Homemade Brown Gravy Mix is a dry gravy mix that combines pantry staples that you probably already have on hand to create a flavorful base for rich brown gravy. There is no need to go out and buy a packet of dry gravy mix when you can make a batch to have on hand for up to a year! And, you can even make the gravy without any meat drippings. Pour a generous amount of gravy over a pile of skins on mashed potatoes. And, be sure to add this recipe to both Thanksgiving and Christmas menus!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour is the base and thickening agent for the gravy.
Beef Bouillon Powder: Beef bouillon powder gives a concentrated beef flavor to the gravy. For a different flavor profile, you could use chicken or vegetable bouillon powder.
Spices: Black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder are added to the mix to create a balanced and flavorful dry mix.
Parsley: Dried parsley brings a freshness to the mix, contrasting the richer flavors from the other ingredients.
Gravy: When ready to make the gravy, you will need 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter or meat drippings, 2 tablespoons of the homemade gravy mix, and a cup of beef broth.
Unsalted Butter vs. Meat Drippings When Making Gravy
With this homemade brown gravy mix, you have the option of using unsalted butter or meat drippings. Here are some differences:
- Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter gives the gravy a more neutral flavor and lets the spices in the mix shine through. The neutral flavor makes it delicious with a variety of meats and other dishes.
- Meat Drippings: Using meat drippings brings a rich and savory flavor to the gravy. It also makes for a perfect pairing with the meat you have prepared. Different meats produce different flavors in their drippings.
Can I Adjust The Thickness Of The Gravy?
Yes, it is easy to adjust the thickness of the gravy to your liking. If the gravy is too thick, add more liquid (broth or water). On the other hand, if the gravy is too thin, you can let the gravy simmer for a longer amount of time. Or, to thicken it, you could also add a little more of the gravy mix or make a slurry with cornstarch and water to whisk into the gravy.
How To Store Homemade Brown Gravy Mix
Once you have the ingredients combined, store the brown gravy mix in an airtight container at room temperature. When stored in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, it can last up to a year! I prefer a mason jar for storage or a plastic airtight container.
Homemade Brown Gravy Mix
Ingredients
Dry Gravy Mix
- 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (180 g) beef bouillon powder
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
To Make Gravy
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, or meat drippings from turkey, pork, or chicken
- 2 tablespoons gravy mix
- 1 cup (240 g) beef broth
Instructions
Dry Gravy Mix
- In a large bowl, combine flour, beef bouillon powder, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight container. Store it in a cool, dry place for up to 1 year.
To Make Gravy
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter (or meat drippings, if using). Whisk in the dry gravy mix, creating a roux.
- Slowly pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly to break up any clumps.
- Heat the mixture until it reaches a simmer. Continue cooking until the gravy thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (approximately 5 more minutes).
- Remove the gravy from the heat and let it rest. The gravy will continue to thicken as it cools.
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What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
I love that you can make this in advance and have it ready when you need it. It whips up quickly and is perfect for when you get that mashed potato and gravy craving. (Hopefully, I am not the only one who has random cravings for mashed potatoes.)
Elizabeth
I love that you can make a big batch of mix to make gravy anytime! Plus, it's delicious!
Rachael
Loved this! It is so quick to throw together. Whether you have drippings or not, you can just use butter and have a perfect brown gravy! Such a great thing to have on hand in the pantry.
Annabelle
This is a classic, and would be perfect for mashed potatoes!
Bella
Yum! This gravy has a rich and savory taste. It also goes well with traditional holiday dishes like mashed potatoes or turkey!
Selena
Super quick, easy, and tasty gravy. I will definitely be making a batch of this at home to have on hand for the holidays!
I assume you can use the same recipe for chicken gravy substituting chicken boullion and chicken broth in place of the beef.
Why does it have to be unsalted butter? Can I use salted margarine?
This looks good! What is beef bouillon powder? Will you please recommend a brand? I’ve never used it before. Thanks.
Knorr has the best Granulated Beef Bouillon
Thanks!