Homemade turkey gravy brings a rich, flavorful finish to every holiday meal. Forget bland store-bought options—this luscious gravy makes roasted turkey and sides shine, and is so simple you’ll crave it year-round. With only a few pantry staples, you can control the seasoning, texture, and even accommodate gluten-free guests, all while saving time for festive fun.
Why You’ll Love This Turkey Gravy
Homemade turkey gravy is:
- So flavorful—the drippings capture all those savory roasted notes.
- Customizable—from salt and thickness to gluten-free swaps.
- Quick and easy—done in just one saucepan!
- Perfect for leftovers—it freezes and reheats without losing texture.
Ingredients and Key Substitutions
- 3 cups turkey pan drippings (substitute with chicken or turkey stock if needed)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
- Salt & pepper, optional dash of Worcestershire sauce
Tip: Cornstarch creates a beautiful gluten-free gravy, and a splash of cream makes it extra decadent.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Turkey Gravy
1. Strain the Drippings
Pour all pan drippings through a fine-mesh sieve or fat separator. If short on drippings, add enough chicken stock to make 3 cups.
2. Make the Roux
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a thick paste (roux), cooking 2 minutes until smooth—don’t let it brown.
3. Whisk and Thicken
Slowly add drippings, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer over medium heat until gravy thickens (3–5 minutes), adding more drippings if too thick, or simmering longer if too thin.
4. Season and Serve
Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce if you like a hint of umami. Taste and adjust! Serve hot over your turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing—everything.
Troubleshooting & Advanced Tips
- For extra-smooth gravy: Always heat your drippings before adding.
- Gravy too thin? Remove ¼ cup liquid, whisk in a tablespoon more flour, add back and simmer.
- Gravy too thick? Just whisk in warm broth until perfect.
- If lumpy: Strain through a fine sieve for silky texture.
- Add depth: Try fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage) or roasted garlic.
- Make it ahead: Prep with broth 2–3 days early, then reheat on the stove and finish with pan drippings.
Creative Variations (Filling the Gap)
To take your gravy beyond basic:
- Use smoked turkey drippings for a subtly smoky undertone.
- Stir in a spoonful of crème fraîche for an ultra-creamy finish.
- Brew extra flavor with oven-roasted vegetables—try onion or carrot purée in your sauce.
- Splash in white wine for a gourmet edge.
- Simmer chopped giblets with herbs for a classic giblet gravy twist.
What Goes Best With Turkey Gravy?
This easy turkey gravy is a holiday must-have but peps up dinners all year! Drizzle over:
- Best Oven Roasted Turkey
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Sausage stuffing, cornbread, dinner rolls, roasted veggies, or chicken
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing
- Make ahead: Cook with broth up to three days before, reheat and finish with fresh drippings.
- Store: Airtight in the fridge, up to 4 days.
- Freeze: This non-cream gravy freezes up to 3 months! Thaw individual servings as needed.
Recipe FAQs
Gluten-free guests?
Swap flour for cornstarch for flawless gluten-free gravy.
How long does it keep?
Four days in the fridge, or freeze individual portions up to three months.
Can I freeze gravy?
Absolutely—no cream means it reheats silky smooth every time.
Ready to make your feast memorable?
Try this easy homemade turkey gravy—your family will request it every holiday, guaranteed!
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