Brown Gravy (No Drippings Needed) – Easy Homemade Sauce

Make rich, savory brown gravy (no drippings needed) with simple ingredients. Perfect for meats and sides, this easy recipe is ready in minutes.

Brown Gravy (No Drippings Needed)

Why You’ll Love It

Brown gravy (no drippings needed) is an effortless way to enjoy a deeply flavorful, classic sauce without the fuss of roasting meat first. It’s perfect for pouring over mashed potatoes, biscuits, or your favorite protein. This recipe uses simple pantry staples, making it quick to whip up any day of the week.

Unlike traditional gravies that rely on pan drippings, this version guarantees rich taste using beef broth and well-toasted roux. Plus, it’s very forgiving and easy to customize.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (substitute with olive oil for dairy-free)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (gluten-free flour blend works too)
• 2 cups beef broth (vegetable broth for vegan version)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns golden and smells nutty.
3. Gradually pour in the beef broth while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps.
4. Stir in soy sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer. Continue whisking until the gravy thickens.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat and serve immediately.

Expert Tips

• Whisk constantly when adding broth to prevent lumps.
• If gravy is too thick, thin it with a little more broth or water.
• Use low sodium broth to control salt levels.
• Make ahead and reheat gently to avoid separation.
• For a smoother gravy, strain before serving.

Storage

Store leftover brown gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally. You can freeze gravy for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations

• Vegan: Replace butter with olive oil and use vegetable broth.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry instead of all-purpose flour.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with a plant-based oil like avocado or coconut oil.
• Rich and Savory: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or sautéed mushrooms for extra depth.

FAQ

Can I make brown gravy (no drippings needed) ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat gently when ready to serve.

What if my gravy is lumpy?

Whisk vigorously during cooking, or strain the gravy before serving to remove lumps.

Is this brown gravy recipe gluten-free?

The traditional recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can easily substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.

Can I use other types of broth?

Yes, vegetable broth works for a lighter or vegan alternative.

How do I thicken brown gravy quickly?

Make a slurry with cornstarch and cold water, then whisk into the simmering gravy to thicken fast.

Call to Action

Enjoyed this brown gravy (no drippings needed) recipe? Leave a comment below to share your experience, rate the recipe, and don’t forget to save it for your next meal. For more easy sauces and snacks, visit Easy Weeknight Dinners or check out tips on Food Network.