Ultimate Breakfast Pie: A Savory Skillet Delight for Your Weekend Brunch

Imagine your favorite comforting pot pie from childhood, but reimagined for the most important meal of the day! This irresistible Breakfast Pie recipe takes the beloved concept of biscuits and gravy and elevates it into a truly special, memorable dish. Far more than just “glorified biscuits and gravy,” this pie delivers a burst of savory flavor and a hearty satisfaction that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s wonderfully rich, incredibly flavorful, and perfectly satisfying for any breakfast or brunch occasion.

The inspiration for this remarkable Breakfast Pie stems from a truly fantastic culinary experience I had at a restaurant in New York City. The dish left such a lasting impression that I found myself consistently thinking about its unique flavors and comforting warmth. My version is a heartfelt tribute to that unforgettable meal, capturing its essence while adding my own creative spin. A key element I adore is serving these pies in individual mini cast-iron skillets. This presentation is not only charming and rustic but also makes for an incredibly fun and elegant centerpiece at any Sunday brunch or special breakfast gathering. It’s a delightful way to serve a dish that truly stands out!

While this recipe might seem like a gourmet endeavor, it’s surprisingly straightforward to prepare, especially if you plan a little in advance. The blend of crispy pancetta, tender onions, savory breakfast sausage, and rich gravy, all topped with a flaky cheddar biscuit and a perfectly fried egg, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that is hard to beat. It’s the kind of dish that makes lazy weekend mornings feel a little more luxurious and brings smiles to every face at the table.

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Why You’ll Adore This Breakfast Pie Recipe

• Unforgettable Flavor: This isn’t your average breakfast. The combination of savory pancetta, sweet caramelized onions, and hearty breakfast sausage simmered in a creamy gravy creates a depth of flavor that’s truly exceptional.
• Perfect for Brunch: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a leisurely weekend meal, these individual pies make for an impressive and delicious presentation.
• Comfort Food Elevated: It takes the classic comfort of biscuits and gravy and transforms it into a sophisticated, satisfying pie that feels both familiar and special.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Many components can be prepared in advance, cutting down on kitchen time when you’re ready to bake and serve.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste preferences, from the type of sausage to the biscuit topping.

Ingredients for Your Savory Breakfast Pie

While at its core this recipe is an elevated take on biscuits and gravy, the specific ingredients and how they’re prepared make all the difference. We’re going beyond the typical, starting with crisp pancetta and browned onions to build a foundation of incredible flavor before introducing the breakfast sausage and crafting the rich, creamy gravy. This nuanced approach ensures every bite of your Breakfast Pie is packed with deliciousness.

Here’s a closer look at the key components:

• Pancetta: I highly recommend using pre-diced pancetta. It’s a fantastic time-saver on a busy weekend morning, eliminating the need for dicing and making the preparation process much smoother. When crisped, pancetta offers a delicate, salty flavor and a delightful texture that renders beautifully into the cooking fat, which then becomes the base for our caramelized onions and sausage.
• Breakfast Sausage: Look for a high-quality pork breakfast sausage. You can choose mild or spicy, depending on your preference. The sausage provides a robust, savory backbone to the gravy, pairing perfectly with the pancetta and biscuits.

To truly complete these amazing Breakfast Pies, you’ll also need a batch of my renowned Cheddar Biscuits. These flaky, cheesy biscuits are the perfect topping, absorbing the rich gravy and adding a wonderful texture contrast. For maximum convenience, I often prepare them the night before, which significantly streamlines the morning cooking process. Even better, you can bake them well in advance and store them in the freezer, ready to be pulled out and used whenever the craving for Breakfast Pie strikes!

For precise ingredient measurements and detailed step-by-step instructions, please use the JUMP TO RECIPE button at the top of the post, or simply scroll down to the bottom of the page to find the full recipe card.

Crafting Your Delicious Breakfast Pie: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making this Breakfast Pie is a delightful culinary journey, starting with building layers of flavor right from the pan. Follow these steps for a perfect pie every time:

Step 1: Crisp the Pancetta

Begin by preheating your oven to 400˚F (200˚C). Then, in a sturdy, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced pancetta over medium heat. Treat it just like you would bacon: allow it to slowly crisp up and render out its delicious fat. This process usually takes about 5-8 minutes, and you’ll know it’s ready when the pancetta pieces are golden, crispy, and fragrant. Once perfectly crisp, carefully remove the pancetta from the pot with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels. This allows any excess grease to drain, leaving you with perfectly crispy bits. Make sure to leave the rendered fat in the pot—this flavorful base is crucial for the next step!

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions and Brown the Sausage

With the pancetta fat still in the pot, add your generously diced onions. Cook them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they become beautifully soft, lightly caramelized, and golden brown. This step is vital for depth of flavor and takes approximately 20-25 minutes. The natural sweetness of the caramelized onions will add an incredible dimension to your gravy. Once the onions have reached that perfect golden hue, it’s time to add the breakfast sausage. Break the sausage into small pieces with a spoon or spatula as it cooks, browning it thoroughly alongside the onions until no pink remains. This ensures the sausage is fully cooked and releases all its savory goodness into the mix.

Step 3: Prepare the Rich Gravy

Once the sausage is browned, stir in the country gravy mix directly into the pot. Make sure it thoroughly coats the sausage and onions, allowing it to soak up any remaining pan drippings. Continue to cook for another minute or two, stirring constantly, to lightly toast the mix and enhance its flavor. Next, gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue whisking as you bring the mixture to a gentle boil. As it heats, you’ll notice the gravy beginning to thicken. Once it reaches your desired consistency—usually after simmering for 2-3 minutes—reduce the heat to low. Finally, fold the crispy pancetta back into the gravy mixture, integrating its salty crunch throughout the rich, savory base.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Pies

Now it’s time to assemble your individual Breakfast Pies! Divide the rich gravy mixture evenly among your four mini cast-iron skillets, filling each about two-thirds full. Place one of your prepared cheddar biscuits directly on top of the gravy in each skillet. Transfer the skillets to your preheated 400˚F (200˚C) oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are beautifully golden brown and fully cooked through. The gravy will be bubbly and hot, and the biscuit will have absorbed some of its delicious flavor.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the hot skillets from the oven. To truly complete this breakfast masterpiece, top each pie with a freshly fried egg – sunny-side up is highly recommended, allowing its rich, runny yolk to meld beautifully with the savory gravy. A sprinkle of freshly sliced green onions adds a vibrant pop of color and a fresh, mild oniony bite that cuts through the richness. Serve immediately and watch your guests delight in this comforting, hearty, and utterly delicious Breakfast Pie!

Expert Notes & Tips for Breakfast Pie Success

To ensure your Breakfast Pie is nothing short of perfect and to make your cooking experience as smooth as possible, consider these helpful notes and tips:

Efficient Meal Prep for Brunch

The key to an easy and quick Breakfast Pie, especially for a brunch gathering, is thoughtful planning. My Cheddar Biscuits can be made well in advance. Consider baking a batch the night before and storing them at room temperature, or even freezing them for longer storage. This significantly reduces your active kitchen time on the day you plan to serve, allowing you to focus on the gravy and assembly. You can also make the gravy mixture (before adding pancetta back in) a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before folding in the pancetta and assembling the pies.

Frying Eggs for a Crowd

If you’re making several Breakfast Pies, frying individual eggs can be time-consuming. To efficiently fry eggs for a crowd and keep them looking neat and fancy, use a large skillet. You can crack up to six eggs into a single large skillet, cooking them sunny-side up until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny. Once cooked, use a round cookie or biscuit cutter to create perfectly shaped circles. This trick not only saves time but also ensures uniform, attractive egg toppings for each of your pies, impressing your guests with minimal effort.

One-Pan Wonder: Adapting for a Larger Skillet

While the individual mini skillets offer a charming presentation, this recipe is also incredibly adaptable for a family-style, single-pan version. Simply prepare the gravy mixture as instructed, then transfer it all into a single 12-inch cast-iron skillet. Dot the top generously with your cheddar biscuits, ensuring good coverage. Bake in the preheated oven for the same duration, 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the gravy is bubbly. Serve directly from the large skillet for a rustic, communal dining experience.

The Gravy Mix Advantage

My preference for country gravy mix isn’t just about convenience; it’s steeped in nostalgia and flavor. It’s the brand my mom used when I was growing up, bringing with it a comforting familiarity and a taste of home. Beyond sentiment, many country gravy mixes offer a delightful pepperiness that adds a wonderful kick and complexity to the dish, enhancing the savory components of the pancetta and sausage. If you prefer to make your gravy from scratch, a simple roux with milk and seasonings works beautifully too.

Smart Substitutions for Your Breakfast Pie

Don’t have all the exact ingredients on hand, or simply want to customize your Breakfast Pie? Here are some excellent substitution ideas:

• Pancetta Alternatives: If pancetta isn’t available, or you prefer a different flavor, diced bacon is an excellent substitute. Its smoky, salty notes will impart a similar richness to the gravy base. You can also use diced prosciutto for a milder, saltier option.
• Sausage Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of breakfast sausage. Turkey sausage can be used for a lighter option, or explore spicy breakfast sausage if you enjoy a bit of heat. Plant-based sausage alternatives can also work for a vegetarian version, ensuring you choose one that browns well.
• Biscuit Choices: While my Cheddar Biscuits are highly recommended, you can certainly use classic buttermilk biscuits for a more traditional flavor. For convenience, store-bought refrigerated biscuit dough can be a quick alternative – just cut them into appropriate sizes.
• Milk Options: Whole milk provides the richest, creamiest gravy. However, 2% milk can be used for a slightly lighter consistency without sacrificing too much flavor. Avoid skim milk, as it may result in a thinner gravy.
• Gravy from Scratch: If you prefer to avoid a mix, you can easily make your own country gravy from scratch. Simply create a roux by whisking 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour into the rendered fat (add butter if needed to make 1/2 cup fat) after cooking the sausage, then gradually whisk in the 4 1/2 cups of milk and season with salt and plenty of black pepper.
• Topping Enhancements: Beyond fried eggs and green onions, consider a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese over the biscuit before baking for extra cheesiness. A dash of your favorite hot sauce or a few fresh chives can also add a delightful finish.

Complementary Serving Suggestions

While this Breakfast Pie is a complete meal in itself, pairing it with a few simple sides can elevate your brunch experience even further:

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A bowl of vibrant, fresh berries, melon, and grapes provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory pie.
• Crispy Hash Browns or Home Fries: If you’re looking for even more potato goodness, a side of perfectly cooked hash browns or home fries is always a welcome addition.
• Aromatic Coffee or Juice: Don’t forget your favorite morning beverage! A freshly brewed coffee, a glass of orange juice, or a mimosa will perfectly complete the meal.
• Hot Sauce Bar: For those who love a kick, set out a small selection of hot sauces so guests can customize their spice level.

Have you made this incredible Breakfast Pie recipe? I would love to hear your thoughts! Please let me know by leaving a review or comment below. Don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter to get more delicious recipes delivered straight to your inbox, and follow along on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook for daily inspiration and updates!

📖 Recipe

Yield: 6 Mini Pies

Breakfast Pie

Prep Time:
30 minutes

Cook Time:
25 minutes

Total Time:
55 minutes

Think of this recipe for Breakfast Pie like those little pot pies you loved as a child, but turned on its breakfast head!

Ingredients

• 1 batch Cheddar Biscuits, cut into 4-inch rounds
• 3 ounces Pancetta, diced
• 1 lg Onion, large diced
• 8 ounces Breakfast Sausage
• ½ cup Country Gravy Mix (or 2 McCormicks Packets)
• 4 ½ cups Whole Milk
• 4 mini Cast-Iron Skillets – or 1, 12-inch Cast-Iron Skillet
• 1-2 lg Eggs, per serving, cooked sunny side up
• Green Onions, sliced, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400˚F.
2. Heat a 4-quart Dutch oven over medium heat.
3. Cook the pancetta in the bottom of the pan until crisp, then remove it to a paper towel-lined plate.
4. Place the diced onions in the pan, leaving any fat released from the pancetta in the bottom, and cook until the onions become soft, lightly caramelized, and golden brown, 20-25 minutes. Stirring occasionally.
5. After the onions have browned, add the breakfast sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as you cook it.
6. Add the gravy mix to the pot, and stir to coat the sausage, and allow it to soak up the excess fat in the pan.
7. Whisk in the milk and continue whisking until the mixture comes to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally as needed. Fold the pancetta back into the mixture.
8. Fill your mini skillets, ⅔’s full with the gravy mixture, and top with a cheddar biscuit.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the biscuit is golden brown.
10. Serve with an egg or two on top and garnished with green onion slices.

Notes

Notes & Tips

If you plan a little ahead, make the biscuits early so you don’t have to spend too much time in the kitchen come brunch time. This Breakfast Pie is really easy and quick to make if you think ahead.

To fry your eggs for a crowd, you can do all six in a large skillet, then use a cookie or biscuit cutter to cut them out and keep them looking fancy. Plus you get perfect little circles to top your pies with.

If you wanted to make this in one pan, it can also be baked in a 12-inch skillet with biscuits dotted across the top of it.

I prefer using the country gravy mix because it is what mom used growing up and it brings all those flavor memories. It also has a great pepperiness to it, which I love.

Substitutions

If you don’t have pancetta or want to swap it, you could always dice bacon up and use that instead.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

6

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 399Total Fat: 30gSaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 130mgSodium: 560mgCarbohydrates: 15gFiber: 0gSugar: 12gProtein: 18g

This is an estimated caloric value, actual numbers may differ based on the ingredients used.

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