Easy Homemade Turkey Gravy Recipe

Published: February 9, 2025

by Emma Taylor

Why You’ll Love This Turkey Gravy

Rich Flavor: With its deep umami notes from roasted turkey drippings combined with aromatic herbs, this turkey gravy adds an irresistible depth of flavor to any dish.
Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the process of making homemade turkey gravy, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum taste.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasoning or add additional ingredients like mushrooms or herbs to tailor the flavor profile to your liking.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Turkey Gravy

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Turkey Drippings: Collect drippings from your roasted turkey; they serve as the base for a flavorful gravy.
All-Purpose Flour: This ingredient will help thicken the gravy and create that desirable consistency.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth for added flavor without overwhelming saltiness in your dish.
Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is essential; adjust these according to taste as you prepare the gravy.
Fresh Herbs (Optional): Thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor profile; chop finely before adding.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Turkey Gravy

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and ensure you have a whisk on hand for smooth mixing during preparation.

Step 2: Collect Turkey Drippings

After roasting your turkey, pour the drippings from the roasting pan into a measuring cup. Allow some fat to rise to the top; you’ll use both fat and juices.

Step 3: Make a Roux

In a saucepan over medium heat, add about one-fourth cup of fat collected from drippings. Whisk in an equal amount of flour until smooth. Cook for about two minutes until it turns golden brown.

Step 4: Add Broth and Drippings

Gradually whisk in about two cups of chicken broth along with the reserved turkey drippings. Continue stirring until well combined.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring frequently. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about five minutes until thickened.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If desired, stir in fresh herbs before serving. Transfer to a serving dish for easy pouring over your meal.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Quality Broth: Opt for high-quality low-sodium chicken broth for richer flavor without excessive salt.
Strain if Desired: For an ultra-smooth texture, strain the final mixture through a fine sieve before serving.
Adjust Thickness: If you prefer thicker gravy, simply simmer longer; if too thick, add more broth gradually until desired consistency is reached.

Serving Suggestions

This Turkey Gravy is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Mashed Potatoes: A classic combination, the creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the rich flavor of turkey gravy perfectly. Pour it generously over your potatoes for a comforting side dish.
Stuffing: Enhance your stuffing by drizzling warm turkey gravy on top. This addition adds moisture and flavor, making each bite even more delightful.
Roasted Vegetables: Elevate your roasted vegetables with a splash of turkey gravy. It brings a savory depth that balances the sweetness of caramelized veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts.

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for Turkey Gravy?

To make a delicious Turkey Gravy, you’ll need just a few key ingredients. Start with pan drippings from your roasted turkey, as they provide the base flavor. You will also need flour to create a roux for thickening the gravy. Additionally, chicken or turkey stock will help achieve the desired consistency. Seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary can enhance the taste further. These simple components come together to create a rich and flavorful gravy that enhances any holiday meal.

Can I make Turkey Gravy ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Turkey Gravy ahead of time! Making it in advance allows you to save time on the day of your big meal. Simply follow your favorite recipe, let it cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop while adding a bit more stock or water if necessary to restore its smooth consistency. This way, you can enjoy fresh turkey gravy without the last-minute rush.

How do I thicken Turkey Gravy?

If your Turkey Gravy turns out thinner than expected, there are several ways to thicken it effectively. One popular method is to create a slurry using equal parts cornstarch and cold water; whisk this mixture into the simmering gravy until it reaches your desired thickness. Alternatively, you can continue cooking the gravy over low heat to reduce its liquid content gradually. If you prefer a more traditional approach, adding additional flour or using leftover stuffing can also help thicken the gravy.

Can I freeze Turkey Gravy?

Absolutely! Freezing Turkey Gravy is an excellent way to preserve leftovers for future meals. Allow the gravy to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top of containers as liquids expand when frozen. Properly stored, turkey gravy can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to use it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.

Conclusion for Turkey Gravy

In conclusion, mastering turkey gravy enhances any festive meal with its rich flavors and smooth texture. With just a few simple ingredients like pan drippings, flour, and stock, you can create a delectable sauce that elevates dishes such as mashed potatoes and stuffing. Preparation can be done ahead of time or even frozen for later use, making it convenient for busy cooks during holiday gatherings.

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📖 Recipe Card

Turkey Gravy

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Author: Emma Taylor
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

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Description

Transform your holiday meals with this easy homemade turkey gravy that promises to elevate every dish on your table.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup turkey drippings
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (optional, such as thyme or rosemary)

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Instructions

Gather all ingredients and a whisk for smooth mixing.
Collect turkey drippings in a measuring cup; allow fat to rise to the top.
In a saucepan over medium heat, add 1/4 cup of collected fat. Whisk in an equal amount of flour until smooth and cook for about 2 minutes until golden brown.
Gradually whisk in chicken broth and reserved drippings until well combined.
Bring to a gentle boil while stirring frequently. Reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired; stir in fresh herbs if using before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Sauce making
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 cup (60g)
Calories: 78
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 245mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 5mg

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