If you’ve ever found yourself craving that rich, savory sauce from your favorite fast-food spot, you’re in for a real treat with this KFC Style Gravy Recipe. This homemade version captures the perfect balance of buttery smoothness and bold, beefy flavor that makes it the ultimate comfort condiment. Whether you’re spooning it over fluffy mashed potatoes or drizzling it atop crispy chicken, this recipe brings the warmth and nostalgia of Southern cooking right into your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step toward crafting the perfect gravy. Each element plays a vital role in building the gravy’s signature taste, silky texture, and inviting color.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter: Creates the luscious base and adds rich depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the gravy to that ideal velvety consistency.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Provides a light but flavorful foundation to balance the robust beef notes.
- 1 beef bouillon cube (or 1 teaspoon beef bouillon powder): Packs in that unmistakable meaty richness that makes this gravy stand out.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle aromatic sweetness to round out the flavor profile.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder: Just enough to enhance depth without taking center stage.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Delivers a subtle kick and complexity.
- Salt to taste: Customizes the flavor to your liking and brings all the ingredients into harmony.
How to Make KFC Style Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Make the Roux
Start by melting the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour continuously. This constant stirring is the secret to a smooth, golden brown roux that will give your gravy that classic nutty flavor and thick texture. Cook it for 2 to 3 minutes but be careful not to let it burn.
Step 2: Slowly Add the Chicken Broth
Pour the chicken broth into the roux slowly while whisking vigorously. This step is crucial to prevent any lumps from forming and keeps the texture silky smooth. The broth helps loosen that roux into a luscious gravy base.
Step 3: Season with Bouillon and Spices
Next, crumble in your beef bouillon cube or add the beef bouillon powder, followed by the onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. These ingredients bring the savory, herby notes that echo the iconic KFC gravy flavor. Keep whisking everything together so the seasonings meld perfectly.
Step 4: Thicken and Finish
Continue whisking and simmering the gravy for about 5 to 7 minutes, until it reaches your desired thickness. The gravy will coat the back of a spoon when ready, boasting a beautiful, rich color. Taste and adjust with salt if needed. Once perfect, remove from heat and get ready to serve!
How to Serve KFC Style Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives can add a fresh, vibrant touch to your gravy. While optional, these garnishes elevate the presentation and introduce a pop of color that contrasts beautifully with the deep brown sauce.
Side Dishes
This KFC Style Gravy Recipe shines alongside mashed potatoes, creamy mac and cheese, or crispy chicken tenders. It’s also fantastic spooned over roasted vegetables or biscuits for an indulgent Southern meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your gravy game up a notch by serving it in a rustic gravy boat or a small, warm ramekin on the side. Drizzle it artistically over a loaded plate of chicken and mashed potatoes, or use it as a dip for fresh baked breadsticks. The versatility of this gravy makes every meal feel like a special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can easily refrigerate leftover gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before reheating to bring back that smooth texture.
Freezing
This gravy freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. If the gravy thickens too much, simply whisk in a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up again.
FAQs
Can I use homemade chicken broth for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade chicken broth adds a wonderful depth of flavor that enhances the gravy’s richness even more. Just be sure it’s not too salty so you can control the seasoning better.
Is there a gluten-free option for the flour?
Yes, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in equal amounts to keep the gravy safe for those with gluten sensitivities without sacrificing texture.
Can I make this gravy vegan or vegetarian?
For a vegan or vegetarian twist, swap out the butter for plant-based margarine and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Use a vegetarian beef-flavored bouillon or skip it completely, adding extra seasoning for depth.
Why does my gravy have lumps and how can I fix it?
Lumps usually form when the flour and liquid are combined too quickly or not whisked enough. To fix, strain the gravy through a fine mesh sieve to remove lumps or whisk vigorously while adding broth slowly.
Can I add cream to this gravy?
Yes, adding a splash of cream at the end of cooking gives the gravy a silkier, richer taste that’s simply divine. It’s a great way to customize your KFC Style Gravy Recipe for special occasions.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats a homemade version of a beloved classic like the KFC Style Gravy Recipe. The comforting aroma filling your kitchen, the smooth texture, and that unforgettable savory flavor make it a must-try for any gravy lover. I can’t wait for you to make this recipe your go-to for all your cozy meals—once you taste it, you’ll never want to reach for canned gravy again!
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KFC Style Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This KFC Style Gravy recipe replicates the rich, savory gravy served at the fast-food chain, perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes, chicken, or biscuits. Made with a simple roux base and flavored with beef bouillon and classic seasonings, it delivers authentic Southern comfort in just 15 minutes using everyday ingredients.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 beef bouillon cube (or 1 teaspoon beef bouillon powder)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour continuously for 2 to 3 minutes, ensuring the mixture turns golden brown and forms a smooth, thick paste without lumps or burning.
- Add Broth Gradually: Slowly pour in the low-sodium chicken broth while whisking constantly. This gradual addition helps prevent lumps and ensures a silky gravy base.
- Season the Gravy: Add the beef bouillon cube or powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper to the mixture. Continue to whisk to incorporate all seasonings evenly.
- Simmer and Thicken: Cook the gravy over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, whisking often, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. This process allows the flavors to blend and the texture to become smooth.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste the gravy and add salt as needed. Once done, remove from heat and serve warm over mashed potatoes, chicken, or biscuits for a classic Southern experience.
Notes
- For an extra smooth gravy, strain it through a fine mesh sieve before serving.
- You may use store-bought or homemade chicken broth depending on preference and availability.
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of cream or milk after the gravy has thickened.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
