Pepper’s Cheat'n Gravy

Combine the water, milk, bouillon, and soy sauce in a small saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring, until the bouillon cubes dissolve. Turn off the heat and cover to keep warm.

Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then add the flour, onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper and cook, stirring, until smooth, 2 minutes.

Slowly whisk the milk mixture into the flour mixture until fully incorporated. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and simmer, whisking, until a thick gravy consistency is achieved, 3–4 minutes. Serve immediately.