This cozy and tasty Popeyes Cajun Gravy is a favorite because of its rich, unique flavors. If you’ve had Popeyes, you know they serve a lot of tasty meals, and their Cajun Gravy is one of the best. It’s so flavorful that you don’t need much else to enjoy it. Whether you dip bread in it or serve it with fried rice, it’s a delicious treat on its own.
For this copycat Popeyes Cajun Gravy recipe, I made a meatless version, but you can easily add ground pork or beef if you want a heartier dish. Both options are tasty, so you can choose what fits your preference. I opted for a lighter version this time, and even without the meat, the gravy still turned out flavorful.
Making the gravy without pork or beef changes the flavor slightly, but it’s still delicious. Feel free to add other ingredients to make it your own. The recipe is simple, so you can easily get creative with it!
What Is Popeyes Cajun Gravy?
Popeyes Cajun Gravy is a rich and flavorful sauce served at Popeyes, known for its bold and spicy Cajun-inspired taste. It’s typically made with a blend of seasonings like garlic, onions, black pepper, and Cajun spices, often mixed with ground meat like pork or beef. The gravy has a smooth texture and is packed with savory flavors, making it the perfect complement to Popeyes’ signature dishes like mashed potatoes, biscuits, or fried chicken. Its unique blend of spices gives it a distinct, slightly spicy kick that’s popular among fans of Cajun cuisine.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme
- Salt to taste
- Optional: 1/4 pound ground pork or beef (if you want a meatier version)
How To Make Popeyes Cajun Gravy
Step 1:
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour. Stir constantly for about 2-3 minutes until it turns light brown.
Step 2:
Slowly pour in the chicken broth and water while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until smooth.
Step 3:
Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, and salt. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the gravy thickens.
Step 4: (Optional)
If you’re using ground pork or beef, cook it in a separate pan until browned. Drain the fat, then add the meat to the gravy.
Step 5:
Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Serve warm with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or any of your favorite sides.
Enjoy your homemade Popeyes Cajun Gravy!
Pro Tips
- Cooking the butter and flour until it’s a light golden brown is key to adding depth to the gravy. Keep stirring to avoid burning the roux, and watch the color closely.
- To avoid lumps, make sure you whisk as you slowly pour in the chicken broth and water. A smooth consistency is what you’re aiming for.
- Cajun seasoning can vary in spiciness. Start with less and add more if needed, especially if you’re serving this to guests who might prefer a milder flavor.
- If possible, use homemade chicken broth for a richer, more flavorful gravy. It can really elevate the taste!
- Let the gravy simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend. The longer you simmer, the more intense the flavors become.
FAQ
Can I make this gravy without meat? Yes! You can easily make this gravy without pork or beef, and it will still be flavorful. The recipe includes optional meat for a heartier version, but it’s delicious on its own.
What can I serve with Cajun gravy? Popeyes Cajun Gravy pairs well with mashed potatoes, biscuits, rice, fried chicken, or even as a dip for fries. You can also use it as a sauce for roasted vegetables or pasta.
How do I store leftover gravy? Store any leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if it’s too thick.
How can I make the gravy spicier? To make the gravy spicier, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust the heat level based on your taste.
Can I freeze this gravy? Yes, you can freeze the gravy. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, adding extra broth if needed to thin it out.
Popeyes Cajun Gravy Recipe
Course: SIDESCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings5
minutes15
minutes95
kcal20
minutesPopeyes Cajun Gravy is a rich and flavorful sauce served at Popeyes, known for its bold and spicy Cajun-inspired taste. It’s typically made with a blend of seasonings like garlic, onions, black pepper, and Cajun spices, often mixed with ground meat like pork or beef.
Ingredients
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon thyme
Salt to taste
Optional: 1/4 pound ground pork or beef (Optional)
Directions
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour. Stir constantly for about 2-3 minutes until it turns light brown.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth and water while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until smooth.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, and salt. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the gravy thickens.
- (Optional Step)
If you’re using ground pork or beef, cook it in a separate pan until browned. Drain the fat, then add the meat to the gravy. - Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Serve warm with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or any of your favorite sides.
Enjoy your homemade Popeyes Cajun Gravy!
Notes
- Cooking the butter and flour until it’s a light golden brown is key to adding depth to the gravy. Keep stirring to avoid burning the roux, and watch the color closely.
To avoid lumps, make sure you whisk as you slowly pour in the chicken broth and water. A smooth consistency is what you’re aiming for.
Cajun seasoning can vary in spiciness. Start with less and add more if needed, especially if you’re serving this to guests who might prefer a milder flavor.
If possible, use homemade chicken broth for a richer, more flavorful gravy. It can really elevate the taste!
Let the gravy simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend. The longer you simmer, the more intense the flavors become.
