This heart-healthy Caramelized Onion Gravy slowly cooks sweet onions into a rich, velvety sauce that's both low in sodium and cholesterol. Perfect for elevating mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or tender meats, this versatile and gluten-free gravy adds a depth of flavor to any meal. Easy to prepare, it’s a delicious side dish that can accompany your favorite comfort foods.
Easy Onion Gravy with Deep Flavor and No Drippings for Turkey, Sides and Leftovers
We used naturally sweet onions and fresh thyme to build a smooth, umami-packed sauce that’s perfect for turkey, mashed potatoes, and more. With just 137 mg sodium and only 2 grams of saturated fat per serving, this gluten free gravy recipe works well for a variety of diets and makes a great healthy side dish option for your holiday table. All of our recipes, including this one, are developed in collaboration with one of our registered dietitians to meet a variety of nutrition standards. It’s also completely dairy-optional and thickened with gluten-free flour for a safe and satisfying Thanksgiving gravy recipe without drippings.
Yes, this gravy can be made up to 3 days ahead. Store it in a covered container in the fridge, then reheat on the stove with a splash of broth to bring it back to pouring consistency.
Not always. Many gravies are high in sodium and saturated fat. This healthy gravy uses low-sodium broth, heart-healthy oils, and keeps saturated fat low at just 2g per serving.
Rushing the onions is the biggest one. Caramelization takes time, and undercooked onions will make the gravy taste sharp instead of rich. Skipping the deglazing step can also leave flavor stuck to the pan.
Yes. That slow cooking process builds the flavor base. It’s what makes this an easy onion gravy that still tastes layered and deep.
Sweet onions are ideal. They caramelize faster and give a richer taste. Yellow onions also work well; just add a pinch of sugar if you’re substituting.
Start with a flavorful base like caramelized onions, mushrooms, or herbs. Then build the sauce using low-sodium broth, a thickener like gluten-free flour, and seasonings. It’s a great way to make turkey gravy without drippings that still tastes satisfying.
Only if it’s made with gluten-free ingredients. Many gravies use wheat flour as a thickener, so it’s important to use a gluten free gravy like this one, which swaps in gluten-free flour.
Use a gluten-free thickener like GF all-purpose flour or cornstarch. Stir it into the base gradually and simmer until thickened. Always check your broth to make sure it’s certified gluten free.
Skip the butter and use a plant-based oil like canola or olive oil instead. You’ll still get a silky texture without the dairy. This recipe works with either option.
This savory onions and gravy recipe is a flexible topping for comfort food classics. It works just as well over roasted meats as it does with vegetarian mains. Try it with any of these hearty dinner staples:
This Thanksgiving gravy makes a flavorful addition to your holiday table, especially when you want something that doesn't require drippings. It pairs beautifully with both traditional and modern sides. Add it to:
Recipe yields 8 servings
In a large stockpot, heat canola oil and 1 tablespoon of the butter over medium heat until the butter melts. Add half the sliced onions, stir well, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the remaining onions and stir to coat evenly with butter. Cover pot, reduce heat to medium low and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove cover and cook onions, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes, or until they are golden.
Add 1/2 cup of the chicken stock and scrape up the browned bits; add the garlic, thyme, salt and pepper. Stir well. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and cook for 1 minute. Add the remaining chicken stock, stir and simmer until thickened. Cook for 5 minutes, then add remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and balsamic vinegar. Stir to incorporate, remove from heat and let cool. Serve immediately.
Can be made 3 days ahead and stored covered and refrigerated. Before serving, reheat in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Try yellow onions instead. Just add a pinch of sugar during cooking to help mimic the natural sweetness.
Use unsalted vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version or low-sodium beef broth for a bolder flavor.
Use 1 teaspoon dried thyme instead.
Cornstarch works in a pinch. Just whisk 1 tablespoon with a little broth before adding to make a slurry.
Replace the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter substitute.
Looking for more gluten free Thanksgiving sides and better-balanced sauces like this one? These dishes are full of flavor without overloading on sodium or saturated fat.