Best Vegetarian Country Gravy Recipe for Comfort Food

Updated On: October 7, 2025

There’s something irresistibly comforting about country gravy, especially when it’s creamy, flavorful, and made vegetarian-friendly! Whether you’re dousing fluffy biscuits, mashed potatoes, or even crispy fried veggies, this best vegetarian country gravy recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Unlike traditional versions that rely heavily on meat drippings, this recipe uses simple pantry staples to create a rich, hearty gravy packed with savory goodness. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend brunches, it brings that classic Southern charm without compromising your vegetarian lifestyle.

With a smooth texture and a deep, savory flavor, this gravy pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make—no fancy ingredients or complicated steps required!

So, whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your rotation, this recipe will have you coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian country gravy is a game-changer for a few reasons. First, it uses vegetable broth and soy sauce to create a rich umami flavor that rivals traditional meat-based gravies.

The use of plant-based milk keeps it creamy and smooth without dairy, making it perfect for vegans or those with lactose intolerance.

It’s quick to whip up in under 20 minutes, uses simple ingredients you probably already have, and is versatile enough to complement everything from biscuits and gravy to roasted vegetables. The gravy also thickens perfectly without any clumps, thanks to the careful technique of making a roux with flour and plant-based fat.

It’s a delicious, comforting sauce that will elevate any meal!

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons vegan butter or olive oil
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond, oat, or soy)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Serving bowl or gravy boat

Instructions

  1. Melt the vegan butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Be careful not to let it brown—just melt until fully liquid.
  2. Whisk in the flour slowly, stirring constantly to combine with the butter. This forms the roux, which will thicken your gravy. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it turns a light golden color and smells nutty.
  3. Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth.
  4. Add the plant-based milk and whisk again to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. You’ll notice the gravy start to thicken as it heats.
  5. Stir in the soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Keep in mind that soy sauce is salty, so add salt sparingly.
  6. Simmer for another 3-5 minutes until the gravy reaches your desired consistency, stirring occasionally. If it becomes too thick, add a splash more vegetable broth or plant-based milk to loosen it.
  7. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm over biscuits, mashed potatoes, or your favorite sides.

Tips & Variations

“For the creamiest gravy, use unsweetened soy or oat milk as your plant-based milk—it holds up well under heat and adds a lovely texture.”

  • Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch as a thickener instead of regular flour.
  • Add mushrooms: For a deeper umami flavor, sauté 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms in the butter before adding the flour. This creates a mushroom gravy twist.
  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped fresh thyme for a different flavor profile.
  • Storage: Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of plant milk if needed.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1/4 cup)
Calories 85
Fat 6g
Carbohydrates 7g
Protein 1g
Sodium 350mg
Fiber 0g

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian country gravy is incredibly versatile and complements a wide range of dishes. Here are some ideas to enjoy it:

  • Drizzle over warm, flaky biscuits for a classic Southern-style breakfast.
  • Pour generously over creamy mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables.
  • Use as a sauce for veggie patties, tempeh, or tofu scramble bowls.
  • Serve alongside savory dishes like the Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Pair with a hearty stack of pancakes or waffles for a savory-sweet brunch twist.

Conclusion

This best vegetarian country gravy recipe proves that you don’t need meat drippings to create a rich, flavorful, and comforting gravy. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a creamy, savory sauce that enhances any meal.

Whether you’re a vegetarian searching for new recipes or just love a good gravy, this recipe is a must-try.

Its versatility allows it to be the perfect companion for breakfast, lunch, or dinner dishes, making it a go-to comfort food all year round. If you’re inspired to explore more delicious recipes, be sure to check out the Cheese Penny Recipe for a delightful snack or the decadent Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegetarian Country Gravy

Description: A creamy, savory vegetarian country gravy perfect for biscuits or mashed potatoes. Made with plant-based milk and savory seasonings for rich flavor.

Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT20M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast

Instructions

  1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes until golden.
  3. Slowly add almond milk, whisking continuously.
  4. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Stir in soy sauce and nutritional yeast.
  6. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
  7. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve warm.

Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 9 g | Carbs: 12 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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