Foolproof Cornstarch Gravy
A quick and versatile gravy thickened with cornstarch, perfect for complementing meats and poultry with rich, savory flavors. Suitable for all hearty comfort meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour off drippings and return 2 tablespoons to roasting pan. Stir in 2 cups liquid.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring to loosen browned bits.
- Remove from heat.
- Mix cornstarch and 1/4 cup water until smooth; stir into liquid in pan.
- Add seasonings.
- Stirring constantly, bring to a boil over medium heat and boil 1 minute.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your gravy, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the drippings before adding the liquid. If you don’t have beef or poultry fat, you can substitute with olive oil or butter, though the flavor will differ slightly. Using low-sodium broth can help you control the saltiness of the final dish. This recipe is perfect to pair with Herbed Meat Loaves.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this rich cornstarch gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a comforting meal. It pairs wonderfully with meats like roast chicken or beef, making it a versatile addition to your dinner table. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Broccoli-Cheddar Meatloaf or Family Goulash for a hearty combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore its consistency. If the gravy thickens too much, whisk in additional liquid until you achieve your desired texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Foolproof Cornstarch Gravy contains roughly 999 calories, with 3g protein, 221g carbohydrates, and 8g fat.
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 use cornstarch instead of flour for gravy?
Yes, cornstarch is a great alternative to flour for thickening gravy. It produces a smooth, glossy finish and is gluten-free. Just remember to mix it with cold water first to create a slurry before adding it to your hot liquid.
How can I make my gravy richer in flavor?
To enrich the flavor of your gravy, consider adding a splash of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or even a bit of red wine. Additionally, incorporating fresh herbs or spices can elevate the taste significantly. A pinch of black pepper or garlic powder can also enhance the overall flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this gravy without drippings?
Absolutely! If you don’t have drippings, you can use butter or oil as a base and enhance the broth with seasonings like onion powder, garlic powder, and herbs to mimic the depth of flavor that drippings provide.
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).