How to Thicken Gravy with Flour

You only need three ingredients to make gravy that's thick, rich, and lump-free

eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.
Image Credit: Charity Curley Mathews, founder of Foodlets.com

Whether you're trying to thicken gravy that's already made, or you're starting from scratch, there's a simple process that results in thick, rich gravy every time. You only need three ingredients and with a few easy steps, you'll have delicious gravy with no lumps in sight. Start with the juices from a roasted turkey, chicken, pork, or beef roast or simply use butter with chicken stock. The process is the same either way, and it works perfectly every time.

Advertisement

Things You'll Need

  • 1/4 cup butter (or cooking fat from any roasted protein)

  • 1/4 cup flour

  • 1 1/2 cups broth (or cooking drippings)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Video of the Day

Tip

This recipe makes enough gravy for 4 to 6 people. If you're hosting a large group, double the recipe and be sure to add a little extra cooking time to each step.

You'll want to use equal amounts fat and flour. If you're starting with the drippings from a roasted turkey, chicken pork, or beef roast, use a fat separator as a first step. Then follow the rest of these directions.

Video of the Day

Image Credit: Charity Curley Mathews, founder of Foodlets.com

1. Melt the butter

In a saute pan, melt your butter.

Image Credit: Charity Curley Mathews, founder of Foodlets.com

2. Add the flour

Whisk an equal amount of flour into the pan with your butter.

Advertisement

Image Credit: Charity Curley Mathews, founder of Foodlets.com

Stir often on medium heat until the flour has cooked, about 2 minutes.

Advertisement

Image Credit: Charity Curley Mathews, founder of Foodlets.com

3. Pour in the liquid

As you continue to whisk, slowly pour your broth (or roasting juices) into the pan.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Image Credit: Charity Curley Mathews, founder of Foodlets.com

4. Bring the gravy to a boil

Allow the gravy to thicken by bringing your pan to a boil. Cook for about 2 minutes for a small batch (or double the time if you are doubling the recipe) until your gravy begins to reduce. Add a little salt and pepper as needed, tasting as you go.

Advertisement

Image Credit: Charity Curley Mathews, founder of Foodlets.com

Serve over mashed potatoes, stuffing, drizzled onto turkey or meat, or simply in a gravy bowl on the table.

Advertisement

Image Credit: Charity Curley Mathews, founder of Foodlets.com

Advertisement