There’s something magical about the aroma of Classic White Gravy wafting through the kitchen. The creamy, velvety texture clings to biscuits or mashed potatoes, making every bite a delightful experience. You can practically hear the angels sing as you pour this liquid gold over your breakfast or dinner plate.
Whether it’s a rainy Sunday morning or a family reunion filled with laughter, Classic White Gravy always finds its way to the table. It’s not just food; it’s comfort and nostalgia wrapped in one delicious sauce that makes everything better.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Classic White Gravy is easy to whip up, taking less than 15 minutes from start to finish
- Its rich flavor profile marries perfectly with various dishes like biscuits, fried chicken, or even roasted veggies
- The visual appeal is undeniable as it adds a creamy finish to any meal
- Plus, you can customize it by adding spices or herbs based on your taste preferences
I still remember the first time I attempted to make this dish and ended up with a lumpy mess instead of smooth gravy. My family couldn’t stop laughing—thankfully, they loved me enough to happily slather those lumps on their biscuits anyway! For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness and a rich flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: A must-have for thickening; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess; feel free to use half-and-half for an extra indulgent touch.
Salt and Pepper: Season generously; these staples enhance the overall flavor profile.
Optional Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne pepper can elevate your gravy’s flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Melt the Butter: Start by melting butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it bubbles gently. This sets the stage for your delicious gravy.
Add the Flour: Sprinkle flour over the melted butter and whisk continuously until it forms a paste. Cook this roux until golden brown; around two minutes should do.
Pour in Milk: Gradually add milk while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps forming. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens into that silky consistency you crave.
Season It Up: Add salt and pepper to taste, along with any optional spices you decide to include. Taste test and adjust seasonings as necessary until perfection is achieved.
Serve Warm: Once your gravy reaches the desired thickness, remove it from heat and serve immediately over biscuits, fried chicken, or whatever your heart desires.
Creating Classic White Gravy is not just about following steps; it’s about enjoying the process and reveling in that comforting aroma filling your kitchen. Each step brings you closer to that first heavenly bite!
You Must Know
- Classic white gravy is more than a sauce; it’s a comforting hug for your taste buds
- This creamy delight pairs beautifully with biscuits, fried chicken, or even mashed potatoes
- The rich aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips recipe.
Start by making a roux with equal parts flour and fat over medium heat. Whisk continuously until golden brown, then gradually add milk, stirring until thickened and creamy.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to spice things up! Try adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick that makes your classic white gravy uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect consistency, whisk continuously while adding milk to prevent lumps
- Use whole milk for a richer flavor and creamier texture
- For extra depth, consider incorporating pan drippings from meats into your gravy
Sometimes I like to sneak in veggies for my kids’ sake; they can’t resist the creamy goodness of classic white gravy, even with unexpected ingredients hidden inside!

FAQ
What is classic white gravy made of?
Classic white gravy is made from flour, fat (like butter), and milk.
How can I make my gravy thicker?
To thicken gravy, add more flour in a slurry mixture with cold water before cooking.
Can I freeze classic white gravy?
Yes, freeze classic white gravy in an airtight container for up to two months; just stir well when reheating.

Classic White Gravy
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 4 servings 1x
Description
Classic White Gravy is a creamy, dreamy sauce that transforms any meal into a comforting feast. With its velvety texture and rich flavor, it pairs beautifully with biscuits, fried chicken, or mashed potatoes. This easy recipe takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for cozy breakfasts or family dinners. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this Classic White Gravy will elevate your dishes and warm your heart.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- Optional: 1/2 tsp garlic powder or onion powder
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until bubbling.
- Whisk in the flour to create a roux; cook for about 2 minutes until golden brown.
- Gradually add milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until thickened.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices as desired.
- Serve warm over your favorite dishes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Sauce Making
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup (60g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, incorporate pan drippings from cooked meats. To customize, try adding hot sauce or different spices based on your preferences.
