Gravy is a beloved addition to countless meals, from roasted turkey and mashed potatoes to meatloaf and steamed vegetables. While traditional gravy is often thickened with flour and a roux, using cornstarch offers a quick, easy, and gluten-free alternative that delivers a silky, smooth texture. If you’ve ever wondered how to make gravy with cornstarch, the process is simpler than you might expect. This method is perfect for home cooks of all skill levels and provides reliable results with minimal fuss.
Why Use Cornstarch to Make Gravy?
Cornstarch is a popular thickening agent that works differently from flour. While flour-based gravies begin with a roux, cornstarch is usually added as a slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and cold water) directly into hot liquid. It thickens more quickly and creates a glossy, translucent finish, which is ideal for gravies that should remain light and smooth.
Benefits of Cornstarch Gravy
- Gluten-free: Great for people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
- Faster preparation: No need to cook a roux just add the slurry and stir.
- Smoother consistency: Cornstarch yields a glossy, lump-free finish.
- Less fat: Ideal if you want a leaner gravy without butter or drippings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare a basic cornstarch gravy, you only need a few essential ingredients. Depending on the meal you’re making, you can adjust the flavorings or base liquid.
Basic Ingredients
- 2 cups of broth or stock (chicken, beef, or vegetable)
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 1/4 cup of cold water (for slurry)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, herbs, or pan drippings for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Slurry
In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold water. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Never add dry cornstarch directly into hot liquid it will clump immediately and ruin the texture.
2. Heat the Broth
Pour your broth or stock into a saucepan and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. If you’re using pan drippings, strain them first to remove any solid bits, then combine them with broth to enhance flavor.
3. Add the Slurry
Once the liquid is bubbling, slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Continue stirring as the mixture simmers. The gravy will start to thicken within one to two minutes. Make sure to stir constantly to prevent lumps and ensure even cooking.
4. Adjust Seasoning
Taste the gravy and add salt, pepper, or other seasonings as needed. You can incorporate dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage for extra aroma. For a richer taste, consider stirring in a tablespoon of butter or cream at the end.
5. Serve Immediately
Cornstarch gravy thickens quickly and is best served right away. If it sits too long, it may begin to separate or become overly thick. Reheat gently if needed, and add a splash of broth to loosen the texture.
Tips for Perfect Cornstarch Gravy
Use Cold Water Only
Always use cold water to make the slurry. Warm or hot water can activate the cornstarch prematurely, resulting in a lumpy mixture. For best results, stir until it’s completely dissolved before adding to the hot liquid.
Don’t Overcook
Once the cornstarch is added to the gravy, avoid prolonged boiling. Overcooking can break down the starch and cause the gravy to thin again. Simmer only until it reaches the desired thickness.
Adjust Thickness
If the gravy is too thick, thin it out with a bit of extra broth. If it’s too thin, make a second slurry with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it in gradually until you reach the right consistency.
Flavor Variations
Making gravy with cornstarch doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. You can add a variety of ingredients to customize your gravy for different meals.
For Poultry
- Use chicken or turkey broth
- Add herbs like sage, thyme, and marjoram
- Optional: a splash of white wine or lemon juice for brightness
For Beef
- Use beef broth or beef drippings
- Add Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for umami
- Optional: a dash of red wine or balsamic vinegar for depth
For Vegetarians
- Use rich vegetable stock
- Add sautéed mushrooms for a meaty flavor
- Season with garlic, onion powder, and tamari or nutritional yeast
Storing and Reheating Cornstarch Gravy
Refrigeration
Leftover gravy made with cornstarch should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. The texture may thicken as it cools, but this is easy to fix when reheating.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, place the gravy in a saucepan over low heat. Stir gently and add a small amount of broth or water to restore the original texture. Avoid boiling the gravy again, as it can become gummy or separate.
Freezing
Gravy thickened with cornstarch doesn’t freeze well. The texture may turn spongy or separate after thawing. For freezer-friendly gravy, it’s better to use flour-based recipes or freeze the broth and make fresh gravy later.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Lumpy Texture
This usually happens when cornstarch is added directly to hot liquid or when the slurry isn’t mixed thoroughly. Always mix your slurry well and whisk constantly as you pour it into the simmering broth.
Gravy Not Thickening
If your gravy isn’t thick enough, it may be due to insufficient cornstarch. Try adding a second slurry, made with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of cold water, and whisk until it thickens.
Gravy Separates
Gravy can separate if overheated or left to sit too long. Reheat gently and stir continuously to bring it back together. Adding a bit of fat (like butter or cream) can also help stabilize the texture.
Making gravy with cornstarch is a fast, effective, and reliable method that delivers delicious results with minimal effort. It’s an excellent option for those looking for a gluten-free alternative to traditional flour-based gravies, and it provides a silky, professional-looking finish. By following a few simple steps preparing a slurry, heating your broth, adding seasonings, and stirring carefully you can make perfect cornstarch gravy every time. Whether you’re serving it with poultry, beef, or vegetables, this versatile sauce will elevate your meal and bring warmth and flavor to your table.