Onions and Gravy
Sweet, caramelized onions simmered in a rich, savory brown gravy. This Southern classic is the perfect topping for mashed potatoes, biscuits, or country-fried steak, bringing deep flavor to any meal.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 35 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Caramelize the Onions
- b.In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
- c.Add the sliced onions and 1/4 teaspoon of the salt. Stir to coat the onions in butter.
- d.Cook slowly for 20-25 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes, until the onions are deeply golden brown, very soft, and sweet. Avoid high heat to prevent burning. True caramelization requires patience.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Create the Roux and Gravy Base
- b.Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the caramelized onions. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. The mixture will become a thick paste.
- c.Gradually pour in about 1 cup of the warm beef broth while whisking vigorously. This will create a smooth base and prevent lumps.
- d.Once the first cup of broth is fully incorporated and smooth, slowly whisk in the remaining 2 cups of broth.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Simmer and Season
- b.Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once it begins to bubble, reduce the heat to low.
- c.Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and the freshly ground black pepper.
- d.Let the gravy simmer for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened to your desired consistency. It will coat the back of a spoon when ready.
- e.Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve
- b.Serve the onion gravy hot. It is excellent poured over mashed potatoes, biscuits, meatloaf, or country-fried steak.
- c.Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving, if desired.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the sweetest, most flavorful gravy, use sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla. Standard yellow onions also work perfectly.
- 2Using warm broth helps prevent lumps when incorporating it into the roux.
- 3A wide skillet provides more surface area, helping the onions caramelize more evenly and quickly.
- 4If your gravy becomes too thick, whisk in a splash more beef broth or water until it reaches the perfect consistency.
- 5For an extra layer of flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine or sherry after the onions have caramelized and before adding the flour.
- 6This gravy can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little broth to thin if necessary.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian/Vegan
To make this vegetarian, use a rich mushroom or vegetable broth instead of beef broth. For a vegan version, also substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter.
HerbaceousHerbaceous
Add 1/2 teaspoon of dried sage or rosemary along with the flour for a more aromatic, herby flavor profile that pairs well with pork or poultry.
Richer GravyRicher Gravy
For a richer, more decadent gravy, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or a small pat of cold butter at the very end of cooking, just before serving.
Mushroom and OnionMushroom and Onion
Sauté 8 ounces of sliced cremini mushrooms with the onions until they have released their liquid and started to brown, then proceed with the recipe as written.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Onions are an excellent source of antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which helps combat inflammation and may protect against chronic diseases.
Flavorful with Less Sodium
By building deep flavor from caramelized onions and using low-sodium broth, this recipe provides a savory taste without relying heavily on salt, making it a better choice for managing sodium intake.
Source of Prebiotics
Onions contain prebiotic fibers like inulin and fructooligosaccharides, which feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut, supporting overall digestive health.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this Onions and Gravy (about 3/4 cup) contains approximately 175 calories, making it a flavorful yet reasonably low-calorie addition to a meal.