Gravy Recipe With Bacon Grease That’s Rich and Delicious

If you’re looking to elevate your comfort food game, mastering a rich and flavorful gravy made with bacon grease is an absolute must. This classic Southern-style gravy harnesses the smoky, savory goodness of bacon fat to create a luscious sauce that’s perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes, biscuits, fried chicken, or even a hearty breakfast of eggs and toast.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity — using just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a gravy that’s bursting with depth and warmth. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special holiday feast, this bacon grease gravy will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Not only does this gravy taste incredible, but it also makes great use of bacon grease, reducing waste and adding a layer of flavor that butter or oil alone can’t replicate. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and customizable, so you can adjust the thickness and seasoning to suit your personal preferences.

Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This gravy recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves the smoky richness of bacon but also wants a smooth, velvety sauce. By using bacon grease as the fat base, you infuse every bite with an irresistible depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.

It’s perfect for comforting classic dishes and adds a nostalgic, home-cooked feel to any meal.

Additionally, it’s a fantastic way to make use of bacon grease instead of throwing it away. This recipe is straightforward, requires minimal ingredients, and is quick to make, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Plus, the gravy is versatile: you can keep it traditional or add your own twist with herbs, spices, or even a splash of hot sauce. It’s the perfect finishing touch for your favorite dishes.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons bacon grease (reserved from cooked bacon)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for creamier gravy)
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor
• Optional: Pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick

Equipment

• Skillet or saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Serving bowl or gravy boat

Instructions

1. Reserve your bacon grease. After cooking bacon in a skillet, carefully pour out the rendered bacon grease into a heat-safe container. You’ll need about 3 tablespoons for this recipe.
2. Heat the bacon grease. Place the skillet back on medium heat and add the reserved 3 tablespoons of bacon grease.
3. Make a roux. Sprinkle the 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour evenly over the hot bacon grease. Stir constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon to combine, cooking the mixture for about 2-3 minutes. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and creates the base for a smooth gravy.
4. Gradually add milk. Slowly pour in 2 cups of whole milk while whisking continuously. This prevents lumps from forming and helps the gravy thicken evenly.
5. Simmer and thicken. Continue to whisk as the mixture heats and thickens, about 4-6 minutes. You want a smooth, creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
6. Season the gravy. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If using, stir in garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne pepper now for extra flavor and complexity.
7. Adjust consistency if needed. If the gravy is too thick, whisk in a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency. If too thin, continue to cook a bit longer to thicken.
8. Serve immediately. Pour the gravy over your favorite dishes or keep warm until ready to serve. Enjoy the smoky, creamy goodness!

Tips & Variations

Tip: For the best flavor, use bacon grease that’s freshly rendered and strained to remove any bits of burnt bacon. This keeps your gravy smooth and rich without any unwanted texture.

Variation: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like thyme or sage for a fragrant twist. Alternatively, stir in a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce for extra savory depth and zing.

Pro Tip: If you want a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (use half the amount of cornstarch mixed with cold milk before adding).

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This bacon grease gravy pairs beautifully with traditional Southern dishes. Try it spooned generously over fluffy buttermilk biscuits for a classic biscuit and gravy breakfast.

It also complements mashed potatoes, fried chicken, pork chops, or even roasted vegetables. For an indulgent twist, drizzle it over creamy grits or use it as a sauce for breakfast casseroles.

Don’t hesitate to get creative—this gravy’s smoky richness makes it a versatile addition to many meals.

Conclusion

Making gravy with bacon grease is a simple yet incredibly rewarding way to add flavor and depth to your meals. This recipe transforms humble ingredients into a decadent, silky sauce that brings comfort and joy to every bite.

By utilizing bacon grease, you not only enhance the taste but also make your cooking a bit more sustainable by minimizing waste.

Whether you’re serving it up for a cozy breakfast or as a finishing touch to dinner, this gravy is sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try and enjoy the warm, smoky satisfaction it brings to your plate.

For more delicious recipes to complement this gravy, check out our crispy southern fried chicken recipe, classic mashed potatoes, or homemade buttermilk biscuits. Happy cooking!

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