If you’re looking for a flavorful and easy way to elevate your dinner, Lipton Onion Soup Gravy with cornstarch is a reliable go-to. This savory and rich gravy is made using Lipton’s well-known onion soup mix, a pantry staple that’s been helping home cooks create delicious meals for decades. With the addition of cornstarch, you get a smooth, thick consistency that clings perfectly to meats, potatoes, or vegetables. Whether you’re serving a weeknight roast or preparing a comforting holiday dinner, this gravy delivers flavor and texture without hassle.
Why Use Lipton Onion Soup Mix for Gravy?
There’s a reason Lipton Onion Soup Mix is a household favorite. It combines dehydrated onions and a mix of savory seasonings that blend seamlessly into a variety of dishes. When used to make gravy, the soup mix saves time on chopping and seasoning while offering that slow-cooked flavor that usually takes hours to develop.
Key Benefits
- Easy to use with minimal ingredients
- Reliable flavor balance of onions, garlic, and herbs
- Great for last-minute meal preparation
- Pairs well with beef, chicken, pork, and vegetables
The Role of Cornstarch in Gravy
Cornstarch is an essential ingredient when making Lipton Onion Soup Gravy if you want that silky, lump-free consistency. It acts as a thickener, helping the liquid base firm up into a gravy-like texture that’s smooth and glossy. Without it, the sauce may be too thin and runny.
To activate cornstarch properly, it should always be mixed with a small amount of cold water before being added to hot liquid. This prevents clumping and ensures the starch dissolves evenly. Once heated, it quickly thickens, giving your gravy that rich mouthfeel that complements roasted or grilled foods.
How Much Cornstarch to Use?
- Start with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch per cup of liquid
- Mix with equal parts cold water (a slurry) before adding
- Simmer gently to activate thickening without overcooking
Simple Recipe: Lipton Onion Soup Gravy with Cornstarch
This easy recipe uses just a few ingredients and is ready in under 15 minutes. It’s perfect for busy nights when you still want to serve something warm and hearty.
Ingredients
- 1 packet Lipton Onion Soup Mix
- 2 cups water or beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon cold water (for slurry)
- Optional: black pepper or Worcestershire sauce to taste
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine the Lipton Onion Soup Mix with 2 cups of water or broth.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water to form a smooth slurry.
- Slowly pour the slurry into the boiling soup mix, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat and simmer until the gravy thickens, about 24 minutes.
- Season with black pepper or a splash of Worcestershire sauce if desired.
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, roasted meats, or vegetables.
Ways to Customize Your Onion Soup Gravy
One of the great things about using Lipton Onion Soup Mix as a base is its flexibility. You can add other ingredients to tailor the gravy to suit your dish. Whether you want something richer, creamier, or with a bit of spice, here are a few ideas:
Flavor Boosters
- Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms for earthy flavor and extra texture.
- Butter: Stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end for richness.
- Garlic: Add a clove of minced garlic while heating the soup base for a bolder taste.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth to the flavor.
- Red wine: A splash of wine gives it a gourmet edge, especially for beef dishes.
Creamy Variation
To make a creamy onion gravy, replace ½ cup of the water or broth with heavy cream or milk. This version pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or roasted turkey and adds a smooth, luxurious texture.
Perfect Pairings for Onion Soup Gravy
This savory, umami-rich gravy is incredibly versatile and works well with many dishes. It can elevate even the simplest proteins and sides into something crave-worthy. Here are some perfect pairings:
- Roast Beef: Classic and flavorful, perfect for Sunday dinners.
- Meatloaf: Adds moisture and a savory finish to homemade meatloaf.
- Mashed Potatoes: A traditional and comforting pairing that never gets old.
- Grilled Chicken: Drizzle over chicken breasts for extra flavor.
- Vegetarian Loaf or Mushrooms: A great topping for plant-based dishes as well.
Tips for Success
Even though making Lipton Onion Soup Gravy with cornstarch is easy, a few simple tips can ensure perfect results every time:
- Always dissolve cornstarch in cold water before adding to hot liquids.
- Stir constantly when thickening to avoid lumps and sticking.
- Use broth instead of water for deeper flavor.
- Taste before adding extra salt Lipton soup mix can be salty.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently to maintain texture.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftover gravy, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the consistency if it’s too thick. Avoid boiling during reheating, as this may affect the texture of the thickener.
A Quick and Flavorful Gravy for Every Occasion
Lipton Onion Soup Gravy with cornstarch is a simple solution for anyone wanting to make a homemade-style sauce without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s full of rich onion flavor, thickened to perfection, and highly customizable to fit a range of meals. Whether you’re dressing up a holiday roast or just want a savory topping for weeknight mashed potatoes, this gravy is a dependable and delicious choice. Keep a packet of Lipton Onion Soup Mix and some cornstarch in your pantry, and you’ll always have the tools to create a comforting, flavorful meal in minutes.