Looking for a dinner that combines rich, smoky, and savory flavors? This 5-star brown gravy smoked sausage recipe crockpot edition is the perfect solution. Whether you’re prepping for a family meal or an easy weeknight dinner, this dish has it all. The smoky sausage pairs perfectly with velvety brown gravy, all cooked effortlessly in your crockpot.
Plus, it’s versatile—serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or even with biscuits for a true comfort food experience. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Why does this brown gravy smoked sausage recipe deserve a place in your dinner rotation? Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Effortless Cooking: The crockpot does all the heavy lifting, delivering deep, rich flavors with minimal effort.
- Bold Flavors: Smoked sausage and savory gravy combine for a robust, comforting taste.
- Pairs Perfectly: Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles to soak up every bit of that delicious gravy.
- Customizable: Adjust spices or swap ingredients to suit your family’s tastes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Smoked sausage | 1 lb | Use beef, pork, or chicken sausage for variety. |
| Brown gravy mix | 1 packet (or 1 cup) | Try a sodium-free version for a healthier option. |
| Onions | 1 large | Thinly sliced for sweetness. |
| Bell peppers | 1-2 | Optional, but adds a nice tang and pop of color. |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced to enhance the savory profile. |
| Beef broth | 2 cups | Provides a rich base for the gravy. |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp | To thicken the gravy if needed. |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Adjust based on preference and sausage saltiness. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Ingredients
Start by slicing the smoked sausage into 1-inch pieces. This helps the sausage cook evenly and allows it to absorb the gravy. Thinly slice the onions and bell peppers, and mince the garlic.
2. Brown the Sausage
Although optional, browning the sausage in a skillet brings a richer, deeper flavor. Heat a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, and transfer to the crockpot.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, sauté the onions, bell peppers, and garlic for 3-4 minutes until softened. This step enhances their natural sweetness and boosts the overall flavor of the dish.
4. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
In a bowl, whisk together the brown gravy mix and beef broth until smooth. Pour this mixture over the sausage and vegetables in the crockpot. Stir to ensure everything is well-coated. Set the crockpot to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours, or if you’re short on time, choose the high setting and cook for 3-4 hours.
5. Thicken the Gravy
If the gravy is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. The result? A luscious, thick gravy that clings perfectly to every bite.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with your favorite sides for a complete meal:
- Mashed Potatoes: The classic choice to soak up the rich gravy.
- Rice: Simple yet satisfying.
- Buttered Noodles: Adds an extra layer of comfort.
- Biscuits: For a Southern twist, try these homemade biscuits.
Creative Recipe Variations
Love experimenting? Here are five additional recipes to spice up your menu:
1. Slow Cooker Sausages in Onion Gravy
A twist on the classic, this dish swaps brown gravy for a rich onion gravy. You’ll need smoked sausages, sliced onions, beef broth, and a mix of seasonings. Cook it low and slow for that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Check out the full recipe here.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb smoked sausage
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions:
- Brown sausage and onions in a skillet.
- Place in the crockpot, cover with beef broth and seasonings.
- Cook on low for 6 hours. Thicken with cornstarch slurry if needed.
2. Smoked Sausage and Rice One-Pot Meal
For a quick yet flavorful dinner, this one-pot meal combines sausage, rice, and vegetables in a savory broth. It’s perfect for busy weeknights. Get the recipe here.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb smoked sausage
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
- Sauté sausage and vegetables in a large pot.
- Add rice, chicken broth, and seasonings.
- Simmer for 20 minutes until rice is cooked.
3. Southern Smoked Sausage and Grits
If you’re a fan of grits, this dish is a must-try. Smoked sausage served over creamy, cheesy grits creates a perfect balance of smoky and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb smoked sausage
- 1 cup grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
- Cook the grits as directed on the package, using water or broth.
- Stir in butter and cheese.
- Serve topped with sliced, cooked smoked sausage.
4. Spicy Sausage and Gravy Pasta
Transform your smoked sausage into a hearty pasta dish with a spicy gravy sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb smoked sausage
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 lb pasta
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions.
- Sauté sausage, then prepare gravy with broth and spices.
- Toss pasta with sausage and gravy.
5. Vegetarian Smoked Sausage and Gravy
For a meat-free alternative, use plant-based smoked sausage and swap the beef broth for vegetable broth.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb plant-based sausage
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
- Brown the sausage and sauté vegetables.
- Combine in crockpot with broth and gravy mix.
- Cook on low for 6 hours.
Conclusion
This 5-star brown gravy smoked sausage recipe crockpot edition is the ultimate comfort food. It’s simple, satisfying, and bursting with smoky, savory goodness. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the creative variations, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home.
So, grab your crockpot and enjoy a meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Your family will thank you!
Happy Cooking!
