Sausage Gravy Puff Pie: A Comforting Southern Classic with a Flaky Twist

by

A Taste of Tradition with a Buttery Upgrade

Growing up in a home where every weekend breakfast was a celebration, sausage gravy was a staple on our table. My Nonna may have been Italian, but she had a deep respect for Southern cooking. She loved hearty flavors and warm, filling meals especially during the chilly months. That’s where this Sausage Gravy Puff Pie comes in: a rustic yet refined dish that takes the beloved Southern sausage gravy and wraps it in golden, flaky puff pastry. It’s comfort food with a crispy edge and every bite feels like a warm hug.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Gravy Puff Pie

This dish is:

  • Hearty and satisfying: Creamy sausage gravy baked into puff pastry makes for a filling, one-dish meal.
  • Perfect for winter: The warmth of sausage and gravy wrapped in buttery layers is just what you crave on a cold day.
  • Crowd-pleasing: Serve it for brunch, dinner, or even holiday mornings it never fails to impress.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Sausage Gravy:

  • 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork, turkey, or your preferred variety)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk (warmed)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground sage (optional)
  • 1/8 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

the Puff Pie:

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Fresh thyme or chives for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage Gravy

  1. Brown the sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until it’s no longer pink. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into crumbles.
  2. Make a roux: Add butter to the pan. Once melted, sprinkle the flour over the sausage and stir to coat. Cook for 1–2 minutes, letting the flour absorb the fat.
  3. Add the milk: Slowly whisk in warm milk. Stir constantly until the gravy thickens about 5 minutes.
  4. Season: Add salt, pepper, sage, and red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust seasonings.
  5. Cool slightly: Let the mixture rest while you prep the pastry.

Assemble the Puff Pie

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Roll out the puff pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pastry to fit your pie dish or a baking sheet. It should be about 1/8-inch thick.
  3. Fill the pastry: Transfer the sausage gravy to the center, spreading evenly. Sprinkle with cheese if using.
  4. Fold the edges: Gently fold the pastry over the filling, leaving the center open for a rustic, galette-style pieor seal fully for a more traditional look.
  5. Brush with egg wash: Use a pastry brush to coat the crust with the beaten egg. This gives it a beautiful golden shine.
  6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is puffed and deep golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

  • Let the pie rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  • Garnish with chopped chives or thyme.
  • Serve hot, preferably with a fresh green salad or roasted veggies.

Variations and Tips

Make It Vegetarian

Use plant-based sausage and swap in oat or almond milk for a vegetarian-friendly version. Make sure your puff pastry is vegan too many store-bought ones are!

Add Veggies

Fold in cooked mushrooms, spinach, or caramelized onions to sneak in some greens and extra flavor.

Cheese Options

Experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a fun twist.

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to retain crispiness. Microwave works too, but the crust may soften.

Freeze unbaked pies by assembling and freezing before the egg wash. When ready to cook, apply egg wash and bake directly from frozen just add 10–15 minutes to the baking time.

Pairing Suggestions

This Sausage Gravy Puff Pie is incredibly versatile. Here are a few delicious ways to round out your meal:

  • Beverage: Try a strong black coffee for brunch or a glass of full-bodied red wine for dinner.
  • Side: Serve with a crisp kale salad or garlic-roasted Brussels sprouts.
  • Dessert: A slice of apple pie or cinnamon bread pudding keeps the comfort theme going.

Perfect for Brunch, Dinner, or Holidays

Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch, needing a quick weeknight dinner, or looking for a freezer-friendly meal prep recipe, this puff pie ticks all the boxes. It brings together the best of creamy, savory, and crispy in one easy-to-make dish. Your guests will ask for seconds and the recipe!