5-Minute KFC Gravy Recipe That Tastes Better Than Takeout

 Introduction

Ever craved that iconic brown gravy from KFC? That rich, velvety sauce poured over mashed potatoes or chicken—yes, that one. This KFC gravy recipe gives you the same savory satisfaction in just minutes, using ingredients already in your pantry.

Want to pair it with something hearty? Try our Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings or creamy Basic Vegetable Soup. Both are the perfect base for this flavorful gravy.

Whether you’re making it for dinner, holiday sides, or meal prep, this homemade version will blow your mind (and save you a trip to the drive-thru).

 Why This KFC Gravy Recipe Is So Addictive

This recipe captures that signature KFC flavor—a deep chicken and beef base, lightly seasoned, with a creamy texture that clings to anything you drizzle it on.

It’s:

• Super fast to make

• Uses basic pantry ingredients

• Tastes just like the original—or better

• Versatile enough for mashed potatoes, fried chicken, poutine, or stuffing

 Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the best KFC gravy recipe at home:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• ¼ teaspoon onion powder

• ⅛ teaspoon white pepper

• ¼ teaspoon sea salt (plus more to taste)

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup water

• ½ teaspoon beef bouillon granules

Tip: You can use store-bought broth or make your own from bouillon cubes and hot water.

 Directions

Step-by-Step: How to Make KFC Gravy in Just 5 Minutes

1. Melt the Butter
   In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until fully liquified.

2. Make a Roux
   Add the all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for 2–3 minutes until it forms a golden paste (roux). Don’t let it brown too much.

3. Add Spices
   Stir in onion powder, white pepper, and sea salt. Continue to whisk to evenly combine the flavors.

4. Pour in Liquids
   Slowly add chicken broth and water while whisking to prevent lumps. Add the beef bouillon granules and stir until dissolved.

5. Simmer and Thicken
   Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 3–5 minutes until thick and smooth.

6. Taste and Adjust
   Taste your gravy and adjust the salt or pepper if needed. Add a dash more bouillon for deeper flavor if desired.

7. Serve Immediately
   Pour hot over mashed potatoes, fried chicken, biscuits, or meatloaf.

 Tips & Variations

 Pro Tips:

• Always use low heat to avoid scorching the flour or butter.

• Use a non-stick whisk to avoid scratching your pan.

• If your gravy is too thick, thin it with more broth or water.

 Variations:

• Add a splash of cream or milk for extra richness.

• Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

• Stir in mushroom powder for an umami boost.

Need a side dish? This gravy pairs incredibly with our Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs or a side of Creamy Cucumber Salad.

 Storage

 Refrigeration:

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

 Freezing:

Freeze in portions using silicone trays or small jars for up to 1 month.

 Reheating:

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, whisking to restore the smooth texture. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

 Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 2 minutes

• Cook Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 7 minutes

• Yield: About 2 cups of gravy

• Course: Sauce, Condiment

• Cuisine: American

• Difficulty: Super easy

 Tools Used

• Medium saucepan

• Whisk

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Heatproof spatula

• Ladle (for serving)

 Final Thoughts

This KFC gravy recipe isn’t just a copycat—it might actually be better than the real thing. It’s fast, cheap, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you pour it over mashed potatoes, use it as a dipping sauce, or build the base of a smothered dish, you’ll want to make a double batch next time.

Looking for another comforting favorite? Don’t miss our Homemade Tomato Sauce Recipe—perfect for pastas and casseroles.

And if you want a different take on brown gravy, this Classic Brown Gravy from AllRecipes is a quick alternative too!

KFC Gravy Recipe

This easy KFC gravy copycat is rich, creamy, and ready in under 10 minutes—perfect for mashed potatoes, chicken, and more.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 2 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 7 minutes mins

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 55

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• - Ingredients
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• ⅛ tsp white pepper
• ¼ tsp sea salt plus more to taste
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• ½ tsp beef bouillon granules

Equipment

• Equipment
• Medium saucepan
• - Whisk
• Measuring spoons
• Heatproof spatula
• - Ladle

Method

 

1. - Instructions
2. Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat.
3. Whisk in flour and cook 2–3 minutes until golden.
4. Add onion powder, pepper, and salt.
5. Slowly add broth and water while whisking.
6. Stir in beef bouillon and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat and simmer 3–5 minutes until thick.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot.

Notes

- Notes
For extra richness, add a splash of cream. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat slowly and whisk to smooth.