Picture this: a perfect roast chicken, fluffy mashed potatoes, and a steaming plate of green beans. All that’s missing is that rich, savory gravy to tie it all together. But when you head to the grocery store, you’re met with a wall of gravy options. Which one will deliver that homemade taste without all the fuss? It’s a common kitchen dilemma, especially when you’re aiming for a delicious meal with minimal stress.
Choosing the right store-bought gravy can feel like a gamble. Will it be too salty? Will it have that artificial flavor? Or will it be watery and bland? These are the real worries that can turn a simple pantry staple into a frustrating decision. You want that comforting, classic gravy flavor, but finding it in a jar or packet isn’t always easy.
That’s where we come in. We’ve dug deep to uncover the best store-bought gravies, just like America’s Test Kitchen would. By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly which options are worth your money and will impress your taste buds. Get ready to discover the secrets to a shortcut gravy that tastes like you spent hours making it from scratch.
Our Top 5 Store Bought Gravy America’S Test Kitchen Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Store Bought Gravy America’S Test Kitchen Detailed Reviews
1. The Complete Slow Cooker: From Appetizers to Desserts – 400 Must-Have Recipes That Cook While You Play (orWork) (The Complete ATK Cookbook Series)
Rating: 9.2/10
The Complete Slow Cooker: From Appetizers to Desserts – 400 Must-Have Recipes That Cook While You Play (orWork) (The Complete ATK Cookbook Series) is a fantastic resource for anyone who loves delicious food but has a busy schedule. This cookbook offers a huge collection of recipes, all designed to be made in your slow cooker. That means you can put your ingredients in the pot in the morning and come home to a fully cooked meal. It covers everything from tasty appetizers to sweet desserts, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen.
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What We Like:
- Huge variety of recipes: With 400 recipes, you’ll never run out of ideas.
- Time-saving: The slow cooker does the work for you, freeing up your time.
- Covers all meal types: Appetizers, main courses, sides, and desserts are all included.
- From a trusted source: ATK (America’s Test Kitchen) is known for reliable, tested recipes.
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What Could Be Improved:
- Recipe complexity: Some recipes might require a bit more prep time than others.
- Ingredient accessibility: A few recipes might call for less common ingredients.
This cookbook is a game-changer for busy cooks. It makes mealtime easier and more delicious.
2. The Best Mexican Recipes: Kitchen-Tested Recipes Put the Real Flavors of Mexico Within Reach
Rating: 9.1/10
If you love Mexican food, you’ll want to check out “The Best Mexican Recipes: Kitchen-Tested Recipes Put the Real Flavors of Mexico Within Reach.” This cookbook is filled with delicious recipes that bring the authentic taste of Mexico right into your kitchen. You don’t need to be a master chef to make these dishes. The instructions are easy to follow. You can whip up everything from spicy tacos to flavorful enchiladas.
What We Like:
- The recipes are truly tested and work well.
- It teaches you how to get the real flavors of Mexico.
- The instructions are simple and clear for beginners.
- You can make many different kinds of Mexican dishes.
- It makes cooking Mexican food at home fun and easy.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some recipes might require special ingredients that are hard to find everywhere.
- More pictures of the finished dishes would be helpful.
- A section on Mexican cooking techniques could be added.
This cookbook is a fantastic way to explore the delicious world of Mexican cuisine. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to bring the vibrant tastes of Mexico to their dinner table.
3. Multicooker Perfection: Cook It Fast or Cook It Slow-You Decide
Rating: 9.1/10
The Multicooker Perfection: Cook It Fast or Cook It Slow-You Decide is a kitchen game-changer. This appliance lets you whip up meals quickly or let them simmer for hours. It’s designed for busy people who love good food. You get a lot of cooking options in one handy pot.
What We Like:
- It cooks food super fast for weeknight dinners.
- You can also slow cook meals, making tough cuts of meat tender.
- It’s really easy to use; just select your setting and go.
- One pot means less cleanup afterward.
- It fits on your counter without taking up too much space.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instruction manual could be a little clearer for beginners.
- Some of the cooking programs might need a bit of tweaking for exact results.
- We wish it came in more color options to match different kitchens.
This multicooker truly lives up to its name by offering amazing flexibility. It’s a fantastic addition to any kitchen for anyone who wants delicious meals with minimal fuss.
4. America’s Test Kitchen Potatoes 20 Ways: Baked
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready to transform your potato game with “America’s Test Kitchen Potatoes 20 Ways: Baked, Fried, Mashed, Smashed, and more.” This cookbook is your ultimate guide to making potatoes exciting and delicious. Whether you love crispy fries, fluffy mashed potatoes, or something totally new, this book has you covered. America’s Test Kitchen shares their tested and perfected recipes, so you can be sure they work. You’ll discover ways to cook potatoes you never even thought of!
What We Like:
- Offers a huge variety of potato recipes, from simple to creative.
- Recipes are thoroughly tested and reliable, thanks to America’s Test Kitchen’s reputation.
- Covers many popular cooking methods like baking, frying, and mashing.
- The “smashed” potato method is a fun and unique addition.
- Easy-to-follow instructions are included for every recipe.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some recipes might require specific ingredients or equipment not found in every kitchen.
- The “20 Ways” might feel a little limiting for true potato enthusiasts looking for even more options.
This cookbook is a fantastic resource for anyone who wants to master potato cooking. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: America’s Test Kitchen Store-Bought Gravy
Gravy makes meals special. It adds flavor and moisture. But sometimes, you don’t have time to make gravy from scratch. That’s where store-bought gravy comes in handy. America’s Test Kitchen has tested many kinds. They help you find the best. This guide will tell you what to look for.
Key Features to Look For
1. Flavor Profile
Good gravy tastes rich. It should taste like roasted meat. You want a savory flavor. Some gravies are too salty. Others taste bland. Look for words like “rich,” “savory,” or “hearty” on the label. America’s Test Kitchen checks for a balanced taste. It shouldn’t be too strong or too weak.
2. Texture
Gravy should be smooth. It should also be thick enough. It shouldn’t be watery. It also shouldn’t be lumpy. A good gravy coats the back of a spoon. It flows nicely. Too thin, and it runs off your food. Too thick, and it’s like paste.
3. Ingredients
Simple ingredients are often best. Look for real meat broth. This gives the best flavor. Some gravies use artificial flavors. These can taste fake. Natural thickeners like cornstarch or flour are good. Check the ingredient list for things you recognize. America’s Test Kitchen prefers gravies with fewer artificial additives.
4. Ease of Preparation
Most store-bought gravies are easy. You usually just heat them up. Some come in cans or jars. Others are in pouches. Make sure the package is easy to open. Heating should be quick. You shouldn’t need fancy equipment.
Important Materials
The gravy itself is the main material. The packaging is also important. Cans protect the gravy well. Jars keep it fresh. Pouches are convenient for single servings. The quality of the broth is key. It’s usually made from chicken, beef, or turkey. The type of broth affects the flavor.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality
- Real meat broth: This makes gravy taste authentic.
- Natural seasonings: Herbs and spices add depth.
- Proper thickening: A good texture is crucial.
- No artificial flavors: These can ruin the taste.
Reducing Quality
- Watery consistency: Gravy should be thicker.
- Artificial taste: This makes it less enjoyable.
- Too much salt: This overpowers other flavors.
- Lumps: Nobody likes lumpy gravy.
- Preservatives: Some people prefer fewer of these.
User Experience and Use Cases
Store-bought gravy is a time-saver. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners. It’s great for holidays too. Imagine mashed potatoes without gravy. It just isn’t the same. You can use it on roast chicken, turkey, or beef. It’s also good on biscuits. Some people even add it to casseroles. It makes leftovers taste fresh again. America’s Test Kitchen helps you pick a gravy that tastes almost homemade.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best store-bought gravy according to America’s Test Kitchen?
A: America’s Test Kitchen tests many brands. Their top picks change sometimes. They look for the best flavor and texture. Check their latest reviews for the current winner.
Q: Can I improve the taste of store-bought gravy?
A: Yes! You can add a pinch of black pepper. A dash of Worcestershire sauce helps too. You can also stir in a little extra broth or butter.
Q: What kind of meat is usually in store-bought gravy?
A: Gravy is often made with chicken, beef, or turkey broth. Some might have pan drippings from roasting.
Q: Is store-bought gravy healthy?
A: It depends on the brand. Some have high sodium. Others have artificial ingredients. Always check the nutrition label.
Q: How do I heat store-bought gravy?
A: Most gravies can be heated on the stovetop in a saucepan. You can also heat them in the microwave. Follow the package directions.
Q: Can I freeze store-bought gravy?
A: Yes, you can freeze gravy. Let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container. It should last for a few months.
Q: What is the difference between brown gravy and white gravy?
A: Brown gravy is usually made with beef or turkey broth. White gravy (like sausage gravy) is made with milk or cream and often bacon drippings.
Q: Are there gluten-free store-bought gravy options?
A: Yes, many brands offer gluten-free versions. They use alternative thickeners.
Q: What does “pan drippings” mean in gravy?
A: Pan drippings are the flavorful juices and bits left in the pan after roasting meat.
Q: Why did America’s Test Kitchen test store-bought gravy?
A: They test products to help consumers make informed choices. They want to find the best tasting and highest quality options available.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!