Description
This easy holiday sauce transforms simple ham drippings into a rich, velvety gravy that elevates any festive meal. With just three ingredients and 15 minutes, you’ll create a homemade holiday sauce that’s been bringing families together for generations. Perfect for beginners and guaranteed to become your go-to holiday gravy recipe.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter (use high-quality butter for best flavor)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (creates the perfect thickening base)
- 2 cups ham drippings (the secret to authentic holiday sauce flavor)
Optional Flavor Enhancements:
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (for herbal notes)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for subtle heat)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for tangy depth)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (for extra richness)
Instructions
- Start Your Roux: Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Gradually whisk in flour, creating a smooth paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes, whisking constantly to prevent burning and eliminate raw flour taste.
- Add Ham Drippings: Slowly pour ham drippings into the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add liquid gradually while maintaining constant whisking motion for smooth consistency.
- Simmer to Perfection: Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until sauce reaches desired thickness and has a rich, glossy appearance.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add optional enhancements if desired. Strain through fine-mesh sieve for ultra-smooth consistency. Serve immediately over ham, mashed potatoes, or your favorite holiday dishes.
Notes
Pro Tips: Never rush the roux-making process – this foundation determines your gravy’s final texture. If lumps form, strain through a fine-mesh sieve or use an immersion blender. For thicker sauce, simmer longer; for thinner consistency, add warm stock gradually.
Make-Ahead: Prepare roux in advance and store refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat and whisk in hot drippings when ready to serve.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on stovetop, whisking to restore smooth texture.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 280
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 2
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 15
Keywords: easy holiday sauce, holiday sauce recipe, ham gravy, easy ham gravy, 3 ingredient sauce, holiday gravy, Christmas sauce, Thanksgiving gravy, homemade gravy, simple holiday sauce