Biscuits and gravy, a cornerstone of Southern cuisine, is often enjoyed for breakfast or brunch. However, there’s no reason why this comforting dish can’t take center stage at your dinner table. But what sides perfectly complement the rich, creamy gravy and fluffy biscuits, transforming it into a complete and satisfying meal? Let’s explore a variety of delectable pairings that elevate biscuits and gravy from a simple side dish to a hearty dinner.
The Perfect Complement: Meats That Harmonize
Choosing the right meat accompaniment can significantly enhance your biscuits and gravy dinner. The key is to select options that offer a balance of flavors and textures.
Sausage: The Classic Pairing
Sausage is the quintessential partner for biscuits and gravy, often incorporated directly into the gravy itself. But serving it as a side provides a different dimension to the meal. The savory, often slightly spicy, notes of sausage cut through the richness of the gravy, creating a delightful contrast.
Consider different types of sausage to cater to your preferences. Breakfast sausage, with its mild sweetness and hint of maple, is a popular choice. For a spicier kick, Italian sausage, either sweet or hot, adds depth and complexity. Chorizo, with its smoky paprika flavor, can bring a unique Southwestern twist to the meal.
Bacon: Crispy, Salty Perfection
Bacon, with its crispy texture and salty flavor, is another excellent choice to accompany biscuits and gravy. The smoky notes of bacon provide a counterpoint to the creamy gravy, while its crunch adds textural interest.
Thick-cut bacon, cooked until perfectly crisp, is ideal. You can also experiment with different bacon flavors, such as peppered bacon for a touch of heat or maple-glazed bacon for a hint of sweetness. Crumbled bacon can even be sprinkled over the biscuits and gravy for added flavor and texture.
Ham: A Sweet and Savory Harmony
Ham offers a sweeter and slightly milder flavor profile compared to sausage or bacon, making it a versatile pairing for biscuits and gravy. The saltiness of the ham complements the richness of the gravy, while its subtle sweetness adds a delightful touch.
Consider serving sliced ham, either grilled or pan-fried, alongside the biscuits and gravy. Alternatively, you can use diced ham to create a hearty hash that can be served as a side dish. Ham steak, with its substantial size and savory flavor, is another great option for a more formal dinner.
Fried Chicken: A Southern Staple
For a truly indulgent and Southern-inspired meal, pair biscuits and gravy with fried chicken. The crispy, flavorful chicken complements the creamy gravy and fluffy biscuits perfectly. The texture contrast between the juicy chicken and soft biscuits is simply divine.
Whether you opt for classic Southern fried chicken or a spicier version, the combination is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Remember to serve the chicken hot and crispy for the best experience.
Vegetable Sides: Adding Balance and Freshness
While biscuits and gravy are undeniably delicious, they can be quite rich. Adding vegetable sides provides a welcome balance of flavors and textures, as well as essential nutrients.
Green Beans: A Simple and Nutritious Choice
Green beans, whether steamed, sautéed, or roasted, offer a simple and nutritious counterpoint to the richness of biscuits and gravy. Their slightly earthy flavor and crisp-tender texture provide a refreshing contrast.
Consider adding a touch of garlic or lemon juice to the green beans to enhance their flavor. Alternatively, you can sauté them with bacon or ham for a more savory side dish.
Roasted Asparagus: Elegant and Flavorful
Roasted asparagus is another excellent vegetable side to complement biscuits and gravy. The slightly sweet and nutty flavor of roasted asparagus pairs well with the creamy gravy, while its tender texture adds a touch of elegance to the meal.
Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast until tender-crisp. A squeeze of lemon juice adds a bright, refreshing finish.
Collard Greens: A Southern Tradition
For a truly authentic Southern meal, serve collard greens alongside biscuits and gravy. Collard greens, with their slightly bitter flavor and tender texture, are a staple of Southern cuisine.
They are often cooked with bacon or ham hocks, adding a smoky and savory depth of flavor. Slow-cooked collard greens, simmered until tender and flavorful, are the perfect accompaniment to biscuits and gravy.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet and Summery
Corn on the cob, with its sweet and juicy kernels, is a classic summer side dish that pairs well with biscuits and gravy. The sweetness of the corn provides a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the gravy and meat.
Grill the corn on the cob for a smoky flavor, or boil it for a more traditional preparation. Serve with butter and salt for a simple and satisfying side dish.
Side Salad: A Light and Refreshing Option
If you’re looking for a lighter side dish, consider serving a simple green salad alongside biscuits and gravy. The crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and refreshing vinaigrette provide a welcome contrast to the richness of the gravy.
Choose a variety of greens, such as romaine, iceberg, or mixed greens. Add your favorite toppings, such as cucumbers, carrots, and croutons. A light vinaigrette dressing will complement the flavors of the biscuits and gravy without overpowering them.
Egg-cellent Additions: Elevating the Breakfast-for-Dinner Theme
Since biscuits and gravy often feature as a breakfast staple, incorporating eggs into your dinner can enhance the experience, embracing the “breakfast for dinner” concept.
Fried Eggs: Runny Yolks for Extra Richness
Fried eggs, with their runny yolks, are a classic accompaniment to biscuits and gravy. The yolk provides an extra layer of richness and creaminess to the dish.
Cook the eggs to your liking, whether you prefer them sunny-side up, over easy, or over medium. The runny yolk will seep into the biscuits and gravy, creating a decadent and flavorful experience.
Scrambled Eggs: Light and Fluffy
Scrambled eggs offer a lighter and fluffier alternative to fried eggs. Their mild flavor and soft texture complement the richness of the gravy without being overwhelming.
Cook the scrambled eggs until they are just set, but still slightly moist. Avoid overcooking them, as this will make them dry and rubbery. You can add cheese, herbs, or vegetables to the scrambled eggs for added flavor and texture.
Poached Eggs: A Sophisticated Touch
Poached eggs, with their delicate texture and runny yolks, add a touch of sophistication to biscuits and gravy. The runny yolk provides a creamy and luxurious element to the dish.
Poaching eggs can be a bit tricky, but with a little practice, you can master the technique. Serve the poached eggs immediately, as they tend to overcook quickly.
Beyond the Basics: Unique and Unexpected Pairings
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider these unique and unexpected pairings to elevate your biscuits and gravy dinner to the next level.
Fried Green Tomatoes: A Tangy Twist
Fried green tomatoes, with their tangy flavor and crispy coating, offer a unique and unexpected twist to biscuits and gravy. The acidity of the tomatoes cuts through the richness of the gravy, while their crispy texture adds a delightful contrast.
Serve the fried green tomatoes hot, alongside the biscuits and gravy. A sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances their flavor.
Mac and Cheese: Comfort Food Overload
For the ultimate comfort food experience, pair biscuits and gravy with mac and cheese. The creamy, cheesy mac and cheese complements the creamy gravy and fluffy biscuits perfectly.
Choose your favorite mac and cheese recipe, whether it’s a classic baked version or a stovetop creamy mac. The combination is undeniably indulgent, but oh-so-satisfying.
Sweet Potato Fries: A Touch of Sweetness
Sweet potato fries, with their sweet and savory flavor, offer a unique and unexpected pairing for biscuits and gravy. The sweetness of the fries provides a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the gravy and meat.
Bake or fry the sweet potato fries until they are crispy and golden brown. Serve with a dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or honey mustard.
Gravy Variations: Exploring Different Flavor Profiles
The type of gravy you choose can greatly impact the overall flavor profile of your biscuits and gravy dinner.
Sausage Gravy: The Classic Choice
Sausage gravy is the quintessential gravy for biscuits and gravy. It is made with crumbled sausage, flour, milk, and seasonings, creating a rich, creamy, and savory sauce.
Use your favorite type of sausage, whether it’s breakfast sausage, Italian sausage, or chorizo. Adjust the amount of seasoning to your liking.
Pepper Gravy: A Simple and Flavorful Option
Pepper gravy, also known as white gravy, is a simple and flavorful alternative to sausage gravy. It is made with flour, milk, butter, and black pepper, creating a creamy and peppery sauce.
Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor. Adjust the amount of pepper to your liking.
Vegetarian Gravy: A Plant-Based Delight
For a vegetarian option, consider making a mushroom gravy or a vegetable gravy. These gravies are made with mushrooms or vegetables, flour, milk, and seasonings, creating a flavorful and plant-based sauce.
Experiment with different types of mushrooms or vegetables to create your own unique gravy.
Final Thoughts: Crafting Your Perfect Biscuits and Gravy Dinner
Biscuits and gravy is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. By choosing the right accompaniments, you can transform it into a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you opt for classic pairings like sausage and green beans or more adventurous combinations like fried green tomatoes and sweet potato fries, there are endless possibilities to explore. Don’t be afraid to experiment and create your own perfect biscuits and gravy dinner. Remember to consider the balance of flavors and textures when selecting your sides, and most importantly, enjoy the process of creating a delicious and comforting meal.
What are some classic Southern side dishes that pair well with biscuits and gravy for dinner?
Biscuits and gravy are a cornerstone of Southern comfort food, and complementing them with the right sides elevates the meal. Consider serving collard greens, which offer a slightly bitter counterpoint to the richness of the gravy. Their earthy flavor and tender texture are a welcome addition.
Another excellent choice is fried okra, a Southern staple. The crispy coating and slightly mucilaginous interior of the okra provide a delightful textural contrast. Also, creamy coleslaw offers a refreshing and tangy contrast to the richness of the gravy and biscuits, cleansing the palate between bites.
Can you suggest any protein options to serve alongside biscuits and gravy for a more substantial dinner?
While biscuits and gravy can be a satisfying meal on their own, adding a protein component makes it even more filling and well-rounded. Consider pairing it with fried chicken, a true Southern classic. The crispy, savory chicken provides a delightful contrast to the soft biscuits and creamy gravy.
Alternatively, you could opt for grilled or pan-fried sausage patties. The slightly spicy and savory flavors of the sausage complement the gravy beautifully, enhancing the overall richness of the meal. Ham steaks are another protein-packed option, providing a salty and smoky flavor that balances the creamy gravy.
What kind of vegetables, besides collard greens and okra, go well with biscuits and gravy?
Besides the classic collard greens and fried okra, several other vegetables complement biscuits and gravy beautifully. Green beans, especially when cooked with bacon or ham hocks, offer a fresh, slightly salty counterpoint to the richness of the dish. Their vibrant green color also adds visual appeal to the plate.
Another excellent option is roasted sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness and slightly caramelized edges provide a delightful contrast to the savory biscuits and gravy. A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing can also provide a refreshing and lighter element to balance the heavier dish.
Are there any lighter or healthier side dishes that would complement biscuits and gravy?
Biscuits and gravy are undeniably rich, so incorporating lighter side dishes can help balance the meal. A fresh fruit salad, featuring seasonal fruits like berries, melon, and grapes, provides a refreshing sweetness and helps cut through the richness of the gravy. The natural sugars and vitamins offer a welcome contrast.
Steamed asparagus or broccoli are also good choices, offering a nutritious and low-calorie addition. A light lemon vinaigrette can enhance their flavor without adding excessive calories. Another option is a simple cucumber and tomato salad, dressed with a light vinaigrette or Greek yogurt dressing, providing a crisp and refreshing element.
What kind of bread, besides biscuits, could be served with gravy for dinner?
While biscuits are the traditional accompaniment to gravy, other bread options can also work well. Cornbread, with its slightly sweet and crumbly texture, provides a nice contrast to the creamy gravy. It’s especially delicious when warmed and served with a pat of butter.
Alternatively, you could try serving gravy with toasted English muffins. Their slightly tangy flavor and nooks and crannies make them ideal for soaking up the gravy. Even simple slices of toasted bread, perhaps sourdough or a hearty whole wheat, can be a satisfying and readily available substitute for biscuits.
What are some drink pairings that complement a biscuits and gravy dinner?
The richness of biscuits and gravy calls for drinks that can either cut through the fat or complement the savory flavors. Sweet tea is a classic Southern beverage that pairs wonderfully, offering a refreshing sweetness that balances the saltiness of the dish. Its cool temperature is also a welcome contrast.
Alternatively, consider serving coffee, especially if you’re enjoying biscuits and gravy for dinner-for-breakfast. The bitterness of the coffee can cut through the richness of the gravy and cleanse the palate. For those who prefer a non-caffeinated option, iced water or sparkling water with a slice of lemon can also be a refreshing and cleansing choice.
Can biscuits and gravy be part of a buffet or potluck meal? If so, what considerations are important?
Biscuits and gravy can absolutely be a part of a buffet or potluck, but some considerations are crucial for success. Keep the gravy warm in a slow cooker or chafing dish to prevent it from thickening or cooling down too much. Provide a ladle for easy serving and prevent drips.
Serve the biscuits separately in a covered basket or container to keep them warm and prevent them from becoming soggy. Consider offering different types of biscuits, such as buttermilk, cheddar, or sweet potato, to cater to varying preferences. Also, provide a variety of toppings, such as hot sauce, chopped green onions, and crumbled bacon, to allow guests to customize their dish.