2 tablespoons ham drippings or butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 to 2 cups milk, broth, or water
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Optional: pinch of garlic powder
Optional: pinch of onion powder
Heat the ham drippings or butter in a skillet over medium heat
Whisk in the flour
Cook the flour for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly
Slowly whisk in the liquid
Continue whisking until smooth
Simmer until thickened
Season with salt and black pepper
Add optional seasonings if desired
Serve warm over ham, biscuits, mashed potatoes, or rice