You might be wondering how store-bought instant gravy packets compare to the kind you make yourself this Thanksgiving and holiday season.
I picked three brown gravy brands to compare: Knorr, Big Y, and Better Than Gravy. After following the instructions on the packets, I compared them in terms of taste and consistency. I also ate the gravy with mashed potatoes to see how well the different kinds went with the well-known holiday side dish.
A rich, savory beef gravy can take meals to the next level. But not everyone has time to make gravy from scratch Luckily, there are some excellent store-bought options that can help you pull together dinners in a hurry But with so many brands available, how do you know which beef gravy is best for your recipes?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top store-bought beef gravy products, key factors to consider, and provide tips for selecting the right ready-made gravy for your needs Let’s get cooking!
Top Store Bought Beef Gravy Options
Here are some of the most popular and highest quality store-bought beef gravy varieties:
McCormick Brown Gravy Mix – This classic powdered mix whisks up quickly into a tasty standard beef gravy. It has a nice meaty flavor and thick texture. Just add water and stir.
Heinz HomeStyle Beef Gravy – For ready-to-use convenience Heinz makes an excellent instant beef gravy. Made with beef stock and juices it has a rich flavor perfect for savory dishes.
Hauschwitz Gluten-Free Beef Gravy – This is a top choice for those with dietary restrictions. It has a smooth, velvety texture and robust taste. Just heat and serve.
Campbell’s Beef Gravy Sauce – Made by the classic soup brand, this tasty condensed sauce adds big beef flavor and comes in a signature can. Easy to store until ready to use.
Swanson Beef Broth Gravy Mix – Made with concentrated beef broth, this mix creates a flavorful from-scratch tasting gravy with onion and garlic notes. Just add milk or water.
Franco-American Beef Gravy – For a quick and delicious option, Franco-American’s canned gravy is ready in minutes. Made with pan drippings, it’s especially nice over meats.
What to Look for When Buying
Here are some key things to consider when selecting a store-bought beef gravy:
Ingredients – Check the label for quality ingredients like beef drippings, stock or broth for full-bodied flavor. Avoid products with lots of artificial additives.
Flavor profile – Opt for a rich, savory gravy without bitter or off tastes. It should taste like real homemade beef gravy.
Consistency – Look for a smooth, thick texture without excess wateriness or oil separation.
Ease of use – Choose ready-to-use cans or easy mix options depending on your needs. Evaluate cook times if selecting a concentrate.
Dietary factors – Check labels for gluten-free, vegetarian or allergen-free options if needed.
Storage – Assessshelf life and storage conditions to allow use over time. Refrigerate after opening.
Tips for Using Store Bought Gravy
When cooking with ready-made beef gravy, keep these tips in mind:
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For concentrated mixes, follow package instructions closely for best results. Whisk smoothly to avoid lumps.
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If gravy seems thin, simmer over low heat to reduce and thicken the sauce.
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For richer flavor, add extra seasonings like garlic, onions, herbs or Worcestershire sauce.
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Use within 3-4 days after opening and refrigerate unused portions immediately.
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Heat canned or jarred gravy over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
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Stir frequently when reheating to prevent scorching or skin formation.
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Use beef gravy as a flavor boost in dishes like mashed potatoes, meatloaf, rice bowls and more.
Handy Recipes Using Store Bought Beef Gravy
Ready-made beef gravy is ideal for simplifying recipes. Here are some ways to utilize it:
Hearty Beef Pot Pie – Top chunks of beef and veggies in a baking dish with ready-to-use gravy and refrigerated pie crust. Bake until golden.
Weeknight Shepherd’s Pie – Layer cooked ground beef with vegetables in a baking pan, top with mashed potatoes and finish with heated jarred gravy.
Beef Stroganoff – Sauté sliced steak and mushrooms, then stir in egg noodles, sour cream and condensed beef gravy for an easy one-pan meal.
Beef Gravy Smothered Chicken – Pan fry chicken breasts or thighs and smother with warmed up canned gravy for down-home flavor.
Gravy Fries – Top french fries fresh from the oven with heated store-bought gravy for a quick, craveable side.
With so many options, every home cook can find a quality store-bought beef gravy to keep on hand. Just look for great flavor and texture using quality ingredients. Follow any recipe tips for best results. What’s your favorite ready-made beef gravy brand or recipe hack? Share your picks!
I was impressed by the store-brand mix’s texture.
It wasnt too lumpy or gloopy, but held its shape and wasnt too viscous either. I thought it looked more like brown gravy because it was a little darker than the Better Than Gravy mix. Advertisement.
This gravy didn’t taste as “meaty” as the other two, despite advertising that it included organic beef stock on the packet.
It was also the sweetest gravy that I tried.
Heinz Homestyle Savory Beef Gravy Review
FAQ
Is there a difference between brown gravy and beef gravy?
How to make jar beef gravy taste better?