Easy Gravy recipe, from scratch
There’s something deeply comforting about a silky, flavorful gravy poured over mashed potatoes, roast chicken, or even a simple bowl of rice.
You don’t need a packet or a fancy sauce boat to make it happen. With just a few ingredients and about 10 minutes, you can whip up a luscious homemade gravy that tastes like it simmered for hours.
Recette de la sauce brune, sauce gravy fait maison
Homemade gravy is one of those kitchen basics that turns everyday meals into something special.
With a few simple ingredients and a little whisking, you’ll have a sauce that’s silky, savory, and far superior to anything from a packet.
So next time you’re roasting chicken or mashing potatoes, skip the store-bought stuff — and let this easy gravy steal the spotlight.
Every year, it’s a little Thanksgiving tradition in my kitchen: I make a rich, brown gravy from scratch to serve alongside the holiday feast.
It’s the perfect finishing touch for creamy mashed potatoes, a crisp green bean salad, juicy roast turkey, or even a simple chicken.
And honestly, making gravy at home is far easier than you might think. Plus, the homemade version is always so much more flavorful — and best of all, completely free from preservatives or unnecessary additives.
Why Make Gravy from Scratch?
Let’s be honest: store-bought gravy is often bland, gloopy, and — dare I say — suspiciously beige.
Making it from scratch not only tastes better but also gives you complete control over flavor, thickness, and seasoning.
Plus, it’s ridiculously easy. Once you learn this basic technique, you’ll never go back.
How to Make Homemade Gravy
Traditional gravy always starts with a roux — a simple mixture of butter and flour. Once that’s ready, you slowly whisk in the pan drippings from your roasted meat, chicken, or even vegetables.
The sauce will gradually thicken as you stir, turning into that rich, velvety gravy we all love.
It’s a quick and easy recipe made with just a few basic ingredients: meat drippings, flour, butter, and a pinch of spices.
Before you start, make sure to strain the hot drippings to remove any bits — this step ensures a smooth, lump-free gravy every time.
How to Make Gravy recipe :
- Melt the butter : Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the flour : Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously with a whisk or wooden spoon.
- Make the base : Once a paste (roux) forms, slowly pour in the broth a little at a time, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Thicken the sauce : Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring non-stop until the gravy thickens and becomes smooth and glossy.
- Season to taste : Adjust with salt and pepper, then add herbs like thyme, oregano, or any spices you love.
- Make it creamy (optional) : For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end — just a drizzle is enough to make it extra velvety.
With Mushroom
For a flavorful twist, sauté mushrooms (I like to use cremini) in a little butter until golden and tender, then stir them into your gravy. The result is a rich, earthy mushroom gravy that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or even pasta.
Vegetarian or Vegan Gravy Option
If you’d like to keep things completely meat-free, it’s super easy to adapt this recipe. Simply swap the meat drippings for vegetable stock, and use plant-based butter or olive oil instead of regular butter.
For extra depth of flavor, sauté some finely chopped mushrooms, shallots, or garlic before adding the flour — they’ll add a rich, umami taste that makes your gravy every bit as satisfying as the classic version.
This is a fantastic option for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone who wants a lighter but still delicious sauce.
What to Serve Gravy With
The beauty of homemade gravy is that it pairs wonderfully with so many dishes — from meats to vegetables, it’s the ultimate finishing touch:
Mashed potatoes : The classic combo! Gravy is the perfect partner for creamy mashed potatoes — and even delicious poured over crispy fries.
Roasts : Whether it’s roast chicken, turkey, or beef, a rich, savory gravy takes any roast to the next level.
Vegetables : Drizzle it over roasted or steamed veggies to add a burst of flavor — you’ll be surprised how much more irresistible they become.
Grilled meats : I love topping grilled meats with a ladle of gravy, especially oven-roasted lamb cutlets. It makes them extra juicy and full of flavor, with every bite practically melting in your mouth.
Chef’s Tips for Perfect GravyAdjust the thickness : If your gravy turns out too thick, simply whisk in a little extra warm broth or water until you reach the desired consistency. Too thin? Let it simmer a few more minutes — it will thicken as it reduces. Boost the flavor : A splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce can add depth and richness. You can also stir in a spoonful of cream for an extra silky texture. Season at the end : Always taste before adding salt — pan drippings are naturally salty, so you might not need much. Make it vegetarian : Skip the meat drippings and use vegetable stock instead. A touch of mushroom powder or caramelized onions adds a delicious umami boost. |
Recette de la sauce bolognaise
Storage Tips
If you’ve made more gravy than you need, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, whisking in a splash of broth if it’s too thick. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Easy Gravy recipe from scratch
Ingredients
- 1 cup strained roasting juices turkey, chicken, or beef
- 3 tbsp flour
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp heavy cream optional, for a creamy sauce
🌿 Spices & Seasoning
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 pinch salt
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Stir in the flour using a whisk or wooden spoon.
- Once a paste forms (this is your roux), slowly pour in the broth a little at a time, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring continuously until the gravy thickens and becomes smooth.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Add thyme, oregano, or any other herbs and spices you like.
- For a richer texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream — just a drizzle is enough to make the sauce silky.
