The Perfect Gravy
Master the art of making "The Perfect Gravy," a foolproof recipe that transforms any meal into a feast. This luxurious, velvety gravy begins with a golden roux of unsalted butter and all-purpose flour, creating a rich, flavorful base. Enhance its depth with the savory essence of chicken or turkey drippings and low-sodium chicken stock, or keep it light and simple—your choice! A touch of fresh thyme and heavy cream elevates the flavor for an irresistibly aromatic finish. Ready in just 20 minutes, this homemade gravy is perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes, roasted meats, or holiday stuffing. With customizable richness and a seamless texture, thanks to optional straining, this easy gravy recipe is your go-to for any occasion.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup chicken or turkey drippings (optional, strained)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock or broth
- 0.5 teaspoons kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (optional, minced)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional, for richness)
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until fully melted and bubbling gently.
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the melted butter, whisking constantly to form a smooth paste (this is called a roux). Cook the roux for 2–3 minutes, whisking frequently, until it turns light golden and smells slightly nutty.
If using drippings, whisk them into the roux until fully incorporated. This step adds extra depth of flavor but is optional.
Gradually pour in the chicken stock, about half a cup at a time, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once smooth, add the remaining broth and whisk to combine.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir in the minced thyme leaves for a fragrant, herby note (optional).
For an extra-rich gravy, whisk in the heavy cream during the last minute of cooking.
Strain the gravy through a fine mesh sieve for an ultra-smooth texture, if desired.
Serve hot over your favorite dishes and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
843 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 76.9 g | 99% | |
| Saturated Fat | 39.0 g | 195% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 197 mg | 66% | |
| Sodium | 1268 mg | 55% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 28.5 g | 10% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.2 g | 4% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.9 g | ||
| Protein | 16.1 g | 32% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 83 mg | 6% | |
| Iron | 2.8 mg | 16% | |
| Potassium | 348 mg | 7% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
