remove it from the heat while it is still warm to ensure it spreads easily over the casserole.

Step Six: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the prepared gravy evenly over the biscuit and sausage layers. Next, slowly pour the egg and milk mixture over the top, making sure it reaches all areas of the dish. Finally, sprinkle the cheese evenly across the surface. The cheese will melt during baking, creating a creamy, golden finish.

Step Seven: Bake the Casserole

Place the assembled casserole in a preheated oven set to 350°F (175°C). Bake until the eggs are fully set, the biscuits are cooked through, and the top is lightly golden. This typically takes between 35 and 45 minutes. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for several minutes before slicing and serving.

Texture and Flavor Balance

One of the strengths of this recipe is its balance of textures. The biscuits remain soft yet structured, the eggs are fluffy and light, the sausage adds hearty bites, and the gravy keeps everything moist and flavorful. The cheese ties all the elements together, adding richness without overpowering the dish.

Helpful Tips for Best Results

Cutting the biscuits into evenly sized pieces helps them cook at the same rate. Browning the sausage thoroughly enhances flavor and prevents greasiness. Avoid over-seasoning, as the gravy mix and sausage already contain salt. Letting the casserole rest after baking helps it set properly and makes serving easier.

Serving Suggestions

This Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is hearty enough to serve on its own. It pairs well with fresh fruit, simple roasted potatoes, or a light side salad to balance the richness. It is an excellent choice for brunch tables, holiday breakfasts, or casual family meals.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, warm individual portions in the oven or microwave until heated through. The casserole retains its flavor and texture well, making it suitable for meal prep or next-day breakfasts.

Make-Ahead Convenience

This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated before baking. When ready to serve, bake until fully cooked and warmed through. This makes it an excellent option for busy mornings or entertaining guests without stress.

Conclusion and Frequently Asked Questions

The Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is a comforting, satisfying recipe that brings together classic breakfast flavors in an easy, baked format. With simple ingredients and a straightforward preparation method, it is a dependable dish that works for everyday meals and special occasions alike.

Below are answers to some common questions to help ensure success every time.

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Can this casserole be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, the casserole can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking. This makes it ideal for mornings when time is limited.

How can I tell when the casserole is fully cooked?

The casserole is done when the eggs are set, the biscuits are cooked through, and the top is lightly golden. A knife inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.

Will the biscuits become soggy?

When baked properly, the biscuits absorb the gravy and egg mixture while maintaining a soft, fluffy texture rather than becoming soggy.

Can I adjust the seasoning?

Salt and pepper can be adjusted to taste, but it is best to season lightly due to the seasoning already present in the sausage and gravy mix.

Is this recipe suitable for feeding a crowd?

Yes, this casserole is filling, easy to slice, and ideal for serving multiple people, making it perfect for gatherings and family meals.