Easy Turkey Gravy

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Rich, velvety, and full of savory depth, this Easy Turkey Gravy is the finishing touch your holiday plate deserves. Whether you’re serving up a roasted Thanksgiving bird or just craving comfort food on a weeknight, this gravy is a game-changer. It turns pan drippings and simple pantry ingredients into liquid gold, ladled generously over mashed potatoes, turkey, stuffing, or even warm biscuits.

With no need for pre-packaged mixes or complicated techniques, this homemade turkey gravy brings that from-scratch flavor with hardly any stress. It’s ready in minutes and tastes like it simmered all day. Creamy, herby, and deeply flavorful, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll keep in your back pocket all year long.

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Turkey Gravy

• Quick & Simple: Comes together in 15 minutes or less.
• Versatile: Perfect on turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, or roasted veggies.
• Flavorful: Packed with savory richness thanks to pan drippings and stock.
• No Fuss: No fancy ingredients or advanced skills needed.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep it earlier and reheat without losing quality.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create the smoothest and richest turkey gravy, having the right tools can make a huge difference. Here’s what you need and why it matters:

• Medium Saucepan: This is where the magic happens. A heavy-bottomed saucepan ensures even heat distribution to prevent burning.
• Whisk: A balloon whisk is your best friend here. It helps dissolve flour completely and prevents lumps, giving your gravy a silky finish.
• Fat Separator (Optional): If you’re using turkey drippings, this tool helps you separate the fat from the flavorful juices quickly.
• Measuring Spoons & Cups: Essential for getting the ratio of flour to fat just right.
• Fine Mesh Strainer (Optional): If you want a super smooth gravy, strain it before serving.

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Ingredients for the Easy Turkey Gravy

• Turkey Drippings or Butter: The flavor base. Drippings bring a deep roasted flavor, while butter works great if you’re starting from scratch.
• All-Purpose Flour: This is your thickener. It turns your base into a silky gravy with just the right consistency.
• Turkey or Chicken Stock: Adds body and depth. A good-quality stock enhances the gravy’s richness.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that balance and sharpen the other flavors.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder (Optional): For added flavor complexity without chopping.
• Fresh or Dried Herbs (like thyme or parsley): Infuse aromatic depth into the gravy.

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How To Make the Easy Turkey Gravy

Step 1: Separate the Drippings or Melt the Butter

Pour the turkey drippings into a fat separator and let the fat rise. Use about 1/4 cup of fat for this recipe. If you’re not using drippings, melt butter over medium heat in your saucepan.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Add flour to the melted fat or butter, whisking constantly. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the roux turns a light golden color and loses its raw flour taste.

Step 3: Add the Stock Gradually

Slowly pour in the turkey or chicken stock while whisking to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.

Step 4: Season and Simmer

Add in the salt, pepper, and optional seasonings like garlic powder or thyme. Let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Strain and Serve

If you prefer an ultra-smooth gravy, strain it through a fine mesh sieve before serving. Otherwise, pour it directly into a gravy boat and enjoy warm.

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How to Serve and Store Easy Turkey Gravy

Serve your turkey gravy piping hot over slices of roast turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, stuffing, or even as a dipping sauce for biscuits and rolls. It adds that extra comforting richness that ties every element on your plate together.

To store leftovers, let the gravy cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. When ready to serve again, reheat it gently on the stovetop, whisking in a splash of stock or water if it thickens too much.

For longer storage, freeze the gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly, whisking to bring it back to a smooth consistency.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this turkey gravy without drippings?

Yes! Simply use butter in place of the fat from turkey drippings and pair it with a high-quality turkey or chicken stock for a delicious gravy.

How do I fix lumpy gravy?

Whisk vigorously to break up any lumps or use an immersion blender. For extra-smooth texture, strain the gravy through a fine mesh sieve.

Can I make this gravy ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare it up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

What herbs go best in turkey gravy?

Thyme, rosemary, parsley, and sage all complement turkey beautifully. Use fresh if you have them, or dried in a pinch.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Just double each ingredient. Make sure to use a larger saucepan and whisk continuously for even thickening.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend or cornstarch slurry. Just adjust amounts as needed for the same consistency.

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Want More Sauce & Gravy Ideas?

If you loved this Easy Turkey Gravy, you might want to try these comforting creations next:

• Louisiana Remoulade Sauce for a zesty Southern twist.
• Simple Chili Con Carne if you’re craving hearty and bold.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta for an easy creamy pairing.
• One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles as another dinner staple with gravy-worthy flavor.
• Roasted Parmesan Green Beans for the perfect side dish to drizzle over.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday or sauce board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use drippings or go the butter route? Add herbs or kept it classic?

I love seeing how you personalize these comfort staples. For more cozy classics and daily recipe inspiration, follow me on Pinterest at Kitchen By Kate.

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