Homemade Country Gravy is a quintessential Southern comfort food, known for its rich and creamy texture. Perfect for drizzling over biscuits, fried chicken, or potatoes, this classic white gravy is an easy-to-make staple that elevates any meal. The origins of country gravy can be traced back to rural kitchens where simple, hearty ingredients were used to create satisfying dishes. Whether you’re preparing a lazy Sunday brunch or a cozy family dinner, this gravy is a delightful addition that brings warmth and flavor to your table.
The beauty of country gravy lies in its simplicity and versatility. Made from basic pantry staples like butter, flour, and milk, it comes together quickly and effortlessly. The addition of seasonings such as chicken bouillon, Old Bay, and onion powder enhances its savory depth, making it irresistible. This recipe ensures a smooth, lump-free gravy that coats your food with a velvety finish, perfect for those who love the comfort of traditional Southern cuisine.
This guide will walk you through the steps to create this delicious gravy from scratch, along with several variations and substitutions to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
Homemade Country Gravy Recipe
Ingredients
4 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon granulated chicken bouillon
⅛ teaspoon seasoning salt
⅛ teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon salt
2 cups milk
½ cup half and half
Instructions
Melt the Butter:
In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, melt the butter completely, ensuring it coats the bottom evenly.
Add Flour:
Whisk in the flour, stirring continuously to blend with the butter. Cook for about 3 minutes until the mixture turns a warm, toasted brown color.
Season:
Add the granulated chicken bouillon, seasoning salt, Old Bay Seasoning, black pepper, onion powder, and salt. Continue whisking to combine.
Incorporate Milk and Half and Half:
Slowly pour in the milk and half and half, whisking continuously. Stir for about 5 minutes as the gravy thickens. Ensure constant stirring to maintain a smooth consistency and prevent lumps.
Adjust Consistency:
If the gravy is too thick, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Serve:
Remove from heat and serve immediately over your favorite dishes such as biscuits, fried chicken, or mashed potatoes.
Variations
Sausage Gravy:
Cook 1/2 pound of crumbled sausage in the skillet before adding the butter. Use the rendered fat along with the butter to make the roux.
Mushroom Gravy:
Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms in the butter before adding the flour for an earthy, umami flavor.
Bacon Gravy:
Replace the butter with bacon drippings and add crumbled cooked bacon to the finished gravy for a smoky, savory twist.
Cheese Gravy:
Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese at the end for a rich, cheesy variation.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Option:
Substitute butter with a plant-based margarine and use almond milk or another dairy-free milk.
Gluten-Free Gravy:
Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Low-Sodium Gravy:
Use low-sodium chicken bouillon and omit the added salt.
Vegan Gravy:
Use vegetable broth powder instead of chicken bouillon and replace dairy products with vegan alternatives.
Conclusion
Homemade Country Gravy is a delightful and versatile addition to any meal. Its rich, creamy texture and savory flavor make it a favorite comfort food that pairs well with a variety of dishes. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures that you can create a perfect, lump-free gravy every time. With the included variations and substitutions, you can tailor the gravy to fit your dietary preferences and taste. Whether you’re serving it over fluffy biscuits or crispy fried chicken, this country gravy is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this classic Southern dish and make every meal a little more special.