When you’re craving a hearty, warm breakfast that warms the soul—especially on a chilly morning—the thought of soft, flaky biscuits smothered in creamy sausage gravy might just send your taste buds into overdrive. For fans of Southern comfort food, biscuits and gravy are a classic staple on diner menus and home breakfast tables across America. But what about fast food chains? Specifically, does McDonald’s sell biscuits and gravy? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It’s layered with regional exceptions, limited-time offerings, and a recent surge in demand that has driven temporary menu changes. Let’s dive deep into the world of McDonald’s breakfast offerings, regional variations, and why you might—or might not—be able to satisfy that biscuit and gravy craving at your local Golden Arches.
Understanding the Iconic Dish: What Are Biscuits and Gravy?
Before determining its availability at McDonald’s, it helps to understand what makes biscuits and gravy such a beloved breakfast combo.
Origins and Cultural Significance
Biscuits and gravy originated in the Southern United States, particularly in regions like Kentucky and Tennessee. Traditionally, it features freshly baked buttermilk biscuits split open and generously topped with a white sausage gravy made from pork sausage, flour, milk, and seasonings. Often referred to as “sawmill gravy,” it’s a humble, filling dish born out of resourcefulness—using available ingredients to create a nourishing meal.
The dish gained national popularity through classic American diners and country-style restaurants. Chains like Cracker Barrel, Waffle House, and IHOP have kept the tradition alive with their own delicious takes. But fast-food giants like McDonald’s have historically leaned more toward sweeter or simpler breakfast options—like the Egg McMuffin or McGriddles.
What Makes the Gravy So Special?
The appeal of biscuits and gravy lies in the contrast of textures and flavors. The biscuits are soft and slightly buttery, while the gravy is rich, savory, and creamy with hints of pepper and sausage. The combination delivers comfort in a single plate—something that has proven difficult for large-scale fast-food operations to replicate consistently.
McDonald’s Standard Breakfast Menu: What’s Typically Offered?
McDonald’s has long been a breakfast leader in the fast-food industry, introducing the Egg McMuffin in 1972 and revolutionizing morning meal routines. Today, the chain offers a broad range of breakfast options across the U.S., but biscuits and gravy are not a permanent staple—nor do they appear in every market.
Core Breakfast Items at McDonald’s
The standard McDonald’s breakfast lineup generally includes:
- Egg McMuffin
- Sausage, Egg & Cheese Biscuit
- Bacon, Egg & Cheese Biscuit
- Sausage McMuffin (with or without egg)
- Hotcakes (pancakes)
- Hash Browns
- Breakfast Platters
- McGriddles (syrup-infused waffles with sausage or bacon and egg)
Noticeably, while McDonald’s offers biscuits with sausage and egg, they do not serve a traditional gravy-laden version as a regular menu item.
Biscuits at McDonald’s: The Foundation
McDonald’s does bake and sell biscuits made from a buttermilk-based dough, which are oven-toasted before serving. These biscuits are used as the base for various sandwiches, including both the Sausage Biscuit and the more premium Sausage, Egg & Cheese Biscuit. While these share common ingredients with classic Southern biscuits (like buttermilk and flour), they lack the flakier, handmade texture of traditional biscuits.
Still, McDonald’s biscuit provides a soft, warm vessel perfect for holding breakfast fillings—and in theory, could work as a base for gravy if the chain chose to add it.
The Regional Twist: When and Where McDonald’s Sells Biscuits and Gravy
Here’s where things get interesting. While biscuits and gravy aren’t on the national McDonald’s menu, the chain has experimented with them in select markets—particularly in the Southern United States.
Temporary and Regional Appearances
Between 2018 and 2021, McDonald’s tested a Biscuit McMuffin in certain southern states as a potential replacement for the traditional English muffin in some sandwiches. However, this was not the same as biscuits and gravy. More relevant was the limited-time introduction of a Bacon, Egg & Biscuit with White Gravy in select areas—especially in Kentucky and Tennessee—in late 2021 and early 2022.
These test markets aimed to tap into local tastes and preferences. In regions where biscuits and gravy are a cultural breakfast expectation, McDonald’s sought to offer a more regionally authentic option. The dish typically featured:
- A warm buttermilk biscuit
- Crispy bacon
- A fluffy scrambled egg or folded egg patty
- Served with a side cup of creamy sausage gravy
This version allowed customers to build their own biscuits and gravy experience—dipping or spooning the gravy over the biscuit sandwich at their preferred ratio.
Why Only in the South?
The logic behind regional rollouts is straightforward: consumer demand varies across the country. In much of the Midwest and Northeast, gravy isn’t a breakfast staple. Eggs, pancakes, and bagels dominate. But in the South, white sausage gravy is a beloved breakfast classic served in homes, church gatherings, and roadside diners every weekend.
By targeting these high-demand areas, McDonald’s can assess reception and profitability before deciding on a possible national launch.
The Challenges of Adding Biscuits and Gravy Permanently
Despite consumer enthusiasm, there are several reasons why McDonald’s has avoided making biscuits and gravy a permanent feature.
Operational Complexity
Gravy requires on-site preparation and careful temperature management. Unlike pre-packaged sandwiches or reheatable patties, sausage gravy is prone to clumping, separating, or thickening if not stirred consistently. This poses logistical challenges for McDonald’s, a chain built on speed and uniformity.
Adding gravy would require:
- Additional training for staff
- Extra kitchen equipment (saucepans, warming trays, storage containers)
- Different storage protocols for raw and prepared ingredients
- Potential delays in service during peak hours
For a company prioritizing efficiency and order speed, these are significant hurdles.
Consistency and Shelf Life
McDonald’s prides itself on menu consistency—whether you’re in Chicago or Charlotte, your Egg McMuffin should taste the same. Gravy, however, is notoriously sensitive to cooking technique, ingredient ratios, and storage conditions. Even slight variations in milk fat, flour amounts, or seasoning can alter the final flavor and texture, making mass-standardization difficult.
Furthermore, fresh gravy has a limited hold time before spoilage or texture degradation. This complicates the supply chain and necessitates daily preparation—something not all McDonald’s locations are equipped to handle.
Profit and Packaging Concerns
From a business standpoint, gravy complicates packaging and eating on the go. Standard breakfast sandwiches are easy to wrap, transport, and consume without mess. A gravy-laden biscuit is prone to leakage, sogginess, and drips—especially in a drive-thru environment.
This mess factor can deter customers who prioritize convenience, one of fast food’s key selling points. Additionally, gravy adds cost in ingredients and preparation time, potentially lowering profit margins unless priced higher—something that may deter value-focused customers.
McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy: What’s Currently Available (2024 Outlook)
As of 2024, McDonald’s does not offer biscuits and gravy as a permanent nationwide menu item. However, the landscape is evolving.
Ongoing Testing and Customer Demand
Consumer demand for heartier, comfort-style breakfasts has grown significantly in recent years. Social media campaigns, customer petitions, and vocal fan requests—especially in southern regions—have kept the pressure on McDonald’s to consider broadening its breakfast offerings.
In response, McDonald’s has continued testing regional variants. Some franchise locations in states like Arkansas, Alabama, Georgia, and Missouri have participated in promotions featuring “Southern-Style Breakfast” combos that include a biscuit sandwich and a side of white gravy.
How to Find Out If Your Location Offers It
If you’re hoping to try biscuits and gravy at McDonald’s, here are actionable steps:
- Check your local McDonald’s app or website: Use the “Menu” or “Deals” section and filter by “Breakfast.” Look for gravy-inclusive items or special regional offers.
- Call your nearest store: Ask a manager directly if they carry a biscuit and gravy option or have plans to participate in upcoming tests.
- Follow regional McDonald’s social media: Local Facebook or Instagram pages often announce limited-time menu additions before they appear online.
- Download rewards apps: The McDonald’s app sometimes showcases exclusive regional promotions or test items not available on the public menu.
Keep in mind that availability can change month-to-month and even vary between franchise owners in the same city.
Competitors Who Already Serve Biscuits and Gravy
While McDonald’s remains cautious, other fast-food chains have embraced the dish more fully—offering insight into its market viability.
Popular Alternatives Offering Biscuits and Gravy
| Restaurant | Item Offered | Available Nationally? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waffle House | Biscuits & Gravy (with optional eggs) | Yes—core menu item | Classic Southern-style serving; served 24/7 |
| Cracker Barrel | Country Fried Sausage & Gravy with Biscuits | Yes | Breakfast all day; includes two biscuits |
| IHOP | Sausage & Gravy Biscuits | Yes—limited availability | Part of Biscuits & Gravy Platter |
| Biscuitville | Breakfast Plate with Gravy | No—regional (Southeast) | Specializes exclusively in Southern breakfasts |
These chains demonstrate that biscuits and gravy can succeed in fast-casual dining environments. They’ve invested in gravy consistency and packaging—such as gravy boats or foil compartmentalized trays—that keep food fresh and reduce mess.
Customer Reactions and Future Outlook
When McDonald’s has tested biscuits and gravy, customer reactions have generally been positive. Many reviewers praised the nostalgic Southern flavor, while others noted that the gravy could be richer or spicier.
Is a National Rollout Likely?
While no official announcement has been made as of 2024, the trend suggests that McDonald’s may be warming up to the idea. The chain has already expanded its biscuit sandwich lineup and invested in breakfast innovation, such as the McGriddles with savory sausage and the recent revamped breakfast menu.
A potential future version of McDonald’s biscuits and gravy might include:
– A pre-assembled biscuit sandwich with embedded gravy pockets (to reduce mess)
– A “build-your-own” option with gravy on the side
– Integration into a Southern Breakfast Bowl (similar to hash brown bowls)
– A limited-time fall or winter promotion, capitalizing on seasonal comfort food demand
McDonald’s often waits for a major competitor to prove concept before entering a market space—so as other chains enjoy success with gravy-based breakfasts, the pressure grows for McDonald’s to adapt.
How to Recreate McDonald’s-Style Biscuits and Gravy at Home
Since you might not be able to find this dish consistently at McDonald’s, why not make it yourself? With a few simple ingredients, you can create a fast and satisfying version that rivals even the best fast-food experiments.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 McDonald’s-style buttermilk biscuits (or store-bought/bakery biscuits)
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or plant-based)
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to taste
- Butter (optional, for added richness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain excess fat, leaving about 2–3 tablespoons in the pan.
- Create the roux: Sprinkle flour over the sausage and fat. Stir continuously for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Add milk gradually: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until thickened.
- Season: Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. For extra creaminess, stir in a tablespoon of butter.
- Warm the biscuits: Toast or microwave the biscuits for 10–15 seconds.
- Serve: Slice open the biscuit, optionally layer with extra sausage or egg, then ladle gravy on top.
With this method, you can enjoy biscuits and gravy in under 20 minutes—perfect for a weekend breakfast or quick weekday indulgence.
Conclusion: Biscuits and Gravy at McDonald’s—Now or Never?
So, does McDonald’s sell biscuits and gravy? The short answer is: not regularly, but sometimes—and only in certain areas. While it remains off the permanent national menu, McDonald’s has clearly explored the idea in response to regional taste preferences and growing demand for comfort breakfast foods.
The chain’s hesitation is not due to lack of interest, but rather the logistical and operational challenges of scaling a delicate, handmade-style dish across thousands of locations. However, with competitors thriving and customers constantly asking for it, it’s not out of the question that biscuits and gravy could soon make a widespread appearance at McDonald’s.
Until then, keep an eye on your local store’s promotions, download the McDonald’s app, and don’t hesitate to ask for regional specialties. And if your craving strikes, remember that a homemade version packed with sausage, creamy gravy, and a warm biscuit might be just as satisfying—if not more so—than anything from the drive-thru.
For breakfast lovers everywhere, the dream of a McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy isn’t dead—it’s simmering, just like the perfect roux.
Does McDonald’s serve biscuits and gravy for breakfast?
No, McDonald’s does not currently offer a traditional “biscuits and gravy” dish on its national menu in the United States. While the fast-food chain is well-known for its breakfast options like the Egg McMuffin, sausage biscuit, and hotcakes, they do not serve the classic Southern-style breakfast plate that combines flaky biscuits with creamy sausage gravy.
That said, McDonald’s does offer several biscuit-based breakfast items that may appeal to fans of the dish. These include the Sausage Biscuit, Sausage, Egg & Cheese Biscuit, and Bacon, Egg & Cheese Biscuit. While these sandwiches provide a savory biscuit experience with meat and egg fillings, they are not topped or served with the white, milk-based sausage gravy typically associated with the Southern favorite. Some limited-time regional offerings have featured gravy-inspired flavors, but nothing consistent across all locations.
Why doesn’t McDonald’s have biscuits and gravy nationwide?
One of the main reasons McDonald’s doesn’t serve biscuits and gravy across its national menu is consistency in preparation and operational efficiency. The chain prioritizes breakfast items that can be quickly assembled, standardized, and reheated across thousands of locations. Traditional sausage gravy requires slow cooking, constant stirring, and careful temperature control to maintain texture, making it difficult to scale.
Additionally, McDonald’s breakfast menu is designed to balance regional preferences and nationwide appeal. While biscuits and gravy are popular in the Southern U.S., they may not resonate as strongly in other regions. Instead of introducing a dish that would require complex logistics and limited demand, McDonald’s opts for biscuit sandwiches that are easier to produce and fit within their streamlined kitchen operations. This allows them to offer biscuit-based items without the challenges of delivering authentic gravy.
Are there any McDonald’s locations that offer biscuits and gravy as a special?
Occasionally, select McDonald’s franchises in the Southern United States or rural markets have tested regional breakfast items that resemble biscuits and gravy, but these are highly limited and not part of a national rollout. These pilot programs are often short-term and not widely advertised, focusing on customer feedback and demand in specific areas where Southern breakfast foods are more culturally significant.
If you’re hoping to find biscuits and gravy at McDonald’s, it’s best to check with local franchise owners or monitor regional promotions. However, such offerings remain rare and temporary. Most customers seeking this classic comfort breakfast will likely need to look beyond McDonald’s to local diners, Southern-themed restaurant chains, or prepare it at home using similar sausage and biscuit components available at the fast-food giant.
What are the closest McDonald’s menu items to biscuits and gravy?
The closest equivalents to biscuits and gravy on McDonald’s menu are their breakfast biscuit sandwiches, particularly the Sausage Biscuit and the Sausage, Egg & Cheese Biscuit. These items feature a soft, freshly baked buttermilk biscuit paired with savory sausage patties and, in some cases, eggs and cheese—offering a hearty and warm breakfast experience reminiscent of Southern biscuit meals.
While they lack the signature creamy gravy, the flavor profile of the sausage and flaky biscuit together can satisfy cravings for traditional Southern breakfast elements. For a more gravy-like experience, some fans recommend customizing their order by asking for extra sausage or requesting creamier sauces, though McDonald’s does not officially offer a gravy dipping sauce or topping for these sandwiches.
Can I recreate McDonald’s-style biscuits and gravy at home?
Yes, you can easily recreate a version of biscuits and gravy using McDonald’s ingredients as inspiration. Start by purchasing McDonald’s sausage patties (available at select grocery stores) or use a copycat recipe for their seasoned sausage. Pair it with homemade or store-bought buttermilk biscuits for a similar base. Then, prepare a classic white sausage gravy using milk, flour, butter, and crumbled breakfast sausage for richness and flavor.
To make it authentically close to Southern style, cook the sausage in a skillet, then use the drippings to create a roux with butter and flour. Gradually whisk in milk until thickened, season with black pepper and a pinch of salt, and spoon generously over split, warm biscuits. While this won’t replicate a missing fast-food menu item, it delivers the comfort and taste that fans of biscuits and gravy truly enjoy, potentially even surpassing fast-food versions in quality.
Does McDonald’s use real buttermilk in their biscuits?
Yes, McDonald’s buttermilk biscuits are made with real buttermilk, which contributes to their soft texture and slightly tangy flavor. According to McDonald’s ingredient disclosures, the biscuit recipe includes enriched flour, buttermilk, soybean oil, and other standard baking components. This helps give the biscuit its signature flaky and tender consistency that pairs well with breakfast sandwiches.
The use of buttermilk is key to achieving the desired taste and structure, especially when the biscuits are steamed during preparation at the restaurant. This ingredient also differentiates McDonald’s biscuit from other bakery-style morning items on the menu. While the recipe may include preservatives and dough conditioners for shelf stability, the presence of buttermilk does offer a genuine touch to the overall breakfast experience.
Are McDonald’s breakfast biscuits available all day?
Breakfast availability, including biscuits, varies by location, but many McDonald’s restaurants in the U.S. have transitioned to an all-day breakfast menu. This means popular biscuit sandwiches like the Sausage Biscuit or the Egg & Cheese Biscuit can often be ordered at any time, not just during traditional breakfast hours, which typically end around 10:30 or 11:00 AM.
However, it’s important to note that not all McDonald’s franchises offer all-day breakfast due to kitchen constraints or local operations. Some smaller or high-volume locations may limit breakfast service to mornings only. To be certain, it’s best to check the menu at your local McDonald’s via the mobile app, website, or by calling ahead. If available, ordering a biscuit sandwich later in the day can offer a satisfying taste of breakfast comfort any time.