Cracker Barrel Sawmill Gravy Recipe

Cracker Barrel’s Sawmill Gravy is the ultimate comfort food that transforms any meal into a hearty, Southern delight. This creamy, flavorful gravy, made with simple ingredients and a blend of seasonings, is perfect for smothering over biscuits, mashed potatoes, or even fried chicken. Whether you’re craving a classic breakfast or a comforting dinner, this recipe will have you coming back for seconds!

Cracker Barrel’s Sausage Gravy is a rich and creamy Southern classic that’s beloved for its hearty flavor and comforting texture. Made with a simple roux of flour and milk, and a dash of seasoning, this gravy is the perfect companion to fresh, warm biscuits. Its savory, savory richness makes it an ideal addition to any breakfast or brunch spread, turning a simple meal into a satisfying feast.

Whether served over biscuits or alongside scrambled eggs, Cracker Barrel’s gravy is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Classic Comfort Food – This creamy, savory gravy is the epitome of Southern comfort, bringing a nostalgic taste to every bite.
• Versatile & Delicious – Perfect for pairing with biscuits, fried chicken, mashed potatoes, or even over grits, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
• Easy to Make – With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this Cracker Barrel favorite in your own kitchen.
• Rich, Hearty Flavor – The blend of roux, milk, and seasoning creates a thick and flavorful gravy that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
• Perfect for Family Meals – Whether it’s a weekend breakfast or a cozy dinner, this sawmill gravy will quickly become a go-to for your family meals.

Cracker Barrel Sawmill Gravy Ingredients 

• Bacon grease: Rich, savory bacon grease adds flavor and depth.
• All-purpose flour: Flour thickens the gravy, giving it a smooth texture.
• Whole milk or heavy cream: Creates a rich, creamy consistency.
• Liquid Smoke: The secret ingredient, which gives the undertones of smokiness.
• Salt: Enhances and balances the savory flavors in the gravy.
• Ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and warmth to the dish.

How To Make Cracker Barrel Sawmill Gravy Recipe

Step One: In a large skillet, heat the bacon grease over medium heat until melted and hot.

Step Two: Add flour to the bacon grease and whisk continuously to form a smooth paste. Cook for about 1–2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.

Step Three: Slowly pour in the milk (or heavy cream) while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the gravy starts to thicken. Add liquid smoke, salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well, and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step Four: Let the gravy simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired thickness. Remove from heat and serve the gravy hot over biscuits, fried chicken, or mashed potatoes for a delicious Southern meal!

Cracker Barrel Sawmill Gravy Recipe Tips

• Flour for Thickening: Cook the flour for a minute or two to remove the raw taste.
• Use Whole Milk or Heavy Cream: For that creamy consistency, use whole milk or heavy cream. Heavy cream will make the gravy even richer, while whole milk gives it a lighter texture.
• Seasoning is Key: Sawmill gravy usually has simple seasoning: salt, black pepper, and maybe a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Stir Constantly: Once you add the milk, stir the mixture constantly to prevent lumps from forming and to achieve a smooth, creamy gravy.
• Simmer for Flavor: Let the gravy simmer for a few minutes once it’s thickened. This allows the flavors to meld and the gravy to reach the perfect consistency.
• Consistency: If the gravy becomes too thick, add a little more milk to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.

Storing

• Storing: Store leftover sawmill gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before refrigerating.
• Freezing: You can freeze sawmill gravy for up to 1-2 months in a freezer-safe container. However, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after thawing.
• Reheating: Reheat sawmill gravy on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency.

Cracker Barrel Sawmill Gravy Recipe Faqs

What is Sawmill Gravy? Sawmill gravy is a gravy typically served with breakfast dishes like biscuits.

Can I make this recipe with sausage? Yes! You can use sausage with ground turkey or even a plant-based sausage alternative.

How can I make sawmill gravy thicker? To make the gravy thicker, cook it for a longer time, allowing the flour to absorb more of the liquid. You can also add more flour or reduce the amount of milk.

Can I use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk? Yes, you can use half-and-half or heavy cream to make the gravy richer and creamier. It will be a bit more decadent than using whole milk.

Why is my gravy lumpy? Lumpy gravy can happen if the flour is added too quickly or not cooked long enough. Be sure to stir constantly to prevent lumps, and you can whisk the gravy if needed to smooth it out.

Can I make sawmill gravy ahead of time? Yes, you can make sawmill gravy ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it on the stovetop, adding a little milk to adjust the consistency if needed.

Can I make this recipe without flour? Flour helps to thicken the gravy, but if you need a gluten-free version, you can substitute it with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Do you love Cracker Barrel? Try these copycat recipes!

• cracker barrel carrot recipe
• cracker barrel cinnamon roll pie
• air fryer cracker barrel macaroni and cheese
• broccoli cheddar chicken (cracker barrel copycat)
• air fryer cracker barrel’s buttermilk biscuits
• air fryer copycat cracker barrel fried apples
• air fryer copycat cracker barrel grilled chicken tenders

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