Best Vegan Thanksgiving Gravy Recipe for a Perfect Feast

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Thanksgiving dinner isn’t complete without a rich, flavorful gravy to pour over your mashed potatoes, stuffing, and roasted veggies. But if you follow a vegan lifestyle, finding a delicious, hearty gravy can be a challenge.

That’s why I’m excited to share with you the best vegan Thanksgiving gravy recipe — a perfect blend of savory umami, aromatic herbs, and silky texture without any animal products. This gravy is so good, even non-vegans will be asking for seconds!

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a cozy family meal, this gravy comes together quickly with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. It’s wonderfully adaptable, gluten-free if you use the right flour, and incredibly satisfying.

Plus, it pairs beautifully with all your favorite Thanksgiving dishes, making it a must-have addition to your holiday feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan gravy recipe is a game-changer for plant-based cooks and gravy lovers alike. Here’s why it stands out:

  • Rich and savory flavor: Using mushrooms and tamari creates a deep umami taste that mimics traditional turkey gravy.
  • Easy to prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up while your main dishes are cooking.
  • Versatile: Perfect for Thanksgiving, but also delicious year-round on mashed potatoes, vegan meatloaf, or roasted vegetables.
  • Allergen-friendly: Gluten-free options available by using cornstarch or chickpea flour as a thickener.
  • Comfort food classic: It brings the warmth and nostalgia of Thanksgiving dinner without compromising your dietary choices.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, finely chopped
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon miso paste for extra umami

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan or skillet
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Fine mesh strainer (optional, for extra smooth gravy)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Add the chopped mushrooms and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and become golden brown.
  5. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to eliminate the raw flour taste.
  6. Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
  7. Add tamari, nutritional yeast, thyme, and sage. Stir to incorporate all the flavors.
  8. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency, stirring frequently.
  9. Optional: For a smoother gravy, strain through a fine mesh sieve, pressing gently to extract all the flavor.
  10. Taste and season with salt, black pepper, and miso paste if using. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  11. Serve warm over your favorite vegan Thanksgiving dishes.

Tips & Variations

For an even deeper flavor, roast the mushrooms before sautéing or add a splash of red wine or sherry to the gravy.

  • Make it gluten-free: Use cornstarch or chickpea flour instead of all-purpose flour as a thickener.
  • Add fresh herbs: Fresh rosemary or sage can be added towards the end for a vibrant herbal note.
  • Use homemade broth: If you have homemade vegetable broth, it will enhance the gravy’s flavor even more.
  • Thicken or thin: Adjust thickness by adding more broth to thin or cooking longer to thicken.
  • Make it nutty: A splash of almond or cashew cream can add richness and creaminess.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per 1/4 cup serving
Calories 40
Fat 2.5g
Carbohydrates 4g
Fiber 0.7g
Protein 1g
Sodium 250mg

Serving Suggestions

This vegan gravy is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with many dishes beyond Thanksgiving classics. Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • Drizzle over creamy mashed potatoes or mashed cauliflower for a comforting side.
  • Pour on top of roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes.
  • Use as a sauce for vegan meatloaf or seitan roast to add moisture and flavor.
  • Serve alongside vegan stuffing or dressing to tie the meal together.
  • Try it over vegan biscuits or savory pancakes for a delicious brunch twist.

For more delicious vegan and holiday-inspired recipes, check out my Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe or the rich and creamy Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe. If you’re in the mood for something sweet after your feast, don’t miss the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe — a perfect vegan dessert to round out your meal.

Conclusion

Making the best vegan Thanksgiving gravy is easier than you think, and with this recipe, you’ll have a delicious, flavorful gravy that everyone at the table will love. The combination of mushrooms, herbs, and tamari creates a deeply savory experience that perfectly complements all your holiday favorites.

Plus, it’s adaptable to suit your dietary needs and personal taste preferences.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this gravy recipe will quickly become a staple in your Thanksgiving tradition. It’s a reminder that plant-based doesn’t mean compromising on flavor or comfort.

So, pour yourself a generous helping, enjoy the rich taste, and savor a truly inclusive holiday meal. Happy Thanksgiving!

📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Thanksgiving Gravy Recipe

Description: A rich and savory vegan gravy perfect for Thanksgiving. Made with mushrooms, herbs, and vegetable broth for deep flavor.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  3. Add mushrooms and cook until browned.
  4. Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes.
  5. Gradually whisk in vegetable broth to avoid lumps.
  6. Add soy sauce, thyme, and sage.
  7. Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Serve warm over your favorite dishes.

Nutrition: Calories: 70 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 4 g | Carbs: 7 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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