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The Best Homemade Brown Gravy (No Drippings Needed!) – Rich & Savory Recipe in Under 15 Minutes

Close-up of thick, rich homemade brown gravy dripping from a silver spoon into a white bowl.
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Make rich, savory homemade brown gravy from scratch quickly without needing meat drippings. This roux-based recipe yields a velvety sauce perfect for mashed potatoes, meatloaf, or roast beef.

Ingredients

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  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter or vegetable oil
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • Pinch of dried thyme (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter or heat the oil.
  2. Whisk in the flour to create a smooth paste, known as a roux. Continue cooking the roux, stirring constantly, for 2 to 3 minutes until it turns a light, peanut-butter color. Do not let it burn.
  3. Slowly whisk in the beef broth, a little at a time, ensuring no lumps form before adding more liquid. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth.
  4. Bring the gravy to a simmer, stirring occasionally. It will begin to thicken as it heats.
  5. Once simmering, stir in the Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, pepper, salt, and thyme, if using.
  6. Continue to simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring until the gravy reaches your desired thickness. If it is too thick, whisk in a tablespoon of hot water or broth.
  7. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve your homemade brown gravy hot over your favorite comfort foods.

Notes

  • For a deeper brown color without drippings, cook the roux for an extra minute until it is a darker brown, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
  • If you prefer a thicker gravy, use 5 tablespoons of flour instead of 4.
  • Use high-quality beef broth for the best flavor in this no drippings gravy.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameal.com/homemade-brown-gravy/