1pinchof crushed red pepper flakesoptional for heat
Instructions
Brown the Sausage
Place the pork sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks. Cook until it is completely browned and no pink remains.
Do Not Drain the Fat
Keep the rendered fat in the pan with the meat. This fat is the "liquid gold" that gives the gravy its flavor. If there is very little fat, add a tablespoon of butter.
Add the Flour
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the cooked sausage crumbles. Stir constantly for about two minutes. This cooks out the raw flour taste while coating the meat perfectly.
Pour in the Milk
Slowly pour the milk into the skillet while whisking or stirring. Start with a small amount to prevent lumps from forming. Continue adding milk until the pan is full.
Season the Gravy
Add the black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes now. The pepper is very important for that signature Bob Evans taste. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly.
Simmer and Thicken
Reduce the heat to low-medium. Let the gravy simmer gently for five to seven minutes. Stir often so the bottom does not burn or stick to the pan.
Check the Texture
Stop cooking when the gravy reaches your desired thickness. Remember, the gravy will naturally thicken more as it cools down. Remove the skillet from the heat immediately.
Notes
Use Whole Milk: For the creamiest results, always use full-fat whole milk.
Spice it Up: Use "Zesty Hot" sausage if you like a little extra kick.
Half and Half: For an ultra-rich gravy, replace one cup of milk with half and half.
Cold Milk vs. Warm: Adding slightly warm milk helps the flour blend faster without clumping.
The "Spoon Test": The gravy is ready when it coats the back of a metal spoon.