A brown gravy recipe is one of those timeless kitchen staples that elevates any meal. Whether you’re serving mashed potatoes, roast beef, turkey, or meatloaf, a silky, flavorful brown gravy can transform your dish from simple to spectacular. The best part? You don’t need a gravy packet! With a few pantry ingredients like butter, flour, and beef broth, you can create a luscious homemade gravy in under 30 minutes. This easy brown gravy recipe will become your go-to for holidays, Sunday dinners, or weeknight comfort food.
Ingredients
You’ll need the following simple ingredients to make this homemade brown gravy recipe:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: a few drops of soy sauce for richer color
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Melt the butter:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it begins to bubble. - Make the roux:
Whisk in the flour and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly. The mixture will turn a golden brown color and start to smell nutty—this is your roux base. - Add broth slowly:
Gradually pour in the beef broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until smooth. - Season:
Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste. - Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. - Adjust and serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm over mashed potatoes, meatloaf, or roasted meats.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 90 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
Tips & Variations
- Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Add richness: Stir in a splash of cream or a teaspoon of butter at the end for a silkier texture.
- Make ahead: Prepare the gravy in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little broth to thin it if needed.
- Add umami: For deeper flavor, add a dash of soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, or a small spoon of beef bouillon.
- Thicken or thin: If the gravy is too thick, add more broth; if too thin, simmer a bit longer.
Serving Suggestions
This brown gravy recipe pairs beautifully with:
- Classic mashed potatoes
- Roasted turkey or chicken
- Salisbury steak or meatloaf
- Roast beef or pork chops
- Poutine (fries topped with cheese curds and gravy)
- Open-faced sandwiches or biscuits
FAQs
1. Can I make brown gravy without beef broth?
Yes! You can use chicken or vegetable broth instead. For a richer color and flavor, add a few drops of soy sauce or kitchen bouquet.
2. How can I fix lumpy gravy?
If your gravy turns lumpy, pour it through a fine mesh strainer or blend it with an immersion blender for a smooth finish.
3. Can I freeze brown gravy?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently before serving.
4. Why did my gravy taste bland?
You may need to season more. Salt enhances the flavor, and adding Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can deepen the taste.
Conclusion
This brown gravy recipe is a foolproof way to bring restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. It’s rich, velvety, and made from scratch in just minutes. Whether it’s for a special holiday meal or a cozy weeknight dinner, this easy homemade gravy will impress every time. Save this recipe—you’ll be reaching for it again and again!
