Easy Mushroom Gravy

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Creamy, savory, and packed with umami, this Easy Mushroom Gravy is the kind of recipe that turns a simple meal into something you crave again and again. It’s rich in flavor thanks to perfectly browned mushrooms, garlic, onions, and a luscious combination of butter and cream that meld together in the most comforting way.

Whether you’re serving it over mashed potatoes, roasted chicken, meatloaf, or even as a dipping sauce for crusty bread, this gravy delivers big taste with minimal fuss. You don’t need to wait for a holiday to enjoy this kind of comfort food—it’s easy enough to whip up on a weeknight!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Mushroom Gravy

This recipe is a keeper because it checks all the boxes: simple, quick, and deeply flavorful. It uses pantry staples and comes together in just about 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights or last-minute guests. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and can easily be adapted to be vegan or gluten-free.

You’ll love how the mushrooms caramelize to bring out their natural depth, and how the gravy thickens just right for drizzling or smothering. The cream adds a smooth, velvety finish that makes every bite indulgent without being too heavy.

What Kind of Mushrooms Should I Use for Gravy?

You can use any type of mushroom you like, but cremini or baby bella mushrooms are ideal for their rich, earthy flavor. White button mushrooms are more mild but still work well. Want a deeper, meatier taste? Try using a mix of shiitake and portobello. The key is slicing them evenly and letting them brown properly in the pan—that golden crust is what builds the best flavor base for the gravy.

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Ingredients for the Easy Mushroom Gravy

Each ingredient in this gravy plays a vital role in building flavor and texture:

• Butter – Adds richness and helps brown the mushrooms beautifully.
• Olive oil – Used along with butter to raise the smoking point and prevent burning.
• Yellow onion – Brings sweetness and body to the gravy.
• Garlic cloves – Essential for that aromatic depth.
• Cremini mushrooms – Provide a deep umami flavor and meaty texture.
• Flour – Thickens the gravy and gives it that classic consistency.
• Vegetable broth – Adds savoriness and keeps the gravy vegetarian.
• Heavy cream – Makes the sauce smooth and luxuriously creamy.
• Salt and pepper – To season and bring all the flavors together.
• Fresh parsley – Optional, but great for garnish and a hint of freshness.

How To Make the Easy Mushroom Gravy

Step 1: Sauté the Mushrooms and Onions

In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and mushrooms, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are deeply browned and caramelized.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Flour

Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well to coat the mushrooms. Cook for another minute to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5–7 minutes, or until the gravy begins to thicken.

Step 4: Finish with Cream and Seasoning

Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes until fully combined and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving if desired. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, meats, or vegetables.

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Serving and Storing Your Easy Mushroom Gravy

This hearty gravy yields about 4 cups, which is enough to serve 4–6 people depending on how generously you pour it. It’s perfect for family dinners or small gatherings and reheats beautifully for leftovers.

To store, let the gravy cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen it if needed. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What to Serve With Easy Mushroom Gravy?

Mashed Potatoes

The ultimate comfort food pairing. This gravy turns a basic bowl of mashed potatoes into something crave-worthy.

Roasted Chicken

Drizzle it over juicy roasted chicken for a quick and delicious dinner.

Grilled or Pan-Seared Steak

The rich, umami flavors in the mushroom gravy complement a good steak perfectly.

Rice or Quinoa

An easy vegetarian option that still feels hearty and satisfying.

Pasta or Egg Noodles

Toss the gravy with noodles for a stroganoff-style meal.

Meatloaf

Take your classic meatloaf to the next level with a generous topping of this creamy mushroom gravy.

Roasted Vegetables

Great for vegetarians—use it as a sauce over roasted cauliflower, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.

Biscuits or Bread

Use it as a dip or spread for warm, buttery biscuits or rustic bread slices.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this mushroom gravy vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for vegan butter or more olive oil, and use coconut milk or a plant-based cream in place of heavy cream.

What’s the best way to thicken mushroom gravy without flour?
Cornstarch is a great gluten-free thickener. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the simmering gravy until thickened.

Can I freeze mushroom gravy?
Yes! Let it cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. It keeps well for up to 2 months. Reheat gently, stirring well.

Why is my gravy lumpy?
Lumps usually form when flour isn’t properly mixed or the liquid is added too quickly. Whisk constantly when adding broth to avoid this.

Can I add meat or sausage to this gravy?
Definitely! Brown some ground sausage or sliced cooked meat before adding the mushrooms for a heartier version.

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Conclusion

This Easy Mushroom Gravy is a game-changer when it comes to adding bold, savory flavor to your meals with minimal effort. Whether you’re making a cozy weeknight dinner or dressing up your holiday table, this recipe delivers. Simple ingredients, quick prep, and a ton of versatility—this one is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

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