Dinner

Classic Beef Gravy for Poutine Recipe

Name: Classic Beef Gravy for Poutine Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons vegetable oil; 1 pound boneless beef chuck, chopped into 1-inch pieces; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup diced onions; Salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 pinch cayenne pepper; 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 quart beef broth; 1 pound French fries (prepared according to package instructions); 3/4 cup cheese curds; Chopped fresh chives (for garnish, optional)

ByMariam Harutyunyan September 15, 2026September 15, 2026

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Introduction

Poutine is a beloved Canadian comfort food, featuring crispy fries topped with cheese curds and rich, savory gravy. This recipe guides you through making a hearty beef gravy that perfectly complements the fries and cheese for an irresistible treat.

A white plate holds a layered dish starting with a base of golden-brown fries spread evenly. Scattered over the fries are white, soft cheese curds. On top of this, a thick, light brown gravy covers the dish, with several chunks of tender brown meat partially visible through the gravy. Small green bits of chopped chives are sprinkled across the top, adding a pop of color. A fork with a gold and black handle rests on the plate, some gravy and a piece of meat speared by its tines. The plate is placed on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1 pound boneless beef chuck, chopped into 1-inch pieces

1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 cup diced onions

Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 pinch cayenne pepper
5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 quart beef broth

1 pound French fries, prepared according to package instructions
3/4 cup cheese curds
Chopped fresh chives, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and drizzle in the vegetable oil. Add the chopped beef chuck and cook until browned on all sides.
Step 2: Reduce the heat to medium, add the butter to the pan, then stir in the diced onions. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Cook until the onions are soft and lightly golden.
Step 3: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the beef and onions. Stir continuously for 2 to 4 minutes, until the mixture smells nutty and forms a light roux.

Step 4: Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring the mixture stays smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens.
Step 5: Preheat your oven to 450°F. Arrange the French fries on a baking sheet and bake according to package instructions until crispy and golden, about 12 to 17 minutes.
Step 6: Place the hot fries onto a serving plate. Scatter the cheese curds over the fries, then ladle the hot gravy generously on top. Garnish with chopped fresh chives if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For a richer gravy, simmer the beef with a couple of crushed garlic cloves or a sprig of thyme before adding the onions.
Use homemade fries or fresh-cut potatoes for a more authentic texture and flavor.
Substitute beef broth with mushroom broth for a vegetarian-friendly gravy option.

To ensure your cheese curds melt slightly, use them at room temperature before assembling the poutine.

Storage

Store leftover gravy separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce. It’s best to prepare fries and cheese fresh for each serving as reheated fries tend to lose crispness.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a dish with three visible layers: the bottom layer is golden-brown French fries arranged unevenly, the middle layer has scattered white cheese curds that look soft and semi-melted, and the top layer consists of a shiny, thick greyish-brown gravy covering the fries and cheese in the center, with chunks of tender meat mixed in. Small green pieces of chopped herbs are sprinkled atop the gravy, adding a touch of color. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the gravy ahead of time?

Yes, the gravy can be made up to two days ahead. Keep it refrigerated and reheat slowly before serving, adding a little broth to restore consistency if it thickens too much.

What cheese can I use if I can’t find cheese curds?

If cheese curds are unavailable, use a mild, semi-soft cheese like mozzarella or young cheddar. While the texture won’t be identical, these cheeses will melt nicely and provide a similar effect.