How many carbs are in 1 cup of brown gravy?

October 30, 2025 •

3 min read

According to nutrition data, a typical 1-cup serving of prepared brown gravy contains approximately 11 to 14 grams of total carbohydrates. However, this figure can vary significantly depending on whether the gravy is made from a mix, homemade with a flour-based roux, or prepared with low-carb thickeners. Understanding the ingredients is key to accurately assessing how many carbs are in 1 cup of brown gravy.

Quick Summary

The carb content of brown gravy changes based on preparation. Commercial mixes typically contain around 14 grams per cup, while a traditional flour-thickened homemade version may vary. Low-carb recipes using alternatives like xanthan gum or pureed vegetables can significantly reduce the carb count.

Key Points

1-Cup Carb Count: A standard 1-cup serving of prepared brown gravy mix contains approximately 14 grams of total carbohydrates, mostly from thickeners like flour or cornstarch.
Thickener Impact: The primary source of carbs in gravy is the thickener; a traditional flour-based roux contributes significantly to the carb load.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought: Both homemade gravy thickened with flour and store-bought mixes tend to have similar carb counts, though store-bought versions may contain higher sodium.
Low-Carb Alternatives: For keto-friendly options, use thickeners like xanthan gum or heavy cream, which dramatically reduce the carb content.
Natural Thickening: Blending vegetables like mushrooms or onions into the broth offers a low-carb, nutrient-rich, and flavorful way to thicken gravy.
Ingredient Control: Making gravy from scratch allows for complete control over ingredients, enabling you to manage both carb and sodium levels effectively.

The Truth About Gravy's Carb Count

Gravy is a staple on many dinner tables, but for those watching their carbohydrate intake, its composition is a key concern. The primary source of carbs in traditional brown gravy is the thickener used. A classic gravy is made with a roux, a mixture of equal parts fat and all-purpose flour. Since flour is high in carbohydrates, the amount used directly impacts the final carb count.

Most store-bought gravy mixes are also flour-based, though they may contain other fillers and stabilizers. This means the carb load from a pre-packaged mix can be comparable to, or even higher than, a traditional homemade version. The inclusion of pan drippings can add rich flavor without significant carbohydrates, but the flour is the primary culprit when it comes to boosting the carb count.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought: A Carb Comparison

Comparing the nutritional value of different gravy types is essential for dietary planning. A homemade gravy gives you complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to choose healthier or lower-carb thickeners. On the other hand, store-bought mixes offer convenience but can contain higher levels of sodium and hidden carbs.

Traditional Homemade Gravy (Flour-Based)

Ingredients: Pan drippings, flour, broth or stock.
Carb Source: The all-purpose flour used to create the roux. Two tablespoons of flour can add approximately 12 to 13 grams of carbs to the total volume.
Flexibility: You can adjust the amount of flour or switch to a less carb-dense thickener.

Store-Bought Mix (Prepared)

Ingredients: Pre-mixed dehydrated ingredients, often including modified corn starch, maltodextrin, and flour.
Carb Source: Corn starch and flour are the main contributors. A typical 1-cup serving prepared from a mix contains about 14 grams of carbohydrates.
Inconvenience: Limited control over ingredients and typically high in sodium.

Smart Substitutions for Lower-Carb Gravy

For those on a keto or low-carb diet, brown gravy might seem off-limits. However, with some simple ingredient swaps, you can enjoy a delicious, thick gravy without the carb penalty. The key is to replace the flour or cornstarch with low-carb alternatives.

Xanthan Gum: This powerful thickener requires only a small amount to achieve the desired consistency. When using xanthan gum, it is critical to first mix it with a small amount of oil or fat to prevent clumping before adding it to your hot liquid. A little goes a very long way, so use it sparingly.
Heavy Cream: For a richer, creamier gravy, heavy cream can be used to thicken the sauce. It adds a luxurious texture and depth of flavor with very few carbohydrates.
Pureed Vegetables: For a healthy, flavorful, and low-carb option, consider blending cooked mushrooms, onions, or other vegetables into your sauce base. Dried porcini mushrooms, in particular, add an intense, savory depth that mimics traditional gravy.

A Quick and Easy Keto Gravy Recipe

For a simple, low-carb brown gravy, consider this easy method:

Sauté any desired aromatics, such as onions or garlic, in butter or pan drippings.
Add beef broth and other seasonings like Worcestershire sauce and herbs.
Thicken with a pre-mixed slurry of xanthan gum and fat, or simmer to reduce for a less-thickened 'jus'.

Comparison Table: Gravy Types and Carb Counts


Gravy Type	Thickener	Carbs (approx. per 1 cup)	Benefits	Drawbacks
Traditional Homemade	Flour Roux	11-14g	Great flavor, homemade quality	High carb count from flour
Prepared Mix	Corn Starch, Flour	14g	Convenience, speed	High sodium, processed ingredients
Keto/Low-Carb	Xanthan Gum, Cream	2-5g	Very low carb, diet-friendly	Requires specialized thickener
Vegetable Puree	Blended Vegetables	Varies	All-natural, adds nutrients	Can alter flavor, may not be as smooth

Conclusion

The carbohydrate content of brown gravy is primarily determined by its thickener. While a standard 1-cup serving of prepared mix contains about 14 grams of carbs, traditional flour-thickened and homemade versions hover in a similar range. However, dietary restrictions do not mean sacrificing flavor. By utilizing low-carb thickening agents like xanthan gum, heavy cream, or pureed vegetables, you can create a rich and satisfying brown gravy with a significantly reduced carb count. Your choice depends on your priorities: convenience, flavor, or adhering to a specific diet.

To learn more about the nutritional content of common foods, consult the official USDA FoodData Central database. USDA FoodData Central

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary source of carbohydrates in brown gravy is the thickening agent, most commonly all-purpose flour used to create a roux or modified corn starch found in instant mixes.

Yes, you can significantly reduce the carbs in brown gravy by using low-carb thickeners such as xanthan gum or heavy cream instead of traditional flour. You can also thicken it by blending in cooked vegetables like mushrooms.

A traditional homemade gravy thickened with flour has a carb count similar to a prepared store-bought mix. For example, a 1-cup serving of both can range from 11 to 14 grams of carbs.

A keto-friendly gravy can be made using pan drippings or broth and thickening it with a small amount of xanthan gum. Heavy cream can also be added for extra richness and thickness.

Yes, adding pureed vegetables like mushrooms or onions can add a rich, earthy flavor to the gravy. This method is a great, natural way to add thickness and depth without relying on starches.

Xanthan gum is an excellent thickener for low-carb gravy because only a tiny amount is needed to create a smooth, thick consistency. It's crucial to mix it with a fat source first to prevent clumping.

Many prepared brown gravy mixes are quite high in sodium. For instance, a 1-cup serving of a mix can contain over 1100 mg of sodium. Homemade versions allow you to control and reduce the sodium content.