Easy Beef Biscuits & Gravy Casserole – Cracker Barrel Copycat

Biscuits And Gravy Casserole Easy Cracker Barrel Copycat – does that sound like the breakfast dream you’ve been waiting for? Imagine waking up to the comforting aroma of a hearty, homemade meal, without the usual morning rush. This dish is more than just breakfast; it’s a warm hug for your soul, a cherished staple that brings the classic Southern comfort of America’s beloved Cracker Barrel right into your kitchen.

Originating as a humble, filling meal in the post-Revolutionary War American South, biscuits and gravy have evolved into an iconic culinary experience. It’s the perfect blend of fluffy, golden biscuits smothered in a rich, savory sausage gravy that evokes nostalgia and contentment with every single bite. People adore this dish not only for its incredible taste and satisfying texture but also for its heartwarming familiarity and ability to feed a crowd.

What makes this particular recipe so special is its brilliant casserole format, transforming a traditionally hands-on morning preparation into an incredibly convenient, bake-and-serve delight. You get all the classic flavors you crave, simplified for your busy schedule. We’ve poured our hearts into perfecting this Biscuits And Gravy Casserole Easy Cracker Barrel Copycat, ensuring you achieve that authentic, restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a breakfast masterpiece that feels wonderfully indulgent yet surprisingly simple to create!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

Crafting this delightful Biscuits And Gravy Casserole, a true Cracker Barrel Copycat, relies on a few key components. I always suggest using the best quality ingredients you can find, as it truly makes a difference in the final taste and texture of this comforting dish. Here’s what we’ll need:

• 1 pound (450g) Breakfast Sausage: I prefer a mild or sage-flavored pork breakfast sausage for that classic Cracker Barrel taste. Avoid anything too spicy unless you specifically want that kick.
• 1/4 cup (60ml) Reserved Sausage Fat or Unsalted Butter: After browning your sausage, you’ll want to reserve some of that rendered fat. If there isn’t enough, or if you prefer, unsalted butter works beautifully for creating our roux.
• 1/4 cup (30g) All-Purpose Flour: This is the magic ingredient for thickening our gravy. Make sure it’s fresh!
• 3 cups (710ml) Whole Milk: For a truly rich and creamy gravy, whole milk is non-negotiable in my kitchen. It provides that luxurious mouthfeel you expect from a great country gravy.
• 1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste): Remember that sausage can be quite salty, so start with a smaller amount and adjust as needed.
• 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper (or more, to taste): This is where you can really dial in that Cracker Barrel flavor! Their gravy is known for being wonderfully peppery. I often go for 1.5 to 2 teaspoons, but always taste and adjust.
• 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder (optional, but recommended): A little hint of garlic adds depth without overpowering the other flavors.
• 1/8 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional, for a subtle warmth): If you like a tiny bit of heat that doesn’t scream “spicy,” cayenne is your friend.
• 2 cans (each 16.3 oz / 462g) Refrigerated Flaky Layer Biscuits: The large, flaky style biscuits work best for this casserole, as they puff up beautifully and create wonderful layers. You’ll use most, if not all, of both cans.
• 1 cup (113g) Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese (optional, but highly recommended for an extra layer of flavor): While not traditionally in Cracker Barrel’s standard biscuits and gravy, adding cheese to a casserole version elevates it to another level of indulgence.

Preparing the Savory Sausage Gravy

The heart of our Biscuits And Gravy Casserole Easy Cracker Barrel Copycat is undoubtedly the rich, peppery sausage gravy. Getting this right is crucial for achieving that authentic, comforting flavor. So, let’s dive in and make some magic happen in the skillet!

1. Preheat and Prepare: First things first, grab your favorite large, deep skillet or a Dutch oven. Place it over medium-high heat. You want it to be nice and ready to get that sausage browned beautifully.
2. Brown the Sausage: Unwrap your pound of breakfast sausage and crumble it into the hot skillet. Using a sturdy wooden spoon or a spatula, break the sausage apart into small, even pieces as it cooks. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is fully browned and no pink remains. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes. The goal here is to get some lovely, crispy bits and render out that delicious fat.
3. Drain Excess Fat (Crucial Step!): Once the sausage is cooked through, it’s time to deal with the fat. This step is incredibly important for preventing greasy gravy. Carefully drain off most of the rendered fat, leaving approximately 1/4 cup of fat in the skillet with the cooked sausage. If your sausage was particularly lean and didn’t render much fat, don’t worry! You can supplement by adding unsalted butter to reach that 1/4 cup mark. This reserved fat is what will form the base of our roux, giving our gravy incredible flavor.
4. Create the Roux: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Sprinkle the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour evenly over the cooked sausage and the reserved fat in the skillet. Immediately begin stirring constantly with your wooden spoon or whisk. You want to cook the flour for about 1-2 minutes, continuing to stir. This process, known as making a roux, is vital. It cooks out the raw flour taste and creates a smooth base for your gravy. The mixture will start to look like a thick, pasty crumble.
5. Whisk in the Milk Gradually: Now for the liquid! Slowly, I mean really slowly, begin to pour in the 3 cups of whole milk, whisking continuously as you add it. I usually pour in about 1/2 cup at a time, whisking until it’s fully incorporated and smooth before adding the next batch. This gradual addition and constant whisking are your secret weapons against lumpy gravy! It also helps the flour absorb the liquid evenly, preventing a grainy texture. Be patient with this step; it pays off.
6. Simmer and Thicken: Once all the milk has been added and the gravy is looking smooth, increase the heat slightly to medium. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. As it heats, you’ll notice it starting to thicken beautifully. Continue to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy reaches your desired consistency. I like mine to be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, but still pourable. Remember, it will thicken a bit more as it cools.
7. Season to Perfection: This is where we bring in that signature Cracker Barrel taste! Stir in the 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and the optional 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Now, taste it! Seriously, take a good, generous taste. This is your moment to shine. Does it need more salt? More pepper? I often find myself adding another 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of black pepper to really make it pop, just like the kind you get at your favorite breakfast spot. Adjust the seasonings to your personal preference until it’s absolutely perfect.
8. Keep Warm: Remove the gravy from the heat, but keep it warm while you prepare the biscuits for assembly. If it sits for too long and gets too thick, you can always whisk in a splash more warm milk to loosen it up.

Prepping the Biscuits and Assembling the Casserole

With our incredible sausage gravy ready, it’s time to bring all the elements together into that glorious Biscuits And Gravy Casserole Easy Cracker Barrel Copycat. This part is quick and satisfying, laying the foundation for a comforting bake.

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Dish: Get your oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, grab a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. Lightly grease the bottom and sides with butter or a non-stick cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes for easier serving.
2. Prepare the Biscuits: Open your two cans of refrigerated flaky layer biscuits. The trick to a great casserole is to have the biscuits absorb all that delicious gravy, and cutting them helps with this. I like to cut each biscuit into quarters, or even into sixths if they’re particularly large. You’re aiming for bite-sized or slightly larger pieces that will distribute well throughout the casserole. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfectly uniform; rustic is part of the charm!
3. First Biscuit Layer: Take about half of your cut biscuit pieces and scatter them evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. You don’t need to press them down firmly; just ensure they form a relatively even layer. These biscuits will soak up the gravy from below and provide a sturdy base.
4. The Gravy Layer: Carefully pour about two-thirds of your warm sausage gravy evenly over the first layer of biscuit pieces. Use a spatula to gently spread it, making sure all the biscuit pieces are well-coated and nestled into the rich gravy. Don’t be shy; we want every biscuit to be absolutely drenched in flavor.
5. Second Biscuit Layer: Now, take the remaining half of your cut biscuit pieces and arrange them on top of the gravy layer. Try to distribute them as evenly as possible. These top biscuits will get wonderfully golden and crispy on top, while remaining soft and gravy-soaked underneath.
6. Optional Cheese Layer: If you’re using the shredded sharp cheddar cheese (and I highly recommend it for that extra savory kick!), sprinkle it generously over the top of the second biscuit layer. The cheese will melt and bubble, creating a delicious, cheesy crust that complements the gravy perfectly. This is a fantastic addition to our Biscuits And Gravy Casserole Easy Cracker Barrel Copycat, offering another layer of texture and taste.
7. Final Gravy Drizzle: Drizzle the remaining one-third of the sausage gravy over the top biscuit and cheese layers. This ensures that even the top biscuits get a good dose of that flavorful goodness and helps the cheese to meld beautifully into the casserole.

Baking the Golden-Brown Casserole

The assembly is complete, and now it’s time for the oven to do its magic. Baking this Biscuits And Gravy Casserole Easy Cracker Barrel Copycat to perfection ensures those biscuits are cooked through, the gravy is bubbly, and everything is wonderfully golden-brown and irresistible.

1. Cover and Bake (Initial Phase): To ensure the biscuits cook through and absorb all that delicious gravy without burning on top, I like to start by covering the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil. Place the covered dish into your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 20 minutes. The foil helps to steam the biscuits, allowing them to puff up and cook internally, while keeping the top from browning too quickly.
2. Uncover and Continue Baking: After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil. You should see the biscuits starting to swell and the gravy gently bubbling. Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and continue baking for another 20-30 minutes. During this phase, the biscuits will turn a beautiful golden brown on top, and the edges of the casserole will become bubbly and irresistible. If you added cheese, it will be melted, golden, and slightly crispy around the edges.
3. Check for Doneness: The casserole is ready when the biscuits are deeply golden on top and cooked through in the center (you can gently poke one with a knife to check for doughiness), and the gravy is hot and bubbly throughout. If you find the top browning too quickly but the inside isn’t quite done, you can loosely tent it with foil again for the last few minutes.
4. Rest Before Serving: This step is often overlooked but so important! Once your casserole is perfectly golden and bubbling, carefully remove it from the oven. Let it rest on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the gravy to set up a bit more and prevents it from being too runny, ensuring each scoop holds its shape beautifully. It also allows the heat to redistribute, making for a more enjoyable eating experience.

Tips for a Perfect Cracker Barrel Copycat and Variations

To truly nail that “Biscuits And Gravy Casserole Easy Cracker Barrel Copycat” experience, and even make it your own, consider these final tips and variations. These insights will help you achieve the best flavor, texture, and convenience for your delightful breakfast or brunch creation.

1. Achieving That Signature Cracker Barrel Flavor: The secret really lies in the gravy. Don’t skimp on the black pepper; it’s a hallmark of Cracker Barrel’s gravy. Use a good quality breakfast sausage, preferably one with a mild sage seasoning, as this adds a depth of flavor that complements the peppery gravy. And remember, whole milk is key for that rich, creamy consistency. If you want to go the extra mile, a pinch of poultry seasoning can also mimic some of those savory notes found in their gravy.
2. Make-Ahead Magic: One of the best things about this Biscuits And Gravy Casserole is its make-ahead potential! You can assemble the entire casserole, including the gravy, biscuits, and cheese layers, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, pull it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to let it come closer to room temperature. You might need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the total baking time since it’s starting cold. This is perfect for holiday mornings or entertaining!
3. Freezing for Future Feasts: This casserole freezes beautifully! To freeze, bake the casserole as directed, then let it cool completely. Once cool, you can either freeze the entire casserole (well-wrapped in foil and then plastic wrap) or cut it into individual portions and freeze them separately. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator (if frozen in a block), then cover loosely with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 30-40 minutes for a thawed casserole, or longer for individual portions.
4. Customization and Variations:
   • Add Heat: For those who love a bit of a kick, consider adding a dash more cayenne pepper to the gravy, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sausage browning phase.
   • Cheesy Goodness: While I included cheese as optional, consider trying different cheeses! A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack, or even a touch of smoked gouda, could add an interesting twist.
   • Herbaceous Touch: Fresh chives or finely chopped parsley sprinkled over the top after baking can add a fresh pop of color and a subtle herbal note.
   • Different Meats: While breakfast sausage is traditional, you could experiment with ground turkey sausage for a lighter version, or even add crispy crumbled bacon along with the sausage for extra smoky flavor.
   • Mushrooms or Onions: Sautéing some finely diced onions or mushrooms with the sausage can add more savory depth to the gravy.
5. Serving Suggestions: This Biscuits And Gravy Casserole Easy Cracker Barrel Copycat is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of scrambled eggs, a fresh fruit salad, or even a simple green salad to cut through the richness. And, of course, a hot cup of coffee is essential!
6. Troubleshooting Your Gravy:
   • Gravy Too Thick? Don’t panic! Simply whisk in a splash more warm milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
   • Gravy Too Thin? If your gravy isn’t thickening enough, make a quick slurry by whisking a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water until smooth. Whisk this into your simmering gravy and continue to cook for a few more minutes until it thickens.
   • Lumpy Gravy? If you ended up with lumps, you can try whisking vigorously with a wire whisk, or for a smoother result, carefully strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve. You might lose some sausage bits, but you’ll gain a silky-smooth gravy.

Conclusion:

As we wrap up our journey with this incredible recipe, I truly hope you’re feeling as excited and inspired as I am about getting this dish onto your table. My aim with this particular creation was always to bring you more than just a meal; I wanted to offer a warm hug in casserole form, a comforting embrace that reminds you of cherished mornings and hearty, satisfying flavors. This isn’t just another recipe; it’s an experience designed to simplify your life without ever compromising on taste. I wholeheartedly believe that once you try it, you’ll understand exactly why this casserole has earned a permanent spot in my own recipe rotation, and why I’m so eager for it to become a staple in yours too.

What makes this specific dish a non-negotiable must-try? It’s the ingenious combination of convenience and nostalgic flavor. We’ve taken all the beloved elements of a classic, time-consuming breakfast and transformed them into a single, effortless baking dish. Imagine waking up, popping this into the oven, and within a relatively short time, having a golden-brown, bubbling, incredibly aromatic feast ready to serve. No more juggling separate pans for biscuits and gravy; everything comes together in perfect harmony. The savory sausage, the rich, creamy gravy, and the tender, fluffy biscuits all meld into a symphony of flavors and textures that is utterly irresistible. This recipe truly embodies the spirit of a home-cooked meal without the usual fuss, making it ideal for busy mornings, leisurely brunches, or even a cozy weeknight dinner when you’re craving something hearty and deeply satisfying. It’s the ultimate answer to breakfast cravings, promising a fuss-free approach to a beloved tradition.

Serving Suggestions for Your Perfect Meal:

While this casserole is a magnificent stand-alone star, elevating it with a few simple additions can transform your meal into an even more memorable spread. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy this delightful creation:

• Classic Breakfast Trio: Serve generous slices alongside a piping hot cup of coffee or a glass of fresh orange juice. A simple fruit salad, perhaps with berries and melon, offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Elevated Brunch: For a more substantial brunch, consider pairing it with a side of perfectly fried or scrambled eggs. The runny yolk of a sunny-side-up egg cascading over the savory gravy is pure bliss. A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley over the top adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Hearty Dinner Option: Don’t limit this to just breakfast! It makes an excellent, comforting dinner. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette would provide a refreshing balance, cutting through the richness beautifully.
• Spice It Up: For those who love a bit of heat, a dash of your favorite hot sauce on the side is always a welcome addition.
• Garnish for Impact: A light dusting of paprika or a swirl of fresh black pepper just before serving can enhance both the visual appeal and the flavor profile.

Creative Variations to Make It Your Own:

One of the beauties of a casserole recipe is its inherent versatility. Don’t hesitate to experiment and tailor this dish to your personal preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Cheese Please: For an extra layer of decadence, sprinkle a cup of shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp white cheddar over the top during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. The melting cheese will create a bubbly, golden crust that is utterly divine.
• Spicy Sausage Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, swap out regular breakfast sausage for a spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your gravy mixture. This adds an exciting warmth that complements the creamy base.
• Vegetarian Twist: You can absolutely make a delicious vegetarian version! Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms (cremini work wonderfully), plant-based sausage crumbles, or even a hearty mix of finely diced bell peppers and onions. For the gravy, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Herbaceous Additions: A handful of fresh herbs, such as chopped sage, thyme, or rosemary, mixed into the gravy or sprinkled over the top before baking, can elevate the flavor complexity beautifully.
• Biscuit Choices: While I recommend using refrigerated biscuit dough for convenience, feel free to use your favorite homemade biscuit recipe if you have extra time. Just ensure they are cut into appropriate sizes to fit the casserole dish.
• Smoked Paprika Depth: A teaspoon of smoked paprika added to the gravy can provide a wonderful smoky depth that is incredibly appealing.

My dearest food enthusiasts, I’m truly thrilled for you to experience the magic of this Biscuits And Gravy Casserole Easy Cracker Barrel Copycat recipe. It’s designed not just to feed your hunger, but to nourish your soul with its comforting flavors and minimal effort. I pour my heart into developing recipes that are both delicious and approachable, and this one truly hits the mark. So, gather your ingredients, set aside a little time, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this fantastic creation. When you do, please don’t keep it a secret! I absolutely adore hearing about your kitchen adventures. Take a photo, share your thoughts, and let me know how it turned out in the comments or on social media. Your feedback and experiences are what truly fuel my passion for sharing these recipes with you. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear all about your delicious journey!

Easy Beef Biscuits & Gravy Casserole – Cracker Barrel Copycat

Imagine waking up to the comforting aroma of a hearty, homemade meal, without the usual morning rush. This dish is a warm hug for your soul, bringing the classic Southern comfort of America’s beloved Cracker Barrel right into your kitchen. This brilliant casserole format transforms a traditionally hands-on morning preparation into an incredibly convenient, bake-and-serve delight, offering all the classic flavors simplified for your busy schedule.

Prep Time
25 Minutes

Cook Time
45 Minutes

Total Time
10 Minutes

Servings
8 servings

Ingredients

• 10 oz refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
• 1 lb ground beef breakfast sausage
• 6 large eggs
• ½ cup whole milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups water
• 1 packet (2.75 oz) beef gravy mix

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2
   Brown ground beef breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it apart. Cook until no pink remains, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
3. Step 3
   In a separate saucepan, whisk beef gravy mix with 2 cups water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring, until thickened. Keep warm.
4. Step 4
   In a bowl, whisk eggs with milk, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper. In a lightly greased skillet, scramble the egg mixture until just set. Set aside.
5. Step 5
   Open refrigerated biscuit cans and cut each biscuit into quarters.
6. Step 6
   Spread half of the cut biscuits evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer with cooked beef sausage, scrambled eggs, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Pour half of the prepared gravy over this layer. Top with remaining biscuits, remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese, and drizzle with the rest of the gravy.
7. Step 7
   Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until biscuits are golden brown, cooked through, and the casserole is bubbly.
8. Step 8
   Remove from oven and let rest on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow gravy to set and flavors to meld.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.