How to Make Mushroom Gravy: A Flavorful and Easy Recipe for Home Cooks

Mushroom gravy is the perfect accompaniment to a wide variety of dishes, offering a rich, savory, and earthy flavor that can transform a meal. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian option to top mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a steak, this mushroom gravy recipe is easy to follow and delivers great taste every time. In this article, we’ll guide you through making a simple yet delicious mushroom gravy from scratch, including tips on ingredient selection, preparation, and serving suggestions.

Why Mushroom Gravy?

Mushroom gravy is a versatile sauce that can be used as a topping for many dishes. The earthy taste of mushrooms combined with garlic, herbs, and a smooth, velvety texture makes it a great alternative to traditional meat-based gravies. It’s especially popular among vegetarians and vegans, though it also appeals to those looking for a lighter, more plant-based gravy option.

Ingredients for Mushroom Gravy

The beauty of mushroom gravy lies in its simplicity. Most of the ingredients are likely already in your kitchen, and it doesn’t require any special equipment. Below is the ingredient list, presented in U.S. and metric measurements for your convenience.

Ingredient	U.S. Measurement	Metric Measurement
Mushrooms (sliced)	2 cups	240 g
Unsalted butter or oil	2 tablespoons	30 g
All-purpose flour	2 tablespoons	15 g
Vegetable broth	2 cups	480 ml
Onion (finely chopped)	1 small	100 g
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves	8 g
Soy sauce (optional)	1 tablespoon	15 ml
Fresh thyme (chopped)	1 teaspoon	1 g
Salt	To taste	To taste
Black pepper	To taste	To taste
Heavy cream or milk	¼ cup (optional)	60 ml (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Mushroom Gravy

1. Prepare the Mushrooms

Start by cleaning and slicing your mushrooms. You can use any type of mushroom, but cremini, button, or shiitake work best for this recipe. For a deeper flavor, you can even mix different types of mushrooms.

2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In a large skillet, melt the butter (or heat the oil for a vegan option) over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook them for about 3–4 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, making sure it doesn’t burn.

3. Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and stir them around, coating them in the butter and onion mixture. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until the mushrooms have released their moisture and begin to brown. This step is key for developing the deep, savory flavors of the gravy.

4. Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the mushroom mixture. Stir well to coat the mushrooms in the flour. This step helps thicken the gravy, creating a rich, smooth consistency. Cook the flour for 2–3 minutes to remove the raw taste, but be careful not to let it burn.

5. Add the Broth and Herbs

Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Once all the broth is added, reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken. Add fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper to taste.

6. Optional Add-Ins

For a richer, creamier gravy, stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or milk at this point. You can also add soy sauce for an umami boost, but this step is optional.

7. Adjust Consistency

If the gravy is too thick, add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to thicken.

8. Taste and Serve

Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning if needed. When you’re satisfied with the flavor, your mushroom gravy is ready to serve. Pour it over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or any dish of your choice!

Tips for the Perfect Mushroom Gravy

1. Mushroom Varieties: Experiment with different types of mushrooms to change the flavor profile of your gravy. Shiitake mushrooms add a smoky note, while oyster mushrooms provide a delicate sweetness.
2. Vegan Option: To make this recipe fully vegan, simply replace the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter substitute, and skip the cream or use a plant-based alternative like coconut milk or almond milk.
3. Texture Preferences: If you prefer a smoother gravy, you can blend part or all of the gravy using an immersion blender. Alternatively, for a chunkier gravy, leave the mushrooms as they are.
4. Make-Ahead: Mushroom gravy can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a little extra broth or water if it becomes too thick.
5. Storage and Freezing: If you want to freeze your gravy, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Variations on Mushroom Gravy

1. Red Wine Mushroom Gravy: Add ¼ cup of red wine when you add the broth for a deeper, more complex flavor.

2. Creamy Mushroom Gravy: For an extra creamy version, use half vegetable broth and half cream, or even a splash of white wine for added richness.

3. Spicy Mushroom Gravy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.

4. Herb-Infused Mushroom Gravy: You can play around with the herbs you add. Rosemary, sage, and parsley all complement mushrooms beautifully.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Here is an approximate breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of mushroom gravy (without cream or soy sauce):

• Calories: 80 kcal
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 180mg

Keep in mind that these values can vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used, especially if you include optional ingredients like cream or soy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Mushroom gravy pairs well with a wide range of dishes. Some of the best ways to enjoy it include:

• Over mashed potatoes
• As a sauce for roasted or sautéed vegetables
• Drizzled on top of grilled or roasted meats (for non-vegetarians)
• Served with biscuits or over cornbread
• As a topping for rice or quinoa bowls
• On pasta, for a creamy mushroom pasta dish

Final Thoughts

Mushroom gravy is a versatile and flavorful addition to any home cook’s repertoire. It’s simple to make, and the ingredients are flexible enough to adapt based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday meal or just on a regular weeknight, this mushroom gravy is sure to impress.