Name: Easy Turkey Gravy
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup fat (turkey drippings or unsalted butter); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 to 3 cups turkey stock or low-sodium chicken broth; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional); 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or poultry seasoning (optional); 1 to 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Transform your holiday plate with this Easy Turkey Gravy, a rich, smooth, and savory sauce that elevates every bite of your roast turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing. This gravy recipe is perfect for those who want to add a flavorful touch to their meals without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple pantry staples and under 15 minutes of cooking time, it’s an ideal solution for quick Thanksgiving sides or comforting weeknight meals. This is the ultimate gravy recipe that pairs beautifully with turkey and makes any meal feel like a celebration.

What makes this Easy Turkey Gravy special is its versatility and ease of preparation. Using turkey drippings adds depth of flavor, but even if you don’t have any on hand, you can achieve a delicious result with just butter and stock. The combination of seasonings like thyme and Worcestershire sauce takes it up a notch, proving that gravy doesn’t have to be complicated to be incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Turkey Gravy

Here are a few reasons why this gravy recipe stands out:

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes!
Rich Flavor: Infused with turkey drippings or butter for a savory punch.
Versatile: Ideal for any meal, not just Thanksgiving.
Customizable: Adjust seasonings to match your taste.
Smooth Texture: Whisked to perfection for a creamy finish.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start making your Easy Turkey Gravy, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen for a smooth cooking experience. Gather your ingredients and tools first. You will need a measuring cup for the turkey drippings or broth, a medium saucepan, and a whisk to blend your gravy ingredients effectively. Having a fine mesh strainer on hand is also a good idea if you prefer a silkier texture.

Make sure your workspace is clean and organized. If using turkey drippings, pour them into a measuring cup and allow them to separate so you can easily skim off the fat. If you’re opting for unsalted butter, have it ready to melt in the saucepan. Properly preparing your kitchen sets the stage for a hassle-free cooking experience.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Easy Turkey Gravy:

1/4 cup fat (turkey drippings or unsalted butter)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 to 3 cups turkey stock or low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or poultry seasoning (optional)
1 to 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Drippings or Broth

If you’re using turkey drippings, begin by pouring them into a measuring cup. Allow the fat to rise to the surface and skim off until you have about 1/4 cup. If you don’t have drippings, simply warm your chicken broth to get it ready.

Step 2: Melt the Fat

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add your collected fat (or butter if using) and let it melt completely. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour. Keep whisking for about 2–3 minutes or until the mixture turns golden and develops a nutty aroma, indicating that the flour is toasted and ready for the next step.

Step 3: Whisk in the Stock

Gradually pour in the turkey stock or chicken broth, one cup at a time, while continuously whisking. This ensures that your gravy comes together without forming lumps.

Step 4: Simmer and Thicken

Let the gravy simmer for about 5–7 minutes, stirring often. As it cooks, you will notice it beginning to thicken. At this point, taste your gravy and adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Step 5: Strain Your Gravy (Optional)

If you prefer an ultra-smooth texture, you can strain the gravy through a fine mesh strainer into a serving bowl. This step removes any lumps and results in a perfectly silky gravy.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Let your gravy cool slightly before transferring it to a serving dish. Give it a good stir before serving to ensure that it’s beautifully combined. This Easy Turkey Gravy is best served warm over your turkey, fluffy mashed potatoes, or savory stuffing.

Variations

Protein: Instead of turkey drippings, you can use drippings from roast chicken or beef for a different flavor profile.
Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed onions or mushrooms for a more earthy flavor in your gravy.
Spices: Experiment with adding herbs like rosemary or sage for a herby twist that complements roast meats beautifully.

Cooking Notes

Use a whisk to combine the flour and fat thoroughly; it helps make the gravy lump-free.
Always taste and adjust seasonings as necessary; saltiness and flavors can vary based on your stock.
For a more robust flavor, allow the gravy to simmer longer while stirring occasionally.

Serving Suggestions

Drizzle over roast turkey for a classic holiday dish.
Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and any choice of vegetable side.

Tips

Keep stock warm while making the gravy to help maintain the heat and consistency.
If your gravy becomes too thick, whisk in a little more stock until you achieve the desired consistency.
Try adding a splash of heavy cream for extra richness if desired.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 100 calories per serving
Protein: 1 gram
Sodium: Varies based on amount of salt and stock used

FAQs

Can I make turkey gravy ahead of time?

Yes, you can make your gravy ahead of time. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving, adding more stock if needed.

What can I substitute for turkey drippings?

If you don’t have turkey drippings, unsalted butter or margarine can be used instead. Additionally, chicken broth is an excellent substitute for flavor.

How can I thicken my gravy more?

You can thicken your gravy further by cooking it longer on the stovetop or by whisking in a cornstarch slurry (mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water) until you reach your desired thickness.

Is this gravy gluten-free?

No, this recipe contains all-purpose flour, which is not gluten-free. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the gravy.

Conclusion

This Easy Turkey Gravy recipe is a must-try for anyone who wants to elevate their meals with minimal effort. Its rich and savory profile enhances everything it touches, from turkey to mashed potatoes, making your meals shine during special gatherings and everyday occasions alike. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up this classic gravy that everyone will love. Don’t forget to try different variations, and feel free to share your favorite tweaks or serving suggestions in the comments!