Introduction

This turkey gravy is rich, smooth, and full of savory flavor, making it the perfect complement to your holiday feast. Made from drippings and a simple roux, it’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.

The Best Turkey Gravy Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

¼ cup fat skimmed from drippings (supplement with butter if you don’t have enough)
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups drippings
1 tablespoon butter or heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Transfer the fat to a large saucepan over medium heat. Let the fat melt, then sprinkle on the flour. Using a wooden spoon, stir continuously until the mixture becomes homogeneous and the flour browns slightly, about 4 to 5 minutes.
Step 2: If your drippings have cooled, heat them in the microwave for 30 seconds or more until hot. If you have less than 2 cups, supplement with turkey or chicken broth.
Step 3: Slowly whisk the hot drippings into the roux, stirring constantly until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook until it reaches your desired thickness.
Step 5: Season with salt and pepper, then stir in 1 tablespoon of butter or heavy cream for a silky finish.
Step 6: Serve the gravy hot in a gravy boat alongside your turkey and sides.

Tips & Variations

For extra depth, add a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of fresh herbs like thyme when simmering.
If you prefer a smoother gravy, strain it through a fine sieve before serving.
Use chicken broth as a substitute if turkey broth is unavailable.

Storage

Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the gravy thickens too much upon cooling, whisk in a little broth or water to reach desired consistency.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make turkey gravy without drippings?

Yes, you can use turkey or chicken broth as a base when drippings are not available. Adding butter and seasoning will help mimic the rich flavor of drippings.

How do I prevent lumps in gravy?

Whisk the hot drippings in slowly and continuously into the roux to ensure a smooth mixture. Stirring constantly while cooking the roux also helps prevent lumps.

The Best Turkey Gravy Recipe

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4.4 from 118 reviews

This recipe for The Best Turkey Gravy delivers a rich, smooth, and flavorful gravy made from turkey drippings, perfect for enhancing your holiday meals. The process includes making a roux from the fat skimmed from the drippings and flour, then gradually whisking in the hot drippings to create a luscious gravy finished with butter or heavy cream and seasoned to taste.

Author: Lena
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: About 2 ½ cups 1x
Category: Sauce
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Gravy Ingredients

¼ cup fat skimmed from turkey drippings (supplement with butter if insufficient)
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups turkey drippings
1 tablespoon butter or heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Make roux: Transfer the fat skimmed from the drippings to a large saucepan over medium heat. Let the fat melt completely.
Cook roux: Sprinkle the flour over the melted fat, then continuously stir using a wooden spoon until the mixture is homogeneous. Continue stirring for 4 to 5 minutes until the flour browns slightly, developing a nutty aroma that forms the base of the gravy.
Heat drippings: If the turkey drippings have cooled, warm them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until hot. If you have less than the required 2 cups, supplement with turkey broth or chicken broth to reach the amount.
Incorporate drippings: Slowly whisk the hot drippings into the roux, making sure to keep stirring to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until all liquids are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
Simmer gravy: Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it simmer until it thickens to your desired consistency, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
Season and finish: Add salt and pepper to taste, then stir in the tablespoon of butter or heavy cream to enrich the gravy and give it a velvety finish.
Serve: Pour the finished gravy into a gravy boat and serve hot alongside your turkey and sides.

Notes

Skim fat carefully from the drippings for best flavor, supplement with butter if needed.
If drippings are lacking, use turkey or chicken broth to make up the volume.
Continuous stirring during roux making prevents burning and ensures a smooth gravy.
Adjust seasoning at the end to balance flavors to your preference.
The gravy can be kept warm on low heat or reheated gently before serving.

Keywords: turkey gravy, homemade gravy, turkey drippings, holiday gravy, Thanksgiving gravy