How to Make Gravy with Bacon Grease

Want to learn how to make gravy with bacon grease? It’s easy and delicious.

You need a few ingredients and some simple steps. Bacon grease adds rich flavor to your gravy. This method is perfect for making a savory sauce that pairs well with many dishes. It’s a great way to use leftover fat from cooking bacon.

Whether new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this guide will help you make the perfect bacon grease gravy. You’ll learn the basics, from how much bacon fat to use to the best way to store your gravy. Plus, we’ll cover what else you can serve with it and how to make it creamy. Ready to improve your meals with this tasty gravy? Let’s get started!

What Is Bacon Gravy?

Bacon gravy is a savory sauce made from bacon grease. To make it, cook bacon, then use the leftover grease, flour, and milk. Stir until thickened, then serve over biscuits or potatoes for a delicious meal.

Bacon gravy is a delicious, savory sauce that improves any meal. Made from bacon drippings, it adds a rich, smoky, irresistible flavor. Perfect for breakfast or dinner, bacon gravy is a versatile addition to your culinary arsenal.

Bacon gravy is a type of gravy made using the grease leftover from cooking bacon. This savory sauce is a favorite in many homes and adds a unique depth of flavor to various dishes.

How To Make Bacon Grease Gravy

Making gravy with bacon grease adds a rich, smoky flavor to your dishes. Bacon grease is versatile and can be used as a base for many recipes. Let’s dive into the steps of making bacon grease gravy.

Gather Your Ingredients

To begin, you’ll need some essential ingredients:

• Bacon grease: Saved from cooked bacon.
• Flour: Acts as a thickening agent.
• Milk or broth: Provides the liquid base.
• Salt and pepper: For seasoning.

Preparing The Bacon Grease

Start by preparing your bacon grease properly:

• Strain the grease: Remove any bacon bits.
• Measure the grease: Use around 2-3 tablespoons.

Making The Roux

A roux is essential for thickening the gravy. Here’s how to do it:

• Heat the bacon grease: Use medium heat.
• Add flour: Whisk continuously.
• Cook until golden: About 2-3 minutes.

Adding Liquid

Next, incorporate your liquid to form the gravy:

• Gradually add milk or broth: Keep whisking.
• Bring to a boil: Then reduce to a simmer.
• Stir constantly: Avoid lumps.

Seasoning And Serving

The final touch involves seasoning and serving:

• Taste and adjust: Add salt and pepper.
• Serve hot: Pairs well with mashed potatoes or biscuits.

What Else Can You Serve With Bacon Gravy?

Serve bacon gravy over biscuits for a hearty breakfast, pair it with mashed potatoes for a delicious dinner, or try it on fried chicken for extra flavor.

Bacon gravy can elevate many dishes. Its rich, savory flavor pairs well with a variety of foods. Here are some great options to serve with bacon gravy.

Biscuits

Biscuits and gravy are a classic combination. The fluffy texture of biscuits complements the creamy gravy, making this duo a popular choice for breakfast or brunch.

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes also go well with bacon gravy. The smooth potatoes absorb the gravy, enhancing the taste. This combination is perfect for a hearty meal.

Fried Chicken

Fried chicken and bacon gravy make a delicious pair. The crispy chicken with rich gravy creates a mouth-watering experience. This pairing works well for lunch or dinner.

Vegetables

For a balanced meal, serve bacon gravy with vegetables. Here are some veggie options:

• Green beans: Adds crunch and color.
• Corn: Sweet flavor contrasts with savory gravy.
• Carrots: Adds a hint of sweetness and texture.

Rice

Rice is another versatile option. It soaks up the gravy, making each bite flavorful. This pairing can be served as a side or main dish.

Pasta

Pasta with bacon gravy offers a unique twist. Try these pasta types:

• Penne: Holds the gravy well.
• Fettuccine: Flat noodles mix well with the sauce.
• Macaroni: Creates a comforting meal.

Enjoy experimenting with these pairings. Each option brings out the best in bacon gravy.

What Can I Do With Leftover Bacon Grease?

Ever wonder what to do with that leftover bacon grease? It’s a common dilemma, but don’t worry—there are many practical and tasty uses for this flavorful fat. Let’s explore the possibilities and make the most of every drop.

Cooking Vegetables

Sautéing vegetables in bacon grease adds a rich flavor. It’s simple and enhances the taste.

• Green beans: Toss in bacon grease for a smoky taste.
• Brussels sprouts: Sauté for a crispy, savory side.
• Potatoes: Fry them for a delicious, crispy treat.

Flavoring Soups And Stews

A small amount of bacon grease can transform your soups and stews.

• Creamy soups: Add a tablespoon for depth.
• Broth-based stews: Enhance the overall flavor.
• Chili: Stir in some grease for a richer taste.

Making Biscuits And Bread

Bacon grease can replace butter or oil in baking, adding a subtle smoky flavor to baked goods.

• Biscuits: Use in place of butter for a unique taste.
• Cornbread: Swap out oil for moist, flavorful bread.
• Rolls: Add to dough for an extra layer of flavor.

Frying Eggs

Frying eggs in bacon grease is a classic move. It adds a savory touch to your breakfast.

• Sunny-side-up: Cook in grease for crispy edges.
• Scrambled: Mix in grease for rich, fluffy eggs.
• Omelets: Use bacon grease to coat the pan.

Making Gravy

Bacon grease is perfect for making gravy. It adds a rich, savory flavor.

• Breakfast gravy: Combine with flour and milk.
• Meat gravies: Enhance roast or steak drippings.
• Sauce base: Use as a start for various sauces.

Enhancing Pasta Dishes

A small amount of bacon grease can elevate pasta dishes.

• Carbonara: Substitute for pancetta fat.
• Alfredo: Mix in for a smoky flavor.
• Garlic pasta: Sauté garlic in grease for extra depth.

By using these ideas, you’ll never waste bacon grease again. From cooking vegetables to enhancing pasta, the options are endless. Enjoy experimenting and discovering new ways to use this flavorful fat in your kitchen!

How Much Bacon Fat Do I Need?

You need about 2-3 tablespoons of bacon fat to make gravy with bacon grease. This amount ensures rich flavor and smooth texture.

Making gravy with bacon grease adds a rich, smoky flavor to your meal. The right amount of bacon fat is key to perfecting this delicious sauce. Let’s explore how much you need for the best results.

Basic Ratio For Bacon Grease Gravy

Understanding the basic ratio is crucial for making smooth gravy.

• Bacon fat to flour: Use equal parts bacon fat and flour.
• Liquid to roux: For every tablespoon of roux, use 1 cup of liquid.

Adjusting For Flavor And Consistency

Tailoring the gravy to your taste is easy with these adjustments.

• More bacon fat: Adds richer flavor but can make gravy greasy.
• Less bacon fat: This results in a lighter gravy and less smoky taste.
• Thicker gravy: Use more roux or reduce liquid.
• Thinner gravy: Add more liquid until desired consistency.

Type Of Bacon And Its Influence

Different types of bacon impact the amount of grease you get.

• Regular bacon: Yields moderate grease-balanced flavor.
• Thick-cut bacon: Provides more grease and intense flavor.
• Turkey bacon: Less grease, milder taste.

Tips For Collecting And Storing Bacon Grease

Properly collecting and storing bacon grease ensures you have enough for your gravy.

• Collecting: Pour hot grease into a heatproof container.
• Filtering: Strain out bits for smooth gravy.
• Storing: Keep in the fridge for a month or freeze for longer.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls for perfect bacon grease gravy every time.

• Using too much fat: Results in greasy, heavy gravy.
• Not measuring: This leads to inconsistent flavor and texture.
• Skipping the roux: Causes lumpy gravy and poor consistency.

Knowing how much bacon fat to use can help you create a delicious gravy. Keep these tips in mind, and enjoy your rich, flavorful sauce!

How To Make Creamy Bacon Gravy

Creating creamy bacon gravy is easier than you think. You can make a delicious gravy perfect for any meal with a few ingredients and simple steps. Here’s how to do it.

Gather Your Ingredients

To start, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. Gather these items before you begin cooking:

• Bacon grease: The base for your gravy.
• All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the gravy.
• Milk: Makes the gravy creamy.
• Salt and pepper: For seasoning.

Cooking The Bacon Grease

First, you’ll need to cook the bacon to get the grease. Here’s how:

• Cook the bacon: Fry until crispy, then remove the bacon.
• Collect grease: Pour the bacon grease into a heatproof container.

Making The Roux

A roux is essential for thickening your gravy. Follow these steps:

• Heat bacon grease: Use a medium heat setting.
• Add flour: Stir in slowly to avoid lumps.
• Cook the roux: Stir constantly until it turns golden brown.

Adding Milk To The Roux

Now it’s time to make your gravy creamy. Here’s what to do:

• Pour in milk: Add slowly while stirring.
• Continue stirring: Keep mixing until the gravy thickens.

Seasoning The Gravy

Seasoning is key for flavor. Here’s how to do it right:

• Add salt: Adjust to your taste.
• Sprinkle pepper: Add for extra flavor.
• Taste and adjust: Ensure the seasoning is balanced.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy bacon gravy pairs well with many dishes. Here are a few ideas:

• Biscuits: Pour gravy over warm biscuits.
• Mashed potatoes: Use as a delicious topping.
• Chicken fried steak: A classic combination.

Following these steps, you can create a creamy bacon gravy that will impress. Enjoy!

How To Store And Reheat Leftover Gravy

Leftover gravy made with bacon grease can be a delightful addition to future meals. Proper storage and reheating are key to maintaining its flavor and texture.

Storing Leftover Gravy

To keep your gravy fresh, follow these simple steps:

• Cool completely: Let the gravy cool to room temperature.
• Use airtight containers: Store in airtight containers to prevent contamination.
• Refrigerate promptly: Place the container in the fridge within two hours.
• Label and date: Mark the container with the date to track freshness.

Freezing Gravy For Extended Storage

Freezing can extend the life of your gravy. Here’s how to do it:

• Cool thoroughly: Ensure the gravy is completely cool before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers: Choose containers designed for freezing.
• Portion control: Freeze in portions for easy reheating.
• Leave headspace: Leave some space at the top for expansion.

Reheating Gravy On The Stovetop

Reheating on the stovetop is simple and effective:

• Choose a saucepan: Use a small saucepan for even heating.
• Heat gently: Warm the gravy over low heat.
• Stir frequently: Prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
• Add liquid if needed: Thin with broth or water if it is too thick.

Reheating Gravy In The Microwave

For a quicker option, use the microwave:

• Use a microwave-safe dish: Ensure the container is safe for microwave use.
• Heat in intervals: Warm in 30-second intervals.
• Stir between intervals: Mix to avoid hot spots.
• Monitor texture: Add liquid if it becomes too thick.

What Kind Of Biscuits Should I Use?

Who doesn’t love a hearty, homemade gravy with bacon grease? The rich, smoky flavor pairs perfectly with warm, fluffy biscuits. But what type of biscuits should you use to complement this delicious gravy? Let’s explore the best options.

Classic Southern Biscuits

Classic Southern biscuits are a great choice. They are light, fluffy, and buttery.

• Ingredients: Flour, baking powder, salt, butter, and buttermilk.
• Texture: Soft inside with a slightly crispy exterior.
• Flavor: Buttery and savory.

Buttermilk Biscuits

Buttermilk biscuits have a tangy taste. They balance the richness of bacon gravy.

• Ingredients: Flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, butter, and buttermilk.
• Texture: Tender and fluffy.
• Flavor: Slightly tangy due to the buttermilk.

Drop Biscuits

Drop biscuits are quick and easy. No rolling is needed; drop the dough onto the baking sheet.

• Ingredients: Flour, baking powder, salt, butter, and milk.
• Texture: Slightly crumbly with a soft center.
• Flavor: Mild and buttery.

Cheddar Biscuits

Cheddar biscuits add a cheesy twist. Perfect for cheese lovers.

• Ingredients: Flour, baking powder, salt, butter, milk, and cheddar cheese.
• Texture: Soft with cheesy bits throughout.
• Flavor: Rich and cheesy.

Whole Wheat Biscuits

Whole wheat biscuits are a healthier option. They have a nutty flavor and hearty texture.

• Ingredients: Whole wheat flour, baking powder, salt, butter, and milk.
• Texture: Dense and hearty.
• Flavor: Nutty and slightly sweet.

Choosing the right biscuit can improve your bacon grease gravy experience. Whether you prefer classic, tangy, or cheesy, there’s a biscuit for everyone.

How To Cook Bacon From Frozen

Cooking bacon from frozen is a fantastic way to save time. You can have delicious, crispy bacon without the need to thaw it first. Follow these easy steps to cook frozen bacon perfectly.

Gather Your Supplies

Make sure you have everything ready before you start:

• Frozen bacon: Straight from the freezer.
• Skillet or frying pan: For cooking.
• Spatula: To flip the bacon.
• Paper towels: To drain excess grease.

Heating The Pan

First, you need to heat your pan properly. Warm your skillet for a few minutes on medium heat. This ensures even cooking and prevents burning.

Cooking The Frozen Bacon

Now, let’s cook the bacon:

• Separate the slices: Use a knife to separate frozen slices.
• Place in the skillet: Lay the slices in the heated pan.
• Cook evenly: Flip the bacon every few minutes.
• Monitor the heat: Adjust if bacon cooks too fast.

Draining The Grease

Once the bacon is crispy, it’s time to drain the grease:

• Remove bacon: Place cooked bacon on paper towels.
• Drain grease: Allow grease to cool in the pan.
• Save for later: Store grease in a jar for future use.

Following these steps will result in perfectly cooked bacon. Enjoy your bacon, and remember to save the grease for making gravy later!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Bacon Gravy?

Bacon gravy is a rich, flavorful sauce made using bacon grease and flour.

How To Make Bacon Grease Gravy?

Start by cooking bacon. Use the grease to make a roux with flour. Add milk and stir until thickened.

What Can I Do With Leftover Bacon Grease?

Store leftover bacon grease in a jar. You can use it to cook vegetables, fry eggs, or make more gravy.

How Much Bacon Fat Do I Need?

You need about 1/4 cup of bacon fat to make gravy for a family meal.

How To Store And Reheat Leftover Gravy?

Store gravy in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently.

What Kind Of Biscuits Should I Use?

Use flaky, buttery biscuits. They complement the rich, savory flavor of bacon gravy perfectly.

Conclusion

Creating gravy with bacon grease is simple and delicious. Start with crispy bacon pieces and save the grease. Mix flour with the grease for a smooth base. Add milk slowly, stirring to avoid lumps. Season with salt and pepper. Serve your gravy over biscuits, mashed potatoes, or meats.

Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat gently. Enjoy a rich, flavorful addition to your meals. Remember, bacon grease makes everything better. Happy cooking!