How to Make Gravy Without Drippings

Learn how to make gravy without drippings using chicken broth or beef broth to create a thick homemade gravy for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a simple weeknight dinner.

When you’re craving that classic, flavorful gravy but don’t have drippings from roasted meat, this gravy without drippings recipe is the perfect solution. In less than 10 minutes, you can make a homemade gravy that’s rich, smooth, and ideal for drizzling over creamy mashed potatoes, a classic Lipton meatloaf, Thanksgiving turkey, or any of your favorite dishes.

Why This Gravy Without Drippings Recipe Rules

It’s so simple to make and has saved me many times when I reached for a jar of gravy only to find out that I forgot to buy it.

With about 8 minutes total time, this is an easy gravy recipe perfect for any meal.

Plus, this recipe for gravy without drippings is versatile, and you can customize it with additional seasonings, making it just as tasty as traditional gravy.

Whether you’re deep-frying a turkey, grilling, or simply serving a comforting side dish, making gravy without meat drippings is simple. With just a few pantry staples and chicken broth or beef broth for flavor, you’ll have delicious gravy ready to serve for the holidays.

Gravy Without Drippings Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all purpose flour
• 2 cups broth (chicken, turkey, or beef for different flavors)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Roux

In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once fully melted, add the flour, whisking constantly to form a smooth paste. Continue cooking the roux for about 1 minute, which removes the raw flour taste.

2. Add the Broth

Gradually pour in the broth while whisking to prevent lumps. As you whisk, the mixture will become smooth and start to thicken.

Keep whisking. This is the key step in creating a velvety smooth homemade gravy.

3. Simmer and Season

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 2 to 3 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.

Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices like poultry seasoning or garlic powder. This step enhances the flavor of the gravy and allows you to adjust it to your taste.

Optional seasonings: garlic powder, poultry seasoning, or a dash of onion powder for added depth.

4. Serve Warm

Your delicious gravy is now ready! Pour it over mashed potatoes, turkey, or any main dish you like.

Tips for the Best Flavor

• Use Quality Broth: Since this gravy doesn’t rely on pan drippings for flavor, choosing a good broth is essential. Chicken broth works well for a lighter gravy made from broth, while beef broth makes a rich, brown gravy made from broth.
• Season Well: Add spices like poultry seasoning or garlic powder to elevate the taste, especially if served with Thanksgiving turkey or creamy mashed potatoes.
• Adjust Thickness: For a thicker gravy, let it simmer an extra minute or two, but avoid overcooking to prevent a salty taste. You could also add some gelatin in a pinch to quickly thicken your gravy.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

1. Thanksgiving Gravy: Use turkey broth and a hint of poultry seasoning for a Thanksgiving flavor profile.
2. Beef Gravy: For a rich, savory sauce over meat, use beef broth and a touch of Worcestershire sauce.
3. Poutine: This rich and flavorful gravy can be used to elevate your poutine game, transforming it into a truly indulgent treat—a Canadian dish featuring French fries, cheese curds, and a generous helping of gravy.

Additional Ideas

• Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat as needed.
• Reheat: Gently reheat leftover gravy over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
• Freeze for Later: Place cooled gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Homemade Gravy Without Drippings FAQS

Can I use chicken broth instead of stock for gravy?

Yes, you can use either chicken broth or stock as a base for gravy. While both work well, a more flavorful broth often yields a richer-tasting gravy.

What if my turkey has no drippings?

If you don’t have turkey drippings, you can still make a delicious turkey gravy by starting with a roux. A roux combines flour and fat to thicken the gravy. Once the roux is ready, add a well-flavored broth and seasonings. This creates a Thanksgiving gravy that rivals those made with traditional drippings.

How do you make broth thick like gravy?

To thicken the broth to gravy consistency, create a slurry:

1. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of all-purpose flour or cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water or broth, whisking until smooth.
2. Slowly add the slurry to the broth, whisking continuously over medium heat, until the mixture thickens.
3. Add this to your gravy recipes to thicken.

How do you thicken chicken broth?

To thicken the chicken broth, add flour or cornstarch:

1. Ladle a small amount of broth into a separate bowl and let it cool slightly.
2. Mix in a few tablespoons of flour or cornstarch until smooth.
3. Simmer the broth, gradually adding the thickening mixture. Avoid adding it all at once for a smoother homemade gravy.

Which is better for gravy: stock or broth?

Both stock and broth can be used interchangeably for gravy, soups, or cooking grains. Stock is usually unseasoned, while the broth is seasoned, so depending on your flavor preference, either option will work.

How do you separate the fat from turkey drippings for gravy?

To separate fat from turkey drippings, use a fat separator or other tools. A fat skimmer spoon, which looks like a ladle with small holes, can skim fats from the surface. Another option is to pour the drippings into a plastic bag, allowing the fats and juices to separate naturally when making a drippings gravy.

Recipe Rating and Storage

If you enjoyed this recipe, give it a 5-star recipe rating below!

This quick and easy gravy recipe is a versatile option for any meal, adding the perfect finishing touch without requiring drippings.

Enjoy a flavorful, delicious gravy every time!

More HomestyleReipes You’ll Love

• One Pot Chicken Soup Recipe
• One Pot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
• Garlic Knots With Biscuit Dough
• Venison Meatloaf

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