Oh my goodness, friends! If you’re looking to elevate your meals without breaking a sweat, you’ve landed in the right place. I’ve made this gravy from scratch without drippings more times than I can count, and let me tell you—it’s a total game-changer! Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast, this gravy is always a hit. It’s creamy, smooth, and packed with flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Trust me, you’ll be pouring it over everything!
Why You’ll Love This Gravy from Scratch without Drippings
- Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a culinary genius to whip this up. It’s simple and straightforward!
- Versatile: This gravy pairs beautifully with everything from mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables, making it a must-have for any meal.
- Rich Flavor: You’ll be amazed at how delicious this gravy is, even without drippings. It’s packed with savory goodness!
- Visually Appealing: It has that lovely, rich color that makes any dish look gourmet.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare this gravy in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
The Secret to Perfect Gravy from Scratch
The secret to making the best gravy from scratch without drippings lies in the roux and the seasoning. The roux, a simple mixture of flour and fat, is what gives the gravy its rich texture. I use butter for a delightful flavor, but you can easily substitute with olive oil for a lighter option. The key is to cook the roux until it’s a beautiful golden brown—this step infuses the gravy with a deep, nutty flavor that will have your taste buds dancing! Don’t be afraid; anyone can master this technique with just a little practice!
Rave Reviews from Friends and Followers
“This gravy is incredible! I made it for Thanksgiving, and everyone kept asking for the recipe!” – Sarah M.
“I was skeptical at first, but wow! This gravy is so flavorful and easy to make. A new favorite in our house!” – Tom L.
“I can’t believe how delicious this turned out. It’s now a staple for our family dinners!” – Jessica R.
Creative Variations to Try
- Mushroom Gravy: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist that’s perfect for vegetarians!
- Herbed Gravy: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary for a fragrant, savory flavor.
- Spicy Gravy: Add a pinch of cayenne or some hot sauce for a kick that will wake up your taste buds.
- Onion Gravy: Sauté onions until caramelized for a sweet and savory addition.
Bonus: Mix in a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for added depth and umami flavor!
FAQs – All Your Questions Answered!
Can I make this gravy ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth to loosen it up if needed.
What if my gravy is too thick? No problem! Simply whisk in a bit of broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I substitute the butter? Yes! You can use olive oil or coconut oil as alternatives, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor.
How long can I store leftover gravy? Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Storage/Serving Tips
- Store leftover gravy in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat on medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Serve hot over your favorite dishes for that extra touch of deliciousness!
Perfect Occasions for Gravy from Scratch without Drippings
- Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings.
- Holiday gatherings where comfort food reigns supreme.
- Cozy family dinners on chilly evenings.
- Sunday brunch with biscuits or savory waffles.
- Everyday meals to elevate your weeknight dinners.
The Complete Recipe
Thank you for sticking around! Now, let’s dive into the recipe so you can start enjoying this gravy from scratch without drippings yourself!
Gravy from Scratch Without Drippings
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tip: For a richer flavor, consider using homemade broth if you have it on hand. It makes a world of difference!
Extend ingredients section: You can also add a splash of heavy cream for a creamier texture, or use gluten-free flour to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive guests. Each ingredient adds its unique touch, enhancing the flavor and texture!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Melt the Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t brown too much—just a lovely, creamy melt is what we’re after!
Step 2: Whisk in the Flour
Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk quickly to combine. Cook this mixture for about 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden color. This is your roux, and it’s the backbone of your gravy!
Step 3: Gradually Add the Broth
Slowly pour in the broth while whisking continuously to avoid any lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, which should take about 5-7 minutes. The aroma will start filling your kitchen, and you’ll be so excited!
Step 4: Season and Serve
Finally, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another minute or two, and voila! Your gravy from scratch without drippings is ready to be served!
Nutrition info: Each serving contains approximately 80 calories, 5g fat, 8g carbohydrates, and 1g protein.
Extend instructions: If you want to impress your guests, consider garnishing the gravy with freshly chopped herbs just before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness that elevates the dish even more!
Final Thoughts
There you have it! A simple yet incredibly flavorful gravy from scratch without drippings that’s sure to impress everyone at your table. I can’t stress enough how versatile and easy this recipe is. You’ll love it and want to make it again and again. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to pour this deliciousness over everything on your plate. Happy cooking!