No Fail, No Fuss Basic Gravy
A quick and foolproof gravy that adds rich flavor to meats, mashed potatoes, and vegetables. Its simple ingredients and straightforward method make it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners, ensuring a smooth, flavorful sauce every time without any fuss.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the fat drippings in a saucepan over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry.
- Add the liquid (water, bouillon, or broth) to the saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the gravy. You can substitute fat drippings with butter or olive oil if needed. If you prefer a gluten-free option, use arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch. Ensure to stir the slurry well to prevent clumps from forming in the gravy.
Serving Suggestions
This basic gravy pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted meats, or even over biscuits for a hearty breakfast. It can also enhance dishes like Koinonia Granola when served with savory toppings. For a complete meal, serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth to thin it out if necessary. Stir frequently to maintain a smooth consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of No Fail, No Fuss Basic Gravy contains roughly 186 calories, with 3g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (15% 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 make this gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to reheat gently to avoid separation. If the gravy thickens too much after cooling, simply add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
What can I use if I don't have cornstarch?
If you don't have cornstarch, you can use all-purpose flour as a thickener instead. Mix it with cold water to make a slurry, similar to how you would with cornstarch. Just keep in mind that flour will give the gravy a slightly different texture and flavor.
How can I make this gravy vegetarian?
To make this gravy vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of meat-based liquids and substitute the fat drippings with olive oil or vegan butter. This will provide a deliciously rich flavor without any animal products.
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).