3 Ways To Thicken Gravy - WikiHow

Home » How To Make Gravy Thicker » 3 Ways To Thicken Gravy - WikiHow

Maybe your like

Skip to ContentQuizzes
  • Home
  • Random
  • Browse Articles
  • Quizzes & Games
  • All QuizzesHot
  • Love Quizzes
  • Personality Quizzes
  • Fun Games
  • Dating Simulator
  • Learn Something New
  • Forums
  • Courses
  • Happiness Hub
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Thicken Gravy PDF download Download Article Co-authored by Stephen Servis

Last Updated: February 24, 2025 Approved

PDF download Download Article
  • Adding Cornstarch or Flour to Your Gravy
    • |
  • Adding Gravy to a Roux
    • |
  • Adding Arrowroot to Your Gravy
    • |
  • Video
    • |
  • Expert Interview
    • |
  • Q&A
    • |
  • Tips
|Show more |Show less ARTICLE VIDEO X

This article was co-authored by Stephen Servis. Stephen Servis is a Private Chef and the Co-Owner of Servis Events Fine Dining along with his twin brother, Nicolas. Based in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, Stephen and Nicolas focus on using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, building close relationships with farmers and community members, and educating people on how to cook and eat more seasonally and sustainably. Servis Events operates at the intersection of health-focused meals and luxury dining, offering both private dinner parties and event catering services. Stephen and Nicolas graduated from the Culinary Arts program at Middle Bucks Institute of Technology and received their associate degrees in Hotel and Restaurant Management from Bucks County Community College. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 100% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 699,154 times.

When you think of gravy you think of a thick, delicious material. Nobody craves watery gravy. Unfortunately, some gravy recipes often turn out this way. Whether you’re having a dinner party or you’re just cooking it for yourself, there are a few ways that you can fix that liquid gravy.

Steps

Method 1 Method 1 of 3:

Adding Cornstarch or Flour to Your Gravy

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Buy flour or cornstarch. 1 Buy flour or cornstarch. You can buy both of these items at your local grocery store. Flour or cornstarch will help to thicken any sauce, and gravy is no exception.[1] As long as you can avoid making lumps this option is the fastest way to thicken your gravy.
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Thicken Gravy 2 Mix cornstarch or flour with a little water. You should put slightly more water than cornstarch or flour. There are no exact measurements here because it all depends on the amount of gravy that you have. This isn’t an exact science so you’ll have to eyeball it, but you should use approximately two tablespoons of cornstarch per cup of gravy. Make sure that you make this mix in a separate bowl. Stir thoroughly until smooth. Advertisement
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Thicken Gravy 3 Add the water and flour or cornstarch mixture to the gravy. Don’t pour it in all at once, make sure you do this very gradually. Pour a little bit, stir, and then pour some more. Continue this process until all of your mixture is in the gravy. Now give the gravy another good stir to get rid of any cornstarch lumps that might still be in there. [2]
  4. Step 4 Remove your mixture from the heat source when the gravy thickens. 4 Remove your mixture from the heat source when the gravy thickens. When the gravy takes on a viscous look it’s probably ready to go. You can also taste it with a spoon to see if it has reached the thickness you wanted. It’s all about your own personal taste. Just don’t let it burn. Now you are ready to serve your gravy!
    5. Advertisement
Method 2 Method 2 of 3:

Adding Gravy to a Roux

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Choose a fat that complements the gravy. 1 Choose a fat that complements the gravy. A roux is a thickened mixture made from a fat and flour. This method is more time-consuming than the water and flour method, but the risk of lumps is minimized. Normally you should choose a fat like butter, leftover fat from the meat pan, or a suitable oil such as olive oil. The ratio is usually about half fat, half flour, although a little extra flour doesn't hurt. [3]
  2. Step 2 Melt the butter or fat in a heavy saucepan. 2 Melt the butter or fat in a heavy saucepan. You want the saucepan to be sturdy so that you can stir in there without the pan moving all over the place. Keep the stove on about medium heat and turn it down if you smell the butter burning. This will depend on what type of stove you have.
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Thicken Gravy 3 Add a similar weight of sifted flour to the melted butter or fat. Mix well, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. Constant stirring helps to avoid making lumps. When the mixture starts to froth a little transfer it to the gravy. It should take about five minutes before the mixture froths. [4]
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Thicken Gravy 4 Stir the gravy into the mixture. Make sure you stir it well, you want the mixture to fully incorporate itself into the gravy. Otherwise you risk your gravy tasting a little strange. Keep stirring until the gravy thickens – that’s how you’ll know the mixture is incorporated. If the gravy still isn’t thick enough to your liking you can always repeat the process with another roux.
    5. Advertisement
Method 3 Method 3 of 3:

Adding Arrowroot to Your Gravy

PDF download Download Article
  1. Watermark wikiHow to Thicken Gravy 1 Add 2 teaspoons of arrowroot for every tablespoon of flour or cornstarch that is called for in the gravy recipe. Arrowroot is a starch extracted from tropical fruit rhizomes. It's a fine powder and works really well as a last-minute gravy thickener. The arrowroot must be added to a little cold liquid and blended into a paste before being added to the hot gravy. [5]
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Thicken Gravy 2 Stir the arrowroot constantly while bringing the gravy to the boil. The beauty of arrowroot is that it will stay clear, which can be important for lighter colored gravy. You don’t have stir really hard, just keep the arrowroot in motion while your gravy comes to a boil.
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Thicken Gravy 3 Remove the gravy immediately once it has reached its boiling point. Any further cooking can have the reverse effect and thin the arrowroot. As soon as you see bubbles in the gravy remove the gravy completely from the hot stove plate. Don’t just turn the stove off and let the gravy sit on there – it will continue to boil! [6]
  4. Step 4 Let the gravy cool and then serve. 4 Let the gravy cool and then serve. Hopefully it has reached the consistency that you were looking for. Wait about ten to fifteen before serving your gravy so that it can cool down to an appropriate temperature. You want to be able to taste the flavor after all.
    5. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search Add New Question
  • Question Why do gravy granules get watery when cooled? Community Answer Community Answer When covered, the water in the gravy evaporates and collects on the covering, then drips back into the gravy. This causes the gravy to be watery. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 10
  • Question Can I thicken it with gelatin? Community Answer Community Answer Yes, or use flour. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 1 Helpful 5
  • Question I made bacon gravy using equal parts bacon grease, flour, and milk. It browned beautifully, no lumps, but was granular in mouthfeel. Can you help? Community Answer Community Answer Make sure to try and sift the flour, it will decrease the amount of "grains." Also, add the milk all at once, but slowly, so the flour doesn't clump with the milk. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 1
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Video

Read Video Transcript

Tips

  • Beurre manie can be added to gravy to thicken it; if made ahead and stored in the refrigerator, this can be used as a quick fix. Given that it has already enfolded the flour inside, it shouldn't cause lumps when added. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
  • If using gravy in a meat pie, add a little gelatin to the gravy when making it, to prevent leakage of the gravy from the pie. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Try using instant mashed potato flakes as a quick fix. Use only a small amount of instant mashed potato flakes into the gravy as it cooks. Start with about a half-teaspoon at first; you can increase the amount as needed. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Show More Tips Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

You Might Also Like

Thicken LiquidsHow toThicken Liquids Thicken Beef StewHow toThicken Beef Stew Thicken Sauce Without CornstarchHow toThicken Sauce Without Cornstarch Thicken BrothHow toThicken Broth Thicken ChiliHow toThicken Chili How to Make Curry Thicker Thicken StewHow toThicken Stew Thicken a CasseroleHow toThicken a Casserole Thicken Potato SoupHow toThicken Potato Soup Thicken Sauce with FlourHow toThicken Sauce with Flour Thicken SoupHow toThicken Soup Thicken Liquid with CornstarchHow toThicken Liquid with Cornstarch How toThicken Soup with Flour Thicken a GlazeHow toThicken a Glaze Advertisement

Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about cooking, check out our in-depth interview with Stephen Servis.

References

  1. ↑ Stephen Servis. Private Chef. Expert Interview
  2. ↑ http://culinaryarts.about.com/od/sauces/ht/slurry.htm
  3. ↑ https://www.allrecipes.com/article/how-to-make-roux/
  4. ↑ http://homecooking.about.com/od/specificdishe1/a/gravyroux.htm
  5. ↑ http://www.bonappetit.com/test-kitchen/how-to/article/gluten-free-gravy
  6. ↑ https://www.onegreenplanet.org/vegan-food/how-to-cook-with-arrowroot-powder/

About This Article

Stephen Servis Co-authored by: Stephen Servis Private Chef This article was co-authored by Stephen Servis. Stephen Servis is a Private Chef and the Co-Owner of Servis Events Fine Dining along with his twin brother, Nicolas. Based in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, Stephen and Nicolas focus on using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, building close relationships with farmers and community members, and educating people on how to cook and eat more seasonally and sustainably. Servis Events operates at the intersection of health-focused meals and luxury dining, offering both private dinner parties and event catering services. Stephen and Nicolas graduated from the Culinary Arts program at Middle Bucks Institute of Technology and received their associate degrees in Hotel and Restaurant Management from Bucks County Community College. This article has been viewed 699,154 times. 1 votes - 100% Co-authors: 15 Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 699,154 Categories: Gravies Article SummaryX

To thicken gravy, first mix 3-4 tablespoons (15-20 g) of flour into a little bit of water until it forms a paste. Then, just whisk the paste into the gravy a little bit at a time until the gravy is thick enough. For a gluten-free option, mix 3 tablespoons (16-24 g) of arrowroot with 3 tablespoons (45 mL) of water to form a paste, then stir the paste into the gravy. Another option is to puree some roasted vegetables, like potatoes, parsnips, or carrots, and then stir the pureed vegetables into the gravy to thicken it and add more flavor. If you want to learn how to use arrowroot to thicken your gravy, keep reading the article! Did this summary help you?YesNo

In other languages Spanish French Russian Portuguese Chinese Indonesian Dutch Hindi Japanese Korean Thai Vietnamese
  • Print
  • Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 699,154 times.

Reader Success Stories

  • Anonymous

    Anonymous

    Sep 13, 2016

    "I had to thicken the beef stew that I made. I always put too much flour directly into the stew, and it never tasted..." more
More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Stephen Servis Co-authored by: Stephen Servis Private Chef Co-authors: 15 Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 699,154 100% of voters found this recipe helpful. 1 votes - 100% Click a star to add your vote Anonymous

Anonymous

Sep 13, 2016

"I had to thicken the beef stew that I made. I always put too much flour directly into the stew, and it never tasted..." more Alia Poppy

Alia Poppy

Mar 20, 2017

"I fixed my mother-in-law's gravy when she was in the bathroom without her knowledge." Rated this article: Jane Nelson

Jane Nelson

Apr 14, 2017

"I am doing a roast for Easter Sunday and wanted to up my game a bit." Rated this article: Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

Quizzes & Games

What Pasta Shape Am I QuizWhat Pasta Shape Am I QuizTake QuizGuess the Food QuizGuess the Food QuizTake QuizWhat's the Best Meal Kit for Me QuizWhat's the Best Meal Kit for Me QuizTake QuizWhat Should I Bake QuizWhat Should I Bake QuizTake QuizWhat's My Hair Type QuizWhat's My Hair Type QuizTake QuizWhat Makeup Should I Wear QuizWhat Makeup Should I Wear QuizTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

Thicken LiquidsHow toThicken LiquidsThicken Beef StewHow toThicken Beef StewThicken Sauce Without CornstarchHow toThicken Sauce Without CornstarchThicken BrothHow toThicken Broth

Featured Articles

What Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)What Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?115+ Funny “Get Well Soon” Messages to Make Someone Laugh115+ Funny “Get Well Soon” Messages to Make Someone Laugh110+ “Fun Facts” for Interviews, Introductions, & Icebreakers110+ “Fun Facts” for Interviews, Introductions, & IcebreakersHow Long Would You Survive In A Zombie Apocalypse?How Long Would You Survive In A Zombie Apocalypse? Roast Someone in a Rap Battle (Plus the Best Bars of All Time)How to Roast Someone in a Rap Battle (Plus the Best Bars of All Time)

Trending Articles

What Song Was #1 On My Birthday?What Song Was #1 On My Birthday?How Many People Had a Crush on Me This Year? Find Out HereHow Many People Had a Crush on Me This Year? Find Out HereBest Personality TestBest Personality TestDo I Have Common Sense QuizDo I Have Common Sense QuizDaily Horoscope (All Signs): What Do The Stars Predict Today?✩⟡˚₊‧Daily Horoscope (All Signs): What Do The Stars Predict Today?✩⟡˚₊‧Compatibility TestCompatibility Test

Featured Articles

What Turns a Girl On? 31 Things to Try on Your PartnerWhat Turns a Girl On? 31 Things to Try on Your PartnerLove AnalyzerLove AnalyzerSending Your Sweetie a Love Note? Here are 200+ Romantic IdeasSending Your Sweetie a Love Note? Here are 200+ Romantic IdeasExercise Your BrainHow toExercise Your BrainBe a Fun Person to Hang out WithHow toBe a Fun Person to Hang out WithWhat Does Your Morning Routine Say About You?What Does Your Morning Routine Say About You?

Featured Articles

Develop Productive HabitsHow toDevelop Productive HabitsPractice Self CareHow toPractice Self CareWhat Song Matches Your Life Right Now?What Song Matches Your Life Right Now?Your 2026 Vision: What Does Next Year Hold?Your 2026 Vision: What Does Next Year Hold?Understanding the Most Attractive Face Shapes (& Determining Your Own)Understanding the Most Attractive Face Shapes (& Determining Your Own)Type A B C D Personality TestType A B C D Personality Test

Watch Articles

Deep Clean Your Kitchen Sink (& Keep It Clean)How to Deep Clean Your Kitchen Sink (& Keep It Clean) Curl Your Hair: 8 Easy & Quick WaysHow to Curl Your Hair: 8 Easy & Quick WaysThicken Sauce with FlourHow toThicken Sauce with Flour Brighten Up White Shirts and Other GarmentsHow to Brighten Up White Shirts and Other Garments Cook White Rice without a Rice CookerHow to Cook White Rice without a Rice Cooker Clean Out the Inside of a Glass Bottle (With or Without a Brush)How to Clean Out the Inside of a Glass Bottle (With or Without a Brush)

Trending Articles

10 Ways to Get Rid of a Hickey Fast10 Ways to Get Rid of a Hickey FastWhat Am I Craving QuizWhat Am I Craving Quiz150 Unique & Sentimental Ways to Say “Happy New Year”150 Unique & Sentimental Ways to Say “Happy New Year”30+ New Year’s Eve Games to Keep Your NYE Party Going30+ New Year’s Eve Games to Keep Your NYE Party GoingWhich Hogwarts House Do You Truly Belong In?Which Hogwarts House Do You Truly Belong In?Toxic Family TestToxic Family Test

Quizzes & Games

What Should I Eat for Dinner QuizWhat Should I Eat for Dinner QuizTake QuizHow Corny Am I QuizHow Corny Am I QuizTake QuizRandom Recipe GeneratorRandom Recipe GeneratorGenerateHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizWhat Veggie Am I QuizWhat Veggie Am I QuizTake QuizHair Curl Type QuizHair Curl Type QuizTake Quiz wikiHow
  • Categories
  • Food and Entertaining
  • Recipes
  • Jams Preserves and Condiments
  • Gravies
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
  • Home
  • About wikiHow
  • Experts
  • Jobs
  • Contact Us
  • Site Map
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info
  • Contribute

Follow Us

×

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Develop the tech skills you need for work and life

Let's do this! X --659

Tag » How To Make Gravy Thicker