There’s nothing quite like the savory aroma of Ham Gravy wafting through the kitchen, teasing your taste buds and calling you to the table. This comforting sauce, with its rich and creamy texture, envelops your favorite meats in a blanket of flavor that feels like a warm hug from grandma. Imagine spooning it over fluffy mashed potatoes or drizzling it on a freshly baked biscuit; it’s pure magic on your plate.
Growing up, Sunday dinners at my house always featured ham, and with it came my mother’s legendary Ham Gravy. The way she’d whisk together simple ingredients to create something so delicious was nothing short of wizardry. Now, every time I make this dish, I can’t help but reminisce about those family gatherings where laughter and love were served alongside the food. Whether it’s a holiday feast or just a cozy weeknight dinner, Ham Gravy is the star that shines brightest on any table.
Why You'll Love This Ham Gravy
- This incredible Ham Gravy transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Ham Gravy:
- Cooked Ham: Use leftover ham from your holiday feast or any deli-style ham for convenience.
- Butter: A couple of tablespoons will add richness to your gravy.
- All-Purpose Flour: This helps thicken the gravy to that perfect consistency we all crave.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness and enhance flavor.
- Heavy Cream: Adds a luscious creaminess that makes this gravy irresistible.
- Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper gives an extra kick to balance out the flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Ham Gravy:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients and chop your cooked ham into bite-sized pieces. This will ensure even distribution throughout your gravy.
Step 2: Make the Roux
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly. Add flour and whisk constantly for about two minutes until golden brown. This roux is crucial for thickening our gravy.
Step 3: Add Broth
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the mixture starts to thicken up—about three minutes should do the trick.
Step 4: Stir in Cream
Once thickened, reduce heat to low and slowly incorporate heavy cream while continuing to whisk. Let it simmer gently as you enjoy watching it transform into velvety goodness.
Step 5: Season It Up
Add your chopped ham and freshly cracked black pepper to the saucepan. Stir well and let everything mingle for about five minutes so those flavors can marry perfectly.
Step 6: Serve It Up!
Transfer your luscious Ham Gravy into a serving bowl or drizzle it over mashed potatoes or biscuits for an unforgettable meal experience!
Now that you’ve made this delightful Ham Gravy, get ready for compliments galore! Your family will be begging for seconds—and thirds—guaranteeing this recipe becomes a staple in your household just as it was in mine!
You Must Know About Ham Gravy
- This showstopping Ham Gravy delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Cooking Process
Begin by making a roux: melt butter and whisk in flour until golden brown. Gradually add in your ham drippings and broth, stirring constantly for a smooth consistency. This ensures a rich, delicious Ham Gravy.
Flavor Your Way
Feel free to swap out the ham drippings with bacon grease or turkey drippings for a unique twist. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or spicy mustard can elevate the flavor profile to new heights!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Ham Gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to restore the original consistency and warmth without sacrificing flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Ham Gravy
- This professional-quality Ham Gravy relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Sometimes, I whip up this Ham Gravy when friends visit, and their eyes light up as they dig into it. One time, my friend said it was so good she wanted to bathe in it!
FAQs
What is Ham Gravy?
Ham gravy is a rich and savory sauce made from the drippings of ham, often enhanced with flour and seasonings. This flavorful gravy is typically served over biscuits, mashed potatoes, or rice. It provides a delicious complement to the saltiness of ham, making it a popular choice for holiday meals and family dinners. Many recipes include ingredients such as milk or cream, which add creaminess to the dish. Overall, ham gravy elevates any meal with its hearty texture and mouthwatering taste.
How do you make Ham Gravy from scratch?
To make ham gravy from scratch, start by collecting the drippings from your cooked ham. In a saucepan, combine equal parts of the drippings and flour to create a roux. Cook this mixture until it turns golden brown, then slowly whisk in broth or water while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, you can add herbs or spices based on your preference. Simmer until thickened, and enjoy your homemade ham gravy!
Can I use leftover ham for Ham Gravy?
Absolutely! Leftover ham is perfect for making ham gravy. Simply chop any remaining ham into small pieces and use the fat rendered while heating it up as your base. This not only utilizes leftovers but also adds depth to your gravy’s flavor profile. You can follow the same steps as you would when using drippings, adding flour and liquid until you achieve the desired consistency.
What dishes pair well with Ham Gravy?
Ham gravy pairs beautifully with several dishes. Classic options include biscuits, mashed potatoes, and fried chicken, enhancing their flavors significantly. Additionally, consider serving it over rice or even pasta for a comforting meal. Vegetables like green beans or collard greens also make excellent sides when smothered in this savory sauce. Experimenting with these combinations can elevate your dining experience!
Conclusion
In summary, ham gravy is a delectable accompaniment that enhances various dishes with its rich flavor and creamy texture. Making it from scratch allows you to utilize leftover ham and create something truly special for your meals. Whether served over biscuits or mashed potatoes, this savory sauce is sure to impress your family and guests alike. Don’t forget to try out different variations to find what works best for you! Enjoy indulging in this delicious Ham Gravy!
Ham Gravy
Ham Gravy is a delightful, creamy sauce that transforms leftover ham into a rich culinary masterpiece. With its savory aroma and velvety texture, this gravy pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or warm biscuits, creating a comforting experience that evokes cherished family memories. Quick to prepare and made with simple ingredients, it’s ideal for both everyday meals and special occasions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked ham, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Chop the cooked ham into bite-sized pieces.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly. Add the flour and whisk for about two minutes until golden brown to create a roux.
- Gradually add the chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Stir until thickened, about three minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to simmer gently.
- Add the chopped ham and black pepper; mix well for five minutes to let flavors meld.
- Serve hot over your favorite dishes like mashed potatoes or biscuits.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
