Brown Gravy (No Drippings Needed)
Brown gravy (no drippings needed) is a fantastic shortcut that lets you enjoy rich, savory sauce anytime without roasting meat first. If you’ve ever wondered how to create that deep, comforting flavor without relying on meat drippings, this recipe is for you. It’s easy, quick, and made with pantry staples.
Why You’ll Love It
This brown gravy is smooth, flavorful, and versatile. It pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, meatloaf, and even biscuits. Whether you’re making a weekday dinner or a holiday feast, this recipe gives you that classic gravy taste without the mess and wait time of drippings.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – for a rich base
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – to thicken
- 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian) – the main liquid
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – adds depth (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – subtle savoriness
- Salt and pepper to taste – to season
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and turns a light golden brown, about 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth to avoid lumps and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder, then simmer until thickened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper, taste and adjust if needed, then serve immediately.
Looking for more simple sauces? Check out Easy Weeknight Dinners and Homemade Sauces for more inspiration.
Expert Tips
For lump-free gravy, gradually add broth while whisking vigorously. If it gets too thick, thin it with a splash more broth. To boost umami, add a teaspoon of soy sauce or mushroom powder. You can make this gravy ahead and reheat gently, stirring often.
Storage
Store leftover brown gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months – thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove with a splash of broth.
Variations
- Vegan: Use vegan butter and vegetable broth, skip Worcestershire or use a vegan alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch (mix cornstarch with cold water first).
- Dairy-Free: Use olive oil or dairy-free margarine instead of butter.
FAQ
Q: What is brown gravy (no drippings needed)?
It’s a simple homemade gravy made without roasting meat or using meat drippings, relying instead on butter, flour, and broth for rich flavor.
Q: Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?
Absolutely! Vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian or lighter version.
Q: How do I fix lumpy gravy?
Whisk the gravy vigorously and add broth slowly. If lumps persist, strain the gravy through a sieve.
Q: Can I make this gravy ahead of time?
Yes, store it in the fridge and gently reheat before serving.
Call to Action
Give this easy brown gravy (no drippings needed) a try and let me know how it turns out! Comment below, rate the recipe if you liked it, and share with friends looking for a quick gravy fix.
