Copycat Popeyes Gravy Recipe

Master this homemade Popeyes gravy recipe with simple pantry ingredients. The best copycat version captures that signature savory-rich flavor perfect for drizzling over biscuits and fried chicken. Easy baking recipe that transforms ordinary meals into restaurant-quality experiences with just one simmering pot.

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

5 mins

Cook Time:

15 mins

Serves:

4 servings (500ml gravy)

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">45g unsalted butter</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">45g plain flour</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">500ml chicken stock (preferably low-sodium)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tablespoon onion powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 teaspoon garlic powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 teaspoon dried sage</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 teaspoon dried thyme</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 teaspoon black pepper</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tablespoon soy sauce</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Salt to taste</li></ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 serving

🔥 Calories: 110 calories

🥑 Fat: 7 g

🧈 Saturated Fat: 4 g

🍞 Carbohydrates: 8 g

🍭 Sugar: 0 g

🍗 Protein: 3 g

🫀 Cholesterol: 18 mg

🧂 Sodium: 480 mg

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Medium saucepan</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Whisk</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Measuring jug</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Fine-mesh sieve (optional)</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely until it begins to foam slightly but doesn't brown. This will take about 1-2 minutes. The melted fat serves as the base for your roux, which will thicken the gravy while adding richness.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Gradually add the flour to the melted butter while whisking continuously. This creates a roux, which will thicken your gravy. Continue whisking for 3-4 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden brown color and smells slightly nutty. This cooking process eliminates the raw flour taste and builds flavor foundation. Don't rush this step - patience creates depth of flavor!</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Very slowly pour in about 1/4 of the chicken stock while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps from forming. Once smooth, gradually add the remaining stock while continuing to whisk. The gradual addition prevents lumps by allowing each portion to fully incorporate before adding more liquid.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Add the onion powder, garlic powder, dried sage, dried thyme, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the mixture. Whisk thoroughly to combine. These aromatic dried herbs and spices are what give the gravy that distinctive Popeyes flavor profile.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Pour in the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce, which add umami depth and that characteristic savory note that makes Popeyes gravy so addictive. Stir well to incorporate completely into the mixture.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Let it cook for 8-10 minutes, whisking occasionally, until the gravy has thickened to coat the back of a spoon. You'll notice it becoming glossy and slightly reduced. The longer simmering allows flavors to meld together beautifully.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Taste the gravy and add salt if needed, remembering that both the chicken stock and soy sauce already contain sodium. If you prefer an ultra-smooth texture, you can strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve at this point, though this is optional.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Serve the gravy immediately while hot, drizzled over freshly baked biscuits, fried chicken, mashed potatoes, or any dish that needs that perfect Popeyes flavor. If not using right away, keep warm over very low heat, whisking occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on top. The gravy will continue to thicken as it cools, so you may need to thin it with a little extra stock if it becomes too thick.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Copycat Popeyes Gravy Recipe?

This gravy uses butter, flour, chicken stock, onion powder, garlic powder, dried sage, thyme, black pepper, cayenne pepper, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. These ingredients create the signature rich, savory flavor that perfectly complements fried chicken and biscuits.

How to cook Copycat Popeyes Gravy Recipe at home?

Learn how to cook Copycat Popeyes Gravy Recipe by creating a roux with butter and flour, slowly incorporating chicken stock while whisking to prevent lumps, then adding herbs, spices and umami-boosting ingredients like soy and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer until thickened to achieve that restaurant-quality texture and depth of flavor in just 15 minutes.

Can I make this Southern-style gravy ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this gravy up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. When reheating, warm it gently on the hob, adding a splash of chicken stock if it's too thick.

What's the secret to smooth, lump-free gravy?

The key to silky gravy is gradual liquid incorporation and constant whisking. Add chicken stock slowly to the roux, whisk vigorously, and allow each addition to fully incorporate before adding more. For ultimate smoothness, strain the finished gravy through a fine-mesh sieve.

Why does restaurant gravy taste better than homemade versions?

Restaurant gravies like Popeyes often taste richer because they use umami-packed ingredients (soy sauce, Worcestershire) and properly develop the roux. They also balance flavours perfectly with herbs and spices while achieving ideal thickness through proper simmering techniques.

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