Ham gravy is a thick, savory sauce that's perfect for drizzling over your favorite dishes. Made from the rich, flavorful juices left after baking ham, it's a simple way to add a burst of flavor to any meal. This gravy combines the deep taste of ham with the creamy texture of a traditional gravy, making it a hit at family dinners, especially during the holidays.
Whether you're a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. It turns the ordinary into something extraordinary, making even simple meals feel a bit more special.
Why This Recipe Works
This ham gravy recipe is a winner because it's incredibly versatile and easy to make. It uses the drippings from your cooked ham, which are full of flavor, ensuring that none of that deliciousness goes to waste. By adding just a few more ingredients like flour for thickening, milk for creaminess, and a touch of seasoning, you transform these juices into a rich and velvety sauce. It's a great way to enhance the taste of your ham, making it even more moist and delicious. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, from mashed potatoes to green beans, adding depth and richness to your plate.
Another great thing about this recipe is how it caters to different dietary needs with simple substitutions. Whether you need to make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegetarian, you can adjust the ingredients without losing the essence of the gravy. It's also a fantastic way to impress your guests without putting in too much effort. Serving homemade gravy made from scratch shows a level of care and attention to detail that doesn't go unnoticed. So, if you're looking to elevate your meals with something that feels homey yet sophisticated, this ham gravy recipe is the way to go.
Ingredients
Ham Drippings: The juice left from cooking ham, full of flavor. Substitute: Chicken or beef broth for a different base if you don't have drippings.
Flour: Thickens the gravy, giving it the perfect consistency. Substitute: Cornstarch for a gluten-free option, but mix it with cold water first to make a slurry.
Milk: Adds creaminess and a slight richness to the gravy. Substitute: Half-and-half for a richer taste or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
Black Pepper: Provides a simple seasoning that enhances the overall flavor. Substitute: White pepper for a smoother taste.
Butter: Used if you need more fat in the base, especially when using broth instead of drippings. Substitute: Margarine for a non-dairy option.
Tips
- Whisk the flour into the drippings slowly to avoid lumps.
- Cook the flour mixture (roux) for a few minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
- Stir continuously while adding the milk to ensure a smooth texture.
- If the gravy is too thick, add more milk a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper if necessary.
How to Serve
Ham gravy is a versatile sauce that can elevate many dishes with its rich, savory flavor. It's especially popular during the holidays as a complement to baked ham, but it's also a comforting addition to everyday meals.
- Over Mashed Potatoes: Pouring ham gravy over creamy mashed potatoes makes for a classic and irresistible combination.
- With Biscuits: Serve the gravy with freshly baked biscuits for a Southern-inspired breakfast or brunch.
- As a Base for Casseroles: Use the gravy as a flavorful base for potato, rice, or vegetable casseroles, adding depth and richness.
Similar Recipes
Ham Gravy
Ingredients
- 2 cups ham drippings or broth
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter if needed
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- If you don’t have enough fat from the drippings, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour to make a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes until it turns light brown.
- Gradually whisk in the ham drippings (or broth) to the roux, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Slowly add the milk while continuing to whisk, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Add the black pepper.
- Cook until the gravy has thickened to your liking, about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and more pepper if needed.
- Serve the gravy warm over your choice of dishes.
Nutrition
Notes
• Cook the flour mixture (roux) for a few minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
• Stir continuously while adding the milk to ensure a smooth texture.
• If the gravy is too thick, add more milk a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper if necessary.