4 tbsp. bacon drippings
4 tbsp. olive or vegetable oil
2/3 c. flour
2 1/2 to 3 1/2 c. heated milk
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1 tsp. salt

Melt drippings in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in flour, stirring constantly (it helps to use a fine mesh sieve for sprinkling).

Cook for several minutes, then stir in hot milk, pepper, and salt. Cook and stir at least five minutes.

Browned sausage or ground beef (browned) may be stirring into gravy or even used as a starter instead of bacon.