Delicious Butter Swim Biscuits and Gravy Bake

Posted on June 13, 2025 · By Elisa

Butter Swim Biscuits and Gravy Bake

If there’s one dish that embodies warmth, comfort, and ease all in a single bite, it’s the Butter Swim Biscuits and Gravy Bake. Perfect for everything from lazy weekends to bustling holiday mornings, this rich and satisfying meal checks every box. Whether you’re looking for hearty recipes for a brunch or simply need an easy at home breakfast that the whole family will devour, this biscuit-based casserole is guaranteed to impress.

Unlike traditional biscuits, these “butter swim” beauties literally bake while submerged in melted butter. The result? A golden, crisp crust with a soft, fluffy inside that soaks up every bit of creamy sausage gravy. Add to that the fact that this dish can be made in advance, scaled for a crowd, or packed into breakfast to go recipes, and you’ve got a winner in every sense. If you’re a fan of any good breakfast recipe with biscuits, this might just become your new favorite.

So whether you’re hosting guests or looking for an easy win during your busy weekday mornings, this is the biscuit bake breakfast you didn’t know you needed—but absolutely do.

Why This Butter Swim Biscuits and Gravy Bake Is a Game-Changer

First, let’s talk about the texture. Many biscuit casseroles end up soggy or dry, but this version finds the perfect balance. The buttery edges crisp up beautifully, while the interior stays tender and airy thanks to the use of buttermilk. If you’re someone who appreciates real comfort food but doesn’t have time to fuss in the morning, this bake will feel like a revelation.

Beyond taste and texture, it also nails convenience. You can prepare everything in one baking dish, pop it in the oven, and use the cook time to prep coffee, fresh fruit, or even set the table. Because it combines carbs, protein, and rich flavor all in one, it easily stands alone as a complete meal. However, it also works wonderfully as the star of any large breakfast or brunch spread.

And if you’re into modern twists on Southern classics or love buttermilk uses in food, this recipe brings it all together.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Butter Swim Biscuits and Gravy Bake

To make this delicious biscuit bake breakfast, gather the following ingredients. These are likely items you already have on hand or can pick up at any local store.

For the Butter Swim Biscuits:

  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1¾ cups buttermilk (don’t substitute!)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Sausage Gravy:

  • 1 pound breakfast sausage
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2½ cups whole milk
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for extra kick

For Garnish (Optional):

  • Fresh parsley or chives
  • Extra melted butter brushed on top before serving

These ingredients come together to form a rich, creamy, golden-brown bake that holds well for leftovers and reheats beautifully.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Preparing the perfect Butter Swim Biscuits and Gravy Bake doesn’t require any fancy equipment. However, having these tools on hand will make the process seamless:

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Skillet for gravy
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Pastry brush (optional, for finishing)

With just these basics, you’ll be able to execute the dish from start to finish with confidence.

How to Make Butter Swim Biscuits and Gravy Bake

Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Pour in the buttermilk and stir until just combined—do not overmix. Next, melt the butter directly in your baking dish by placing it in the oven for a few minutes. Once melted, remove it carefully and pour your biscuit dough right on top of the hot butter. Use a spatula to gently spread the dough evenly, letting the butter rise up the sides and over the dough.

Now, prepare your sausage gravy. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the breakfast sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Once fully cooked, sprinkle in the flour and stir to coat. Gradually whisk in the milk, reduce heat, and let it simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.

Spoon the gravy evenly over the unbaked biscuit dough, then bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil.

Once baked, allow the dish to rest for 5–10 minutes. Brush with extra butter if you’d like, garnish with herbs, and serve warm. And just like that, your breakfast recipe with biscuits is ready to become a household favorite.

Tips for a Foolproof Breakfast Recipe With Biscuits

First, don’t skip the buttermilk. One of the best buttermilk uses in food is in baked goods—it provides tenderness, rise, and just the right tang. If you must substitute, mix whole milk with a bit of lemon juice, but for best results, stick with real buttermilk.

Next, make sure not to overmix the dough. Biscuits are delicate, and overworking the flour will make them tough. Gently stir until just combined and avoid kneading altogether.

When making the gravy, the key is to slowly whisk in the milk. This prevents lumps and ensures a creamy, velvety texture. Finally, be patient with the resting time after baking; this lets the dish set and makes slicing cleaner and easier.

Buttermilk Uses in Food: Why It’s Essential Here

Buttermilk is an unsung hero in Southern cooking, especially when it comes to breakfast. In this recipe, its acidity helps break down the proteins in the flour, resulting in tender, fluffy biscuits. It also reacts with baking powder to create that gorgeous rise, even without yeast.

More importantly, buttermilk enhances the flavor without overwhelming the dish. In sweet applications like biscuit French toast, or in savory dishes like this biscuit bake breakfast, its role is crucial. If you’ve ever wondered why your homemade biscuits lack the rich depth found in restaurant versions, the secret is most likely buttermilk.

Creative Variations and Biscuit French Toast Inspirations

This bake is delicious as written, but it’s also a perfect base for experimentation. Want to add cheese? Mix shredded cheddar or pepper jack into the biscuit dough. Need a spicier version? Add diced jalapeños to the gravy or use hot sausage.

For something a little outside the box, take inspiration from biscuit French toast and do a sweet-savory spin: omit the sausage and add cinnamon, maple syrup, and a cream cheese drizzle. The buttery biscuit base works surprisingly well in both directions.

Alternatively, shape the dough into small rounds and create breakfast biscuit balls—stuffed with sausage and cheese inside, baked to golden perfection.

Perfect Recipes for a Brunch Crowd or Family Gathering

If you’re planning recipes for a brunch buffet, this bake is your MVP. It’s rich enough to serve on its own but plays well with sides like fresh fruit, hash browns, and eggs. For a more elaborate setup, serve it alongside sweet potato cinnamon roll cake or peaches cream cheese loaf.

Because it bakes in one pan, it also makes for quick cleanup—something you’ll appreciate when hosting. Whether it’s Easter, Mother’s Day, or just Sunday morning, this biscuit bake breakfast makes feeding a group both satisfying and simple.

How to Turn This Into Breakfast To Go Recipes

Although the casserole style is perfect for sitting down, you can also make this dish portable. Simply bake the biscuits and gravy in muffin tins for grab-and-go servings. You could also cut the baked casserole into squares and wrap them individually for reheating later.

Another fun idea? Make a biscuit sandwich version using square slices of this bake, filled with scrambled eggs and extra sausage. It’s one of those breakfast to go recipes that feels gourmet but is incredibly practical.

Make-Ahead Tips and Freezer-Friendly Options

This dish can be prepped the night before and baked the next morning—just assemble the biscuit dough and gravy, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bring it to room temperature while the oven preheats and bake as usual.

For freezer prep, bake the full casserole, cool completely, and cut into squares. Wrap individually and freeze. When ready to enjoy, microwave until hot or reheat in the oven. It’s an ideal strategy for easy at home breakfast solutions throughout the week.

What to Serve With Butter Swim Biscuits and Gravy Bake

Looking to round out the meal? Consider these sides to complement the bake:

  • Fresh fruit salad or melon slices
  • Crispy hash browns or home fries
  • Scrambled or poached eggs
  • Sautéed greens or asparagus
  • Yogurt parfaits for a lighter contrast

Or, if you’re really going for it, add apple cider cinnamon bread for something sweet on the side. These small additions elevate your biscuits for breakfast from satisfying to sensational.

Easy At Home Breakfast Ideas to Serve Alongside

Need more ideas to pair with this dish? Try these:

FAQs About Biscuit Bake Breakfasts

Can I use canned biscuits instead?
You can, but the texture won’t be as rich or fluffy. Homemade dough works best for this recipe.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply skip the sausage and make a mushroom gravy instead.

Do I have to use buttermilk?
While you can substitute, real buttermilk provides the best results in terms of texture and flavor.

Can this be doubled for a crowd?
Absolutely. Use two 9×13 pans or one larger roasting pan.

Conclusion: Why This Bake Belongs in Your Weekly Breakfast Plan

From flavor to convenience, this Butter Swim Biscuits and Gravy Bake delivers in every way. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want something warm and filling on a weekday, it’s the kind of dish that sticks with you—in the best way. Plus, with so many ways to customize and prepare in advance, it deserves a place in your regular breakfast rotation. If you love biscuits for breakfast, this is your moment. Try it this weekend, then come back and share how you made it your own. Don’t forget to subscribe for more comforting, creative meals that make life delicious.

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7 Delicious Reasons to Try This Butter Swim Biscuits and Gravy Bake


  • Author: Elisa
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings

Description

This buttery biscuit and sausage gravy casserole is a rich, crowd-pleasing breakfast bake perfect for weekends or holidays.


Ingredients

For the Butter Swim Biscuits
2½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
4 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons salt
1¾ cups buttermilk
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Sausage Gravy
1 pound breakfast sausage
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2½ cups whole milk
Salt and black pepper to taste
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Garnish
Fresh parsley or chives
Extra melted butter for brushing


Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 450°F. Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Add buttermilk and mix until just combined.

  • Melt butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish in the oven. Spread biscuit dough over melted butter.

  • In a skillet, brown sausage over medium heat. Sprinkle with flour and stir to coat.

  • Gradually whisk in milk. Simmer until thickened, 5–7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

  • Spoon gravy over biscuit dough. Bake uncovered 25–30 minutes until golden.

 

  • Rest for 5–10 minutes. Brush with melted butter and garnish before serving.

Notes

Use real buttermilk for best texture and rise.

Avoid overmixing dough to keep biscuits fluffy.

Can be made ahead or frozen in portions.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Oven
  • Cuisine: American / Southern

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