20 Creamy Gravy Recipes for Comfort Food Lovers

Carmen Eldridge

March 31, 2025

Are you looking for a way to elevate your comfort food game? Look no further than a rich and creamy gravy. Whether you’re serving up classic turkey, savory sausage, or even vegan options, a delicious gravy can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering recipes that will satisfy any craving for comfort food.

From classic homemade turkey gravy to Southern-style sawmill gravy, rich mushroom gravy to herb-infused beef gravy, and many more in between, we’ve got you covered with a wide range of flavors and ingredients. So grab your apron and let’s get started on our gravy adventure!

Classic Homemade Turkey Gravy

Classic Homemade Turkey Gravy
Classic Homemade Turkey Gravy Recipe

A staple of holiday meals, homemade turkey gravy elevates your turkey day to the next level. This simple recipe yields a rich and savory sauce that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients:

– 2 tablespoons butter or turkey drippings
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup turkey broth (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter or use turkey drippings in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture forms a smooth paste.
3. Gradually add the broth and wine (if using), whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens to your liking.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook Time: 10-12 minutes

Southern-Style Sawmill Gravy

Southern-Style Sawmill Gravy
This classic Southern gravy is a staple of comfort food, often served with biscuits, grits, or breakfast meats. A rich and savory mixture of flour, fat, and seasonings, it’s the perfect accompaniment to your favorite morning dishes.

Ingredients:

– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter or bacon drippings
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually add the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until it thickens to your liking.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Rich Mushroom Gravy

Rich Mushroom Gravy
Elevate your dishes with a rich and savory mushroom gravy that’s perfect for serving over roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or even as a dip. This recipe combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with a hint of thyme and a touch of cream.

Ingredients:

– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken or beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 8 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add broth and cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes

Herb-Infused Beef Gravy

Herb-Infused Beef Gravy
Elevate your beef dishes with this savory and aromatic gravy, infused with the warmth of herbs.

Ingredients:

– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the thyme and rosemary sprigs; cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent (about 5 minutes).
4. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in the beef broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let the gravy simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Creamy Onion Gravy

Creamy Onion Gravy
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and flavorful Creamy Onion Gravy, perfect for accompanying roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or biscuits.

Ingredients:

– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Sprinkle flour over the onions and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Spicy Sausage Gravy

Spicy Sausage Gravy
Add a kick to your breakfast or brunch with this spicy sausage gravy recipe. Made with smoked sausage, flour, and a hint of cayenne pepper, this flavorful sauce is perfect for serving over biscuits, eggs, or hash browns.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Leave any drippings behind.
3. Add the butter to the skillet and melt. Sprinkle with flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Add the cooked sausage back into the gravy and stir in cayenne pepper. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the gravy over low heat for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Vegan Mushroom Gravy

Vegan Mushroom Gravy
Elevate your plant-based meals with this rich and savory Vegan Mushroom Gravy, perfect for pouring over roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or as a dip.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
3. Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper over the mixture; stir to combine.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the gravy simmer for 10-15 minutes or until it has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in nutritional yeast; serve hot.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Red Wine Reduction Gravy

Red Wine Reduction Gravy
Elevate your dish with this rich and flavorful red wine reduction gravy, perfect for serving alongside roasted meats or as a dipping sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add the red wine, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until reduced by half, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Stir in the beef broth and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the gravy has reached desired consistency.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Garlic Butter Gravy

Garlic Butter Gravy
Elevate your meals with this rich and savory garlic butter gravy, perfect for serving over roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or vegetables. This easy-to-make recipe is a staple in many kitchens, and for good reason – it’s ridiculously delicious!

Ingredients:

– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups (475ml) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (240ml) chicken or beef broth
– 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened to your liking.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Smoky Bacon Gravy

Smoky Bacon Gravy
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this rich and smoky gravy made with crispy bacon and a hint of sweetness.

Ingredients:

– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually whisk in the beef broth and heavy cream, bringing to a simmer.
4. Add the cooked bacon back into the gravy and stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 2-3 minutes or until thickened to desired consistency.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and brown sugar.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Caramelized Onion Gravy

Caramelized Onion Gravy
Elevate your roast or mashed potatoes with this rich and savory caramelized onion gravy.

Ingredients:

– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and dark brown (about 30-40 minutes).
2. Sprinkle flour over the onions and cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Rosemary-Thyme Gravy

Rosemary-Thyme Gravy
Elevate your roasted meats or vegetables with this aromatic and flavorful gravy, infused with the essence of rosemary and thyme. This simple yet impactful condiment is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 1 teaspoon)
– 1 sprig fresh thyme, chopped (about 1/2 teaspoon)
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Gradually pour in the warmed chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened to your liking.
5. Stir in the chopped rosemary and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Peppercorn Cream Gravy

Peppercorn Cream Gravy
Elevate your dishes with this rich and flavorful Peppercorn Cream Gravy, perfect for accompanying roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or sautéed vegetables.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 teaspoons white peppercorns
– 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the white peppercorns and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the peppercorns and whisk to combine.
4. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and season with salt.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Golden Chicken Gravy

Golden Chicken Gravy
Elevate your chicken dishes with this rich and flavorful golden gravy that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until thickened slightly.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over your favorite chicken dishes, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Savory Vegan Lentil Gravy

Savory Vegan Lentil Gravy
This rich and savory lentil gravy is a game-changer for vegan meals. Made with red lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices, it’s perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or as a dip.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup dried red lentils
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture to desired consistency.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Maple-Sage Gravy

Maple-Sage Gravy
Maple-Sage Gravy Recipe

Elevate your holiday meals with this sweet and savory gravy that combines the warmth of maple syrup with the earthy flavor of sage.

Ingredients:

– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups turkey or chicken broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 teaspoons dried sage leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the warmed broth, heavy cream or half-and-half, maple syrup, and dried sage leaves until well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly and reduced by about half.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Cheesy Jalapeño Gravy

Cheesy Jalapeño Gravy
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy and spicy gravy, perfect for topping mashed potatoes, biscuits, or even using as a dip. This recipe combines the rich flavors of cheese and jalapeños to create a bold and addictive condiment.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped jalapeño and cook until softened, about 1 minute.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until smooth.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Slow-Cooked Pork Gravy

Slow-Cooked Pork Gravy
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and flavorful slow-cooked pork gravy recipe. Perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or as a dip for biscuits.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a large skillet, cook pork cubes over medium-high heat until browned on all sides. Remove from heat.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. Transfer cooked pork and onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add chicken broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove from heat and stir in any solidified fat that has risen to the surface.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Tangy Mustard Gravy

Tangy Mustard Gravy
Elevate your dishes with a tangy and flavorful gravy that’s perfect for roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or as a dip. This simple recipe combines the richness of mustard with a hint of sweetness.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour to make a smooth paste. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, mustard, and honey until smooth.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened, whisking occasionally.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Coconut Curry Gravy

Coconut Curry Gravy
This rich and creamy gravy is perfect for serving over roasted meats or as a dip for vegetables. With its unique blend of Indian spices and coconut milk, it’s sure to add a delicious twist to any meal.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. Gradually add the coconut milk, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened to your liking.
5. Serve warm over roasted meats or as a dip for vegetables.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Summary

Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with these 20 creamy gravy recipes! From classic turkey and beef gravies to vegan and vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. Try our Southern-style sawmill gravy over biscuits and sausage, or go rich and savory with mushroom and onion gravies. For a spicy kick, try our jalapeño and sausage gravy, or keep it light and tangy with mustard and peppercorn cream. Whether you’re looking to perfect your holiday meal or just need a comforting side dish, these creamy gravies are sure to hit the spot.

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