How to Make Easy Pan Gravy

2025-09-26T00:00:00Z 2025-09-26T00:00:00Z meals-made-easy technique gravy sauce beginner

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Meals Made Easy by Tayler DiGiacomo

Easy Pan Gravy

Prep & Cook: 10 minutes

A simple, foolproof gravy using the pan drippings from any roasted meat — pot roast, roasted chicken, steak, or meatloaf.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups liquid (pan drippings + broth to make up the difference)
  • 2 Tbsp butter (if drippings are lean)
  • 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. After cooking your roast or chicken, pour the pan drippings through a fine-mesh strainer into a measuring cup. Add enough broth to make 2 cups total.
  2. If there's visible fat separating, skim off most of it, or leave 2-3 Tbsp for flavor.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat (skip if your drippings have enough fat).
  4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This is a roux and should smell nutty.
  5. Slowly pour in the drippings mixture while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
  6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened to your liking.
  7. Season with salt and pepper. Add a splash of Worcestershire or soy sauce for extra depth.

Ingredient Swaps

  • No drippings? Use all broth and a splash of soy sauce for color
  • Want it thicker? Mix 1 Tbsp cornstarch with 2 Tbsp cold water, whisk in at the end
  • Want it richer? Add a splash of heavy cream at the end

Serving Suggestions

  • Pot roast dinners
  • Mashed potatoes (poured right on top)
  • Chicken and dumplings
  • Meatloaf slices