We Ranked 14 Chain Restaurant Biscuits and Gravy, From Worst to Best

In this delicious exploration, we venture into the world of chain restaurant biscuits and gravy, seeking to rank them from the unsatisfying to the utterly delightful. From regional offerings to well-known national chains, each has its unique flair and failings. Join us as we journey through these 14 biscuit and gravy pairings, determining which ones rise to the top and which fall flat.

1. McDonald’s

It’s a regional curiosity at McDonald’s, where the biscuits and gravy might surprise you—but not always in the best way. The biscuit arrives dry, lacking the buttery goodness expected, while the gravy is overly salty yet somehow flat, missing that savory punch. Sausage flavor seems an afterthought, barely present in the mix. It’s as if this breakfast dish was a microwaved side note, not a featured act.

Should you stumble upon this dish in one of the lucky regions where it’s available, approach with tempered expectations. The experience is more about curiosity than culinary delight.

2. Carl’s Jr. / Hardee’s

At first glance, Carl’s Jr. / Hardee’s biscuit and gravy dish seems promising, with an appealing presentation that calls out to the hungry traveler. However, as soon as the first bite is taken, reality sets in. The biscuit can be dense, lacking the light, fluffy texture it should possess. The gravy tastes as if it emerged from a powdered mix, leaving it forgettable and uninspired.

For those seeking a memorable breakfast, this dish falls short. It’s a meal that looks the part but fails to deliver on taste, making it more of a visual treat than a flavorful one.

3. Sonic Drive-In

Sonic Drive-In offers a biscuit that nearly meets expectations with its flaky exterior, but the accompanying gravy doesn’t quite measure up. Thin and lacking a robust sausage flavor, it leaves much to be desired. A quick fix for those on the go, it doesn’t aim to impress but serves its purpose for a fast meal.

For a chain that prides itself on quick service, this dish fits the bill but doesn’t stand out in a crowded field of biscuit and gravy offerings. It’s a functional choice, providing sustenance without the flair or flavor that one might crave.

4. Jack’s (Southern U.S.)

Jack’s offers a biscuit and gravy experience that varies significantly by location, a gambling game for the breakfast connoisseur. Some outlets serve biscuits that crumble into dust, paired with gravy that’s unremarkably bland. However, at its best, Jack’s can surprise with a decently constructed biscuit and a somewhat flavorful gravy.

Consistency is not the strong suit here, making each visit an unpredictable adventure. Southern charm can sometimes shine through, but it’s not a guarantee. For those in the South, it’s a local option that may or may not meet the craving for a classic breakfast staple.

5. Wendy’s (select test locations)

Wendy’s foray into biscuits and gravy is still in the testing phase at select locations, and the results are mixed. The biscuit manages to be competent, yet the gravy often lacks the body and seasoning necessary to complement it. It’s not a menu staple yet, and the inconsistency in execution suggests it’s a work in progress.

For those lucky enough to try it, it’s a taste of what might be—a hint of potential interspersed with hits and misses. A developing idea that could one day earn its place in Wendy’s breakfast lineup, but for now, it remains tentative.

6. Whataburger

After a late night, Whataburger’s biscuits and gravy become a savory revelation. The biscuit has a pleasing chewiness, providing a satisfying base for the gravy. Peppery and rich, the gravy nearly hits all the right notes but could benefit from a more pronounced sausage presence.

For many, it’s a staple post-midnight meal, offering enough comfort and flavor to end or start the day. While it may not lead the pack, it holds its own, delivering a reliable option that resonates with those familiar with the brand’s late-night offerings. A solid choice for night owls.

7. Popeyes (limited locations)

Popeyes offers a biscuit that’s the star of the show, buttery and satisfying on its own. However, the accompanying sausage gravy doesn’t quite match up, being both thin and under-seasoned. It’s a contrast that leaves a longing for more balance between the two components.

While the biscuit shines, the overall dish feels like a missed opportunity to truly impress. Limited to select locations, it’s a reminder that even the best ingredients need a partner to elevate them fully. An experience that tantalizes but ultimately falls short of being a complete breakfast delight.

8. Denny’s

Walking into Denny’s feels like stepping into a comforting, old-school diner. Their biscuits and gravy deliver on this nostalgic promise, offering a hearty and reliable dish. The gravy is peppered with real sausage bits, providing genuine flavor and substance, while the biscuit is typically served warm and fluffy.

While it may not be the most daring of choices, it upholds a classic standard that many have come to love and trust. Denny’s serves a breakfast staple that feels like home, a reassuring option for those seeking the familiar in a fast-paced world of breakfast innovation.

9. KFC

KFC’s biscuits and gravy offer a unique twist with the use of peppery brown gravy instead of the traditional sausage variety. Surprisingly, it works well with their biscuit, creating a satisfying combination. While not authentic to the classic Southern dish, it carries its own charm.

The deviation from tradition might not appeal to purists, but it offers an interesting alternative that’s both tasty and different. For those open to exploring new flavors, KFC’s take provides a novel experience that stands out in the landscape of chain offerings. A curious blend that intrigues and satisfies.

10. Braum’s

Braum’s offers a hidden gem in the world of biscuits and gravy, serving portions that are generous and fulfilling. The biscuit holds up well, maintaining a fluffy texture even under the weight of the gravy. Real sausage chunks add a hearty element that makes each bite satisfying.

For those in the know, Braum’s version is a regional delight that surprises with its quality and consistency. Available all day, it’s a comforting choice that provides both flavor and value, making it a beloved option for locals and curious travelers alike. A substantial breakfast staple.

11. Cracker Barrel

Cracker Barrel delivers comfort food at its finest with their biscuits and gravy. The buttermilk biscuits are fluffy and inviting, while the creamy sausage gravy envelops them in warmth and flavor. It’s a dish that embodies the essence of Southern hospitality without pretension.

Though not fancy, its consistency and taste are what draw loyal patrons time and again. For many, it’s a culinary embrace, offering a piece of home wherever you find a Cracker Barrel. This is breakfast done right, a simple yet satisfying option that fulfills the craving for traditional comfort foods.

12. Waffle House

Waffle House offers a no-frills, classic Southern diner experience with their biscuits and gravy. The biscuit is soft and inviting, serving as an excellent foundation for the pepper-heavy sausage gravy that covers it. It’s a dish that’s simple yet full of flavor, capturing the essence of a road trip breakfast.

Often praised for its hearty nature, Waffle House’s version is a favorite for many who find themselves on the road. It’s a taste of Southern tradition that doesn’t overcomplicate, providing a satisfying meal that keeps you coming back for more. A true classic in the biscuit and gravy world.

13. Huddle House

Appearances can be deceiving, as Huddle House proves with their unassuming biscuits and gravy. The gravy is thick and meaty, perfectly seasoned to enhance the fluffy biscuit beneath. It’s a pairing that may not catch the eye immediately, but delights with its robust flavor.

For those venturing into a Huddle House, this dish surprises with its depth and satisfaction. A blend of subtlety and richness, it’s an option that quietly outshines many of its competitors. It’s a hidden treasure in the breakfast domain, rewarding those who choose to explore its unpretentious offerings.

14. Bojangles

Bojangles remains the reigning champion of biscuits and gravy, setting a standard that others strive to meet. Their biscuits are flaky and buttery, the perfect canvas for the spicy sausage gravy that graces them. It’s a combination that’s rich and filling, embodying what this breakfast dish should be.

Those who experience Bojangles’ offering often find it difficult to settle for less. With just the right amount of kick, it tantalizes the taste buds and leaves a lasting impression. A breakfast masterpiece, it stands as a testament to what can be achieved with simple ingredients done right.