Introduction
Gravy is the ultimate comfort companion for almost any dish. From roasted meats to mashed potatoes, the right gravy can make your meal feel warm, indulgent, and deeply satisfying. These 20 savory gravy recipes will guide you through classic flavors, unique twists, and seasonal favorites, so you can pour a little extra magic onto every plate.
1. Classic Brown Gravy
The timeless brown gravy is a staple in every kitchen. Rich, savory, and deeply flavorful, it pairs beautifully with roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or even roasted vegetables. Its comforting aroma and smooth texture make it a go-to for family dinners or holiday feasts. The balance of butter, flour, and beef drippings creates a luxurious taste that’s both simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef or chicken stock
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
- Gradually pour in stock, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
How to Serve It
Serve over roasted beef, turkey, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley for color. Add caramelized onions for a deeper flavor. Perfect for cozy winter dinners.
2. Creamy Mushroom Gravy
Mushrooms add an earthy richness to gravy that makes it unforgettable. This creamy version blends sautéed mushrooms with a velvety sauce that enhances everything from mashed potatoes to roasted chicken. The umami depth of mushrooms complements butter and cream beautifully, creating a silky texture and inviting aroma that fills the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable or chicken stock
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a pan, sauté mushrooms until golden.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Gradually add stock, whisking continuously.
- Stir in cream and simmer 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
How to Serve It
Perfect over roasted chicken or meatloaf. Garnish with thyme or chives. Works well with mashed potatoes or rice. Serve hot for a cozy, comforting touch.
3. Garlic Herb Gravy
Garlic and fresh herbs bring a fragrant twist to classic gravy. This versatile sauce enhances roasted meats, poultry, or even vegetables. The garlic adds a mellow warmth while rosemary and thyme give herbal depth, creating a rich and aromatic flavor profile that’s perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour
- 2 cups chicken or beef stock
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp chopped rosemary
- 1 tsp chopped thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add flour and whisk for 2 minutes.
- Slowly pour in stock, whisking to avoid lumps.
- Stir in herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened.
How to Serve It
Drizzle over roasted turkey or chicken. Sprinkle additional fresh herbs on top. Serve alongside roasted root vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes.
4. Onion Gravy
Caramelized onions bring natural sweetness and depth to a rich, savory gravy. Perfect for bangers and mash, mashed potatoes, or grilled meats, this sauce balances sweetness and umami with smooth texture. Slowly cooked onions create a rich aroma that fills the kitchen, making every bite feel indulgent and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups beef stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter in a skillet and caramelize onions over medium heat for 15 minutes.
- Stir in flour and cook 2 minutes.
- Gradually add stock, whisking constantly.
- Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper.
How to Serve It
Serve over sausages, roast beef, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. Works well with Yorkshire pudding for a classic touch.
5. Red Wine Gravy
Red wine adds a luxurious depth to gravy, giving it a bold, slightly tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with beef or lamb. This rich sauce is perfect for special occasions or a cozy weekend dinner, offering a silky texture and a sophisticated, savory aroma.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 cup beef stock
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1 tsp fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter and stir in flour, cooking 2 minutes.
- Slowly add stock and wine, whisking constantly.
- Add thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer 10 minutes until thickened.
How to Serve It
Serve over roast beef or lamb. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs. Pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
6. Sage & Onion Gravy
Sage and onion create a classic, aromatic flavor that complements poultry and roasted meats beautifully. The earthy sage blends with the sweetness of onions for a comforting, savory gravy that feels perfect for family dinners or festive meals. Its rich texture and fragrant aroma make it a favorite for traditional plates.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh sage
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups chicken stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter and sauté onion until soft and golden.
- Stir in sage and flour; cook 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in stock.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper.
How to Serve It
Pour over roast chicken or turkey. Garnish with additional sage leaves. Perfect alongside mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables.
7. Chicken Gravy
Chicken gravy is a versatile, comforting sauce that pairs beautifully with everything from roasted chicken to biscuits. Made with pan drippings, it has a rich, savory flavor that feels indulgent yet homey. Its silky texture and mild seasoning make it suitable for both everyday meals and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan and whisk in flour; cook 2–3 minutes.
- Slowly add chicken stock while whisking.
- Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened.
How to Serve It
Serve over roasted or fried chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley. Works well with rice, potatoes, or stuffing.
8. Turkey Gravy
Turkey gravy is essential for holiday feasts. Made from pan drippings and seasoned stock, it brings deep flavor and smooth texture to every bite. The rich aroma of turkey blended with herbs makes it perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any roast dinner.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup turkey drippings
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 cups turkey or chicken stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter with turkey drippings in a saucepan.
- Stir in flour and cook 2–3 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in stock.
- Simmer 5–10 minutes until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper.
How to Serve It
Pour over carved turkey slices. Garnish with thyme or rosemary sprigs. Ideal with mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
9. Vegan Cashew Gravy
This dairy-free, vegan cashew gravy is rich, nutty, and perfectly creamy. Blending soaked cashews with savory stock and herbs creates a luscious texture that pairs beautifully with vegetables, grains, or vegan roasts. Its comforting flavor makes it an excellent choice for plant-based meals.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked 4 hours
- 2 cups vegetable stock
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Blend soaked cashews with vegetable stock until smooth.
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan and add cashew mixture.
- Stir in garlic and onion powder; simmer 5–7 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
How to Serve It
Serve over roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or grain bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme. Works well with holiday vegan roasts.
10. Balsamic Gravy
Balsamic vinegar adds a tangy sweetness to this rich gravy, perfect for roasted meats. Its smooth texture and deep flavor enhance every bite, balancing savory and sweet notes beautifully. A simple drizzle can transform an everyday roast into something memorable.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 1/2 cups beef or chicken stock
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter and whisk in flour; cook 2 minutes.
- Gradually add stock, whisking to prevent lumps.
- Stir in balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened.
How to Serve It
Drizzle over roasted meats like beef or pork. Garnish with rosemary sprigs. Pairs well with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
11. Mustard Gravy
Mustard adds a gentle tang and warmth to gravy, making it perfect for pork, chicken, or sausages. The creamy texture combined with the sharpness of mustard creates a savory sauce that’s simple yet flavorful. Its bright flavor lifts roasted dishes beautifully.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups chicken or pork stock
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter and whisk in flour, cooking 2 minutes.
- Gradually add stock, whisking continuously.
- Stir in mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened.
How to Serve It
Serve over roasted pork or chicken. Garnish with fresh thyme. Excellent with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a tangy, savory finish.
12. Bacon Gravy
Bacon gravy is smoky, savory, and deeply flavorful. Using rendered bacon fat as the base creates a robust taste that pairs beautifully with biscuits, eggs, or roasted meats. Its indulgent aroma and smooth consistency make it a breakfast or dinner favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups milk or stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crisp; remove and set aside.
- Use bacon fat with butter, whisk in flour; cook 2 minutes.
- Gradually add milk or stock, whisking continuously.
- Stir in cooked bacon, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer 5 minutes until thickened.
How to Serve It
Serve over biscuits, mashed potatoes, or breakfast meats. Garnish with chopped chives. Perfect for weekend brunch or comfort meals.
13. Cheddar Cheese Gravy
Cheddar cheese adds a creamy, tangy richness to gravy that makes it irresistible over potatoes or vegetables. Its velvety texture melts into every dish, creating a comforting sauce perfect for casual dinners or family meals.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter, whisk in flour, cook 2 minutes.
- Gradually add milk, whisking continuously.
- Stir in shredded cheddar until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper.
How to Serve It
Serve over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or baked chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley or a pinch of paprika. Best enjoyed hot for maximum creaminess.
14. Beer Gravy
Beer adds depth and a subtle bitterness to gravy, creating a complex flavor profile that complements roasted meats or sausages. The malty undertones enhance the savory base, making it perfect for casual dinners or weekend feasts.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 1/2 cups beef stock
- 1/2 cup dark beer
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter and whisk in flour; cook 2–3 minutes.
- Gradually add stock and beer, whisking continuously.
- Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper.
How to Serve It
Serve over roasted beef, pork, or sausages. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. Pairs well with mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables.
15. Peppercorn Gravy
Peppercorn gravy is bold and flavorful, perfect for steaks or roasted meats. The cracked black pepper adds a subtle heat and aromatic complexity to a rich base, creating a sauce that’s elegant yet hearty.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups beef stock
- 1 tsp crushed black peppercorns
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter, whisk in flour; cook 2 minutes.
- Gradually add beef stock, whisking constantly.
- Stir in crushed peppercorns and salt.
- Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened.
How to Serve It
Serve over grilled steak or roast beef. Garnish with cracked pepper or fresh herbs. Works well with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
16. Brown Butter Gravy
Brown butter adds a nutty, rich flavor to gravy that’s irresistible. Its deep golden color and aromatic scent make it perfect for enhancing poultry, vegetables, or mashed potatoes. The slightly toasted taste elevates any simple meal effortlessly.
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups chicken or beef stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown butter in a saucepan over medium heat until nutty.
- Whisk in flour and cook 2 minutes.
- Gradually add stock, whisking constantly.
- Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper.
How to Serve It
Drizzle over roasted turkey, chicken, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme. Perfect for fall and winter dinners.
17. Creamy White Wine Gravy
White wine adds a delicate tang and aroma to gravy, making it light yet flavorful. Creamy and smooth, this sauce is perfect for chicken, turkey, or seafood, providing a subtle sophistication that balances rich dishes beautifully.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken stock
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/2 cup cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter and whisk in flour; cook 2 minutes.
- Gradually add stock and white wine, whisking constantly.
- Stir in cream; simmer 5–7 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
How to Serve It
Serve over roasted chicken or seafood. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or tarragon. Perfect for light, elegant meals.
18. Thyme & Shallot Gravy
Shallots add sweetness while thyme provides earthy notes, creating a flavorful, aromatic gravy. Ideal for beef, lamb, or chicken, this sauce balances rich and subtle flavors, making meals feel both comforting and refined.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups beef or chicken stock
- 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter, sauté shallots until soft.
- Stir in flour; cook 2 minutes.
- Gradually add stock and thyme, whisking constantly.
- Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper.
How to Serve It
Serve over roasted beef or lamb. Garnish with additional thyme sprigs. Excellent with mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables.
19. Horseradish Gravy
Horseradish adds a sharp, tangy kick to gravy, perfect for pairing with beef or roast meats. Its creamy base balances the heat, giving the sauce a unique character that livens up traditional dinners with a bold flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups beef stock
- 2 tbsp prepared horseradish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter, whisk in flour; cook 2 minutes.
- Gradually add stock, whisking constantly.
- Stir in horseradish, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened.
How to Serve It
Serve over roast beef or prime rib. Garnish with fresh parsley. Pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
20. Carrot & Ginger Gravy
Carrot and ginger bring a sweet and spicy twist to traditional gravy. Its smooth, vibrant texture is perfect for roasted meats or vegetables, offering a fresh, seasonal flavor that’s both comforting and exciting on the palate.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter and sauté carrots and ginger 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in flour; cook 2 minutes.
- Gradually add stock, whisking constantly.
- Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper.
How to Serve It
Serve over roasted chicken, pork, or vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme. Works beautifully with mashed potatoes or grains for a colorful, flavorful meal.
Conclusion
Gravy is a simple way to add warmth and flavor to any meal. Each of these recipes brings its own character, from rich and savory to creamy and aromatic. Try them on your favorite dishes, share them with family and friends, and save your favorites for cozy dinners ahead. Every spoonful brings comfort and joy to the table.
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