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Ultimate Homemade Brown Gravy (No Drippings Needed)

Close-up of rich, dark homemade brown gravy served in a small white bowl on a wooden surface.

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Make rich, savory, velvety brown gravy from scratch without needing meat drippings. This easy stovetop recipe delivers classic comfort flavor perfect for mashed potatoes, roast beef, or meatloaf.

Ingredients

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  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk the flour into the melted butter. Cook this roux, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes until it turns a light, nutty brown color. Do not let it burn.
  3. Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, still whisking occasionally. The gravy will begin to thicken as it heats.
  5. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and thyme.
  6. Reduce the heat to low and let the gravy simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the gravy to reach your desired thickness.
  7. Taste the gravy and season with salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Remove from heat and serve immediately over your favorite dishes for a truly rich savory sauce.

Notes

  • For a deeper brown color, cook the roux for an extra minute or two until it reaches a darker brown shade before adding the liquid.
  • If the gravy becomes too thick upon standing, whisk in a tablespoon of warm broth or water until it loosens.
  • This recipe works well as a base for chicken or turkey gravy; simply substitute the beef broth with the appropriate stock.

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