Start by chopping the 4 oz dried beef into small, bite-sized pieces. This ensures every spoonful of gravy is packed with savory goodness.

If the dried beef is too salty for your taste, you can rinse it briefly under cold water and pat it dry with a paper towel.

In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat.

Once the butter is melted and slightly bubbly, add 3 tbsp all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden and smells nutty. This is your roux, and it’s the secret to a thick, luscious gravy.

Slowly pour in 2 cups whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture is silky smooth and starts to thicken.

Let the gravy simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency.

Stir in the chopped dried beef, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce.

If you’re using optional add-ins like garlic powder or smoked paprika, add them now.

Let the gravy simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Give your gravy a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more pepper for a bolder flavor or a pinch of salt if desired (though the dried beef usually provides enough saltiness).

If the gravy is too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of milk. If it’s on the thinner side, let it simmer a little longer until it reaches the perfect consistency.

Once your gravy is perfectly creamy and flavorful, remove it from the heat.

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve it warm over mashed potatoes, biscuits, or your favorite side dishes.

For an extra-smooth gravy, you can use an immersion blender or whisk vigorously before serving. This ensures a silky texture that’s sure to impress!