Brown Gravy Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade brown gravy with this easy recipe! Perfect for mashed potatoes, turkey, or roast beef, this savory gravy is rich, silky, and packed with flavor. Made with chicken broth, beef broth, and a hint of Worcestershire sauce, it’s ready in minutes and perfect for any meal. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this quick and versatile gravy will elevate your dishes with its velvety texture and bold taste.

Ingredients

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cube beef bouillon or 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (or substitute with soy sauce)
• 2-3 drops Kitchen Bouquet browning and seasoning sauce (optional, can use Gravy Master as an alternative)
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon cold unsalted butter

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the chicken broth, beef broth, beef bouillon, onion powder, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine.
2. Adjust Color (Optional): For a richer, darker color, add 2-3 drops of Kitchen Bouquet or Gravy Master. Stir to mix evenly.
3. Prepare Thickening Slurry: In a small container with a lid, combine the cold water and cornstarch. Shake vigorously until fully blended and smooth.
4. Thicken the Gravy: Bring the broth mixture to a boil over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the cornstarch slurry, continuing to whisk as the gravy thickens. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
5. Simmer: Let the gravy gently simmer for 2-3 minutes to reach your desired thickness and concentration of flavors.
6. Finish with Butter: Remove the saucepan from heat and swirl in the cold unsalted butter until fully melted and incorporated. This step adds a silky and velvety texture to the gravy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and savory, this gravy elevates any meal with its perfect balance of flavors.
• Quick and easy to prepare with pantry staples.
• Customizable to suit your taste preferences.
• Silky, restaurant-quality texture that complements a variety of dishes.

Tips

• Use low-sodium broths if you’re watching your salt intake and adjust seasoning as needed.
• For a deeper flavor, you can sauté a small amount of diced onion in butter before adding the broth.
• Make sure to mix the cornstarch slurry thoroughly to avoid lumps in the gravy.

Variations and Substitutions

• Substitute Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce or tamari for a different flavor profile.
• Add a splash of red wine or sherry for a more sophisticated taste.
• For a thicker gravy, increase the cornstarch to 4 tablespoons.
• Replace cornstarch with flour for a more traditional roux-style gravy.

FAQs

1. Can I make this gravy ahead of time? Yes! Store the prepared gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently.
2. Can I freeze leftover gravy? Absolutely. Let the gravy cool completely, then freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
3. What if my gravy is too thin? Whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and add to the simmering gravy. Cook until it thickens to your liking.
4. What if my gravy is too thick? Stir in a small amount of warm broth or water until the desired consistency is reached.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect over mashed potatoes, roasted meats, or turkey.
• Use as a dipping sauce for fries or bread.
• Drizzle over meatloaf, rice, or stuffing for a comforting meal.
• Pair with biscuits for a classic breakfast treat.

Suggestions

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
• For a richer taste, add a touch of heavy cream before serving.
• Pair with your favorite sides like green beans or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.