There’s something magical about pouring warm, creamy Kentucky Kernel white gravy recipe over crispy fried chicken, fluffy biscuits, or mashed potatoes. This iconic Southern recipe has found its way into Sunday dinners, holiday breakfasts, and quick comfort meals in my own kitchen. The first time I tasted it was at my grandmother’s farmhouse in Kentucky, yes really, and it was love at first bite. I remember the way it clung to golden chicken cutlets and how everyone reached for seconds.
This Kentucky Kernel white gravy recipe isn’t just a condiment, it’s a celebration of Southern flavor. Whether you’re planning a comforting brunch, a hearty dinner, or a down-home weekend breakfast, this white gravy fits right in. It’s quick to make, deeply satisfying, and a thousand times better than anything you’ll find in a packet.
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Why This Kentucky Kernel White Gravy Recipe Works
Let me tell you why I absolutely love this Kentucky Kernel white gravy recipe, it’s all about that perfect blend of richness, spice, and creamy comfort. The magic really starts with a good roux, made by whisking together butter or drippings with the seasoned flour, then slowly adding milk until it transforms into that smooth, velvety gravy we all crave.
Unlike some gravies that end up tasting either too plain or way too salty, this one hits the sweet spot with a cozy kick of pepper and savory depth, all thanks to the Kentucky Kernel flour. It’s already loaded with a tasty mix of herbs and spices, so you don’t have to play the guessing game, just more flavor, less fuss.
What’s even better is how flexible this gravy is. Going gluten-free? Just use your favorite gluten-free all-purpose blend. Cutting back on dairy? Unsweetened almond or oat milk works like a charm. Want to bulk it up? Toss in some crumbled sausage. Or keep it simple and vegetarian for a lighter feel. It’s truly a blank canvas that always delivers big flavor.
And here’s the real win, unlike those mysterious powder packets at the store, this homemade Kentucky Kernel white gravy is made with real, pronounceable ingredients. You’ll taste that homemade goodness in every spoonful, trust me.
Recipe Card
Kentucky Kernel White Gravy Recipe
4
servings5
minutes10
minutes120
kcalThis Kentucky Kernel White Gravy recipe brings creamy, savory, and peppery goodness to your table. Perfect for biscuits, fried chicken, or mashed potatoes, it’s a quick and easy white gravy that will become a family favorite.
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Ingredients
2 tbsp Kentucky Kernel Seasoned Flour
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
Directions
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, add the Kentucky Kernel Seasoned Flour and whisk until smooth.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring often, until the gravy thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve warm over biscuits, chicken, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Use cold milk for a smoother consistency.
- For a richer flavor, substitute some of the milk with heavy cream.
- Stir continuously to avoid lumps
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Tips for the perfect Kentucky Kernel White Gravy Recipe:
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth.
- Spicy Twist: Stir in a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.
- Consistency Control: For a thicker gravy, let it simmer longer. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk.
- Whisk continuously: To get that ultra-smooth texture, keep your whisk moving as you add the milk gradually. Pour slowly and whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
Recipe Variant:
One of the best things about this Kentucky Kernel white gravy recipe is its flexibility. Whether you’re cooking for dietary needs or just looking to shake things up a bit, there’s a variation that will work for you. Here are some delicious twists:
1. Creamy Country Sausage Gravy
Turn this classic into a hearty Southern breakfast by adding cooked crumbled breakfast sausage. Brown the sausage in the pan first, then remove and reserve. Use the drippings as your fat base, mix in the Kentucky Kernel seasoned flour, and proceed with the recipe. Once the gravy thickens, return the sausage to the pan. Spoon generously over biscuits or hashbrowns, it’s comfort food at its best.
2. Vegetarian White Gravy
Skip the meat and use unsalted butter or olive oil as your fat source. To deepen the flavor, add a teaspoon of nutritional yeast and a pinch of onion powder while whisking the flour. For a fuller texture, use oat milk or a plant-based barista blend, which has more body than almond or rice milk. This version is surprisingly rich and satisfying!
3. Spicy Jalapeño White Gravy
If you like a little heat with your creaminess, this one’s for you. Sauté finely chopped fresh jalapeños or add a spoonful of jarred diced jalapeños before whisking in the seasoned flour. A pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika also brings a lovely warmth. Great for topping fried chicken or drizzling over breakfast burritos.
4. Mushroom White Gravy
Earthy, savory, and vegetarian-friendly, this variation is a winner. Sauté finely chopped mushrooms (cremini or button work best) in butter until golden, then follow the original recipe. The umami boost from mushrooms makes this gravy perfect over mashed potatoes or grilled veggies.
Related frequently asked questions of Kentucky Kemel White Gravy:
Lumps can form if the flour is not whisked properly into the butter or if the milk is added too quickly. Be sure to whisk continuously to avoid lumps.
Yes! You can make this gravy ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove and add a bit of milk to adjust the consistency.
No, Kentucky Kernel Seasoned Flour contains wheat. For a gluten-free version, substitute with your preferred gluten-free flour blend.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something soul-warming about a silky, peppery white gravy poured over buttery biscuits or golden fried chicken. This Kentucky Kernel White Gravy recipe brings that comforting Southern flavor into your own kitchen with zero fuss and all the flavor. Whether you’re prepping a big weekend brunch, looking for a nostalgic dinner side, or just craving something savory and soothing, this gravy delivers.
With the seasoned flour doing most of the heavy lifting, this recipe keeps things simple and consistent, which is exactly what busy home cooks need. You can make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or even meat-free without compromising on taste, making it one of those rare gems that adapts to every table. Plus, it’s ready in 15 minutes flat, perfect for those last-minute gravy cravings.
If you liked this recipe, we suggest you try the Loco Moco Recipe!
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