What is the Popeyes gravy made of?

The authentic Popeyes gravy recipe starts with a dark roux made from fat and flour, then builds flavor with chicken broth, beef broth or drippings, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and plenty of black pepper. Some versions also use small amounts of soy sauce or Worcestershire for depth.

Why is Popeyes gravy so good?

The magic of the Popeyes gravy recipe lies in its slow-cooked roux and balanced seasoning. The peppery warmth, rich savory base, and silky texture cling to food perfectly — whether it’s fried chicken, biscuits, or creamy mashed potatoes ( a classic pairing you can recreate at home ) .

Does Popeyes gravy have milk?

The traditional Popeyes gravy recipe doesn’t rely on milk for creaminess. Instead, it gets its silky texture from the roux and broth. Some copycat versions add a splash of cream or half-and-half at the end for extra smoothness, but that’s optional.

What are the little bits in Popeyes mashed potatoes?

Those tiny bits are pieces of cooked meat and spices from the Popeyes gravy recipe itself. When spooned over mashed potatoes, they add texture and bursts of flavor — a combination you can easily recreate when making this gravy at home.

Popeyes Gravy Recipe – Ultimate Copycat Guide in 5 Easy Steps

Description

A rich and peppery Popeyes gravy recipe you can make at home in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tbsp butter or chicken drippings

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cups chicken broth

1/4 cup beef broth (optional)

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp cracked black pepper

2 tbsp heavy cream (optional)

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Instructions

1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add flour and whisk to form a golden-brown roux.

3. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and beef broth if using.

4. Add all seasonings and stir well.

5. Simmer 8–10 minutes, stirring often.

6. Stir in cream if desired for extra smoothness.

7. Serve over mashed potatoes, chicken, or biscuits.

Notes

For extra flavor, use pan drippings from roasted or fried meat.

Adjust pepper to taste.

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Gravy, Sauce
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Cajun, Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 cup
Calories: 90
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 15mg