Making gravy can sometimes feel a bit tricky, especially if you are just starting in the kitchen. You might wonder how to get it just right without lumps or a funny taste. That is where knowing How To Make Gravy With Cream Of Mushroom Soup comes in handy.
It is a simple trick that many home cooks use because it is quick and reliably delicious. This guide will show you just how easy it is, step-by-step. Get ready to impress yourself and others with a yummy, homemade-tasting gravy!
How To Make Gravy With Cream Of Mushroom Soup
Gravy is a staple in many meals, adding richness and flavor to everything from roast chicken to mashed potatoes. While traditional gravy can involve pan drippings and careful thickening, there’s a shortcut that delivers fantastic results with minimal effort. Using cream of mushroom soup as a base is a popular method because it provides instant creaminess, a savory mushroom flavor, and a thick consistency that requires little adjustment.
This technique is a lifesaver for busy cooks or those new to making gravy from scratch.
Why Use Cream Of Mushroom Soup For Gravy
Cream of mushroom soup is a pantry hero for many reasons. It is already thickened and seasoned, meaning you are starting with a product that has many of the qualities you want in a gravy. The soup’s creamy texture comes from condensed milk and flour or cornstarch, which acts as a natural thickener.
The mushrooms themselves offer a deep, savory flavor known as umami, which is essential for a satisfying gravy. When you thin it out and adjust seasonings, it transforms into a delicious gravy that tastes far more complex than its simple preparation suggests.
This method is especially appealing because it bypasses some of the common pitfalls of gravy making. For beginners, controlling the consistency without creating lumps can be a challenge. Traditional gravy often requires whisking flour or cornstarch into hot liquid, and it’s easy to end up with a lumpy mess if not done carefully.
With cream of mushroom soup, the thickening agent is already integrated smoothly. You simply need to add liquid to reach your desired consistency, making it a nearly foolproof way to achieve a smooth, delicious gravy every time.
Gathering Your Ingredients
To make this easy gravy, you will need just a few common ingredients. The star is a can of condensed cream of mushroom soup. Make sure it is the condensed version, as this is what provides the thick base.
You will also need a liquid to thin the soup down to gravy consistency. Milk is a great choice for a rich gravy, while chicken broth or vegetable broth can add a different layer of savory flavor and make it lighter. Water can also be used in a pinch, but it will result in a less flavorful gravy.
Other optional ingredients can enhance your gravy. A pinch of black pepper will add a little zing. If you like a stronger mushroom flavor, you can add a few fresh or dried mushrooms, sautéed first.
Some people like to add a bit of garlic powder or onion powder for extra savory notes. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can also deepen the umami flavor profile. However, for the simplest version, just the soup and liquid are perfectly fine.
- One 10.5-ounce can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 to 1.5 cups of liquid (milk, chicken broth, or vegetable broth)
- Salt and black pepper to taste (optional)
- Sautéed mushrooms or garlic powder (optional for extra flavor)
The Simple Steps To Delicious Gravy
Making this gravy is incredibly straightforward. It is a one-pot wonder that can be prepared in minutes. You do not need to be a culinary expert to get this right.
The process is designed for speed and simplicity, perfect for when you need gravy in a hurry.
Step 1 Heat The Soup And Liquid
In a medium saucepan, combine the entire can of condensed cream of mushroom soup. Add your chosen liquid. Start with about 1 cup of liquid.
You can always add more later if you want a thinner gravy. Whisk the soup and liquid together until they are mostly combined. It is okay if there are a few small clumps at this stage; they will smooth out as it heats.
Place the saucepan over medium heat on your stovetop. It is important to use medium heat so that the gravy heats through gently without scorching the bottom of the pan. If the heat is too high, the milk or broth can scald, and the soup can burn, which will ruin the flavor.
Stir the mixture frequently as it begins to warm up.
Step 2 Simmer And Whisk
As the mixture starts to heat, continue to whisk it. You will notice it becoming smoother and more liquid. The goal is to reach a gentle simmer.
This means you will see small bubbles forming around the edges of the saucepan, but it is not a rolling boil. Simmering allows the flavors to meld and the gravy to thicken slightly on its own.
Keep whisking and stirring. If you see any lumps forming, whisk them vigorously. Most of them should disappear as the gravy heats.
If a stubborn lump remains, you can try pressing it against the side of the pan with your whisk or spoon. This simmering and whisking phase usually takes about 5-10 minutes.
Step 3 Adjust Consistency And Seasoning
Once the gravy has reached a smooth consistency and is heated through, it is time to adjust it to your liking. If the gravy is too thick for your preference, gradually add more liquid, about 1/4 cup at a time, while whisking. Continue adding liquid until you achieve the desired consistency.
Remember that gravy thickens as it cools, so it is best to aim for a slightly thinner consistency than you might want when it is piping hot.
Now is also the time to season. Taste the gravy carefully. If you are using broth, it might already be salty enough.
If you are using milk or water, you will likely need to add salt. Add salt and pepper sparingly at first, tasting after each addition, until the flavor is just right. If you are adding any optional ingredients like garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce, stir them in now and taste again.
Tips For Perfect Gravy Every Time
Consistency is key with any gravy. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. If you want a thicker gravy, use less liquid or let it simmer a bit longer, stirring often, to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
If you find it is too thin, you can always thicken it further. A common way to thicken a gravy that is too thin is to mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Stir this slurry into the simmering gravy and cook for another minute or two until it thickens.
Flavor can be boosted in many ways. For an extra mushroom kick, sauté some fresh mushrooms with a bit of garlic until tender and stir them into the finished gravy. A splash of sherry or white wine, cooked down before adding the soup and liquid, can add a sophisticated layer of flavor.
Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also be stirred in at the end for a burst of freshness.
Storage is easy. Let the gravy cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of liquid to thin it out again if it has thickened too much upon chilling.
Serving Your Cream Of Mushroom Gravy
This gravy is incredibly versatile. It is a classic pairing for roast meats such as turkey, chicken, beef, or pork. It is also excellent over mashed potatoes, biscuits, or even noodles.
Many people enjoy it as a topping for savory pies like shepherd’s pie or pot pie.
For a simple and comforting meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes. Add some roasted vegetables alongside, and you have a complete and satisfying dish. If you are making a Thanksgiving or holiday meal, this gravy is a wonderful addition that complements traditional dishes beautifully without adding extra stress to your cooking schedule.
Variations On The Classic
While plain cream of mushroom soup is excellent, you can experiment with other condensed soups for different flavor profiles. For instance, cream of chicken soup can make a lovely chicken gravy, and cream of celery soup can create a milder, vegetal gravy. You can also mix different broths or liquids to customize the taste.
Using a combination of milk and chicken broth, for example, will give you a rich yet savory gravy.
For those who want to incorporate more fresh ingredients, consider sautéing some onions or shallots until soft before adding the soup and liquid. You can also add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy bite or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Don’t be afraid to get creative and adapt the recipe to your own tastes and the meal you are serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Can I use milk or broth interchangeably in this recipe
Answer: Yes, you can use either milk or broth. Milk will give you a richer, creamier gravy, while broth (chicken, vegetable, or beef) will add more savory flavor. Some people like to use a mix of both for a balanced taste.
Question: How do I make the gravy thicker if it’s too thin
Answer: If your gravy is too thin, you can make a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this slurry into the simmering gravy and cook for another minute or two until it thickens.
Question: How do I make the gravy thinner if it’s too thick
Answer: To thin out gravy that is too thick, gradually whisk in more liquid (milk, broth, or water) a little at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
Question: Can I make this gravy ahead of time
Answer: Yes, you can make this gravy ahead of time. Let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of liquid if needed.
Question: Are there any ingredients I should avoid when making this gravy
Answer: For the simplest version, just the soup and liquid are fine. Avoid adding ingredients that might clash with your main dish. For example, if serving with fish, a strong beef broth might not be ideal.
Stick to milder flavors or those that complement your meal.
Final Thoughts
Making gravy with cream of mushroom soup is a brilliant shortcut. You get a delicious, smooth, and flavorful gravy with minimal effort. It is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or as a stress-free addition to holiday feasts.
Simply whisk the soup with your chosen liquid, heat gently, and season to taste. You now have a fantastic gravy ready to enhance any meal you choose.