Name: White Gravy Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; Salt and pepper to taste

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Alright, let’s talk about something that’s gonna make your taste buds do a happy dance—white gravy. Whether you’re drizzling it over crispy fried chicken, smothering it on mashed potatoes, or just spooning it into your mouth (no judgment here), this creamy, savory sauce is the heart and soul of Southern comfort food.

I’m gonna show you how to make a classic white gravy that’s so easy and so good that you’ll never look at store-bought gravy the same way again. Let’s dive into this simple recipe—no fancy ingredients, just real, honest-to-goodness flavor.

Why White Gravy is a Game-Changer

White gravy (also known as sausage gravy in some parts of the country) is a staple in Southern kitchens, and once you try it, you’ll get why. It’s a gravy made from a simple roux (butter and flour) with milk, seasoned with just enough salt and pepper to make your taste buds sing. Some folks like to jazz it up with a little sausage or garlic—totally your call. The beauty of this gravy is that it’s totally customizable and goes with just about anything.

Remember those lazy Sunday mornings when you’re craving a big plate of biscuits and gravy? Well, it’s time to make that dream a reality, and trust me, your stomach will thank you.

The Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best White Gravy

Before you start thinking, “This sounds complicated,” let me just say—it’s not. You only need a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s your shopping list:

Butter – About 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. You’ll need that richness to start the gravy off right.
Flour – This is what’s gonna thicken the gravy and give it that nice creamy texture. Use all-purpose flour for the best results.
Milk – Whole milk is ideal, but you can get away with 2% if that’s what you’ve got. The more fat in your milk, the creamier the gravy.
Salt & Pepper – A little salt goes a long way, and black pepper adds that kick of flavor.
Sausage (optional) – Some recipes add sausage, and if you love that savory addition, I totally recommend it. You can also switch things up with some crumbled bacon if you’re feeling fancy.
Garlic powder (optional) – A small sprinkle of garlic powder can add an extra layer of flavor if you’re into it.

That’s it! Now, let’s get cooking.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making White Gravy

This recipe couldn’t be easier. Seriously, if you’ve got butter, flour, and milk, you’re already halfway there. Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Start by grabbing a medium-sized skillet or saucepan (something with a bit of room to work with). Put your butter in the pan and heat it up over medium heat. You want the butter to melt but not brown, so keep an eye on it. As soon as it’s melted and starting to bubble, you’re ready for the next step.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Once your butter’s melted, it’s time to add the flour. Sprinkle in your flour slowly and whisk it together with the butter until it forms a smooth paste. This is called a roux, and it’s the base of your gravy. You’ll want to cook the roux for about 1–2 minutes, just to get rid of that raw flour taste.

Don’t skip this part! If you rush it, your gravy might taste a little… well, flour-y, and we don’t want that.

Step 3: Add the Milk

Slowly pour in your milk, stirring constantly. Whisk, whisk, whisk! This helps to break up any lumps and get a silky, smooth texture. Keep stirring until your gravy starts to thicken. You’ll notice it will go from thin and watery to creamy and luscious. This usually takes about 3–5 minutes.

Pro tip: If your gravy’s thicker than you like, just add a little more milk until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 4: Season the Gravy

Once the gravy’s nice and thick, it’s time for the seasoning. Add a pinch of salt and a good grind of black pepper. Taste it! If you like your gravy a little saltier or more peppery, go ahead and adjust it to your liking.

This is also the time to add any extras, like crumbled sausage or a dash of garlic powder, if you’re feeling adventurous.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything’s perfectly seasoned and creamy, pour that delicious gravy over whatever you’re serving. Biscuits and gravy? Absolutely. Fried chicken? Heck yes. Mashed potatoes? You bet. Honestly, this gravy goes with everything.

Tips for the Best White Gravy

While making white gravy is straightforward, there are a few tricks that can take it from good to amazing.

Get the Right Consistency – If your gravy turns out too thin, don’t worry. Just let it simmer for a bit longer to thicken up. If it’s too thick, slowly add more milk until it’s just right.
Don’t Rush the Roux – The roux is the foundation of your gravy. If you don’t cook it long enough, your gravy could have a floury taste. If you cook it too long, you risk burning it, which will give your gravy a burnt flavor. Keep an eye on it!
Adjust for Taste – I love adding a little garlic powder or crumbled sausage for extra flavor, but feel free to experiment. Some folks like adding a bit of cayenne pepper or even hot sauce to give their gravy a kick.
Make It Ahead of Time – White gravy is one of those dishes that tastes just as good (if not better) the next day. So, don’t hesitate to make a big batch and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it with a splash of milk.
Keep Stirring – The secret to creamy gravy is constant stirring. Don’t be afraid to give it a good whisking to avoid lumps and keep that texture smooth.

What to Serve With White Gravy

Alright, let’s talk about what goes well with this creamy, dreamy gravy. Honestly, you could pour it over just about anything and it’ll be delicious. But here are a few classics:

Biscuits – This is the Southern classic. Buttery, flaky biscuits topped with warm white gravy? It’s comfort food at its finest.
Fried Chicken – If you haven’t tried white gravy on fried chicken, you’re seriously missing out. The crispy chicken paired with creamy gravy is a match made in heaven.
Mashed Potatoes – Because, who doesn’t love mashed potatoes with gravy? This is a holiday dinner favorite, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Chicken Fried Steak – This dish is a must-try if you haven’t had it. Chicken fried steak covered in white gravy will have you going back for seconds (and thirds).
Breakfast Foods – Whip up some scrambled eggs, sausage, or bacon and top it off with white gravy for a true Southern breakfast experience.

White Gravy Variations You Can Try

While I’m a fan of the classic white gravy, there are plenty of ways you can jazz it up to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Sausage Gravy – Add breakfast sausage to your gravy for that beloved sausage gravy flavor. Brown the sausage first, then add it to the roux before adding the milk.
Garlic & Herb Gravy – If you want something a little different, try adding garlic, thyme, or rosemary to your gravy. It’ll add a fresh, savory twist.
Spicy Gravy – If you’re a fan of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce will give your gravy a nice spicy kick.

FAQs: All Your White Gravy Questions Answered

You know, white gravy can be a little mysterious for some people, so I’m here to clear up a few things. Whether you’re a newbie in the kitchen or just trying to up your gravy game, these answers should help!

What’s the difference between white gravy and country gravy?

Great question! The truth is, white gravy and country gravy are basically the same thing. White gravy is just the name it goes by in some regions, while in others, it’s called country gravy. The big difference? Sometimes, country gravy includes sausage cooked right into it, which adds extra flavor. But in both cases, it’s a creamy, buttery gravy made with milk and flour.

What is the secret ingredient for good gravy?

The real secret to good gravy isn’t a hidden ingredient—it’s all about technique! But if I had to pick one thing that really makes a difference, it’s the roux. That butter and flour combo, cooked just right, is what gives your gravy its rich, silky texture. If you add sausage, garlic powder, or fresh herbs, those are just bonus flavors that take it to the next level. But honestly, mastering that roux is the secret to creamy perfection.

What is gravy made of white?

White gravy is made from a simple combination of butter, flour, and milk. That’s it! It’s the classic base for a thick, creamy sauce. The butter and flour form the roux, which thickens when you add milk. You can then season it with salt, pepper, and any other flavors you like. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s as easy as it is delicious!

Do you need milk for gravy?

Technically, yes, you need some kind of liquid to make gravy, and milk is the traditional choice for white gravy. It gives the gravy that creamy, smooth texture. But if you’re out of milk, you can use cream for a richer, thicker gravy, or even broth (chicken or vegetable) if you want a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change depending on what liquid you use, so milk gives you that classic creamy taste that most people love!

Final Thoughts: Why You Need This White Gravy in Your Life

Honestly, once you make this white gravy, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start making it sooner. It’s quick, easy, and ridiculously delicious. Whether you’re serving it with biscuits for breakfast or pouring it over fried chicken for dinner, this white gravy recipe will quickly become your go-to comfort food staple.

So, grab that butter and milk, and get cooking. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you

More Delicious Recipes to Try

If you’re a fan of creamy, indulgent dishes like white gravy, you’ll definitely want to check out some of these other tasty recipes on the blog. For a refreshing, protein-packed treat, try my Cottage Cheese Smoothie—it’s a game-changer when you’re craving something sweet but still want to feel good about what you’re eating. Or, if you’re in the mood for something hearty and satisfying, don’t miss out on my Cottage Cheese Pancakes. They’re soft, fluffy, and loaded with protein—perfect for breakfast or even a light dinner. And if you want to add a little extra flavor to your meals, my Cowboy Butter is the ultimate all-purpose sauce—great on steaks, veggies, or even just a simple loaf of bread. Trust me, once you start making these, you’ll be hooked!.