Easy Gravy Recipe
on Sep 29, 2023
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Each year, my homemade gravy disappears in a matter of moments, even when I make a triple batch. I know how stressful holiday cooking can feel, so let me help you alleviate some of it with this easy gravy recipe.
If you have yet to venture into the world of homemade gravy, prepare to be pleasantly surprised; the process is surprisingly straightforward, yet yields incredibly flavorful results. Once you’ve experienced the richness of homemade gravy, it’s unlikely that you’ll ever turn back. A piece of advice: Double the recipe; believe me, it’s well worth it.
Why You’ll Love This Gravy Recipe
There’s something undeniably satisfying about a homemade gravy that elevates your Thanksgiving meal to a whole new level. Unlike store-bought versions, this easy gravy recipe is rich, flavorful, and completely customizable. Plus, preparing it in advance saves you precious time and stress on the big day.
How to Prepare This Gravy Recipe
To prepare this gravy, gather the following ingredients: homemade broth (or any unsalted broth of your choice), butter, salt and pepper to taste, and all-purpose flour.
Begin by making your broth on the stove or using the best quality organic broth available. In a saucepan, melt the butter until it shimmers. Season the butter with two pinches of salt and a dash of black pepper, stirring to infuse the flavors for a few seconds.
Then, add the all-purpose flour to the butter and stir continuously. Continue to stir until the mixture reaches a sauce-like consistency, which should take about 30 seconds. Ensure that any raw flour taste is fully cooked off.
Gradually add the broth into the mixture, stirring gently. Allow the mixture to thicken over medium-low heat for approximately 6-10 minutes.
Once the gravy has reached your desired thickness, transfer it to a glass Tupperware container. Don’t be concerned if it appears slightly runny; it will continue to thicken as it cools.
Refrigerate the gravy for 3-4 days. On Thanksgiving Day, reheat it and consider adding some of the drippings from the turkey for an extra layer of flavor. Alternatively, you can freeze the gravy and defrost it the night before for future use.
Nonna’s Tip
You can refrigerate the gravy for 3-4 days. On Thanksgiving Day, reheat it and consider adding some of the drippings from the turkey for an extra layer of flavor. Alternatively, you can freeze the gravy and defrost it the night before for future use.
Variations and Substitutions
Get creative with your gravy by trying various modifications. You could experiment with different types of broth. Think about introducing herbs, garlic, or a splash of wine for additional depth. For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
- Thyme, rosemary, sage, or even a pinch of paprika can add unique dimensions to your gravy.
- SautĂŠ minced garlic or onions in the butter before adding flour.
- SautĂŠ sliced mushrooms in the butter until they release their moisture and turn golden brown. Then, proceed with the gravy-making process for a delicious mushroom gravy.
- If you need a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1-1 gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Be sure to adjust the amount accordingly as cornstarch is more potent than flour.
- You can use various types of broth depending on your preferences. Chicken, beef, vegetable, or turkey broth are all excellent choices.
Other Thanksgiving Recipes
- Mac and Cheese
- Cranberry Sauce
- Juicy Turkey
- Stuffing
- Sweet Potato Donuts
- Pumpkin Pie
- Brussels Sprouts
- Sweet Potatoes
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Roasted Squash
- Turkey Noodle Soup
- Butternut Squash Pasta
- Baked Apples
- Mushrooms
- Green Beans
- Whole Roasted Sweet Potato
Common Questions
Yes, you can certainly make this gravy in advance. In fact, it’s recommended to prepare it ahead of time to save time and reduce stress on Thanksgiving Day. You can refrigerate it for 3-4 days or freeze it and defrost it the night before for future use.
If you don’t have homemade broth, you can use store-bought unsalted broth of your choice. Just be sure to select a high-quality option for the best flavor.
Absolutely. If your gravy is too thick, you can add a bit more broth to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simply simmer it a bit longer to reduce and thicken.
Yes, you can make this gravy gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1-1 gluten-free flour or cornstarch. Just be aware that cornstarch is more potent than flour, so adjust the quantity accordingly.
To reheat the gravy on Thanksgiving Day, simply warm it gently on the stove. You can also incorporate some of the drippings from the turkey to enhance the flavor.
Yes, you can make the gravy ahead of time and freeze it. Ensure it’s fully cooled before freezing, and then defrost it in the refrigerator the night before you plan to use it.
Homemade Gravy
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, melt the butter until it shimmers. Season the butter with two pinches of salt and a dash of black pepper, stirring to infuse the flavors for a few seconds.
- Next, add the all-purpose flour to the butter and stir continuously. Continue to stir until the mixture reaches a sauce-like consistency, which should take about 30 seconds. Ensure that any raw flour taste is fully cooked off.
- Gradually incorporate the broth into the mixture, stirring gently. Allow the mixture to thicken over medium-low heat for approximately 6-10 minutes.
- Once the gravy has reached your desired thickness, transfer it to a glass Tupperware container. Don’t be concerned if it appears slightly runny; it will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Refrigerate the gravy for 3-4 days. On Thanksgiving Day, reheat it and consider adding some of the drippings from the turkey for an extra layer of flavor. Alternatively, you can freeze the gravy and defrost it the night before for future use.
Video
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Can you please share the recipe for the broth you make?
Thanks!
Hi there đ
I don’t have a “recipe” you simply put veggies (whole celery, onion, carrots, garlic) and chicken (or beef) in a big pot with water, 1 bay leaf and salt and let it boil on medium-low for at least 1 hour. You can make beef broth if you use beef, chicken broth if you use chicken and veggie broth if you use veggies. You can also make turkey broth if you use a turkey drumstick from the store.
This is a game changer! I have my gravy made, all I have to do is add the drippings. So easy!