How to Make Easy Pan Gravy
2025-09-26T00:00:00Z
2025-09-26T00:00:00Z
meals-made-easy
technique
gravy
sauce
beginner
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
- 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.
- If there's visible fat separating, skim off most of it, or leave 2-3 Tbsp for flavor.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat (skip if your drippings have enough fat).
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This is a roux and should smell nutty.
- Slowly pour in the drippings mixture while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened to your liking.
- 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