If you’re seeking a comforting, rich sauce without the fuss of pan drippings, this Easy Homemade Gravy Recipe (No Drippings) Recipe is your new best friend. It delivers that classic, velvety texture and deep flavor using just a few pantry staples, making it perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a touch of homemade magic. Whether spooned over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or your favorite protein, this gravy elevates any meal effortlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Using simple, everyday ingredients, this recipe proves that you don’t need complicated components to create something truly delightful. Each ingredient plays an important role: butter and flour work together to form a luscious roux, broth brings body and savoriness, and subtle spices add layers of flavor and warmth.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and a smooth base for the gravy’s texture.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy and gives it that silky consistency.
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian version): Provides the main savory flavor and moistness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional): Brings a gentle depth of savory aroma without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional): Adds subtle sweetness and complexity to the flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional): Infuses a mild herbal note that brightens the gravy.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
How to Make Easy Homemade Gravy Recipe (No Drippings) Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Start by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. This gentle melting ensures the butter doesn’t burn, which is key to developing a clean but flavorful base for your gravy.
Step 2: Create the Roux
Once the butter is melted and bubbling slightly, whisk in the flour. Stir continuously for about two minutes until the mixture turns golden and smooth. This step is the foundation of that rich, silky texture you want in your gravy.
Step 3: Add Broth Gradually
Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. This steady addition helps your gravy stay velvety without clumps, building a nice, smooth sauce.
Step 4: Season to Taste
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently, whisking frequently, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency, usually about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Final Adjustments
Taste your gravy and adjust the seasoning as needed. If it’s too thick, add a splash more broth or water; too thin, let it simmer a bit longer. When it’s just right, remove from heat and get ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Homemade Gravy Recipe (No Drippings) Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing your gravy with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme can add a pop of color and a fresh dimension to the rich sauce. A tiny dash of freshly ground black pepper on top can also accentuate the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This gravy shines alongside classic sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or buttered noodles. It also pairs beautifully with baked poultry or vegetarian fare like stuffing or grain bowls, making it versatile and crowd-pleasing.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation up a notch by serving the gravy in a charming gravy boat or a small, rustic bowl so everyone can ladle their perfect amount. For a fun twist, drizzle the gravy artistically over individual plates rather than pouring it all at once.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before refrigerating, allow it to cool completely to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze this Easy Homemade Gravy Recipe (No Drippings) Recipe for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to use.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If the gravy thickens too much, whisk in a little broth or water until it regains the perfect pourable consistency.
FAQs
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely! Using vegetable broth makes this recipe vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing the savory depth. Just choose a good-quality broth for best flavor.
How can I make this gravy gluten-free?
Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (use half the amount of cornstarch). This swap keeps your gravy safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I add fresh herbs instead of dried thyme?
Yes, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added toward the end of cooking. Use about a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs for a bright, fragrant twist.
What if my gravy is lumpy?
Whisking continuously while adding the broth helps prevent lumps. If lumps do form, pass the gravy through a fine mesh sieve or vigorously whisk until smooth.
Is this gravy suitable for vegans?
To make a vegan version, use vegetable broth and replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan margarine or oil. This keeps it deliciously rich and plant-friendly.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Easy Homemade Gravy Recipe (No Drippings) Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it. It’s simple, quick, and endlessly adaptable to your taste or dietary needs. The comforting warmth of homemade gravy without the hassle of drippings is a small kitchen victory that elevates every meal. So get whisking, and let this gravy bring that irresistible homemade charm to your table!
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Easy Homemade Gravy Recipe (No Drippings) Recipe
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy homemade gravy recipe requires no drippings and comes together quickly using simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for adding rich flavor to your meals, it’s made by whisking butter, flour, and broth with optional seasonings for a smooth, savory finish.
Ingredients
Gravy Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian version)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely without browning it to create the base for your roux.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth paste. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste and achieve a light golden color.
- Incorporate Broth: Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while continuously whisking to prevent lumps, ensuring a smooth gravy texture.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences for added depth of flavor.
- Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
- Serve Warm: Remove from heat and serve the gravy warm over your favorite dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted meats, or vegetables.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more broth for a thinner gravy or cooking longer to thicken.
- Fresh herbs can replace dried ones for enhanced flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
