Homemade Gravy (Rich, Savory & Perfect for Thanksgiving)

Warm, smooth, and full of flavor, this Homemade Gravy is your secret to stress-free Thanksgiving dinners. With its buttery base and deep, savory notes, it’s comfort in liquid form. You’ll love how easy it is to make with simple pantry staples whisked into silky perfection. Pour it over mashed potatoes, turkey, or biscuits and watch everyone reach for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Gravy

This homemade gravy is quick, rich, and foolproof. It starts with butter and flour, creating that classic roux you know and love. As it simmers, the flavors deepen, turning your simple broth into a smooth, glossy sauce that tastes like it came from grandma’s kitchen. It’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy holiday prep or any weeknight comfort meal. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or serving Sunday roast, this gravy ties every dish together beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll only need a few basic ingredients: unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, chicken bouillon powder, garlic powder, dried parsley, black pepper, and beef broth. If you prefer a lighter flavor, swap in chicken broth instead of beef. Gluten-free? No problem — use a gluten-free flour blend and broth. This recipe makes about 2 cups of gravy, enough for a small gathering, but it doubles easily when you need more.

How to Make Homemade Gravy

Step 1: Make the Roux

Start by melting butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 2–3 minutes. You’ll see the mixture turn golden and smell slightly nutty — that’s your perfect base forming.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

Next, stir in chicken bouillon powder, garlic powder, parsley, and black pepper. This blend builds layers of flavor, giving the gravy a rich, savory depth that balances beautifully with the butter.

Step 3: Gradually Add Broth

Slowly pour in the beef broth, about half a cup at a time. Whisk well after each addition to keep the texture smooth. Taking your time here prevents lumps and helps everything come together perfectly.

Step 4: Simmer Until Thickened

Once all the broth is added, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Keep whisking for 5–10 minutes until it thickens to your liking. The longer it simmers, the richer it gets, so you can adjust based on your preference.

Step 5: Taste and Serve

Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. When the gravy coats the back of a spoon, it’s ready. Serve it warm and enjoy that comforting, homemade touch at your table.

Pro Tips for Perfect Gravy

Whisk constantly to avoid lumps. Always use warm broth — it blends better with the roux. If your gravy gets too thick, add a splash of broth to loosen it. Don’t rush the simmering; it’s where the flavor develops. Also, remember gravy thickens as it cools, so stop cooking just before your desired consistency. For larger gatherings, double the recipe. A quick stir before serving will bring it right back to silky smoothness.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to one month. When reheating, warm it slowly on the stove over low heat, whisking often. If it thickens too much, simply add a splash of broth or water until smooth again. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can cause uneven texture.

Recipe Notes and Nutrition Facts

Each serving (¼ cup) contains about 58 calories, 1g of carbs, 1g of protein, and 6g of fat. This recipe yields 8 servings or roughly 2 cups total. Prep takes 5 minutes, cooking another 15, for a total of 20 minutes. It’s a small-batch gravy perfect for intimate dinners but easy to scale up. Expect a rich brown color, smooth texture, and deep umami flavor that brings any dish to life.

What to Serve with Homemade Gravy

Homemade gravy shines when poured over mashed potatoes, roast turkey, or juicy chicken. It’s also wonderful drizzled over meatloaf, biscuits, or even stuffing. Try pairing it with this garlic mashed potatoes recipe thanksgiving or a cheesy root vegetable gratin thanksgiving for a comforting feast. For a colorful side, the roasted butternut squash salad thanksgiving side adds balance and freshness.

Related Recipes to Try

• vegan gravy recipe for the holidays
• southern green bean casserole recipe
• creamy scalloped potatoes christmas dinner

FAQs About Homemade Gravy

Conclusion

Making homemade gravy is simpler than it seems and totally worth the effort. With just butter, flour, and broth, you get a silky, flavorful sauce that transforms any meal into a cozy feast. Whether for Thanksgiving or a regular dinner, this gravy recipe is one you’ll make again and again. Don’t forget to pin it on Pinterest and share it with fellow home cooks — they’ll thank you later.

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