How many calories are in beef dripping gravy?

October 30, 2025 •

5 min read

Gravy made from roast beef drippings can have a wide range of calories, with homemade versions potentially containing around 58 calories per quarter-cup serving, according to nutrition data. Understanding precisely how many calories are in beef dripping gravy is crucial for managing your dietary intake, especially given the variable fat content of different roasts and preparation methods.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for beef dripping gravy varies significantly based on preparation. It is influenced by the amount of fat used, whether it is skimmed, and the thickening agent. Homemade can range from around 50 to over 100 calories per serving, while store-bought varies widely.

Key Points

Variable Calories: The calorie content of beef dripping gravy is highly variable, depending on the fat content and ingredients used.
Skimming is Key: Using a fat separator to remove excess beef fat from the drippings is the single most effective way to reduce the calorie count of homemade gravy.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought: While store-bought options can have similar calories per serving, homemade gravy offers full control over sodium and avoids additives.
Low-Calorie Alternatives: You can use less fat, swap flour for a cornstarch slurry, and enhance flavor with low-calorie aromatics and herbs to create a lighter gravy.
Fat and Flavor Management: A fat-skimmed gravy still retains a rich, savory flavor from the rendered meat juices, proving you don't need all the fat for a delicious sauce.

Understanding the Calorie Variables in Beef Dripping Gravy

The final calorie count of your beef dripping gravy is far from a fixed number. It's a spectrum, heavily influenced by how the gravy is prepared and the ingredients used. The primary source of calories comes from the beef drippings themselves, which are rich in fat. Beef fat contains approximately 9 calories per gram, making it a concentrated source of energy. Other ingredients, such as flour used for thickening and the type of stock or water, also contribute to the final nutritional profile.

Factors That Determine Your Gravy's Calories

The Amount of Dripping Used: This is the most significant factor. The more beef fat you incorporate from the roasting pan, the higher the calorie density. The fat content can be easily reduced by chilling the drippings and skimming the solidified fat from the top.
Fat Separation: For health-conscious cooks, a fat separator is an invaluable tool. Pouring the drippings into one allows the fat to rise to the top, so you can pour off the flavorful, less-fatty liquid underneath. This simple step can dramatically reduce the calorie load.
Thickening Agent: Flour is traditionally used to make a roux, which thickens the gravy. It adds carbohydrates and calories. A quarter cup of flour contains approximately 114 calories. Using less flour or a different thickener, like cornstarch, can alter the total.
Stock Choice: The type of stock or broth also plays a role. Using a low-sodium, low-fat beef stock will keep the calories down, compared to a richer, pre-made stock that might contain additional fat and sodium.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Beef Gravy: A Nutritional Comparison

When it comes to controlling what's in your food, homemade always offers more transparency. Below is a comparison table that highlights the typical differences between a homemade beef dripping gravy and a common store-bought alternative, using data from reliable sources. Note that figures can vary widely between brands and recipes.


Feature	Homemade Beef Dripping Gravy (Skimmed Fat)	Store-Bought Beef Gravy (e.g., Tesco Finest)
Serving Size	1/4 cup (approx. 60g)	100g
Calories	~52-58 kcal	~52 kcal
Fat	~3.4-4.5g	~3.1g
Saturated Fat	~2.1g	~1.6g
Carbohydrates	~3-4.1g	~4.5g
Sodium	Variable based on stock and seasoning	~1.00g (1000mg)
Ingredients	Natural pan drippings, flour, stock, seasoning	May contain additives, flavor enhancers, and preservatives

As the table shows, a store-bought gravy can have a similar calorie count per 100g to a well-prepared homemade version with skimmed fat. However, homemade allows you to control the sodium and avoid potentially unnecessary additives. A homemade gravy made with all the fat and a heavy roux would have a significantly higher calorie count.

Tips for a Lighter, Flavorful Beef Dripping Gravy

Creating a delicious beef gravy doesn't mean sacrificing flavor for lower calories. There are several techniques to reduce the fat and calorie content while maintaining that rich, savory taste you crave. Here are some actionable tips:

Use a Fat Separator: As mentioned, this is the most effective way to cut down fat and calories. Pour all the pan juices into the separator, wait a few minutes for the fat to rise, and then pour the lean juices from the bottom to create your gravy.
Enhance with Aromatics: Sauté onions, garlic, mushrooms, or carrots in the pan before making the roux. These vegetables add a depth of flavor and bulk to the gravy without adding many calories. You can also deglaze the pan with red wine for an extra layer of taste.
Thicken with Cornstarch: Cornstarch has a different thickening property than flour. A slurry of cornstarch and cold water can be whisked into the simmering gravy at the end. It's a more efficient thickener, so you can use less, and it's also gluten-free.
Boost with Stock: Instead of relying heavily on the drippings, use a high-quality, low-sodium beef stock. Add extra herbs like thyme or rosemary to the stock as it simmers to infuse more flavor. The stock will provide the bulk of the liquid and a great savory base.
Embrace the Flavor of Herbs and Spices: Don't underestimate the power of herbs. A bouquet of fresh thyme and a bay leaf can add incredible complexity. A dash of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can also elevate the flavor profile, reducing the need for excess fat.

Making Your Gravy Step-by-Step with Calories in Mind

Prepare the Drippings: Pour all the pan drippings into a fat separator. Allow a few minutes for the fat to settle on top. Pour out the lean, flavorful liquid, leaving the bulk of the fat behind.
Create the Roux (or skip it): If you still prefer a traditional roux, use only 1-2 tablespoons of the skimmed fat and an equal amount of flour. Cook for a minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Whisk in the Stock: Gradually whisk in the lean beef liquid and more low-sodium beef stock until smooth. Continue whisking as it heats to prevent lumps.
Simmer for Flavor: Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes to allow it to thicken naturally. Add any desired aromatics or herbs to infuse their flavor.
Final Thickeners and Seasoning: If a thicker gravy is desired, prepare a cornstarch slurry and whisk it in. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you've used a low-sodium stock, you will likely need to add more seasoning. For a touch of richness, stir in a tiny knob of cold butter at the end.

The Final Word on Gravy

There is no single answer to "How many calories are in beef dripping gravy?" as the final number is a direct result of your preparation. Homemade gravy provides complete control, allowing you to easily manage fat and sodium levels. By skimming the fat with a fat separator and using flavorful, low-calorie ingredients like good stock and herbs, you can create a delicious and satisfying gravy that doesn't derail your health goals. Whether you opt for a classic roux or a lighter, cornstarch-thickened version, the best gravy is the one that tastes great while fitting into your dietary plan. For more detailed nutrition information on homemade options, you can consult databases like NutritionValue.org.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the number of calories in your beef dripping gravy is in your hands. While a traditional recipe can be calorie-dense due to the beef fat, a few simple adjustments can make it a healthier addition to your meal without sacrificing its rich, savory character. By being mindful of the drippings you use, separating the fat, and opting for healthier thickeners and flavor enhancers, you can create a delicious and satisfying gravy for any roast dinner. The takeaway is that transparency and mindful preparation are key to understanding and controlling the nutritional impact of this classic comfort food.

Frequently Asked Questions

To make a lower-calorie beef dripping gravy, first, pour your pan drippings into a fat separator and use only the lean liquid at the bottom. Use a smaller amount of flour for thickening or use a cornstarch slurry instead. Boost flavor with low-calorie vegetables like onions, carrots, and herbs.

Homemade gravy can be healthier because you have complete control over the ingredients, particularly the amount of fat and sodium. You can easily modify the recipe to reduce calories and avoid preservatives found in many store-bought varieties.

Yes, using cornstarch instead of flour can slightly reduce calories. Cornstarch is a more potent thickener, so you can use less of it to achieve the same consistency, which means fewer carbohydrates and therefore fewer calories from the thickening agent.

The calories per tablespoon of beef dripping gravy can vary widely. A homemade version with skimmed fat may contain as few as 6 calories per tablespoon, while a richer, un-skimmed version could be significantly higher.

A great low-calorie alternative is a simple pan sauce made by deglazing the roasting pan with broth and wine, thickened with a small amount of cornstarch. Another option is a blended vegetable-based sauce using caramelized onions or mushrooms for flavor and body.

Separating the bulk of the fat from the drippings does not eliminate flavor. The rich, savory essence of the meat is primarily in the liquid juices, not the pure fat. Skimming the fat allows you to create a deep-flavored gravy without the excess oiliness and calories.

Yes, you can make gravy without flour. To thicken it, you can use a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch dissolved in cold water) or reduce the liquid on its own over heat to concentrate it. This is a common way to make a gluten-free and often lower-calorie gravy.