My mom and I recently took a trip to visit some of the places that have been on our travel list for years. After soaking in the sights and charm of Waco, Texas, we made our way north to Pawhuska, Oklahoma — the hometown of none other than Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman.

If you’re a fan of her Food Network show, Pioneer Woman, you know her recipes are hearty, comforting and always delicious. Visiting her world in person was something special. Our first stop was The Mercantile, a beautifully restored building packed with kitchen treasures and souvenirs. The downstairs houses a bright and beautiful restaurant, and the upstairs features a bakery.

When we got to town, we made a stop at P-Town Pizza. Their wood-fired veggie pizza, paired with a glass of wine, was exactly what we needed after a day on the road. But the real highlight? Touring Drummond’s Lodge — the actual filming location for her show. We were allowed to roam freely, peeking into the fridge, cupboards and every little corner. It felt like stepping into the show itself.

At the Mercantile Restaurant, every table is welcomed with warm biscuits, lemon butter and homemade blackberry jam. For breakfast, I ordered a generous plate of biscuits and sausage gravy, served with crispy potatoes, eggs and a trio of breakfast meats. It was pure comfort food, and I knew immediately I needed to bring the sausage gravy recipe home to share.

From our table in Pawhuska, Oklahoma to yours — enjoy!

Sausage Gravy

Serves 8-12

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. breakfast sausage (mild or hot)
• 1/3 c. all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/2 tsp. seasoned salt
• 2 tsp. ground black pepper (plus more to taste)
• Warm biscuits, for serving

Instruction:

1. Break sausage up into small pieces and place in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until browned, about 8–10 minutes.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to coat the sausage. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Slowly pour in the milk, stirring constantly. Turn heat to medium-high and cook until the mixture starts to boil and thicken.
4. Lower the heat again and add seasoned salt and pepper. Let simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot over fresh biscuits.