Name: KFC Gravy Recipe Copycat (Easy Homemade Brown Gravy)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Butter; All-purpose flour; Beef bouillon cubes or powder; Chicken bouillon cubes or powder; Onion powder; Garlic powder; Ground black pepper; Water

This KFC gravy recipe copycat is a rich, savory homemade brown gravy that tastes just like the one from the famous fried chicken chain. Made with pantry staples and just a few easy steps, I can whip up this smooth and flavorful gravy in no time to serve with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or fried chicken. It’s the ultimate comfort food addition I love to recreate at home.

KFC Gravy Recipe Copycat (Easy Homemade Brown Gravy)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy this recipe is to make with basic ingredients I already have in my kitchen. It gives me that familiar KFC flavor without needing to leave the house or grab takeout. The texture is smooth and silky, and it works wonderfully as a topping or dipping sauce. Whether I’m making a weeknight dinner or preparing a hearty weekend meal, this gravy instantly upgrades the plate.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Butter
All-purpose flour
Beef bouillon cubes or powder
Chicken bouillon cubes or powder
Onion powder
Garlic powder
Ground black pepper
Water

Directions

I start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Once melted, I whisk in the flour to make a roux. I continue whisking for about 2–3 minutes until it turns a golden brown color.
In a separate bowl or measuring cup, I dissolve the beef and chicken bouillon in hot water.
Slowly, I pour the bouillon mixture into the roux while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
I stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper.
I let the gravy simmer for 5–7 minutes, whisking occasionally until it thickens to my desired consistency.
Once done, I remove it from heat and serve it warm over mashed potatoes, fries, or meat.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 2 cups of gravy, which serves 4 people generously. It takes approximately 5 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, so I can have it ready in just 15 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add a splash of heavy cream or milk for a creamier texture.
For extra depth, I sauté a little finely chopped onion or garlic in the butter before adding the flour.
I switch the ratio of beef to chicken bouillon depending on which flavor I want to dominate.
If I’m going vegetarian, I use vegetable bouillon instead of beef or chicken.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pour it into a saucepan and warm it over low heat, whisking occasionally. If it’s too thick, I add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

FAQs

How do I keep the gravy from getting lumpy?

I whisk constantly when adding the liquid to the roux and make sure the bouillon is fully dissolved in hot water before mixing it in.

Can I use stock instead of bouillon?

Yes, I can use beef or chicken stock instead of bouillon and water. I just adjust the seasoning accordingly since stock may be less salty.

Is this gravy gluten-free?

Not as written, but I can use a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.

Can I freeze KFC-style gravy?

Yes, I freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When I reheat it, I thaw it first and then warm it slowly on the stove.

What can I serve with this gravy?

I love it over mashed potatoes, fries, chicken tenders, or even as a dip for biscuits. It’s incredibly versatile.

Conclusion

Making KFC-style gravy at home is simpler than I expected and tastes just as delicious as the original. With just a few basic ingredients, I can whip up a rich and flavorful brown gravy that pairs perfectly with all my comfort food favorites. This recipe is one I keep coming back to whenever I want that cozy, savory touch.