Name: Creamy Mushroom Gravy Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon pure olive oil or butter (or plant-based ghee/butter); ⅓ cup diced shallot or white onion; 2 cups sliced cremini or baby portobello mushrooms (about 8–10 ounces); 2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 2 small cloves); ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 Tablespoon tamari (gluten-free soy sauce); 1 ½ – 2 cups vegetable broth; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon pepper; 1 ½ Tablespoons fresh chopped parsley; 1 Tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot starch; 1 Tablespoon water or broth

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 10 reviews

If you adore rich, comforting sauces that bring warmth and depth to any meal, you are going to fall head over heels for this Creamy Mushroom Gravy Recipe. Bursting with the earthy goodness of cremini mushrooms, the gentle sweetness of shallots, and a velvety texture perfected by a clever cornstarch slurry, this mushroom gravy elevates simple dishes to something truly special. Whether drizzled over mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a savory grain bowl, it’s that luscious, savory hug on a plate that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up photo of a black pan with sliced brown mushrooms cooking in a light brown sauce, scattered with small pieces of green parsley on top. A wooden spoon is stirring the mushrooms in the pan from the right side. On the left side, a clear glass container is pouring an orange liquid into the pan. The pan is on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the secret to unlocking the full flavor of this mushroom gravy. Each one plays a key role in bringing balance, depth, and that creamy texture to life.

Pure olive oil or butter: Provides a rich, silky base that gently sautés the vegetables without overpowering their flavors.
Diced shallot or white onion: Adds natural sweetness and a subtle bite that forms the aromatic backbone of the gravy.
Sliced cremini or baby portobello mushrooms: These earthy mushrooms give the gravy its signature umami punch and a meaty, satisfying texture.
Minced garlic: Injects a fragrant warmth that enhances the overall complexity of the dish.
Smoked paprika: A pinch of this adds a mild smoky depth, awakening the palate in surprising ways.
Tamari (gluten-free soy sauce): Brings a savory, salty note that deepens the umami without overwhelming the other flavors.
Vegetable broth: The liquid base that softens and melds all the ingredients together gracefully.
Cornstarch or arrowroot starch slurry: The magic thickener that turns the broth into that perfect creamy sauce.
Kosher salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing all the flavors into harmony.
Fresh chopped parsley: A bright, fresh finish that adds color and a hint of herbal vibrance.

How to Make Creamy Mushroom Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Shallots

Start by heating your olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced shallots or onions and let them cook gently for about 4 minutes until they’re soft and slightly translucent. This step is crucial as it builds a sweet, mellow flavor base that sets the tone for the entire Creamy Mushroom Gravy Recipe.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms

Next, add the sliced cremini or baby portobello mushrooms. Cooking them for 8 to 10 minutes allows their moisture to evaporate, concentrating their earthy essence and creating that meaty texture we love. Stir occasionally to ensure even browning and avoid sticking.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices

Once the mushrooms have softened nicely, stir in the minced garlic and smoked paprika. Cook these aromatics for about a minute until fragrant, which adds that inviting boost of flavor that really makes this mushroom gravy stand out. Then, mix in the tamari, which provides a subtle salty depth without excess salt.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Pour the vegetable broth into the pan and bring it up to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic of melding flavors happens. Let it simmer uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes; this reduces the broth slightly and intensifies every note, transforming the mixture into a rich, savory base for the next step of thickening.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

Whisk together the cornstarch or arrowroot starch with water or broth until smooth to create your slurry. Reduce the heat to medium-low, then stir this into the simmering mushroom mixture. Cook while stirring for another 2 to 3 minutes until the gravy thickens into that perfect creamy consistency we crave in a Creamy Mushroom Gravy Recipe.

Step 6: Season and Garnish

Finally, season with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to your taste. Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for a burst of fresh color and brightness that balances the richness of the sauce.

How to Serve Creamy Mushroom Gravy Recipe

An oval white plate holds two main layers: the bottom layer is a smooth, creamy white mashed potato spread evenly across the plate. On top, there is a thick brown mushroom gravy with visible slices of cooked brown mushrooms and small pieces of onions, spreading out naturally over the mashed potatoes. The dish is garnished with small green parsley leaves scattered on top. A vintage silver spoon rests on the left side of the plate, partly dipped into the gravy. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme add a lovely pop of color and a fresh herbal accent that cuts through the richness. For a hint of indulgence, a dollop of plant-based sour cream or crème fraîche stirred in just prior to serving can elevate this gravy to an elegant finish.

Side Dishes

This mushroom gravy shines as the perfect companion to classic mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or roasted root vegetables. It’s also amazing spooned over hearty grains like quinoa or farro, or drizzled on roasted tofu or tempeh for a comforting plant-based meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the usual: use this gravy as a luscious sauce for vegan shepherd’s pie, drizzle it over stuffed portobello mushrooms, or serve it alongside a Thanksgiving feast for all your plant-based loved ones. Its velvety texture and deep flavors invite endless culinary creativity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Creamy Mushroom Gravy Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Freezing

Freeze leftover gravy in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some room for expansion. When thawed, the gravy may need a quick whisk or splash of broth to regain its perfect silky texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If the gravy thickens too much, add a little extra vegetable broth or water until it loosens up to your desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I use other types of mushrooms for this gravy?

Absolutely! While cremini or baby portobellos provide great flavor and texture, you can experiment with button, shiitake, or even porcini mushrooms for a different earthy profile. Just adjust cooking times if needed.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! By using tamari instead of regular soy sauce and cornstarch or arrowroot as the thickener, this Creamy Mushroom Gravy Recipe is completely gluten-free and allergy-friendly.

Can I make this gravy vegan?

Definitely. Use olive oil or plant-based butter in place of dairy butter, and ensure your broth is vegetable-based. The recipe is naturally plant-based without any animal products.

What can I substitute if I don’t have tamari?

If tamari isn’t on hand, you can substitute with gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter and less salty flavor. Adjust salt accordingly.

How thick should the final gravy be?

The gravy should coat the back of a spoon with a smooth, creamy consistency—not too runny but not overly thick. You can adjust thickness with more broth or slurry depending on your preference.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Creamy Mushroom Gravy Recipe enough if you’re looking to add a rich, cozy boost to your meals. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and endlessly versatile. Give it a try and watch your favorite dishes get instantly elevated to something truly memorable. Trust me, once you’ve made it, this mushroom gravy will quickly become your go-to comfort sauce!