This homestyle turkey gravy is rich and flavorful, perfect for drizzling over your Thanksgiving feast. It’s made with turkey drippings, a little flour, and broth, making it super easy and satisfying!
Trust me, there’s no better way to make a turkey dinner shine than with this gravy. Don’t be surprised if everyone asks for seconds just to enjoy more gravy! 😄
I love how simple it is to whip up while the turkey rests. Just some whisking and warming, and you’re all set for a tasty addition to your meal. It feels like a warm hug on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: Butter helps make a rich base for your gravy. I like using unsalted so I can control the salt level later. If you need a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or vegan butter instead.
All-Purpose Flour: Flour acts as a thickener in this recipe. If you’re gluten-free, you can use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Just remember to mix it with cold liquid first to avoid clumping!
Turkey Drippings: The drippings give the gravy its incredible flavor. If you don’t have enough drippings, feel free to use additional turkey or chicken broth. This keeps the taste rich even if the drippings are light.
Seasonings: Salt and pepper are essential, but feel free to experiment! Add herbs like sage or rosemary, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth. I personally love adding a bit of onion powder for an extra kick.
How Do I Make Sure My Gravy Is Lump-Free?
Making smooth gravy can be tricky, but with the right techniques, it’s easy! The key is to mix everything well during cooking.
- Start by whisking the butter and flour together until you have a smooth roux. This step is crucial in preventing lumps!
- When you add the turkey drippings and broth, do it slowly while constantly whisking. This helps incorporate the liquid gradually.
- If lumps do form, don’t worry! Just strain the gravy through a fine mesh sieve before serving to catch any clumps.
- Keep whisking during the simmering stage. This helps keep the mixture smooth and thickens it beautifully.
With a little care and attention, you’ll have perfectly smooth and delicious turkey gravy that elevates your meal! Enjoy!
Homestyle Turkey Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups turkey drippings and broth (from roasted turkey)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1-2 sprigs fresh thyme (for garnish and subtle flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious homestyle turkey gravy takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 5 minutes getting the drippings ready and 5 minutes cooking and thickening your gravy. It’s a quick and easy way to enhance your holiday meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Drippings:
After you roast your turkey, carefully pour the drippings from the roasting pan into a fat separator or a bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes so the fat rises to the top. Skim off about 1/4 cup of this fat and set it aside, reserving the remaining drippings for later.
2. Make the Roux:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted and hot, whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. Keep whisking constantly for about 2-3 minutes until it turns golden brown and smells delicious. This step helps cook out the raw flour flavor.
3. Add the Liquid:
Gradually pour in the turkey drippings and broth while whisking to avoid lumps. The mixture should start to come together nicely!
4. Thicken the Gravy:
Bring the gravy to a gentle boil. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy reaches your desired thickness.
5. Season and Serve:
Season your gravy with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if you like. Taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed. If there are any little lumps, you can strain the gravy through a fine mesh sieve for a perfectly smooth finish.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Pour the gravy into a handsome gravy boat and garnish it with a sprig or two of fresh thyme. Serve it warm alongside your roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and vegetables for a delicious and comforting meal!
Enjoy your delicious, homemade, comforting turkey gravy! It’s sure to impress everyone at the table!
Can I Use Broth Instead of Drippings?
Absolutely! If you don’t have enough turkey drippings, you can use additional turkey or chicken broth. Just make sure it’s flavorful to keep the gravy delicious!
Can I Make This Gravy Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the gravy ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much.
What If My Gravy Turns Out Too Thick?
If your gravy becomes too thick, simply whisk in a little more broth or water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Keep stirring while adding liquid to keep it smooth!
Can I Freeze Leftover Gravy?
Yes, you can freeze turkey gravy! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
