Best Gluten Free Gravy Easy Recipe

The smell of Sunday pot roast always takes me back to my grandma’s kitchen in Waco. That rich, savory aroma, mingling with the laughter of family gathered around the table… pure comfort. But when my daughter was diagnosed with a gluten intolerance, I knew I needed to recreate that classic gravy, gluten-free, without sacrificing any of that down-home flavor. After many attempts, I’ve landed on this incredibly easy and delicious gluten free gravy recipe that even the pickiest eaters in my family devour. Whether you have pan drippings or not, this recipe guarantees a smooth, flavorful gravy every time. Trust me; I’ve made this at least a dozen times in my own Texas kitchen and it comes out perfect every time!

This recipe will give you a perfectly smooth, flavorful gravy that will have everyone asking for seconds. And the best part? It’s so simple to make, even on a busy weeknight.

Why This Recipe Works

This isn’t your average gluten-free gravy! I’ve made it my mission to create a recipe that works flawlessly every single time, even when I’m short on time and patience (which, let’s be honest, is most days!). Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Foolproof: No lumps, guaranteed! The key is to whisk constantly.
• Versatile: Works with or without pan drippings, making it a go-to recipe no matter what you’re cooking.

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons butter (or oil, if dairy-free)
• 1/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (make sure it contains xanthan gum)
• 4 cups chicken broth (or beef broth, vegetable broth, or drippings + broth to equal 4 cups)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (check to ensure it’s gluten-free)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup pan drippings (from roasted chicken, beef, or turkey)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! The right ingredients make all the difference. Here’s the lowdown:

• Gluten-Free Flour Blend: Make sure it contains xanthan gum. This is crucial for thickening the gravy properly. Not all blends are created equal, so experiment to find your favorite. I prefer Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour, but any blend designed to replace regular flour should work.
• Broth: Chicken broth is my go-to, but beef or vegetable broth work beautifully too. For richer flavor, use pan drippings in addition to broth.
• Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a lovely depth of flavor. Double check the label to ensure it’s gluten-free!
• Pan Drippings: If you’re using drippings from a roast, strain them first to remove any solids.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make this amazing gravy, step-by-step:

1. Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter (or heat the oil). Make sure the pan is large enough to hold all the liquid later.
2. Whisk in the Flour: Add the gluten-free flour blend to the melted butter. Whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until a smooth paste forms. This is called a roux, and it’s the foundation of your gravy. This step helps cook out the raw flour taste and ensures a smooth gravy.
3. Slowly Add the Broth: Gradually whisk in the broth, about 1/2 cup at a time, making sure each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. This prevents lumps from forming. Keep whisking – it’s a great arm workout!
4. Stir in Seasonings: Add the Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer and Thicken: Bring the gravy to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches your desired thickness. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The gravy will thicken as it cools, so don’t overcook it.
6. Season to Taste: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
7. Serve: Serve hot over your favorite dishes. Mashed potatoes and chicken-fried steak are always a hit at my house!

Storage & Meal Prep

Got leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat your gluten-free gravy:

• Storage: Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to thin it out. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Make-Ahead: You can make the gravy a day or two in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. The flavors actually deepen overnight!

Substitutions & Variations

Want to mix things up a bit? Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:

• Dairy-Free: Use oil instead of butter and ensure your broth is dairy-free.
• Beef Gravy: Use beef broth instead of chicken broth for a richer, heartier gravy.
• Mushroom Gravy: Sauté sliced mushrooms in the butter before adding the flour for a delicious mushroom gravy.
• Herb Gravy: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to the gravy while it simmers for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gravy without drippings?

Absolutely! This recipe works perfectly fine without drippings. Just use broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable) in place of the drippings. You might want to add a little extra butter or oil for richness.

What if my gravy is too thin?

If your gravy is too thin, continue to simmer it over low heat for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired thickness. You can also mix a teaspoon of gluten-free flour with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the gravy. Simmer for a minute or two until thickened.

What if my gravy has lumps?

Lumps happen! If your gravy is lumpy, don’t panic. Use an immersion blender to smooth it out. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully pour the gravy into a regular blender and blend until smooth (be careful with hot liquids!). Then, return it to the saucepan and continue to simmer.

Can I freeze this gravy?

Yes, you can freeze gluten-free gravy! Let it cool completely, then pour it into a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely! My kids love this gravy. You can adjust the seasonings to suit their tastes. If your kids are sensitive to pepper, you can omit it or use a very small amount.

Serving Suggestions

This gravy is incredibly versatile and goes well with so many dishes! Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve it:

• Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing!
• Roasted Chicken or Turkey: Perfect for holidays or Sunday dinner.
• Chicken Fried Steak: A true Texas favorite!
• Biscuits: Drizzle it over warm, flaky biscuits for a comforting breakfast or brunch.
• Meatloaf: Elevate your meatloaf with a generous serving of this gravy.

There you have it – my go-to gluten free gravy recipe! I hope this recipe brings as much comfort and joy to your family table as it does to mine. Remember, cooking is all about experimentation and making it your own, so don’t be afraid to tweak the seasonings or add your own special touch. I can’t wait to hear how this turns out for you! Leave a comment below and let me know what you served it with. And if you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my other family favorites on FamiliesRecipes.com – and don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter to get delicious recipes delivered straight to your inbox!

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