Name: Homemade Brown Gravy Recipe: Rich and Velvety
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: ¼ cup unsalted butter (or pan drippings); ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups beef broth; ½ cup chicken broth; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; ¼ tsp dried thyme; ¼ tsp kosher salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; Optional: Fresh thyme; Suggested Pairings: Red wine (mashed potatoes)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Homemade Brown Gravy is a rich, velvety sauce, perfect for elevating mashed potatoes, roasts, meatloaf, or holiday meals. This classic recipe, featuring a deep, savory flavor from pan drippings or butter with a smooth, glossy finish, delivers comforting, crowd-pleasing taste with minimal effort. Presented in a white ceramic gravy boat, optionally garnished with a sprig of fresh thyme, this Homemade Brown Gravy recipe offers a warm, elegant aesthetic that enhances any table. This recipe provides a simple stovetop method with pantry-staple ingredients, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a go-to sauce that brings cozy, heartwarming charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Homemade Brown Gravy:

¼ cup unsalted butter (or ¼ cup pan drippings from roast)
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
½ cup chicken broth (or additional beef broth)
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp dried thyme (or 1 sprig fresh thyme)
¼ tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper

For Serving:

Optional: Fresh thyme sprig
Suggested Accompaniments: Mashed potatoes, roasted turkey, meatloaf
Suggested Pairings: Red wine, sparkling water
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic gravy boat
Suggested Equipment: Medium saucepan, whisk, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt butter (or warm pan drippings) over medium heat.
Make Roux: Sprinkle flour over the butter, whisking constantly for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and nutty-smelling (do not burn).
Add Broth: Gradually whisk in beef and chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Simmer: Bring to a gentle simmer, whisking frequently. Cook for 5–7 minutes until thickened to a velvety consistency (coats the back of a spoon).
Adjust Flavor: Taste a small spoonful and adjust with more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire for a balanced, savory depth.
Serve: Strain if desired for extra smoothness. Pour into a white ceramic gravy boat. Optionally garnish with a fresh thyme sprig. Serve warm over mashed potatoes, roasted turkey, or meatloaf, paired with red wine or sparkling water.

Tips for Better Homemade Brown Gravy

Cook the roux to a golden brown for a rich flavor; avoid dark brown to prevent bitterness.
Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to balance savory, umami, and herbal notes.
Use pan drippings from roast beef or turkey for authentic depth; supplement with butter if needed.
Whisk constantly when adding broth to prevent lumps.
Present in a white ceramic gravy boat to highlight the glossy, rich color.
Make ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance; refrigerate and reheat gently with a splash of broth.
Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with thyme for a warm, elegant pop.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Homemade Brown Gravy: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch (2 tbsp slurry).
Vegetarian Homemade Brown Gravy: Use vegetable broth and butter; omit Worcestershire or use a vegan alternative.
Low-Sodium Homemade Brown Gravy: Use low-sodium broth and reduce salt to ⅛ tsp.
Mushroom Brown Gravy: Sauté ½ cup finely chopped mushrooms with the butter before adding flour.
Onion Brown Gravy: Sauté ¼ cup finely diced onion in butter until caramelized before making roux.
Herb-Infused Brown Gravy: Add 1 tsp fresh chopped rosemary or sage with the thyme.
Creamy Brown Gravy: Stir in 2 tbsp heavy cream at the end for a richer texture.
Slow Cooker Brown Gravy: Make roux on stovetop, then transfer all ingredients to slow cooker; cook on low for 2–3 hours.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat on low with a splash of broth to restore consistency.
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Serve warm for the best velvety texture and bold flavor.
Use as a sauce for entrees or sides at dinners or gatherings.
Pair with red wine or sparkling water to complement the rich, savory flavors.
Present in a white ceramic gravy boat with thyme for a warm, elegant charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 8 servings (about ¼ cup each):

Calories: 80 kcal
Total Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 220mg
Total Carbohydrates: 5g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 0g
Protein: 1g
Vitamin A: 4% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 0% Daily Value
Calcium: 1% Daily Value
Iron: 2% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-sodium or vegetarian options reduce sodium). Moderate in calories; primarily from butter.

Conclusion

This Homemade Brown Gravy recipe delivers a rich, velvety sauce perfect for elevating any meal. It transforms simple ingredients into a classic favorite. Its straightforward preparation and elegant presentation make it a go-to. The smooth texture and deep flavor delight with every pour. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its warm, crowd-pleasing charm.