What Is Pot Pie Gravy Made Of?

Wondering what makes the gravy in pot pie so delicious? Dive into the ingredients, tips, and tricks for making the perfect pot pie gravy.

Introduction to Pot Pie Gravy

When you think of comfort food, pot pie often comes to mind—a warm dish filled with tender meat, vegetables, and a rich, velvety gravy. But what exactly goes into making the gravy? Whether you’re preparing a classic chicken pie or experimenting with other variations, getting the gravy just right is key to making this dish a favorite in your home. In this article, we’ll explore the fundamental ingredients of the gravy, discuss some of the variations you can try, and provide helpful tips to perfect your homemade version.

For a good foundational understanding of the cooking process, you can check out this guide on making roux for thickening sauces and also this resource on the role of cornstarch in cooking.

The Essential Ingredients of Pot Pie Gravy

Pot pie gravy is a simple yet flavorful sauce that ties all the other ingredients together. It typically consists of the following basic components:

Fat: Typically, butter is used as the primary fat, but some variations use oils or the fat rendered from cooking the meat. The fat is essential for creating the base of the gravy.
Flour: Flour is mixed with fat to form a roux, which thickens the gravy. The roux is the foundation that gives the pot pie gravy its rich texture.
Broth: The liquid for the gravy usually comes from chicken or vegetable broth. The broth adds depth of flavor and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Milk or Cream: To make the gravy richer, some recipes call for milk or heavy cream. This provides the creamy consistency that makes pot pie comforting.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and other seasonings like thyme or rosemary bring out the savory notes of the gravy. Depending on your preferences, you can add herbs to achieve a depth of flavor.

The combination of these ingredients creates a smooth, delicious gravy that fills your pot pie with comforting warmth. You can tweak the ratio of these ingredients based on your preferred consistency and taste.

Making the Perfect Pot Pie Gravy Step-by-Step

Here’s how you can make your pot pie gravy at home:

Prepare the Roux:
- Begin by melting butter (or your chosen fat) in a skillet over medium heat.
- Once melted, add flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes. The roux should turn a light golden color, but be careful not to let it burn.
Add the Liquid:
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth. Make sure to whisk continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Let the mixture simmer until it begins to thicken.
Incorporate Dairy (Optional):
- For a creamier gravy, stir in milk or heavy cream. Let the mixture cook for another few minutes, allowing it to reach your desired thickness.
Season:
- Add salt, pepper, and other herbs. Taste as you go, adjusting the seasoning to your liking.

Types of Pot Pie Gravies and Variations

There are several variations of pot pie gravy that can suit different tastes and dietary needs:

Chicken Pot Pie Gravy: This classic version uses chicken broth as the base and often incorporates milk or cream for added richness.
Vegetarian Pot Pie Gravy: If you’re avoiding meat, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add mushrooms for an extra depth of umami flavor.
Turkey Pot Pie Gravy: Perfect for using up holiday leftovers. Turkey broth is used instead of chicken, and the gravy is made with the drippings from the turkey for added flavor.
Beef Pot Pie Gravy: For a heartier pot pie, you can use beef broth and a splash of red wine. The beef gravy pairs well with vegetables like peas, carrots, and potatoes, and provides a rich, savory flavor.
Seafood Pot Pie Gravy: For a seafood twist, use fish stock or clam juice as the base for the gravy. Adding a splash of white wine and a touch of cream can elevate the flavor, making it a perfect complement to shrimp, scallops, or chunks of white fish.
Gluten-Free Pot Pie Gravy: If you’re avoiding gluten, you can use cornstarch or arrowroot powder as a thickening agent instead of flour. Mix the cornstarch with cold broth before adding it to the skillet to avoid lumps.

You can easily adapt your gravy depending on the type of pot pie you’re making and your personal preferences.

Tips for Enhancing Flavor in Pot Pie Gravy

Use High-Quality Broth

The broth is a key component of pot pie gravy, and using a high-quality broth can make a significant difference in flavor. Homemade broth is always an excellent choice, but if you’re short on time, opt for a low-sodium, high-quality store-bought broth. You can also enhance store-bought broth by simmering it with onion, garlic, bay leaves, and herbs for about 20 minutes before using it in your gravy.

Add Depth with Aromatics

Adding aromatics such as onions, garlic, shallots, or even leeks can bring an additional layer of flavor to your pot pie gravy. Sauté the aromatics in butter before adding the flour to create a roux. The subtle sweetness and complexity of these ingredients will enrich the overall taste of your gravy.

Incorporate Umami Boosters

Umami boosters like mushroom powder, soy sauce, or even a small amount of Worcestershire sauce can add a rich, savory depth to your pot pie gravy. Be cautious with the amount, as these ingredients can be quite potent. Start with a small quantity and adjust to taste.

Fresh Herbs vs. Dried Herbs

Herbs are essential for flavoring pot pie gravy, but there is a difference between using fresh and dried herbs. Fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and parsley provide a bright and vibrant flavor, while dried herbs offer a more concentrated and earthy note. If using fresh herbs, add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor. If using dried herbs, add them earlier so they have time to infuse into the gravy.

How to Customize Pot Pie Gravy for Different Diets

Dairy-Free Pot Pie Gravy

To make a dairy-free pot pie gravy, replace the butter with a plant-based fat, such as olive oil or coconut oil. Instead of cream or milk, you can use unsweetened almond milk, coconut milk, or cashew cream. Coconut milk will provide a slightly sweet undertone, which works well with certain vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash.

Low-Sodium Pot Pie Gravy

If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for a low-sodium broth and avoid adding too much salt. Instead, enhance the flavor with fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon juice. The acidity from the lemon juice can help brighten the flavor without the need for extra salt.

Vegan Pot Pie Gravy

To make a vegan version of pot pie gravy, use vegetable broth as your base and a plant-based fat like margarine or olive oil. Incorporate nutritional yeast to add a cheesy, umami note, and consider adding miso paste for an extra boost of savory flavor.

Keto-Friendly Pot Pie Gravy

For a keto version of pot pie gravy, avoid flour and instead use xanthan gum or glucomannan powder as a thickening agent. Use heavy cream or cream cheese to add richness, and opt for a high-fat bone broth to keep the gravy keto-compliant.

Additional Uses for Pot Pie Gravy

Pot pie gravy is incredibly versatile, and there are numerous ways you can use it beyond the classic pot pie recipe. Here are some creative ideas:

Mashed Potatoes: Pour your pot pie gravy over mashed potatoes for an extra comforting side dish.
Biscuits and Gravy: Use pot pie gravy as a sauce for biscuits. Add some crumbled sausage for a hearty breakfast option.
Open-Faced Sandwiches: Use the gravy over an open-faced sandwich with sliced roast turkey or chicken for a simple, filling meal.
Shepherd’s Pie: Use pot pie gravy in place of traditional gravy in a shepherd’s pie for a creamier, more decadent filling.
Pasta Sauce: Mix pot pie gravy with cooked pasta and vegetables for a creamy, comforting pasta dish. Add some grated cheese on top and bake it for a few minutes to create a delicious casserole.

Troubleshooting Pot Pie Gravy Issues

Gravy Too Thin

If your pot pie gravy is too thin, the problem could be with the roux. To fix this, you can:

Add More Roux: In a separate pan, prepare a small amount of additional roux by cooking equal parts butter and flour. Slowly whisk this into the gravy until it reaches your desired consistency.
Use a Slurry: Mix cornstarch or arrowroot powder with cold water to form a slurry, then slowly whisk it into the gravy while it simmers.

Gravy Too Thick

If your gravy turns out too thick, simply add more broth or milk a little at a time while whisking continuously until the gravy reaches your preferred consistency.

Lumpy Gravy

Lumps in your pot pie gravy can happen if the flour isn’t fully whisked into the fat before adding the liquid. To fix lumpy gravy:

Strain It: Pour the gravy through a fine mesh sieve to remove any lumps.
Blend It: Use an immersion blender to smooth out the lumps and create a uniform texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Do You Not Use a Bottom Crust on Chicken Pot Pie?

Many chicken pot pie recipes do not use a bottom crust because the top crust is usually enough to create a satisfying texture. Adding a bottom crust can sometimes become soggy from the gravy, which detracts from the desired flaky consistency. However, some people prefer a bottom crust for extra texture. If you choose to include it, make sure to blind bake the crust to prevent it from becoming soggy. Learn More

What Is the Best Thickening Agent for Pot Pie?

Flour is the most common thickening agent for pot pie gravy, as it helps create a smooth and consistent roux. However, cornstarch can also be used for a gluten-free option or to create a slightly different texture. Arrowroot powder is another alternative, especially for those looking for a paleo-friendly or grain-free thickener. Learn More

What Are the Ingredients in Swanson Turkey Pot Pie?

Swanson’s turkey pie typically includes ingredients such as cooked turkey meat, vegetables like peas and carrots, a buttery crust, and a rich gravy made from turkey broth and seasonings. For a full list of ingredients, you can visit Swanson’s official website. The gravy in Swanson’s turkey pie is made with a combination of turkey broth, wheat flour, milk, butter, and seasonings to create the classic comforting flavor. Learn More