Beef gravy is the perfect companion to your favorite meat and potatoes dinner. It adds deep, savory flavor and a luscious texture that can elevate any meal. If you’ve ever wondered, how do I make beef gravy?-this guide will walk you through easy steps to create a rich, homemade gravy that tastes far better than store-bought versions.
What You Need to Make Beef Gravy
Before you start, gather these basic ingredients:
– Beef drippings or beef broth (or a combination)
– Butter or fat from drippings
– All-purpose flour or cornstarch (for thickening)
– Seasonings: onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optionally beef bouillon
– Water (to mix with starch)
These simple pantry staples will help you whip up a delicious gravy in no time.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Beef Gravy
1. Start with the Fat or Butter
Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter or fat from your beef drippings in a saucepan over medium heat. Let it melt and stop foaming-this is your base for the roux (thickening agent).
2. Make the Roux
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the melted butter. Whisk continuously and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden brown. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and adds a nutty flavor.
3. Add the Liquid
Slowly pour in 2 cups of beef drippings, broth, or stock while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. The liquid should be hot or warm to blend smoothly.
4. Simmer and Thicken
Reduce the heat to low and let the gravy simmer for 2-3 minutes. It will thicken as it cooks. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Season to Taste
Add onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and if you like, a teaspoon of beef bouillon for extra depth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Optional: Adjust Consistency
If your gravy is too thick, whisk in a little more broth or water. If it’s too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and slowly whisk it in, simmering until thickened.
Tips for the Best Beef Gravy
– Use drippings when possible: The juices left in the pan after roasting beef have intense flavor that makes gravy extra special.
– Roast bones and veggies for stock: For homemade stock, roast beef bones and vegetables to caramelize flavors before simmering.
– Skim fat for clarity: While simmering stock or gravy, skim off excess fat for a cleaner taste and appearance.
– Add wine for balance: A splash of red wine reduced with the stock adds acidity and complexity.
– Use beurre manié: Mixing softened butter and flour (beurre manié) and whisking it into your gravy at the end adds gloss and richness.
Quick Beef Gravy Recipe (Summary)
– Melt butter/fat, whisk in flour, cook until light brown.
– Gradually whisk in beef broth or drippings.
– Simmer until thickened.
– Season with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper.
– Adjust thickness with cornstarch slurry if needed.
This method yields about 2 cups of flavorful gravy, perfect for pouring over mashed potatoes, roast beef, or Yorkshire pudding.
Making beef gravy from scratch is easier than you think and much more rewarding than opening a jar. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a rich, silky sauce that brings your meals to life.
Ready to try it out? What’s your favorite dish to serve with beef gravy?