Sundays were always a special day growing up, when the whole family would gather around the table for a hearty breakfast. One of my fondest memories is the time my grandma treated us to her famous Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano. The aroma of freshly baked biscuits and sizzling bacon would waft through the house, drawing us all to the kitchen in anticipation.
As I watched Grandma assemble the dish, I was mesmerized by the way she layered the flaky biscuits, crisp bacon, and rich, creamy gravy into an edible volcano. It was like a delicious work of art, and we couldn’t wait to dig in. The first bite was absolute heaven – the combination of savory, salty, and comforting flavors was simply irresistible.
To this day, that Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano remains one of my all-time favorite breakfast dishes. It’s the ultimate comfort food that always brings back warm memories of family, laughter, and pure satisfaction.
Why This Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano
What sets this Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano recipe apart is the attention to detail and the perfect balance of flavors. The key is to start with high-quality ingredients – fresh, flaky biscuits, thick-cut bacon, and a rich, velvety gravy. But it’s the unique cooking techniques that really make this dish shine.
For example, did you know that par-cooking the bacon before assembling the volcano helps it achieve the perfect level of crispiness? And the secret to the gravy’s velvety texture is all in the roux – it’s a delicate dance of butter, flour, and milk that requires some finesse. With a few simple tricks like these, you’ll be able to create a Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano that will have your family and friends raving.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
– Biscuits: Freshly baked or store-bought, these are the foundation of the Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano.
– Bacon: Thick-cut bacon is a must for maximum flavor and texture.
– Butter: Used for sautéing the aromatics and making the rich gravy.
– All-purpose flour: This helps thicken the gravy to the perfect consistency.
– Milk: Whole milk or half-and-half creates a luxurious, creamy gravy.
– Chicken or beef stock: Adds depth and savory notes to the gravy.
– Salt and pepper: To season the gravy and bring out all the flavors.
Step-by-Step Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano Instructions
Preparing Your Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano
This Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano is a true comfort food classic that’s perfect for a leisurely weekend breakfast or brunch. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a hearty and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress. The total preparation time is around 45 minutes, and you’ll need a skillet, a saucepan, and a baking sheet to get started.
1- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, until crispy. Drain the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate, reserving 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the skillet.
2- In the skillet with the reserved bacon fat, sauté the diced onion over medium heat until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onion and garlic mixture, whisking continuously to create a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes, letting the flour brown slightly.
4- Gradually pour in the milk and chicken or beef stock, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the gravy to a simmer and let it thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
5- Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of additional stock or milk to reach your desired consistency.
6- To assemble the Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano, place the baked biscuits in a shallow, oven-safe dish or skillet. Top with the crispy bacon slices, and then generously pour the hot gravy over the entire dish, creating a “volcano” effect.
Pro Tips for Success
One of the secrets to achieving the perfect Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano is to make sure the biscuits are fresh and flaky. If you’re using store-bought biscuits, consider giving them a quick bake in the oven before assembling the dish to ensure they’re crisp on the outside and tender on the inside.
Another pro tip is to use a combination of milk and stock in the gravy. The milk provides richness and creaminess, while the stock adds depth of flavor. And don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your personal taste – a little extra salt and pepper can really make the flavors pop.
Finally, be mindful of the timing when assembling the volcano. You’ll want the biscuits and bacon to be fresh out of the oven, and the gravy to be hot and pourable. This will ensure that the finished dish is piping hot and irresistible.
Serving and Storing Your Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano
Perfect Pairings for Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano
The Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano is a true breakfast (or brunch) showstopper, but it’s also versatile enough to enjoy any time of day. For a classic pairing, serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a simple green salad to balance out the richness.
If you’re looking to turn it into a more substantial meal, consider adding a side of scrambled eggs or roasted potatoes. And don’t forget the coffee – a hot cup of joe is the perfect accompaniment to this hearty and comforting dish.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the components separately in advance. The biscuits can be baked and stored at room temperature, the bacon can be cooked and kept in the refrigerator, and the gravy can be made and reheated when ready to assemble the dish.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano
Creative Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano Variations
While the classic Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put a unique spin on this dish. Try swapping out the bacon for sausage or even chorizo for a spicier kick. You could also experiment with different types of biscuits, such as cheddar or chive, to add extra flavor.
For a seasonal twist, consider incorporating roasted vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or even sweet potatoes into the gravy. And don’t forget the toppings – a sprinkle of chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or a drizzle of hot sauce can all take your Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano to the next level.
Making Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano Diet-Friendly
If you’re looking to make this dish a bit more diet-friendly, there are a few simple substitutions you can try. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free biscuits and thicken the gravy with a cornstarch slurry instead of all-purpose flour.
To reduce the carbs, you can serve the Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano over a bed of riced cauliflower or zucchini noodles instead of traditional biscuits. And for a dairy-free option, swap out the milk and butter for plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use vegetarian or turkey bacon in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While the classic Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano calls for regular pork bacon, you can easily substitute vegetarian or turkey bacon for a healthier twist. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, as the alternative bacons may cook differently.
Q: How can I ensure the biscuits stay fluffy and not get soggy from the gravy?
A: To prevent the biscuits from getting soggy, it’s important to assemble the Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano just before serving. Place the freshly baked biscuits in the serving dish, top with the crispy bacon, and then pour the hot gravy over the top. This will allow the biscuits to soak up the gravy without becoming overly saturated.
Q: Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
A: Yes, the gravy can be made in advance and reheated when ready to assemble the dish. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of milk or stock to thin it out and restore the desired consistency.
Q: How many people does this recipe serve?
A: This Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes. If you’re feeding a larger crowd, you can easily double or triple the recipe to accommodate more guests.
Q: What should I do if the gravy is too thin or too thick?
A: If the gravy is too thin, you can thicken it by making a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) and whisking it into the simmering gravy until it reaches the desired consistency. If the gravy is too thick, simply stir in a bit more milk or stock to thin it out.
Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6
Description
Indulge in the ultimate breakfast delight with our Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano! Fluffy buttermilk biscuits are topped with crispy bacon and smothered in a rich, creamy sausage gravy, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 3/4 cup cold milk
– 8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 pound pork sausage, cooked and crumbled
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. – Preheat the oven to 450°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. – In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. – Stir in the cold milk until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
4. – Pat the dough into a 1/2-inch thick round. Cut out 6 biscuits using a 3-inch biscuit cutter, pressing straight down without twisting.
5. – Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown.
6. – In a medium saucepan, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
7. – Gradually whisk in the milk and cook, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the cooked sausage and black pepper.
8. – To assemble, split the biscuits in half and top each bottom half with crumbled bacon. Ladle the sausage gravy over the biscuits.
Notes
For a heartier meal, serve the Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano with a side of scrambled eggs or roasted potatoes. You can also use different types of sausage, such as breakfast or Italian, to vary the flavor.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
The Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano is a true breakfast (or brunch) masterpiece that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With its layers of flaky biscuits, crispy bacon, and rich, velvety gravy, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent.
By following the tips and techniques in this recipe, you’ll be able to create a Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano that’s sure to impress your loved ones. So why not give it a try this weekend? I guarantee it will become a go-to recipe that you’ll turn to again and again.
Don’t forget to share your creations with me – I’d love to see how your Bacon Biscuit and Gravy Volcano turns out! And if you have any other questions or comments, feel free to drop them in the section below.
