Some might say my best gravy recipe is “cheating”, but I call it delicious and super easy. I have never been good at making gravy from scratch, like many of my family and friends. This is why I use a starter of sorts, but not in a package or jar. I still believe this way of making gravy counts as a homemade gravy recipe, even though it needs a little help to start.
Supplies
To begin, you will need the following:
Cream of Mushroom Soup (or Cream of Chicken Soup)
Sausage (any kind)
Water
Flour
Salt
Already we are off to a great start, since we are not using a package of “just add water” gravy. I don’t believe the flavor is as good as homemade, nor are the jars as good as making it yourself. Plus, of course, you have a sense of accomplishment when you start with basic, “from scratch” ingredients. I purposely leave out pepper in this best gravy recipe, because the sausage has enough flavor on its own without the need for extra pepper. You especially won’t need pepper in your gravy if you use Italian sausage of some sort, since it will already have a spicy bite.
Making the Gravy
The first thing you’ll need to do to “get ready” for the gravy is cook the sausage. Fry up your sausage in a pan like you normally would, crumbling it and making sure it’s fully cooked. You can use Italian sausage, sausage links, or sausage from the local meat department of the store, just as long as the end result is cooked, crumbled sausage. If you would like to add any spices to your gravy, it’s best to add it with the sausage while frying it.
Next, you’ll turn your heat down to medium low, and add a can of cream of mushroom soup. Mix together sausage, soup, and grease from the sausage. You should now have your gravy base in the pan, simmering together.
The last step is going to be the most difficult, but is still much easier than had you started from scratch. Since you already have a good gravy base, you can make it thicker or thinner by slowly adding flour or water. You will want to add only about ¼ of a cup of either water or flour at a time, so as to adjust it to your liking without losing flavor from your sausage, grease, or soup mix. During this step, you can make as much gravy as you’ll need, or add extra flavoring with salt and pepper if need be. Just be sure to taste test often to make sure you aren’t adding too much spice.
Ideas for your gravy
Now that you’ve got your gravy made, what are you going to use it with? Here are two different ideas we use on a regular basis:
Bisquits and Gravy: Great when used with homemade bisquits, or even just ones from the store.
Homemade Mashed Potatoes: Don’t even bother with a box! Homemade mashed potatoes are the best you will ever have, and are a must if you are making gravy.
Enjoy!
