Creamy Beef Gravy Over Biscuits

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the heartwarming satisfaction of creamy beef gravy over biscuits. This classic dish combines fluffy, buttery biscuits with a rich, savory beef gravy, creating a delightful meal perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. In this article, we’ll guide you through the ingredients, preparation, and serving suggestions for this timeless favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a kitchen novice, this comprehensive guide will help you master the art of creamy beef gravy over biscuits.

Ingredients

Before you begin cooking, gather the following ingredients to ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process. The list includes everything you’ll need to create both the fluffy biscuits and the rich beef gravy.

For the Biscuits:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3/4 cup buttermilk

For the Beef Gravy:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delectable dish that will impress your family and friends. The process is divided into two main parts: making the biscuits and preparing the beef gravy.

Making the Biscuits:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the Butter: Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the cold, cubed butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Incorporate the Buttermilk: Gradually add the buttermilk, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough biscuits.
5. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness.
6. Cut the Biscuits: Use a biscuit cutter or a round glass to cut out biscuits and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake the Biscuits: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.

Preparing the Beef Gravy:

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked beef and stir to coat.
3. Pour in the Broth: Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
4. Stir in the Cream: Add the heavy cream and continue to stir until the gravy thickens.
5. Season the Gravy: Add the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
6. Simmer the Gravy: Reduce the heat to low and let the gravy simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional profile of your meal is important for maintaining a balanced diet. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutrition facts for one serving of creamy beef gravy over biscuits (serving size: 2 biscuits and 1/2 cup of gravy).

• Calories: Approximately 550
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fat: 30g

How to Serve

Serving creamy beef gravy over biscuits is not just about the dish itself but also about the overall dining experience. Thoughtful presentation and complementary pairings can transform a simple meal into an impressive feast. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Classic Style

For a timeless presentation, begin by placing two warm, fluffy biscuits on a classic white plate. Generously ladle the creamy beef gravy over the biscuits, allowing the rich sauce to cascade enticingly down the sides. To enhance the visual appeal, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme. This not only adds a pop of vibrant green color but also introduces a fresh herbal note that complements the savory flavors of the dish. Consider serving with a side of butter or honey for those who may prefer a touch of sweetness to balance the richness of the gravy.

With Eggs

Transform your dish into a hearty breakfast or brunch option by adding a fried or poached egg on top of the gravy-covered biscuits. The runny yolk adds an additional layer of richness, creating a luscious sauce that melds beautifully with the beef gravy. For a more gourmet touch, consider using a sous vide method for the egg, achieving a perfectly cooked yolk with a silky texture. You could also experiment with different types of eggs—like a spicy shakshuka-style poached egg or a sunny-side-up egg for a bit of color and flair. This addition not only boosts the protein content but also elevates the meal to a new level of indulgence.

Sided with Fresh Greens

To create a well-rounded meal, serve your creamy beef gravy and biscuits alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. A salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and hearty nature of the dish. Alternatively, lightly steamed vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans can add a crunchy texture and vibrant color to your plate. Consider tossing these vegetables in a sprinkle of lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt to enhance their natural flavors while maintaining a fresh and healthy balance.

Accompanied by Fruit

Adding a side of seasonal fruit or a fruit salad can bring a delightful touch of sweetness and contrast to your meal. Consider using fruits like sliced strawberries, fresh blueberries, or diced peaches, which can provide a refreshing burst of flavor. A fruit salad with a mix of berries, melons, and citrus can create an eye-catching and colorful side that not only complements the savory gravy but also aids in cleansing the palate. You could also consider a fruit compote as a topping for the biscuits, combining both sweet and savory elements for a unique twist.

Additional Ideas for Serving

• Baked Potatoes: Instead of biscuits, consider serving the creamy beef gravy over baked potatoes. This hearty alternative will soak up the gravy beautifully and can be topped with cheese, sour cream, or chives for added flavor.
• Herbed Butter: Enhance the biscuits by spreading a bit of herbed butter on them before pouring the gravy. This will add an extra layer of flavor and richness, making every bite even more delicious.
• Savory Crêpes: For a more sophisticated take, serve the beef gravy inside savory crêpes. This French twist allows the dish to be eaten with a knife and fork, adding an element of elegance to your meal.
• Bread Bowl: For a fun and interactive dining experience, hollow out a round loaf of bread to create a rustic bread bowl for your beef gravy. This not only serves as a delicious vessel but also allows diners to enjoy dipping pieces of the bread into the rich gravy.

By thoughtfully considering presentation and pairing options, you can create a dining experience that is not only satisfying but also visually appealing and enjoyable for all. Happy serving!

Additional Tips

To ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time, consider these additional tips and tricks:

Keep Ingredients Cold

For the fluffiest biscuits, make sure your butter and buttermilk are cold. Cold butter is crucial because, when it’s incorporated into the dough, it creates small, solid fat pockets. As the biscuits bake, these pockets of fat melt, releasing steam and contributing to the rise and flaky texture of the biscuits. To keep your butter cold, you can even freeze it for about 15 minutes before grating or cutting it into the flour. Similarly, using cold buttermilk not only aids in maintaining the temperature of the dough but also enhances the overall texture by promoting the formation of steam during baking. If you’re working in a warm kitchen, consider chilling your mixing bowl and utensils as well.

Don’t Overwork the Dough

One of the most common mistakes when making biscuits is overworking the dough. It’s essential to handle the biscuit dough as little as possible to prevent the biscuits from becoming dense and tough. When mixing the ingredients, use a light hand to combine until just incorporated. You should still see some small pieces of butter in the mixture. After turning the dough out onto a floured surface, gently pat it into a rectangle and fold it over a few times to create layers. This method encourages flakiness without over-kneading. Remember, biscuits are meant to be tender, so treat the dough with care!

Adjust Gravy Consistency

The consistency of your gravy can significantly affect the overall dish. If you find your gravy is too thick, simply add a splash of beef broth or cream to reach your desired consistency. Stir it in gradually to avoid making the gravy too runny. Conversely, if the gravy is too thin, allow it to simmer on low heat for a bit longer, allowing the excess moisture to evaporate and the flavors to concentrate. You can also consider adding a thickening agent, such as a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and cold water), if you need a quick fix for a thin gravy. Just remember to let it cook for a few minutes to eliminate any raw cornstarch taste.

Spice It Up

To elevate the flavor profile of your gravy, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also add depth. If you’re unsure about the level of heat, start with a small amount and gradually increase it, tasting as you go. Other spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or even a touch of smoked paprika, can also enrich the gravy’s flavor. Experimenting with herbs like thyme or rosemary can bring an aromatic quality to your dish, making it even more delicious.

Make Ahead

Both the biscuits and gravy can be made ahead of time, allowing you to serve a hearty meal without the last-minute rush. To prepare the biscuits in advance, you can cut them out and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to a month. When ready to bake, simply place them on a baking sheet and add a few extra minutes to the baking time. For the gravy, make it up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the gravy on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if necessary to restore its creamy texture. This make-ahead strategy not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.

By following these additional tips and tricks, you can ensure that your biscuits and gravy are consistently delicious, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. Whether serving for breakfast, brunch, or a hearty dinner, your dish is sure to impress!

FAQs

Q: Can I use store-bought biscuits instead of making them from scratch?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought biscuits can save time and still taste delicious with homemade beef gravy.

Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: You can freeze both the biscuits and gravy separately. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.

Q: What type of beef works best for the gravy?
A: Ground beef with a lean-to-fat ratio of 80/20 or 85/15 is ideal for flavor and consistency.

Q: How can I make the dish lower in calories?
A: Use leaner ground beef, substitute heavy cream with milk or a non-dairy alternative, and reduce the amount of butter in the biscuits.

Conclusion

Creamy beef gravy over biscuits is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its combination of fluffy biscuits and rich, savory gravy, this dish is perfect for family gatherings, lazy weekend brunches, or cozy weeknight dinners. By following this guide, you can recreate this classic dish in your kitchen with ease and confidence. Enjoy the flavors, experiment with variations, and savor every bite of this delicious, hearty meal.

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