Ham Gravy Recipe
Ham Gravy Recipe (How to Make the Best Ham Gravy from Drippings)
If you’ve ever wondered how to make ham gravy from drippings, you’re in the right place! This easy Ham Gravy Recipe transforms the flavorful drippings left behind after baking a ham into a rich, creamy gravy that’s perfect for spooning over sliced ham, mashed potatoes, biscuits, stuffing, rice, and even roasted vegetables.
Made with just a handful of simple ingredients, this homemade ham gravy is packed with savory flavor and comes together in about 10 minutes. It’s the perfect finishing touch for Easter dinner, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Sunday supper, or anytime you’re serving baked ham.
Once you learn how easy it is to make homemade ham gravy from drippings, you’ll never let those flavorful pan juices go to waste again!
Why You’ll Love This Ham Gravy
- Ready in just 10 minutes
- Made with real ham drippings
- Rich, creamy, homemade flavor
- Perfect for holidays
- Easy pantry ingredients
- Better than store-bought gravy
- Delicious over ham, potatoes, biscuits, and stuffing
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup ham drippings
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (if needed)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of garlic powder (optional)
- Pinch of onion powder (optional)
How to Make Ham Gravy from Drippings
Step 1
Pour the ham drippings into a measuring cup and skim off excess fat if needed.
Step 2
Place the drippings in a medium saucepan over medium heat. If you don’t have enough fat from the drippings, add the butter.
Step 3
Whisk in the flour until a smooth paste forms.
Cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Step 4
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Step 5
Add the milk or heavy cream and continue whisking.
Season with black pepper and, if desired, garlic powder and onion powder.
Step 6
Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, whisking frequently, until thick and creamy.
Step 7
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve warm over sliced ham, mashed potatoes, biscuits, stuffing, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Tips for the Best Ham Gravy
- Whisk constantly for a smooth gravy.
- Taste before adding salt—ham drippings are naturally salty.
- Use heavy cream for an extra-rich gravy.
- If the gravy becomes too thick, whisk in additional broth.
- Strain the drippings if you prefer an extra smooth gravy.
Ways to Serve Ham Gravy
- Baked Ham
- Ham Steak
- Mashed Potatoes
- Homemade Biscuits
- Stuffing
- Rice
- Roasted Potatoes
- Green Beans
- Turkey
- Pork Loin
Storage
Store leftover ham gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I Freeze It?
Yes! Freeze cooled gravy in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, whisking until smooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make ham gravy without drippings?
Yes! Substitute butter for the fat and use chicken broth with a small amount of ham base or finely chopped cooked ham for extra flavor.
Why is my ham gravy lumpy?
Lumps usually form when the liquid is added too quickly. Whisk constantly while slowly pouring in the broth.
Can I make ham gravy ahead of time?
Absolutely! Reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to thin it.
More Holiday Side Dish Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re planning a holiday dinner, be sure to try my Ham Glaze Recipe, Scalloped Potatoes, Mashed Potatoes, Green Bean Casserole, Dinner Rolls, Brown Sugar Ham Steak, Holiday Side Dishes, and Thanksgiving Recipes for the perfect meal.
