Get ready to transform your holiday table with Turkey Gravy that’s velvety-smooth, deeply savory, and brimming with classic flavor. Whether you’re drizzling it over golden roasted turkey, fluffy mashed potatoes, or those warm-from-the-oven dinner rolls, this homemade gravy is a true crowd-pleaser. With just a few key ingredients and a handful of minutes, you’ll create a sauce that elevates every bite, making your feast feel extra special and truly complete.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s beautiful about Turkey Gravy is that it starts with wholesome basics that are probably already in your kitchen. Each ingredient brings something wonderful: richness, depth, color, and, most importantly, those cozy holiday vibes you crave.

Unsalted butter: The backbone of any good gravy, giving an indulgent creamy texture and subtle flavor without overpowering the turkey.
All-purpose flour: This is your thickening agent; whisked and cooked with butter, it prevents lumps while adding that sought-after sheen.
Turkey drippings or turkey/chicken broth: Drippings provide unmatched flavor and authenticity, but broth works brilliantly as a backup.
Salt: Essential for enhancing every underlying flavor, so don’t skip or skimp here!
Black pepper: Adds just enough kick without making things spicy, balancing out the richness.
Garlic powder: A touch of warmth and savoriness that’s subtle but totally necessary for that homey feel.
Onion powder: Rounds out the flavor, helping the gravy taste layered and complex.
Optional: splash of heavy cream or fresh herbs (thyme or sage): These are finishing touches for extra creamy richness or fresh, aromatic lift—try them if you’re feeling fancy!

How to Make Turkey Gravy

Step 1: Make a Flavorful Roux

Start by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering and completely melted, sprinkle in the flour while whisking constantly. Give the mixture about 2 to 3 minutes, allowing it to bubble and gently turn golden. This step develops a beautifully rich, nutty flavor base and ensures your Turkey Gravy has a silky smooth texture.

Step 2: Add the Turkey Drippings or Broth

Slowly pour in your turkey drippings or broth, whisking as you go. This not only helps prevent any lumps but also lets the roux fully absorb all that glorious liquid. Aim for a smooth, even consistency—this is where the magic really starts to happen. If you don’t have enough drippings, simply top up with good-quality chicken broth.

Step 3: Simmer and Thicken

Keep your heat at medium and continue to whisk occasionally as the gravy cooks for another 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll see it gradually thickening into that ultimate pourable perfection. If it gets too thick, a splash of broth will loosen things right up; if it’s too thin, let it bubble for another minute or two.

Step 4: Season and Finish

Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This is your moment to taste and adjust, so don’t be shy—everyone’s palate is different! For a truly restaurant-worthy upgrade, finish with a drizzle of heavy cream or sprinkle in a bit of chopped thyme or sage. The herbs add freshness, while the cream bumps up the richness.

How to Serve Turkey Gravy

Garnishes

Give your Turkey Gravy an extra flourish with a handful of freshly chopped parsley, a dusting of black pepper, or a few delicate thyme leaves right before serving. Not only do these make the sauce pop with color, but they add subtle aroma and a touch of sophistication.

Side Dishes

Of course, gravy was made for turkey and mashed potatoes, but don’t stop there! Spoon it over roasted vegetables, stuffing, creamed spinach, or even your evening meatloaf. It’s the sauce that ties the whole meal together, adding moisture and flavor to every dish it touches.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Turkey Gravy in a pre-warmed gravy boat for that classic holiday feel, or switch things up by offering it in rustic mason jars with tiny ladles for a casual buffet. If you’re hosting a crowd, set up a “gravy bar” with mix-ins like crispy shallots, caramelized onions, or chopped fresh herbs so everyone can customize their own serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Turkey Gravy can be cooled to room temperature, then transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated for up to three days. It will thicken as it cools, but that’s easily remedied when you reheat it.

Freezing

Turkey Gravy actually freezes beautifully! Pour cooled gravy into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (leave a little room for expansion), label the date, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To bring leftover Turkey Gravy back to life, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or a bit of water to restore its original texture. Whisk constantly to prevent scorching and watch as that luscious creamy consistency returns.

FAQs

How can I avoid lumpy gravy?

Start by thoroughly whisking the flour into the melted butter to make a smooth roux, and always add your drippings or broth slowly while whisking non-stop. If you do end up with lumps, a quick blend with an immersion blender will save the day!

Can I make Turkey Gravy gluten-free?

Absolutely—just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, such as rice flour or a gluten-free all-purpose mix. The gravy will thicken slightly differently, but the core flavor and silky texture will still shine.

What should I do if my gravy is too thick?

No worries! Simply whisk in a little more broth or even water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Turkey Gravy is very forgiving, so you can easily adjust it right up to serving.

Can I make Turkey Gravy ahead of time?

Yes, and it’s a lifesaver for busy holidays! Prepare the gravy as directed, let it cool, then cover and refrigerate. On the big day, gently reheat it on the stove and add more broth if necessary to loosen it up. The flavor only gets better!

How can I add more flavor to my gravy?

Try enhancing the base with a splash of white wine while sautéing the roux, add fresh chopped herbs at the end, or mix in a touch of soy sauce or Worcestershire for rich umami flavor. Little tweaks make your Turkey Gravy uniquely yours.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a homemade Turkey Gravy to make a meal feel festive and unforgettable. Whether you’re a seasoned host or just diving into holiday cooking, this recipe has your back for the perfect finishing touch. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how a little sauce brings everything together!

Turkey Gravy Recipe

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4.8 from 23 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 2 cups 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Learn how to make rich and flavorful turkey gravy from scratch with this easy recipe. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any roast turkey dinner!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Gravy:

¼ cup unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups turkey drippings (or turkey/chicken broth)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
optional: a splash of heavy cream or a pinch of fresh herbs like thyme or sage

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Instructions

Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Whisk in Flour: Whisk in the flour and cook for 2–3 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Add Broth: Slowly whisk in the turkey drippings or broth, ensuring no lumps.
Thicken: Cook and whisk for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
Season: Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Enhance Flavor: For a richer taste, add cream or fresh herbs.
Adjust and Serve: Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.

Notes

If you don’t have enough turkey drippings, supplement with chicken broth.
To make ahead, prepare and refrigerate, then gently reheat over low heat while whisking.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Sauce
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American