Mushroom Gravy
A rich, savory gravy loaded with earthy mushrooms and a hint of thyme. This creamy, flavorful sauce is perfect for smothering mashed potatoes, roasts, or biscuits. Ready in under 25 minutes!
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Brown the Mushrooms
- b.In a large skillet or saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
- c.Add the sliced mushrooms in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- d.Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released their liquid and are deeply browned and caramelized. This step is key for a deep, savory flavor.
- e.Remove the browned mushrooms from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté the Aromatics
- b.Reduce the heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet.
- c.Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and translucent.
- d.Add the minced garlic and cook for another 60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Create the Roux
- b.Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the cooked onions and garlic.
- c.Whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until the flour is fully incorporated and has a nutty aroma. This cooks out the raw flour taste and forms the thickening base (roux) for the gravy.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Build the Gravy Base
- b.While whisking continuously, slowly pour in about 1/2 cup of the vegetable broth. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful browned bits (deglazing).
- c.Once a smooth paste has formed, gradually whisk in the remaining vegetable broth until no lumps remain.
- d.Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. The gravy will start to thicken as it heats.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Simmer and Season
- b.Return the cooked mushrooms to the skillet.
- c.Stir in the soy sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- d.Reduce the heat to low and let the gravy simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the gravy to reach your desired consistency.
- e.Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Stir in the fresh parsley just before serving.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, make sure to brown the mushrooms well. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook them in batches if necessary.
- 2Whisk the broth in slowly and steadily. Pouring it all at once can create lumps that are difficult to remove.
- 3If your gravy is too thick, whisk in a little more broth until it reaches the right consistency. If it's too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce.
- 4For an extra creamy texture, you can stir in 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk at the end.
- 5This gravy can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it's too thick.
Adapt it for your goals.
Creamy Mushroom Gravy
For a richer, creamier gravy, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk during the final 2 minutes of simmering.
Vegan Mushroom GravyVegan Mushroom Gravy
Use olive oil or a vegan butter substitute instead of dairy butter, and ensure your vegetable broth is certified vegan. Use tamari instead of soy sauce if you also need it to be gluten-free.
Herby Mushroom GravyHerby Mushroom Gravy
Add 1/2 teaspoon of fresh, finely chopped rosemary or sage along with the garlic for a more complex, aromatic flavor.
Umami Bomb GravyUmami Bomb Gravy
For an even deeper savory flavor, add 1 teaspoon of miso paste or a dash of vegetarian Worcestershire sauce along with the soy sauce.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in B Vitamins
Mushrooms are a natural source of B vitamins like riboflavin, niacin, and pantothenic acid, which are essential for energy production and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Provides Antioxidants
Mushrooms contain selenium, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect body cells from damage that might lead to chronic diseases and helps strengthen the immune system.
Supports Gut Health
Mushrooms contain prebiotics, such as chitin, which can promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and contribute to a healthy digestive system.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this mushroom gravy (about 3/4 cup) contains approximately 130-150 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used, such as the type of butter and broth.