If the turkey is the star of the show, a rich and savory gravy is what makes it shine. A high-quality gravy boat serves as a beautiful and functional addition to your meal and table. Whether it's insulated stainless steel or porcelain, fancy or funny, a gravy boat keeps gravy warm and allows guests to add as little or as much gravy as they like.
From gravy boats with ladles to those with saucer attachments, we've researched and compiled a list of the 10 best gravy boats for your next meal. The Ceramic Sauce Boat from Fiestaware came in as our favorite for its versatility, simplicity, and extreme durability. We've also created a buying guide reviewed by an executive R&D chef to help you make the most informed choice. Check it out below!
Quick List - Top Gravy Boats
Jim Quast (JQ) is a lifelong professional restaurant and corporate R&D chef who loves everything food-related and the tools, both big and small, to make those great food memories. He's a super huge BBQ, grill, and kitchen gadget fanatic. JQ has spent the last 30+ years trying to figure out what works to make your kitchen life easier and fun. If you can use it to slice it, dice it, cook it, smoke it, or store it, he's been there checking it out. Food = Life!
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
When choosing a gravy boat, there are a few important things to consider. The boat's capacity will determine how many guests it can serve before needing a refill. The material will affect its heat retention and style. And don't forget about extra items for a mess-free gravy experience!
Gravy boat sizes can range anywhere from around 10 to 20 ounces. If your gravy boat is too small, you may have to get up to refill it multiple times during the course of the meal. And if your gravy boat is too large, it may be unwieldy.
When deciding on a size, consider the number of people you’ll typically be serving. Smaller gravy boats in the 10- to 12-ounce range can be ideal for up to four people. Medium-sized gravy boats between 12 and 16 ounces can be good for parties of four to 10. Large gravy boats over 16 ounces are best for larger tables of eight or more.
Of course, how much gravy people use will vary greatly, so these numbers are general guidelines! Also note that while a gravy boat may have a 16-ounce capacity, you will probably want to leave some room at the top to prevent spillage, so the final capacity will be slightly smaller.
The most common materials for gravy boats are ceramic, glass or crystal, and stainless steel. Although they may share some similar properties, like size and shape, there are also many differences between them that are worth taking note of.
Typically porcelain or stoneware, ceramic retains heat better than glass and non-insulated stainless steel. It maintains an even temperature once heated, which will keep your gravy from thickening. Ceramic is also usually oven, dishwasher, and microwave safe.
Ceramic gravy boats are available in a nearly unlimited selection of colors and styles to match any decorating scheme. If your vibe is more modern, look for gravy boats that are more simplistic and sleek. For a more elegant feel, look for painted porcelain fine china, or for a rustic, homey feel, consider glazed stoneware.
Glass gravy boats add an elegant and practical touch to your table. Not only can you show off your delicious gravy's rich color, but you can see when it's time for a refill.
Though slightly less effective than ceramics, glass retains heat well. Microwave and oven-safe glass gravy boats ensure easy reheating if you find your gravy has cooled down. Dishwasher-safe options make cleaning a breeze, but of course, glass is prone to chipping and shattering when handled roughly.
Glass compliments a wide variety of decor styles. Smooth glass offers a more modern twist, and textured cut-glass gravy boats pair well with vintage-style table settings.
Non-insulated steel gravy boats won't keep gravy warm for long, and they’re not microwave-safe. Stainless steel is extremely durable and is usually dishwasher-safe. When cleaning manually, stay clear of metal sponges and wire brushes because they can create tiny scratches.
Stainless steel is non-corrosive and resistant to rust, but high-shine plated steel can be prone to tarnishing and water marks, so you will need to polish your gravy boat regularly to restore its shine. Although susceptible to chipping, an enameled gravy boat has a shiny, non-porous glass or ceramic exterior that can be wiped clean in seconds.
An insulated gravy boat will retain heat better than any other material due to its double-walled construction and lid. Although they may not match a formal dining table, as they can resemble a large Thermos, they’ll keep your gravy super hot, and they’re often dishwasher-safe.
Some gravy boats come with extras, like a tray, ladle, or warmer. These items can come in handy, depending on the needs of you and your guests.
When pouring hot gravy, there’s bound to be some drips. To prevent gravy from getting on your table or tablecloth, look for a gravy boat that comes with a saucer or tray. Gravy boats with attached saucers are great for those who prefer using a ladle. They often have wide openings for easy access.
If you prefer pouring, some have double-pour spouts so that you can conveniently serve from either end. Gravy boats with loose saucers offer more flexibility. Without a saucer attached to the gravy boat, you have more control and precision when pouring. Plus, you don't have to worry about hard-to-reach places when cleaning.
Some guests might struggle to hold and pour from a hot, heavy pitcher. So, a gravy boat with a matching ladle is a great alternative. Ladles minimize major spills and accidents, and guests also have more control over the amount of gravy they’re getting.
The temperature of your gravy is important. If you’re concerned about its temperature dropping as it sits on the table, consider a gravy boat with a lid or a warmer.
While a simple lid can help preserve heat, gravy boats with a warmer ensure gravy stays ready to serve the entire dinner. They often come with a stand that the boat sits on top of, with a hole in the bottom for a candle.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Homer Laughlin China Company Fiesta Sauceboat | ![]() | Best Ceramic Gravy Boat to Suit Any Decor | |
2 | Gravy Season Stoneware Gravy Boat | ![]() | Best Humorous Porcelain Gravy Boat | |
3 | Norpro Porcelain Gravy Sauce Boat with Stand and Candle | ![]() | Best Porcelain Gravy Boat With Warmer | |
4 | HIC Kitchen Ceramic Gravy Boat, Tray and Ladle | ![]() | Best Gravy Boat With Attached Tray and Ladle | |
5 | Godinger Dublin Gravy Boat | ![]() | Best Crystal Gravy Boat for Formal Table Settings | |
6 | Pfaltzgraff Holiday Gravy Boat and Stand | ![]() | Best Gravy Pitcher for Holiday Gatherings | |
7 | Le Creuset Crystal Coupe Shaped Gravy Sauce Boat | ![]() | Best Ceramic Gravy Boat With Wide Mouth | |
8 | Bruntmor Ceramic Gravy Boat and Tray | ![]() | Best Classic Ceramic Gravy Boat With a Tray | |
9 | Rorence Stainless Steel Double Insulated Gravy Boat | ![]() | Best Insulated Stainless Steel Gravy Boat | |
10 | Le Tauchi Stainless Steel Gravy Boat | ![]() | Best Gravy Boat Set for Big Tables |
Pros:
Cons:
This Fiesta gravy boat comes in a number of colors and has an Art Deco style that works well on any table. It is dishwasher-safe, and can be used in the microwave and oven up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Plus, it also comes with a five-year chip resistance warranty.
A small percentage of reviewers were suspicious that they had received factory seconds from Amazon. However, the majority of reviewers reported that they received high-quality pieces that perfectly matched their existing sets. They also said that this gravy boat holds a lot of gravy and was easy to lift and pour.
Pros:
Cons:
If you're looking for the perfect gag gift for a feline lover, consider this puking kitty gravy boat. This cat-shaped gravy boat is made from porcelain, with its tail as the handle. The wide mouth can support thick gravy, and it's microwave and dishwasher-safe.
Some customers found that the gravy boat was hard to clean due to its shape. However, the majority of reviewers were extremely pleased with their purchase and said it was well-made. They also said it was a fun addition to their table and put a smile on their guest's faces.
Pros:
Cons:
Made from white porcelain, this gravy boat sits on top of a small stand with a candle that will keep your gravy warm for hours. If at times you don't need that feature, you can use the gravy boat by itself. Plus, it's both microwave and dishwasher safe.
Some reviewers found that the included tea light candle was too hot, saying that it burned the gravy on the bottom. However, most reviewers loved this gravy boat. They said it kept their gravy piping hot and poured easily. They found the construction to be durable and easy to clean.
Pros:
Cons:
This porcelain gravy boat has a double pour spout for convenient serving and an attached saucer for easy cleanup. It also comes with a matching ladle so you can choose whether to scoop or pour. Plus, this set is dishwasher, oven, and microwave-safe.
A few reviewers found the ladle too short and said it can slide into the boat. It may be better to rest it on the dish. Most, however, appreciated the design of both pieces. Many commented that they loved the large size.
Pros:
Cons:
Crafted from 24 percent lead crystal, this gravy boat is sturdy without being too heavy. The design looks like cut glass, with a pattern that sparkles and shines. The foot gives it stability and height.
A few reviewers stated they could see the seam line, and this is mold-made, not cut crystal. However, most reviewers thought that it was elegant and formal looking. They found it to be solidly constructed with a delicate look that was beautiful in use on their table or on display in their china cabinet.
Pros:
Cons:
Although this pitcher-style gravy boat is beautifully decorated with delicate sprays of winterberry, it is made from durable ceramic that is microwave, freezer, and dishwasher-safe. At 24 ounces, this gravy boat is perfect for large groups. Plus, it comes with a five-year warranty against defects.
Some reviewers expressed that this gravy boat was bigger than they expected. However, others said that it works well for entertaining, and can be used as a pitcher for other things besides gravy. Reviewers also said that this gravy boat was beautifully made and easy to use and clean.
Pros:
Cons:
This stoneware gravy boat can go from the oven to the table and then to the dishwasher with ease. Its large handle and wide mouth help make pouring gravy into it safe and mess-free. The glaze finish in Le Creuset's signature colors makes the boat resistant to scratches, chips, and stains.
Reviewers found this gravy boat to be a beautiful addition to their table.They like how the colors match Le Creuset's famous enamelware, and say it's durable enough for everyday use but looks stylish, too.
Pros:
Cons:
Made from ceramic, this gravy boat from Bruntmor has a streamlined, classic shape that will look great on any table. The included tray will catch any stray gravy and serves as a spoon rest, or can be used separately as a dish. Plus, it's microwave and dishwasher-safe.
The majority of reviewers said this was a fantastic piece, and the smooth glazed surface made it a breeze to clean, but a few caution the top is narrow. Buyers loved the simple design, vibrant colors, and said it goes well with any piece. Many said it was the perfect addition to their holiday gathering.
Pros:
Cons:
This gravy boat from Rorence has a double-walled construction and a thermoplastic lid for superior heat retention. With a 16-ounce capacity, it holds plenty of gravy for the table, but if you do need to refill it, the lid hinges open for easy access.
Some reviewers found this gravy boat hard to clean, saying that the lid could trap water. However, many reviewers loved this gravy boat for its insulation and were able to use it for both hot gravy and cold liquids like cream. They also added that the spout was drip-free.
Pros:
Cons:
Place a boat at each end of the table, so your guests can reach it easily without asking someone to pass the gravy! Each boat comes with a matching tray to contain spills, and a glazed finish that makes clean-up a breeze. These gravy boats are also microwave, freezer, and dishwasher-safe for added convenience.
The majority of reviewers found these gravy boats durable and said that they could hold plenty of gravy. Some used them to offer two different sauces. They also said that they were perfect for large family gatherings, and the trays caught drips well.
Looking for more ways to elevate your gravy? These helpful kitchen tools will get you started!
No. 1: Homer Laughlin China Company|Fiesta Sauceboat
No. 2: Gravy Season|Stoneware Gravy Boat
No. 3: Norpro|Porcelain Gravy Sauce Boat with Stand and Candle
No. 4: HIC Kitchen|Ceramic Gravy Boat, Tray and Ladle
No. 5: Godinger|Dublin Gravy Boat
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Health
Beauty
Home goods
Home electronics
PC
Camera
Food and drinks
Kitchen
Fashion
Accessories
Kids and baby
Interior
Hobbies
Outdoor
Home, garden, and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Media
Games
Apps
Automotive
Gifts
Mobile devices