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–+ servings
gravy poured over potatoes

Homemade Gravy

5 from 14 votes
How to make perfect gravy every time! This recipe will make 2-3 cups gravy depending on the thickness you choose.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings6 servings
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Equipment

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 tablespoons flour
  • 2 -3 cups broth See notes if using pan drippings
  • kosher salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • Additional flavor agents: fresh herbs, seasonings, vinegar, Worcestershire, etc.

Instructions

  • Melt butter in a medium-sized sauce pan. Add flour and whisk constantly until mixture is golden caramel color and smells fragrant (3-5 minutes). 
  • Slowly whisk in liquids, while whisking, until mixture is smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened and bubbly, 5 minutes or longer.
  • Taste, and then season with salt and pepper to taste, and add any other flavorings like fresh herbs, or vinegar. A small splash of Worcestershire is recommended (1-2 teaspoons should do it).
    Having trouble? See troubleshooting tips below.

Notes

Notes on Liquid:

Technically, with the proportions of roux here, this can thicken 4 cups of liquid.  That’s a little too thin for me, and I like the flavor of the roux more concentrated, so I keep my liquid to 2-3 cups.  You can always thicken more after if necessary.
Pan Drippings:  Pan drippings are a great way to season gravy. If using, separate fat from juices.  Use your juices, in combination with broth, for your liquid measurement.  Be careful as pan drippings can sometimes be extra salty.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Too thin?  Combine 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water.  Mix until smooth and add to simmering gravy. Let simmer a few minutes to thicken, and repeat if necessary until desired consistency is reached.
Too thick?  Add more broth.
Too salty?  Try a splash of cream, lemon juice, or even sour cream.  You can also make more roux, and use only broth in the second batch to dilute.

Nutrition

Calories: 87kcal, Carbohydrates: 4g, Protein: 1g, Fat: 8g, Saturated Fat: 5g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2g, Trans Fat: 0.3g, Cholesterol: 20mg, Sodium: 217mg, Potassium: 8mg, Fiber: 0.1g, Sugar: 0.4g, Vitamin A: 317IU, Calcium: 3mg, Iron: 0.2mg
Course: Condiments
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Keyword: homemade Gravy
Calories: 87kcal
Author: Sara Wells
Cost: $5
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