When it comes to elevating a meal, a good gravy can make all the difference. Whether you’re serving up roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or even breakfast favorites like biscuits and eggs, a rich and flavorful gravy can bring everything together. And the best part? Making your own homemade gravy is easier than you might think! With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a variety of creamy gravies that will impress even the pickiest eaters.
From classic turkey gravy to innovative vegan and gluten-free options, we’ve rounded up 20 of the creamiest and most flavorful homemade gravy recipes out there. So why settle for store-bought when you can make your own? Keep reading to discover our top picks for rich and indulgent gravies that are sure to become new family favorites.
Classic Homemade Turkey Gravy
Elevate your holiday meal with this rich and savory homemade turkey gravy recipe, made from the pan drippings of a perfectly roasted turkey.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups turkey pan drippings (cooled slightly)
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the cooled turkey pan drippings and flour until smooth.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Gradually add the warmed chicken broth, whisking until fully incorporated.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
5. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream or half-and-half.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yield: Approximately 2 cups of gravy
Southern-Style Sawmill Gravy
A classic Southern staple, sawmill gravy is a rich and savory accompaniment to biscuits, eggs, or country-style cooking. This recipe yields a thick and flavorful gravy that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter or oil
– 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter or heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes or until lightly browned.
3. Gradually pour in the cream or milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until it thickens to your liking.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Gravy
Elevate your meals with this rich and savory Creamy Mushroom Gravy, perfect for serving over roasted meats or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually stir in heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let gravy thicken, stirring occasionally, about 10-12 minutes or until desired consistency is reached.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herb-Infused Chicken Gravy
Elevate your chicken dishes with a savory and aromatic gravy infused with fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes or until lightly browned.
3. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, bringing to a simmer.
4. Add parsley, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Rich Beef Onion Gravy
Elevate your comfort food game with this hearty beef onion gravy, perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, roasted meats, or as a dip. This rich and savory sauce is made with tender beef broth and caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 cups browned beef trimmings (or 1 cup beef drippings)
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Add beef broth, browned beef trimmings (or drippings), and flour to the skillet. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened to desired consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Vegan Mushroom Gravy
Elevate your plant-based meals with this rich and savory vegan mushroom gravy, perfect for serving over pasta, mashed potatoes, or as a dip. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with umami flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms, garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add broth, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in nutritional yeast (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sausage Gravy
Spicy Sausage Gravy Recipe
This hearty gravy adds a spicy kick to your favorite sausage dishes. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful and comforting meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spicy sausage (such as Andouille or chorizo), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the drippings in the pan.
3. Add the butter, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually add the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
5. Return the sausage to the gravy and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve hot over your favorite sausage dishes, such as mashed potatoes, biscuits, or egg noodles. Enjoy!
Homemade Brown Gravy
Elevate your comfort food game with this simple recipe for homemade brown gravy. Perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, roasted meats, or as a dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter or oil
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter or heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, forming a roux that cooks for 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually add the beef broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens to your liking.
5. Stir in the milk or heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan White Gravy
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and savory Garlic Parmesan White Gravy recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This creamy sauce combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and white wine to create a deliciously indulgent accompaniment.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Sprinkle flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add white wine and chicken broth, whisking constantly.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Wine Reduction Gravy
Elevate your next dinner party with this rich and flavorful Red Wine Reduction Gravy, perfect for accompanying roasted meats or pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Reduce heat to medium-low and bring the red wine to a simmer in a small saucepan.
2. Add butter and whisk until melted and smooth.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Gradually add beef broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened to your liking.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
This Red Wine Reduction Gravy is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. Serve warm over roasted meats, pasta, or as a dipping sauce.
Bacon and Onion Gravy
Rich and savory, this bacon and onion gravy is a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or as a dipping sauce for your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the diced bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon, leaving the grease behind.
3. Add the sliced onions to the same skillet and cook until they’re translucent and starting to caramelize (about 5 minutes).
4. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually add the beef broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rosemary and Thyme Gravy
This aromatic gravy is a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or stuffing. With the earthy flavors of rosemary and thyme, it’s sure to elevate your holiday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– 1 sprig fresh thyme, chopped (about 1 teaspoon)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add chicken and beef broths, whisking constantly.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in chopped rosemary and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramelized Onion Gravy
Elevate your roasted meats or mashed potatoes with this rich and savory caramelized onion gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth, warmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark golden brown and caramelized.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually whisk in the warmed beef broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes or until it has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peppercorn Cream Gravy
Elevate your dish with a rich and creamy peppercorn gravy that’s easy to make and pairs well with roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or sautéed vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the Dijon mustard, black pepper, white pepper, and salt to taste.
6. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Homemade Giblet Gravy
This classic gravy recipe is a staple for many holiday meals. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a rich and savory accompaniment to your roasted turkey or chicken.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups turkey giblet broth (or chicken broth)
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the flour and a splash of the broth until smooth.
2. Add the remaining broth, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the gravy thickens to your liking.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Maple Bourbon Gravy
Elevate your breakfast or brunch with this rich and indulgent maple bourbon gravy. Perfect for topping pancakes, waffles, French toast, or even a savory breakfast plate.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey (or to taste)
– 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the heavy cream and flour until smooth.
2. Add the maple syrup and whisk until combined.
3. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and forms a gravy-like consistency (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in the bourbon whiskey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Gravy
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and smoky chipotle gravy. Perfect for topping mashed potatoes, roasted meats, or even using as a dip, this flavorful condiment is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the chipotle pepper, beef broth, tomato paste, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Onion and Sage Gravy
Elevate your next roasted or grilled meal with this rich and savory gravy, infused with the sweetness of caramelized onions and the earthiness of sage. This recipe is perfect for serving alongside roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or as a dip for crusty bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown.
2. Add the butter, garlic, and sage to the skillet; stir until the butter is melted and fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the gravy for an additional 5-7 minutes or until it has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tangy Mustard Gravy
This tangy mustard gravy recipe adds a tangy twist to the classic Southern staple, perfect for serving over roasted meats or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup butter or oil
– 3 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter or heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually add the mustard, cream, paprika, salt, and pepper, whisking until smooth.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened to your liking.
5. Remove from heat and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Herb Gravy
Elevate your roasted meats with this rich and flavorful gravy, infused with the deep flavor of roasted garlic and a hint of fresh herbs. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 heads of garlic
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the top off each garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and mashed-like.
4. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add roasted garlic and sauté until fragrant.
5. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
6. Stir in thyme and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your mealtime with these 20 creamy homemade gravy recipes! From classic turkey and beef gravies to vegan and vegetarian options, this collection has something for everyone. Discover flavors like mushroom, rosemary and thyme, and caramelized onion, or try one of the many other rich and savory variations. Whether you’re looking to complement a holiday roast or add depth to a weeknight dinner, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So go ahead, get saucy, and make your meals unforgettable with these 20 creamy homemade gravy recipes!