Sawmill gravy is a classic Southern staple, often served over biscuits, chicken-fried steak, or mashed potatoes. Traditionally made with a roux of fat and flour, this microwave version uses cornstarch for a smooth, lump-free consistency—no stove required! If you’re looking for an easy white gravy recipe that comes together in minutes, this microwave method for sawmill gravy is the perfect solution.

Why You’ll Love This Microwave Sawmill Gravy Recipe

Quick & Easy – No need to stand over a stovetop; this comes together in minutes.
Minimal Ingredients – Made with pantry staples like milk, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
Versatile – Perfect for biscuits, fried chicken, or breakfast casseroles.
No Flour, No Problem – Uses cornstarch instead of flour, making it an alternative for those avoiding wheat-based thickening agents.

Ingredients

Measuring cups and spoons, corn starch, and milk, arranged on a wooden cutting board, ready for a microwave sawmill gravy recipe.

Milk
Cornstarch
Salt and black pepper

How to Make Microwave Sawmill Gravy

In a microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the cold milk, cornstarch, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Microwave on high for 2 minutes, then stir well.
Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the gravy reaches your desired thickness.
Let it sit for a minute to thicken further, then stir and serve over biscuits, toast, or your favorite dish.

Measuring cup of microwave sawmill gravy with a whisk, on a wooden cutting board and yellow striped dishtowel.

The History of Sawmill Gravy

Sawmill gravy has deep roots in Southern cuisine. The name is believed to have originated from lumber camps, where cooks made hearty meals for workers using simple, affordable ingredients. The gravy was traditionally thickened with flour and fat from bacon or sausage, making it a filling addition to biscuits or meats. Over time, the dish became a breakfast staple across the South, with variations emerging to suit different tastes.

Ways to Customize Your Gravy

Want to add a little something extra to your sawmill gravy? Here are a few ways to customize it:

Sausage Gravy: Brown crumbled sausage separately and stir it into the finished gravy for a hearty, flavorful variation.
Bacon Gravy: Use cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky twist. Add a small spoonful of bacon grease for extra richness.
Cheese Gravy: Stir in shredded cheddar or parmesan for a cheesy take on white gravy.
Peppery Gravy: Add extra cracked black pepper for a bolder, more traditional Southern-style taste.
Spicy Gravy: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a kick.

FAQ

What is sawmill gravy made of?
Sawmill gravy is traditionally made from fat, flour, milk, and seasonings, often with crumbled sausage or bacon grease for added flavor.

Is sawmill gravy the same as country gravy?
Sawmill gravy and country gravy are often used interchangeably, but country gravy is usually made without meat, while sawmill gravy sometimes contains sausage or bacon drippings.

Can I make this without cornstarch?
Yes! If you prefer, you can substitute cornstarch with an equal amount of flour, but you may need to cook it slightly longer to achieve the same thickness.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute milk with unsweetened dairy-free alternatives like almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.

Give It a Try!

For a full Southern-style breakfast, serve this over biscuits and pour a glass of homemade sweet tea to go with it. Or if you need a quick white gravy for fried chicken or country fried steak, this microwave sawmill gravy recipe is a simple, foolproof way to get creamy, delicious results in minutes. Try it out and let us know how you like it!

Looking for more easy microwave recipes? Check out my Microwave Hot Cocoa recipe for another quick and cozy kitchen hack!

Want to learn more about the history of sawmill gravy? Read this detailed breakdown on Sawmill Gravy’s Origins.

Have a favorite way to enjoy sawmill gravy? Share your thoughts in the comments!