🧂 Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (or use turkey drippings for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups turkey or chicken broth (warm)
- 1/2 cup pan drippings (optional, from roasted turkey)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning or fresh herbs (thyme, sage, rosemary)
👩🍳 Instructions
- Collect the drippings: After roasting your turkey, pour the drippings into a measuring cup. Let them sit until the fat rises to the top, then skim off the excess fat, saving about 1/4 cup for your gravy base.
- Make the roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter (or turkey fat). Whisk in flour and cook for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant.
- Add liquid gradually: Slowly pour in warm broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add pan drippings for deeper flavor.
- Simmer and season: Continue whisking until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency, about 5–7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Serve warm: Pour over turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, or biscuits for a rich, silky finish.
💡 Tips for the Best Turkey Gravy
- Use warm broth: It blends smoothly into the roux without clumping.
- Brown your roux slightly: This adds depth of flavor and color to the gravy.
- Too thick? Whisk in more broth, 1 tablespoon at a time, until perfect.
- Too thin? Simmer longer, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 Tbsp water).
- Make-ahead: Prepare gravy a day early and reheat gently before serving, whisking in extra broth if needed.
🌿 Flavor Variations
- Garlic & Herb Gravy: Add minced garlic and a teaspoon of chopped fresh herbs to the roux.
- Wine-Infused Gravy: Stir in 1/4 cup dry white wine before adding broth for a richer taste.
- Creamy Turkey Gravy: Add 1/4 cup heavy cream at the end for a silky, decadent finish.
- Giblet Gravy: Add finely chopped cooked giblets for a classic Southern-style gravy.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make turkey gravy without drippings?
Yes! Just use butter instead of turkey fat and add a teaspoon of poultry seasoning or bouillon for extra depth. How do I fix lumpy gravy?
Simply pour it through a fine mesh strainer or blend it with an immersion blender until smooth. How long does homemade gravy last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use cornstarch or gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour for a smooth, gluten-free gravy.
🍗 Perfect Pairings
- Roast turkey or chicken
- Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
- Stuffing or dressing
- Biscuits or dinner rolls
- Shepherd’s pie or pot pies
🦃 Final Thoughts
The Perfect Turkey Gravy is simple, smooth, and full of deep, savory flavor — the crowning touch to any holiday meal. Made with pantry staples and turkey drippings, this recipe guarantees lump-free, velvety results every time. Pour it generously over turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing for a true Thanksgiving classic everyone will love.