Brown Gravy (No Drippings Needed)
If you’re looking for a simple, classic, and reliable brown gravy recipe, you’re in the right place. This brown gravy (no drippings needed) packs that rich, comforting flavor without having to wait for roast drippings or make complicated reductions.
It’s made with basic pantry ingredients, comes together in about 20 minutes, and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, meatloaf, and even roasted veggies. Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight dinner or prepping for a holiday feast, this gravy is a must-know.
Why You’ll Love It
This recipe delivers on flavor and texture without fuss. It’s smooth, thick enough to coat your fork, and easy enough for even beginner cooks. Plus, it’s very adaptable, letting you add your own twists or keep it classic.
Since it doesn’t rely on drippings, you don’t need to be roasting meat to get a delicious gravy fast. Just gather a few staple ingredients and you’re set. It’s also naturally gluten-free if you swap flour for cornstarch or a gluten-free alternative.
Ingredients
- 2 cups beef broth – use low sodium for better salt control
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – for richness and depth
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – creates a smooth, thick base; can substitute with gluten-free flour or cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce – adds umami and color
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
If you don’t have beef broth, a high-quality vegetable broth can be used in a pinch, though the flavor will be milder. For vegan-friendly swaps, see the variations below.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring continuously for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden brown and smells nutty.
- Gradually add the beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add the soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for that signature savory flavor and darker color.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cook for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and serve warm over your favorite dishes.
For a richer gravy, try adding a splash of cream or a knob of butter right before serving.
Explore more savory sauces in our Dips & Sauces collection to complement your meals perfectly.
Expert Tips
If your gravy turns out too thick, whisk in a little more broth or water until you reach the right consistency. If it’s too thin, cook it a bit longer to reduce or add a small amount of flour slurry to thicken.
When whisking the flour into the butter, keep the mixture moving to avoid burning and to unlock that nutty golden flavor that’s key to great brown gravy.
You can prepare this gravy ahead of time and gently reheat it, adding a splash of broth or water to thin if needed.
Storage
Store leftover brown gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container and use within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Variations
- Vegan: Replace butter with olive oil or vegan margarine, use vegetable broth, and add tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- Gluten-free: Use cornstarch or arrowroot powder instead of flour to thicken.
- Dairy-free: Substitute butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine.
- Smoky: Add a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky twist.
FAQ
- Can I make brown gravy without drippings?
- Yes! This brown gravy (no drippings needed) recipe uses broth and a simple roux to create a rich, flavorful gravy without meat drippings.
- How do I avoid lumps in gravy?
- Constant whisking while adding the broth gradually helps prevent lumps, and cooking the roux before adding liquid ensures smoothness.
- Can I use this gravy for turkey or chicken?
- Absolutely! This versatile brown gravy pairs well with turkey, chicken, beef, or vegetarian dishes.
- How thick should brown gravy be?
- It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. Adjust thickness by simmering longer or adding a bit more liquid.
- Can I make this gravy ahead of time?
- Yes, it stores well in the fridge and can be reheated. Add broth to loosen it if it thickens too much.
Call to Action
Have you tried this brown gravy (no drippings needed) recipe? Let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next meal and share it with friends who love easy comfort food!
For more easy sauces and dinner ideas, browse our Easy Weeknight Dinners and Savory Sauce Recipes. Also, check trusted resources like Food Network for additional gravy tips and inspiration.
