How to Make Delicious Gravy from Ham Drippings

When cooking a juicy baked ham, those savory pan drippings are liquid gold. With just a few extra ingredients, it’s easy to transform ham drippings into an ultra-rich, flavorful gravy that takes your holiday meal to the next level.

Making gravy from ham drippings captures all the concentrated pork essence in an easy, homemade sauce perfect for serving over sliced ham mashed potatoes dressing, biscuits and more. Read on to learn how to whip up this satisfying gravy in just minutes.

Ingredients Needed for Ham Drippings Gravy

• Ham drippings – The flavorful rendered fat and juices left in the pan after cooking ham. Start with at least 1 cup.

• Butter – Adds richness and body. Use unsalted butter.

• All-purpose flour – Thickens the gravy nicely when whisked into the drippings.

• Milk or cream – For a creamy gravy. Half and half, heavy cream or whole milk work.

• Salt, pepper and other seasonings (optional) – Customize the flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Ham Gravy

Making gravy from ham drippings is surprisingly easy with these steps:

1. Collect the drippings – After baking or roasting your ham, pour or spoon out drippings into a fat separator or measuring cup.

2. Make a roux – Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in an equal amount of flour until combined to form a paste.

3. Cook the roux – Continue whisking the butter-flour mixture for 2-3 minutes as it bubbles and becomes golden brown.

4. Gradually add drippings – Very slowly pour drippings into the roux while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.

5. Simmer – Allow the gravy to simmer, continuing to whisk frequently, until thickened to your desired consistency.

6. Add dairy and seasonings – For a creamy gravy, stir in milk or cream and salt, pepper, herbs or other seasonings.

7. Adjust thickness – Add more milk or flour to adjust gravy thickness if needed. Simmer briefly before serving.

Helpful Tips for Flawless Ham Drippings Gravy

• Use equal parts butter and flour. Start with about 2 Tbsp each per 1 cup drippings.

• Cook the roux until golden brown for maximum flavor before adding drippings.

• Add drippings very gradually while whisking to prevent lumps.

• Simmer until thick enough to coat a spoon. If too thin, mix in a little more flour.

• For a smoother gravy, strain through a fine mesh sieve after cooking.

• Stir in a splash of bourbon, sherry or Madeira wine for extra flavor.

What to Serve Homemade Ham Drippings Gravy With

This versatile gravy pairs well with:

• Sliced baked ham – Spoon it over ham slices for added moisture and flavor.

• Mashed potatoes – The perfect partner to soak up all that delicious gravy.

• Biscuits or rolls – Smother split biscuits with ham gravy for an easy meal.

• Dressing or stuffing – Moisten cornbread dressing and give it a meaty boost.

• Roasted vegetables – Drizzle gravy over roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, parsnips or potatoes.

• Breakfast – Serve ham gravy with eggs, pancakes, French toast or biscuits and gravy.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Ham Drippings Gravy

• Place cooled gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

• To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium-low heat until hot, stirring often.

• Microwave leftovers in 30 second intervals, stirring between, until hot.

• Freeze gravy for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Common Questions about Making Gravy from Ham Drippings

What if I don’t have enough drippings?

Supplement with chicken or ham broth to reach the 1 cup minimum needed.

Can I use turkey drippings?

Absolutely! Turkey drippings can be used the same way.

Is salted butter okay to use?

It’s best to use unsalted butter since ham is salty enough.

What’s the ratio of butter to flour?

Equal parts is a good starting point – like 2 Tbsp each per cup of drippings.

How do I make the gravy thicker?

Simmer the gravy to reduce moisture or whisk in a bit more flour.

Making delicious gravy from the leftover drippings of your succulent baked ham is easy, economical and heightens the flavor of the entire meal. Follow this handy guide for smooth, luxuriously rich homemade ham gravy in a snap.