Why This Gravy Recipe Is a Must-Have for Comfort Food Lovers
There’s nothing quite like rich, homemade gravy recipe poured over a mountain of buttery mashed potatoes, golden-brown meatloaf, or fluffy biscuits. It’s the finishing touch, the unsung hero, the sauce that makes a meal feel like a warm hug.
This homemade gravy recipe doesn’t rely on packets or mystery ingredients — just real pantry staples, real flavor, and real satisfaction.
Whether you’re whipping up Sunday dinner, prepping for Thanksgiving, or just want to turn a simple dish into something crave-worthy, this recipe has your back. It’s:
- Smooth and savory, with the option for a rich brown hue or creamy variation
- Quick — ready in under 15 minutes
- Easy to scale for big batches or small servings
- Adaptable: make it with or without pan drippings
You don’t need culinary school skills to make a good gravy — just a little know-how, the right ingredients, and a willingness to stir.
Elevate Every Dish with a Simple Sauce
Gravy isn’t just a sauce. It’s the thing that brings it all together.
- Got a plain roast? Add gravy.
- Dry turkey? Gravy to the rescue.
- Want to turn those leftover mashed potatoes into something exciting? You guessed it — gravy.
Pro Tip: This pairs perfectly with our Creamy Mashed Potatoes, Classic Meatloaf, and even Chicken and Dumplings.
Ingredients for the Best Homemade Gravy recipe
You don’t need much to make a rich, flavorful gravy — just a solid base, the right thickener, and a few pantry staples. Whether you’re using pan drippings, beef broth, or even water in a pinch, this section covers all the options.
Stock or Drippings: What’s the Base?
The most flavorful gravy starts with meat drippings, but there are great alternatives if you don’t have any.
Pan Drippings (Gold Standard)
- Use the fat and browned bits left in the pan after roasting meat
- Scrape up the fond (those caramelized bits) for depth and umami
- Add broth or water to stretch and deglaze
No Drippings? No Problem.
Use store-bought or homemade broth:
- Beef broth = rich, deep flavor
- Chicken broth = lighter and great for turkey or white meats
- Vegetable broth = for a vegetarian version
Looking to make your own stock? Check out Serious Eats’ guide to homemade stock.
Flour vs. Cornstarch: The Thickener Debate
Gravy needs body — but what’s the best way to get it?
Flour-Based Roux (Traditional)
- Equal parts butter (or fat) and all-purpose flour
- Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw taste
- Add liquid slowly while whisking for a smooth finish
Cornstarch Slurry (Gluten-Free)
- Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water
- Whisk into simmering liquid near the end of cooking
- Thickens quickly, great for last-minute fixes
Pro Tip: Use wondra flour for a lump-free finish every time.
Flavor Boosters: Take It Up a Notch
Want to make your homemade gravy stand out? Add one or more of these for extra depth:
- Worcestershire sauce – a dash gives umami and savory richness
- Soy sauce – deepens brown gravies (just go light on salt)
- Garlic powder or onion powder – for aromatic depth
- Thyme, rosemary, or sage – especially in holiday or poultry gravies
- Black pepper and paprika – adds warmth and color
Want a deeper brown color without overcooking? Add a splash of brewed coffee or soy sauce — just a tiny bit does the trick
Step-by-Step: How to Make This Easy Homemade Gravy Recipe
Whether you’re starting from scratch with butter and flour or using flavorful pan drippings, this recipe is simple, fast, and versatile. Let’s walk through both the classic method and a no-dripping version.
Classic Pan Homemade Gravy (With Drippings)
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp fat (from drippings or butter)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1½ to 2 cups broth or pan juices
- Salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings (thyme, garlic powder, etc.)
Instructions:
- Strain the drippings, reserving about 2 tbsp fat and any browned bits
- In the same pan, heat the fat over medium heat
- Add flour to make a roux, whisking constantly for 1–2 minutes
- Slowly whisk in the broth or liquid, breaking up any lumps
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until thickened (about 5 minutes)
- Season with salt, pepper, and flavor boosters to taste
Adjust thickness: Add more broth to thin or simmer longer to thicken
No-Drippings Homemade Gravy (Using Stock + Seasonings)
Perfect when you’re short on drippings or cooking meat separately.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour (or cornstarch slurry)
- 2 cups beef, chicken, or veggie broth
- Optional: 1 tsp Worcestershire, ½ tsp garlic/onion powder, herbs
Instructions:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat
- Whisk in flour to form a roux; cook until golden (about 2 minutes)
- Gradually whisk in broth while stirring constantly
- Bring to a simmer; cook until thickened
- Add seasoning and adjust salt as needed
Want a gluten-free version? Replace flour with a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water).
Troubleshooting Common homemade Gravy Mistakes
Too thin?
- Simmer longer
- Add a bit more flour or a cornstarch slurry and stir until thickened
Too thick?
- Whisk in a splash of broth or water
- Heat gently while stirring
Lumpy?
- Use a fine mesh strainer or an immersion blender to smooth it out
- Prevent next time by adding liquid slowly and whisking constantly
Too bland?
- Add a splash of Worcestershire, soy sauce, or a pat of butter at the end
- Try a dash of garlic powder, mustard powder, or thyme
Brown Gravy Mix Options: DIY or Packets
Whether you’re cooking from scratch or reaching into the pantry, there are a few ways to get rich, savory brown gravy on the table fast.
Homemade Brown Gravy Mix Recipe
Making your own dry mix is a smart way to control salt, avoid preservatives, and save money. It’s perfect for storing in the pantry and pulling out whenever you need quick gravy.
DIY Brown Gravy Mix (makes ~4 batches):
- 1 cup powdered beef bouillon (or granules)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch of paprika or thyme
To use:
Whisk ¼ cup mix with 2 cups cold water. Simmer and stir until thickened.
Store in an airtight jar in your pantry for up to 3 months.
Store-Bought Favorites (Like McCormick)
Packet gravies are convenient and still deliver solid results — especially when you’re short on time or cooking a big meal.
Popular Brown Gravy Packets:
- McCormick Brown Gravy Mix
- Knorr Brown Gravy Sauce Mix
- Pioneer Brand Gravy Mix
McCormick Brown Gravy Mix Ratio:
- 1 packet (0.87 oz)
- Whisk with 1 cup cold water
- Bring to a boil, stir, and simmer for 1 minute
Source: McCormick Official Gravy Instructions
Brown Gravy Substitutes (In a Pinch)
Out of gravy mix or flour? Try these substitutions:
- Soy sauce + butter + cornstarch + broth = quick, salty umami gravy
- Jarred beef demi-glace diluted with water
- Onion soup mix + water and a cornstarch slurry
- Use pan drippings + broth + mashed potato flakes to thicken
Tip: Add a spoonful of cream cheese or butter at the end for extra richness.
How to Make Hamburger Gravy (Bonus Variation)
This retro-style gravy is hearty, quick, and ultra budget-friendly — and it’s been a staple on school lunch trays and family dinner tables for decades.
Easy Hamburger Homemade Gravy Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ onion, diced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt, pepper, and a dash of Worcestershire
- Optional: ½ cup milk or cream for a creamy version
Instructions:
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with onion over medium heat
- Drain excess fat if needed, then sprinkle flour over the meat
- Stir and cook 1–2 minutes
- Slowly add beef broth while whisking
- Simmer until thickened (about 5–7 minutes)
- Season to taste and stir in cream if using
Serve over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or toast for the ultimate throwback meal.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with This Rich Gravy
Gravy is the glue of a comfort meal — here’s what it sticks to best:
Classic Comfort Combos
- Mashed Potatoes – creamy + gravy = forever
Get the Recipe - Meatloaf – classic beef and brown gravy pairing
Try This Meatloaf - Chicken and Biscuits – top it all with ladles of gravy
- Open-Faced Sandwiches – great with turkey or roast beef
- Fried or Grilled Pork Chops – gravy makes everything better
Southern Favorites & Holiday Staples
- Cornbread Dressing or stuffing
- Turkey or Chicken
- Green beans with bacon
- Buttered rice or egg noodles
Gravy’s versatility makes it a must-have not just for holidays, but any time you want your dinner to feel extra special.
FAQs About Brown Gravy & Hamburger Gravy
Can I make gravy without drippings?
Yes! Use butter and flour for the roux and broth (chicken, beef, or veggie) for flavor. Season with herbs, Worcestershire, or soy sauce for depth.
What’s the best thickener for gravy?
Flour is traditional, but cornstarch works too. Use a roux for deeper flavor, or a cornstarch slurry if you need a gluten-free option.
How do I fix lumpy gravy?
Strain it through a fine mesh sieve, or use an immersion blender. Prevent lumps by whisking constantly and adding liquid gradually.
Can I freeze homemade gravy?
Yes — let it cool, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently and whisk to restore texture.
What’s the McCormick brown gravy mix ratio?
Use 1 packet (0.87 oz) to 1 cup cold water. Whisk, bring to a boil, then simmer 1 minute.
Official McCormick Instructions
How to make homemade dry gravy mix?
Mix powdered beef bouillon, flour, cornstarch, onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper. Store in a jar and whisk into boiling water when needed.
What is a brown gravy substitute?
Try soy sauce + broth + cornstarch, or use onion soup mix and a slurry. Mushroom gravy is a great vegetarian stand-in.
What goes well with homemade gravy?
Mashed potatoes, meatloaf, chicken, turkey, biscuits, and even open-faced sandwiches — gravy brings comfort to any plate.
What’s a good substitute for brown gravy mix?
If you’re out of brown gravy mix, combine 1 cup beef broth, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and ½ teaspoon onion powder. Add Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for deeper flavor.
AllRecipes’ homemade brown gravy alternative
How to make hamburger gravy?
Brown 1 lb of ground beef with onion, drain excess fat, then stir in 2 tablespoons flour. Slowly add 2 cups beef broth and simmer until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of Worcestershire or milk for creaminess.
Can I make gravy with hamburger meat?
Yes! It’s called hamburger gravy — a creamy, savory dish made from ground beef, flour, broth, and optional milk. It’s perfect over mashed potatoes, noodles, or toast.
How do I make homemade hamburger gravy?
Here’s a simple recipe:
- Brown 1 lb ground beef with ½ diced onion
- Sprinkle in 2 tbsp flour and stir
- Whisk in 2 cups beef broth
- Simmer until thick, then season to taste
- For a creamier texture, add ¼ cup milk or cream
What’s the best hamburger gravy recipe?
The best versions use lean ground beef, a beef broth base, and a roux for thickening. Add garlic, pepper, Worcestershire, or cream depending on your taste. Serve it over mashed potatoes, toast, or rice for a classic diner-style meal.
How do I make gravy from hamburger grease?
After browning your hamburger, keep 2 tablespoons of the grease in the pan. Add 2 tablespoons flour, stir to make a roux, then slowly whisk in broth or milk. Simmer until thickened, and season as needed.
How to make gravy from hamburger meat?
Cook and crumble your ground beef. Once browned, sprinkle in flour, then whisk in broth or milk. Simmer for 5–10 minutes until thick. It’s an easy, budget-friendly gravy that’s great for weeknights.
How to make brown gravy from hamburger grease?
Use the rendered grease (about 2 tbsp) from cooked ground beef. Stir in equal parts flour to create a roux. Slowly add beef broth while whisking, bring to a simmer, and cook until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of soy sauce or onion powder for a richer flavor.
