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Classic Turkey Gravy Recipe

This traditional turkey gravy uses pan drippings and a roux base, with optional giblets for extra flavor. Ready in just 20 minutes, it's perfect for holiday meals.

Featured in Kitchen Flavor Boosters.

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Updated on Wed, 01 Jan 2025 17:37:05 GMT
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A plate of sliced roasted chicken covered in gravy, served with mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli. Pin it
A plate of sliced roasted chicken covered in gravy, served with mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli. | quickierecipe.com

Let me share my foolproof turkey gravy recipe that makes everything on your holiday plate taste better! After years of Thanksgiving dinners I've perfected this sauce that turns simple mashed potatoes into cloud like heaven and makes turkey sandwiches absolutely irresistible. I promise once you try homemade gravy you'll never look at the store bought stuff again!

Why Turkey Gravy Matters

You know what truly makes a Thanksgiving plate sing? It's all about the gravy! This liquid gold ties everything together creating the most incredible flavor in every bite. Whether you're drowning your mashed potatoes or dipping that leftover turkey sandwich nothing beats homemade gravy.

Ingredients for Perfect Turkey Gravy

  • Drippings: Those precious golden brown bits from your roasting pan that's where all the magic starts!
  • Giblets: Don't throw these away they create the most amazing deep flavor.
  • Flour: Just enough to make that perfect silky texture.
  • Broth: I love using homemade but good quality store bought works too.
  • Salt and Pepper: Season carefully tasting as you go.

Let's Make Some Magic

The Traditional Way
Start by simmering those giblets they create such rich flavor! After an hour chop them up fine and add to your gravy.
Using Those Drippings
Carefully separate the fat from the drippings then whisk with flour to make your roux. Slowly add broth whisking constantly for silky smooth gravy.
Quick and Easy Version
No giblets? No problem! Those drippings alone will still make incredible gravy.

Keep It Fresh

Your gravy will stay perfect in the fridge for a few days just store it in an airtight container. Want to get ahead? Make it two days before the big feast just reheat gently with a splash of broth to thin it out.

My Best Tips

  • Perfect Roux Every Time: Keep whisking that flour until it turns golden brown.
  • Seasoning Secrets: Add salt and pepper bit by bit you can always add more!
  • Just Right Texture: Keep some warm broth handy to adjust the thickness.

Ways to Enjoy

This gravy makes everything better! Drizzle it over mashed potatoes pour it on stuffing or save some for those amazing day after turkey sandwiches. Trust me you'll want extra for leftovers!

A plate of mashed potatoes and sliced turkey covered in gravy, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside small bowls of sauces. Pin it
A plate of mashed potatoes and sliced turkey covered in gravy, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside small bowls of sauces. | quickierecipe.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it up to 2 days ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator and reheat with additional broth to adjust consistency.
→ Do I have to use the giblets?
No, the giblets are optional. You can make delicious gravy using just the turkey drippings and broth.
→ How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply replace the regular flour with gluten-free 1:1 all-purpose flour. The recipe works exactly the same way.
→ Why remove the liver from the giblets?
The liver has a very strong flavor that many people don't enjoy. Removing it gives the gravy a more balanced taste.
→ How long does leftover gravy keep?
Leftover gravy can be stored covered in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat gently with added liquid to restore consistency.

Conclusion

This traditional turkey gravy recipe provides a rich, flavorful sauce made from pan drippings and optional giblets. Easy to prepare and perfect for holiday meals.

Turkey Gravy

Rich, smooth turkey gravy made from pan drippings, with the option to include giblets. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any roast turkey dinner.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
10 Minutes
Total Time
20 Minutes
By: Meryem

Category: Sauces & Marinades

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 15 Servings (4-5 cups gravy)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

01 Turkey drippings.
02 1/2 cup all-purpose flour.
03 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth.
04 Salt and pepper to taste.
05 Giblets and neck of uncooked turkey (optional).

Instructions

Step 01

Boil turkey neck and giblets in water for 1 hour until cooked through.

Step 02

Remove giblets, discard liver, remove meat from neck, dice remaining giblets.

Step 03

Pour turkey roasting pan drippings into bowl and let fat separate to top. Skim off most of fat.

Step 04

Whisk 1 cup drippings with flour in saucepan until smooth paste forms. Cook until golden brown.

Step 05

Whisk in broth and 1 cup additional drippings.

Step 06

Cook while whisking 5-8 minutes until thickened. Add giblet meat.

Step 07

Adjust consistency with more liquid or cornstarch slurry if needed. Season with salt and pepper.

Notes

  1. Can be made up to 2 days ahead.
  2. Stores 2-3 days in refrigerator.
  3. Can be made gluten-free using 1:1 flour.

Tools You'll Need

  • Sauce pan.
  • Slotted spoon.
  • Whisk.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Wheat (flour).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 25
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: 3 g
  • Protein: 1 g