Looking for a quick and easy way to elevate your meals? This Beef Gravy is a game-changer! Made with just a handful of ingredients, it’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes, roast beef, or your favorite sides. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or hosting a special meal, this gravy will take your dishes to the next level. Let’s get started!
Ingredients and Preparation Steps
What You’ll Need:
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 ½ cups water
- 1 tbsp beef bouillon
Step 1: Melt the Butter
First, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. This creates the base for your roux, which will thicken the gravy.
Step 2: Create the Roux
Next, stir in the flour to create a roux, then add the chopped onion. Cook until the onion is softened and the roux turns a light golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Liquid
After, pour in the water and season with beef bouillon. Stir well to combine and ensure the bouillon is fully dissolved.
Step 4: Bring to a Boil
Then, bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. This helps the gravy thicken evenly and prevents lumps from forming.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
Finally, cook until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency, about 3-5 minutes. Pro tip: For extra depth of flavor, use beef broth instead of water and bouillon.
The Best Time to Savor Your Beef Gravy
There’s no better time to enjoy this Beef Gravy than during a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday meal. The rich, savory flavors pair perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a juicy slice of roast beef. For more comforting side dishes, try our Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole or Butternut Squash Soup.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Gravy
Can I make this gravy ahead of time?
Yes! This gravy can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to thin it if needed.
What can I substitute for beef bouillon?
You can use beef stock or broth instead of water and bouillon. Alternatively, use vegetable bouillon for a lighter flavor.
How do I fix lumpy gravy?
If your gravy has lumps, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or blend it with an immersion blender until smooth.
Can I freeze beef gravy?
Absolutely! Freeze the gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
Simple Beef Gravy
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Servings
6
Category
Comfort food
This quick and easy beef gravy is a game-changer for your meals! Made with just a handful of ingredients, it’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes, roast beef, or your favorite sides.
Ingredient
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 ½ cups water
- 1 tbsp beef bouillon
Instructions
- First, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Next, stir in the flour to create a roux, then add the chopped onion.
- After, pour in the water and season with beef bouillon.
- Then, bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Finally, cook until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency, about 3-5 minutes.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 98
- Fat: 8g
- Carbs: 6g
- Protein: 1g
Pro Tips
For extra depth of flavor, use beef broth instead of water and bouillon. It’ll make the gravy even richer!
Pro Tips for Perfect Beef Gravy
Want to take your beef gravy to the next level? These expert tips will help you achieve the best results every time:
- Use Cold Butter: Cold butter helps create a smoother roux, which is the base for a lump-free gravy.
- Cook the Roux Slowly: Take your time cooking the roux until it turns a light golden brown. This adds depth of flavor and prevents a raw flour taste.
- Whisk Constantly: When adding the liquid, whisk constantly to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, velvety texture.
- Adjust Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of water or broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it longer or mix a little cornstarch with water and stir it in.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in fresh thyme or rosemary at the end for an aromatic touch that elevates the flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your beef gravy to keep it tasting fresh:
- Storage: Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth to thin it if needed.
- Freezing: Freeze the gravy in portion-sized containers or freezer bags. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Perfect Pairings for Beef Gravy
Complete your meal with these delicious pairings:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the ultimate companion for beef gravy. Try our Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole for a decadent twist.
- Roast Beef: Drizzle the gravy over a juicy slice of roast beef for a classic comfort meal.
- Biscuits: Serve with warm, flaky biscuits for a Southern-inspired treat. Check out our 3-Ingredient Biscuits recipe.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for a wholesome, balanced meal.
There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, rich beef gravy drizzled over your favorite dishes. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this simple recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your creation and share it with us in the comments below! We’d love to hear how your beef gravy turned out.
For a creative twist, try adding a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce to the gravy for an extra layer of flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to customize the taste. If you’re hosting a larger crowd, double the recipe and serve it in a gravy boat for a festive touch.
We hope you enjoy making and sharing this beef gravy as much as we do. Don’t forget to tag us on social media with #BeefGravy and #ComfortFood so we can see your delicious creations! For more quick and easy recipes, subscribe to our newsletter and get exclusive tips and recipes delivered straight to your inbox.
Happy cooking!