Creating the perfect, smooth gravy is a hallmark of a great cook, but separating the flavorful pan juices from the unwanted fat can be a tricky task. A dedicated fat separator is the secret weapon for achieving a rich, non-greasy sauce that complements your meals without the fuss. This simple tool uses basic science to let the fat rise to the top, allowing you to pour the good stuff from the bottom.
With so many models available, from classic spout designs to innovative bottom-release mechanisms, choosing the right one can streamline your cooking process. We have compiled a list of the top-performing fat separators to help you find the ideal tool for your kitchen. These selections are designed to make your holiday dinners and everyday cooking healthier and more efficient.
The Best Fat Separators for Perfect Gravy
- OXO Good Grips 4-Cup Fat Separator
- Bellemain 4-Cup Fat Separator with Strainer
- Vondior Fat Separator With Bottom Release
- TIYOORTA 4 Cup Fat and Gravy Oil Separator
- Swing-A-Way 32oz Grease Separator
- OXO Good Grips Good Gravy Fat Separator
- Norpro 3 Cup Gravy Fat Separator
- Tovolo Fat Separator Gravy Strainer
- GoodCook Everyday 2-Cup Fat Separator
- Cuisinart CFO-3S Fat Separator
OXO Good Grips 4-Cup Fat Separator
A trusted name in kitchen tools, the OXO Good Grips Fat Separator is designed for efficiency and ease. It quickly separates unwanted fat from your flavorful pan juices, helping you create leaner gravies, soups, and sauces. The heat-resistant, BPA-free plastic construction ensures safe use with hot liquids.
This model includes a built-in strainer that catches unwanted bits and herbs as you pour in your drippings. A clever stopper in the spout prevents the top layer of fat from escaping when you pour, giving you clear control over the final product. Its practical design makes it a reliable choice for any home cook.
Bellemain 4-Cup Fat Separator with Strainer
The Bellemain separator is built for at-home chefs who are serious about their gravy. Its standout feature is the innovative high-top design, which prevents congealed fat from sloshing over the rim during the separation process. This thoughtful detail makes for a cleaner and more effective experience.
This model combines the best features of leading separators into one improved tool. It features a slip-resistant handle for a secure grip and a silicone stopper that creates an airtight seal on the spout. The included strainer makes pouring your drippings in simple and mess-free, setting you up for success.
Vondior Fat Separator With Bottom Release
The Vondior Fat Separator offers a unique bottom-release mechanism for precise pouring. Simply press the red button on the handle to release the lean liquid from the bottom, leaving the fat securely behind at the top. This method provides excellent control and helps avoid any accidental mixing of fat back into your gravy.
Made from leak-free, clear plastic, this separator is heat-resistant, BPA-free, and dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. The built-in strainer lid removes clumps and thicker pieces from your drippings. As a bonus, it comes packaged with a 3-in-1 peeler, making it a fantastic gift option.
TIYOORTA 4 Cup Fat and Gravy Oil Separator
TIYOORTA’s separator is designed for performance and durability. Its spoutless design with a bottom release, activated by a red button, ensures you only pour the defatted liquid you want. The clear plastic body features precise measurement markings, so you can measure quantities as you work.
This tool is versatile, working with both hot and cold fluids to separate fat from gravy, soups, and stews or to remove pulp from fresh juices. The robust, non-slip handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, while the leak-proof silicone drip stopper guarantees a mess-free operation.
Swing-A-Way 32oz Grease Separator
The Swing-A-Way Grease Separator features a time-tested, innovative bottom-release design. Instead of a button, it uses a convenient lever to open the spring-loaded bottom for mess-free pouring. This action enriches your dishes with less grease, making for healthier meals.
With a 4-cup (32 oz) capacity, it provides ample space for separating pan drippings from a large roast. The deep, removable lid acts as an effective strainer. Its compact design is easy to store in any kitchen cabinet, making it a practical and space-saving tool.
OXO Good Grips Good Gravy Fat Separator
Another excellent option from OXO, the “Good Gravy” separator also utilizes a bottom-release mechanism for superior fat separation. The non-slip handle is ergonomically designed to be comfortable, and it houses the button that releases the lean liquid from the bottom, leaving the fat behind.
This design minimizes the risk of pouring any fat back into your gravy. The built-in strainer catches unwanted bits as you pour your drippings into the container. It’s a straightforward and highly effective tool for achieving consistently smooth, non-greasy results.
Norpro 3 Cup Gravy Fat Separator
The Norpro separator is a classic and reliable choice for your kitchen. It uses a traditional spout design for pouring, which is simple and intuitive. The dripless spout is a key feature, designed to prevent messy leaks and drips down the side of the container.
With a capacity of 4 cups (1 liter), it is well-suited for most family meals and holiday cooking. The entire unit is dishwasher safe, making cleanup quick and effortless. If you prefer a straightforward, no-fuss fat separator, this model is an excellent contender.
Tovolo Fat Separator Gravy Strainer
Tovolo brings a smart innovation to fat separation with its integrated interior tube. This tube draws liquid directly from the bottom of the measuring cup, allowing you to pour pure, flavorful gravy while excess fat remains trapped at the surface. This automatic process removes the need for manual skimming.
The detachable silicone lid acts as a strainer, filtering out giblets, herbs, and bone fragments for a perfectly smooth gravy. The durable, food-safe material withstands high temperatures, making it a reliable tool for your thanksgiving dinners and special family gatherings.
GoodCook Everyday 2-Cup Fat Separator
The GoodCook Everyday separator is a compact and practical option, ideal for smaller batches of gravy or sauce. It features a bottom-release mechanism for clean pouring and measures up to 2 cups in both standard and metric measurements, providing flexibility for various recipes.
This model includes a heat-resistant strainer that catches unwanted food scraps from your stock and pan drippings. An integrated handle on the strainer allows you to remove it without creating a mess. Its smaller size makes it easy to handle and store.
Cuisinart CFO-3S Fat Separator
While specific details and an image are not provided, Cuisinart is a brand renowned for its high-quality kitchenware. The CFO-3S Fat Separator is designed to meet the brand’s standards for performance and durability. You can expect a well-constructed tool that effectively separates fat from juices.
Typically, Cuisinart products feature user-friendly designs, such as comfortable handles and clear measurement markings. For those who trust the Cuisinart name, this model is certainly worth considering for its potential to deliver reliable and consistent results in gravy making.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Fat Separators for Gravy
I’ve used my fair share of fat separators, and I can tell you that not all are created equal. A good one makes gravy-making a breeze, while a bad one can lead to spills, frustration, and greasy gravy. If you’re in the market for one, here are the key things I look for.
First, consider the capacity. How much gravy do you typically make? If you’re cooking for a big holiday crowd, you’ll want a larger model, around 4 cups or more. For everyday use with a smaller family, a 2-cup separator is usually perfect. Just remember, you need to leave some headspace for shaking, so don’t fill it to the absolute brim.
The spout design is arguably the most critical feature. A poorly designed spout is a recipe for a mess. I always look for a spout that starts from the very bottom of the container. This allows the lean broth to pour out while the fat stays trapped at the top. Some of the best fat separators for gravy have a strainer built into the lid or the spout opening, which is a huge bonus for catching any stray herbs or bits of meat.
Material is another big one. You’ll find them in plastic, glass, and stainless steel. Plastic is lightweight, affordable, and often dishwasher-safe, which is a major plus for cleanup. Glass is great because it’s typically microwave-safe for reheating, and you can see the fat layer clearly. Stainless steel is durable and won’t break, but you can’t see the fat level, which can be a drawback.
Don’t overlook the handle and grip. A separator full of hot liquid is awkward and potentially dangerous. A comfortable, heat-resistant handle that’s securely attached is non-negotiable. Some models have ergonomic grips or non-slip bases, which add a lot of stability when you’re pouring.
Finally, think about ease of cleaning. Gravy can be sticky, and fat can congeal into a nasty film. A wide mouth makes it much easier to get a sponge or brush inside. Check if the parts are dishwasher-safe, but be aware that some lids with intricate strainers might need a quick hand-wash to get completely clean. Taking a few minutes to consider these points will help you find a tool that makes perfect, non-greasy gravy a simple task.
FAQ
How does a fat separator actually work?
It works on a simple principle of physics: fat is less dense than water, so it rises to the top. You pour your pan drippings and broth into the separator and let it sit for a few minutes. The fat will float to the surface. When you pour the liquid out through the bottom-starting spout, the spout draws the lean broth from below the fat layer, leaving the grease behind in the container. It’s a brilliantly simple way to get the flavor without the grease.
Can I use a fat separator in the microwave?
This depends entirely on the material. Plastic separators are generally not microwave-safe unless explicitly stated. Glass models are usually your best bet for microwave use, making them convenient for reheating gravy directly in the same container. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before putting any kitchen tool in the microwave to avoid damage or melting.
What’s the best way to clean a fat separator?
I find the easiest method is to clean it as soon as possible after use, before the fat has a chance to solidify. Use hot, soapy water and a bottle brush if you have one to reach all the corners. For stubborn, congealed fat, fill it with hot water and a little dish soap and let it soak for a few minutes. Most plastic and some glass models are dishwasher-safe on the top rack, but always double-check the product details.
Are there any alternatives to using a fat separator?
Yes, there are a couple of old-school methods. You can use a spoon to skim the fat off the top of your broth in the pan, but this is time-consuming and not very efficient. Another method is to chill the broth until the fat solidifies on top, allowing you to lift it off in one piece, but this obviously takes a lot of time. For me, a dedicated tool is the fastest and most reliable method for getting clean gravy.
Why is my gravy still greasy even when I use a separator?
This usually happens for one of two reasons. First, you might not have let the liquid sit long enough for the fat to fully separate and rise. Give it a good five to ten minutes. Second, you might be pouring too quickly or tilting the separator too far, causing the fat layer to slosh into the spout. Pour slowly and steadily to ensure you’re only drawing the broth from the bottom. Finding the right tool from a list of the best fat separators for gravy can make a big difference in avoiding this issue.
Can I use it for anything other than gravy?
Absolutely! I use mine for all kinds of soups and stocks. Whenever you want to de-grease a liquid, it’s the perfect tool. It’s great for making leaner beef stews, chicken soup, or even for removing excess fat from braising liquids. It’s a versatile kitchen helper that goes far beyond just holiday gravy.