Bacon Milk Gravy for Biscuits Recipe

Bacon: Provides a smoky, savory flavor and the drippings are used to create the base of the gravy.

All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the gravy by forming a roux with the bacon drippings.

Milk: Adds creaminess and helps to create the smooth texture of the gravy.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the gravy.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the gravy.

When making gravy, it's crucial to whisk the flour into the bacon drippings thoroughly to form a smooth roux. This step ensures that your gravy will be free of lumps and have a rich, even consistency. Additionally, when adding the milk, do so gradually and continue whisking constantly. This helps to incorporate the milk evenly and prevents the formation of lumps, resulting in a silky gravy.

• bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option that still provides a similar smoky flavor.

• bacon - Substitute with vegetarian bacon: Vegetarian bacon offers a plant-based alternative while maintaining a similar texture and taste.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a bit more fiber and nutrients while still thickening the gravy.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour: Gluten-free flour is ideal for those with gluten sensitivities and will still thicken the gravy effectively.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well for those who are lactose intolerant.

• milk - Substitute with oat milk: Oat milk provides a creamy texture similar to dairy milk and is also suitable for those avoiding dairy.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the gravy.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a more natural alternative to regular table salt.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a milder flavor and can be used to maintain the seasoning without altering the color of the gravy.

• black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and spice for those who prefer a spicier gravy.

• Allow the bacon milk gravy to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation and keeps the gravy from becoming watery.

• Transfer the cooled gravy into an airtight container. Make sure to leave a bit of space at the top to allow for expansion if you plan to freeze it.

• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of its freshness. The gravy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• For longer storage, place the airtight container in the freezer. The gravy can be frozen for up to 2-3 months without losing its flavor and texture.

• When ready to use, thaw the frozen gravy in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process helps maintain the consistency of the gravy.

• Reheat the gravy in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach the desired consistency.

• Avoid reheating the gravy in the microwave as it can cause uneven heating and may alter the texture. If you must use a microwave, do so in short intervals, stirring in between.

• If the gravy separates or becomes lumpy during reheating, whisk it vigorously to bring it back to a smooth consistency. Adding a small amount of butter can also help to emulsify the gravy.

• Always taste the reheated gravy and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed, since flavors can mellow during storage.

• Serve the reheated bacon milk gravy hot over freshly baked biscuits for the best experience.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Pour the bacon milk gravy into a skillet or saucepan.
  2. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
  3. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach the desired consistency.
  4. Once heated through, serve immediately over fresh biscuits.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Transfer the gravy to a microwave-safe bowl.
  2. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate to prevent splatters.
  3. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  4. Continue heating in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until the gravy is hot.
  5. If needed, add a bit of milk to thin the gravy and stir well before serving.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the gravy in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil.
  3. Heat in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  4. Check the consistency and add a splash of milk if necessary.
  5. Once thoroughly heated, serve over warm biscuits.

• Double Boiler Method:

  1. Fill the bottom pot of a double boiler with water and bring to a simmer.
  2. Place the gravy in the top pot of the double boiler.
  3. Stir occasionally, allowing the gravy to heat gently and evenly.
  4. If the gravy thickens too much, add a bit of milk to reach the desired consistency.
  5. Once hot, serve immediately over biscuits.

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for cooking the bacon and making the gravy.

• Tongs: Useful for flipping and removing the bacon from the skillet.

• Whisk: Essential for mixing the flour into the bacon drippings and for incorporating the milk smoothly.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the milk accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the flour accurately.

• Spatula: Helpful for scraping the sides of the skillet and stirring the gravy.

• Knife: Used to crumble the cooked bacon into smaller pieces.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface to crumble the bacon.

• Serving spoon: Used to ladle the gravy over the biscuits.

• Biscuits: The base for serving the bacon milk gravy.

Cook bacon in advance: Prepare the bacon ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This way, you can quickly add it to the gravy when needed.

Use pre-cooked bacon: Save time by using pre-cooked bacon available at the store. Just heat it up and use the drippings for the gravy.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the flour and milk before you start cooking to streamline the process.

Make biscuits ahead: Bake your biscuits in advance and reheat them when ready to serve with the gravy.

Use a whisk: A whisk helps to quickly blend the flour and milk, preventing lumps and speeding up the thickening process.