Crater Gravy
Crater Gravy is a rich, savory sauce with beef and mushroom flavors, perfect for hearty meals and comforting dishes, appealing to meat lovers and gravy enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Over medium heat, melt the margarine in a saucepan and stir in the flour to make a roux.
- Gradually stir in the beef broth and water, mixing well.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook down until thickened.
- Add the mushroom soup and cook for an additional 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade beef broth instead of canned. If you're out of margarine, butter is a great substitute. To make the gravy gluten-free, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour. Stir continuously to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth texture. You can also add garlic powder or onion powder for an extra flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions
Crater gravy is perfect over mashed potatoes or served alongside roasted vegetables. It pairs beautifully with our Plan Ahead Beef Stew for a comforting meal. Consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce or alongside Steak And Pepper Sandwiches for a hearty lunch option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover crater gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or beef broth if it has thickened too much. Stir frequently to maintain a creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crater Gravy contains roughly 950 calories, with 8g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 83g fat. It is a good source of iron (17% of the Daily Value) and protein (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1214mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crater gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stovetop before serving. It may thicken as it cools, so adding a bit of broth or water while reheating will help restore its creamy texture.
Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
Absolutely! While the flavor will differ slightly, chicken broth can be a suitable substitute if you prefer a lighter taste. Just be aware that it may alter the overall flavor profile of the gravy, making it less robust compared to using beef broth.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by using vegetable broth instead of beef broth and substituting the mushroom soup with a plant-based alternative. You can also add sautéed mushrooms for an additional depth of flavor, perfect for enhancing the sauce.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).