Home Vegan Post Vegan Thanksgiving Gravy & Sauce Recipes: Flavorful Finishing Touches

Vegan Thanksgiving Gravy & Sauce Recipes: Flavorful Finishing Touches


Thanksgiving is a celebration of abundance, togetherness, and comfort food. But even the most beautifully roasted vegetables or perfectly baked vegan loaf need one final touch to truly shine—a rich, velvety, and flavorful gravy or sauce. Whether you’re hosting a fully plant-based Thanksgiving or just looking for dairy-free options to complement your meal, these vegan Thanksgiving gravy and sauce recipes will add that essential finishing flourish.

From creamy mushroom gravies to tangy cranberry sauces and herbed cashew cream, this guide covers everything you need to make your vegan Thanksgiving meal unforgettable.

Why Vegan Gravy and Sauce Matter at Thanksgiving

Gravy and sauce aren’t just sides—they’re the secret to tying the entire Thanksgiving meal together. A spoonful of rich, savory sauce can elevate mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, lentil loaves, or even plant-based turkey alternatives.

Here’s why vegan gravy is a must-have on your holiday table:

  • Adds moisture and flavor to plant-based dishes that might otherwise feel dry.

  • Balances richness by complementing both savory and sweet sides.

  • Brings everyone together, offering a comforting taste that appeals to vegans and non-vegans alike.

  • Is surprisingly easy to make—no animal products needed for deep, satisfying flavor.

With the right ingredients and techniques, vegan gravy can be just as rich, silky, and aromatic as traditional versions.

Key Ingredients for Perfect Vegan Gravy

Creating an unforgettable vegan gravy or sauce starts with layering flavor. Here are the essentials that help you achieve that deep, savory taste:

  1. Aromatics: Onions, garlic, shallots, and leeks create the base.

  2. Umami boosters: Soy sauce, tamari, miso paste, or nutritional yeast add depth.

  3. Fat: Olive oil, vegan butter, or coconut oil give richness and mouthfeel.

  4. Thickener: All-purpose flour or cornstarch makes the gravy silky.

  5. Liquid base: Vegetable broth or mushroom stock brings it all together.

  6. Herbs & spices: Sage, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper build that cozy Thanksgiving flavor.

1. Classic Vegan Brown Gravy

A classic brown gravy is the backbone of many Thanksgiving tables, and it’s surprisingly easy to make vegan without losing any of its indulgent richness.

Ingredients:

  • 3 tbsp vegan butter or olive oil

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups vegetable broth

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari

  • 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, melt vegan butter over medium heat.

  2. Add onions and garlic, cooking until golden and fragrant.

  3. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, forming a roux.

  4. Gradually whisk in vegetable broth, ensuring no lumps remain.

  5. Add soy sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.

  6. Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.

This gravy pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, stuffing, and any plant-based roast.

Pro tip: For extra richness, whisk in a teaspoon of nutritional yeast or a splash of oat milk before serving.

2. Creamy Mushroom Vegan Gravy

Mushrooms are the secret weapon of vegan cooking—they bring that deep, meaty umami that makes gravies irresistible. This recipe is earthy, creamy, and full-bodied.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 cup cremini or button mushrooms, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

  • 1 ½ cups mushroom broth or vegetable broth

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce

  • 1 tbsp nutritional yeast

  • ½ cup unsweetened almond milk

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté mushrooms until browned.

  2. Add garlic and cook another minute.

  3. Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes.

  4. Slowly add broth while whisking, then bring to a simmer.

  5. Stir in soy sauce, nutritional yeast, and almond milk.

  6. Simmer until creamy, adjusting seasoning to taste.

This gravy’s deep, earthy flavor complements mashed potatoes, lentil loafs, or roasted cauliflower steaks beautifully.

3. Herbed Cashew Cream Sauce

For a lighter, yet luxuriously creamy option, try a herbed cashew cream sauce. It’s perfect for drizzling over roasted vegetables, green beans, or vegan roasts.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for at least 2 hours)

  • 1 cup water

  • 2 tbsp lemon juice

  • 1 clove garlic

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp nutritional yeast

  • 1 tsp dried thyme

  • 1 tsp rosemary

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Drain soaked cashews and blend with water, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil until smooth.

  2. Add nutritional yeast, herbs, salt, and pepper. Blend again.

  3. Warm gently on the stove if desired, or serve chilled for a thicker texture.

This sauce adds a creamy, herby element that feels elegant and refreshing amidst the heavier Thanksgiving dishes.

4. Tangy Cranberry Orange Sauce

No Thanksgiving table is complete without a bright, tart cranberry sauce. This vegan version combines citrus and spices for a fresh twist that pairs beautifully with savory dishes.

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz fresh cranberries

  • ½ cup orange juice

  • ½ cup water

  • ½ cup sugar or maple syrup

  • 1 tsp orange zest

  • ½ tsp cinnamon

  • Pinch of nutmeg

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a simmer.

  2. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and mixture thickens.

  3. Let cool; sauce will continue to set as it cools.

This tangy, ruby-red sauce offers the perfect balance to creamy gravies and savory main courses. It’s also incredible as a topping for leftover vegan sandwiches the next day.

5. Savory Lentil Gravy

Lentils add natural thickness and protein to gravy, making this option both hearty and nourishing. It’s ideal for those who prefer a chunkier, rustic texture.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • ½ onion, diced

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • 2 cups vegetable broth

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

  • 1 tsp thyme

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until soft.

  2. Add lentils, broth, soy sauce, and spices.

  3. Simmer for 10 minutes, then blend until smooth (or leave slightly chunky).

  4. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

This gravy is hearty enough to serve as a sauce for mashed potatoes, lentil loaves, or roasted root vegetables.

6. Balsamic Maple Glaze

For a sweet-meets-savory drizzle, this balsamic maple glaze brings brightness and depth. It’s perfect for drizzling over Brussels sprouts, tofu roasts, or sweet potatoes.

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar

  • 2 tbsp maple syrup

  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

  • ¼ tsp sea salt

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan.

  2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

  3. Reduce for 8–10 minutes until thickened.

  4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.

The result is a glossy, tangy-sweet sauce that adds sophistication and balance to your holiday table.

7. Vegan White Wine and Sage Sauce

This elegant sauce is light, aromatic, and full of Thanksgiving flavor. It pairs especially well with vegan roasts, mashed potatoes, or sautéed green beans.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp vegan butter

  • 1 shallot, finely minced

  • 2 tbsp flour

  • ½ cup dry white wine

  • 1 ½ cups vegetable broth

  • 1 tsp fresh sage, finely chopped

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Melt vegan butter in a pan and sauté shallots until translucent.

  2. Stir in flour and cook for one minute.

  3. Add wine, whisking until smooth, then pour in broth.

  4. Simmer 10 minutes, add sage, and season with salt and pepper.

This sauce has a sophisticated flavor profile—savory, herby, and slightly tangy. It’s a great choice for anyone seeking a lighter gravy option.

Pairing Guide: Which Gravy Goes With What

To make your Thanksgiving meal even more cohesive, here’s a quick pairing guide:

Dish Best Vegan Sauce or Gravy
Mashed Potatoes Classic Vegan Brown Gravy
Vegan Roast or “Turkey” White Wine & Sage Sauce
Stuffing Mushroom Gravy or Lentil Gravy
Roasted Vegetables Balsamic Maple Glaze
Cranberry Loaf Tangy Cranberry Orange Sauce
Green Beans or Asparagus Herbed Cashew Cream

Having two or three gravies available gives your guests options and keeps the menu dynamic.

Tips for Perfecting Vegan Gravy Every Time

  1. Use high-quality broth. Your gravy will only taste as good as your base.

  2. Whisk continuously while thickening to avoid lumps.

  3. Add umami boosters like miso, soy sauce, or mushroom powder for depth.

  4. Make it ahead: Most vegan gravies keep well for 2–3 days in the fridge and can be reheated gently before serving.

  5. Freeze leftovers: Vegan gravy freezes beautifully—perfect for quick comfort meals later in the winter.

Presentation: Make It Festive

Serve your vegan gravies and sauces in small ceramic pitchers, vintage bowls, or mini cast-iron pots for a warm, rustic touch. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs, cracked pepper, or a drizzle of olive oil for an elevated look. A little visual detail makes your table feel special and intentional.

Sustainability and Compassion on the Holiday Table

Thanksgiving is about gratitude, and choosing vegan gravies and sauces reflects compassion for animals, the planet, and your health. You’re proving that indulgence doesn’t need to come at a cost.

And if you love sharing your plant-based values beyond the table, The Dharma Store offers vegan-themed t-shirts made from organic cotton—perfect for expressing your compassion year-round. Their designs celebrate kindness, sustainability, and vegan pride, aligning beautifully with the spirit of a conscious Thanksgiving celebration.

Final Thoughts: Pour on the Plant-Based Goodness

A memorable Thanksgiving meal is built not just on the main dishes, but on the details—the gravies, the sauces, the finishing touches that tie everything together. With these vegan Thanksgiving gravy and sauce recipes, you’ll have all the richness, flavor, and comfort you could ever want—without any dairy, butter, or animal products.

From savory lentil gravy to herbed cashew cream and cranberry orange sauce, these recipes prove that compassion and flavor go hand in hand. So this year, pour generously, savor every bite, and celebrate a feast that’s delicious, inclusive, and 100% plant-powered.