This incredibly easy recipe makes the BEST Homemade Turkey Gravy that I have ever had. You won’t go back to buying premade turkey gravy once you learn how to make it yourself. I’ll demonstrate how to make this 4-ingredient turkey gravy using any leftover drippings, or just stock or broth if you don’t have any on hand.
The lovely gravy boat pictured above belonged to my husbands Grandma Nash. As I was taking photos for this post, I realized that I don’t really own a very pretty gravy boat. We therefore asked Paul’s aunt, who lives a few streets away, if she had one that we could borrow over the phone. She had three options, but I knew there wasn’t really an other option when she said this one had been her mother’s.
I’ve already posted some of our favorite recipes from Grandma Nash on the blog, including her delicious poppy seed dressing, her renowned English toffee, and her creamy apricot pork chops. She was an amazing hostess and cook. So it was extra special that I got to use her gravy boat for this equally great recipe.
Thanksgiving wouldn’t be the same without a generous helping of rich, flavorful turkey gravy. But what if you’re not a fan of the traditional gravy packet, or you don’t have enough drippings from your turkey? No worries! This guide will show you how to make perfect turkey gravy using either drippings or chicken broth, ensuring a delicious and satisfying accompaniment to your Thanksgiving feast.
Perfect Turkey Gravy with Drippings: A Classic Recipe
This recipe from CenterCutCook is a classic for a reason. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter, cut into 8 pieces
- 1 tsp coarse black pepper
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups pan drippings OR 4 cups chicken stock
Instructions:
- If using drippings, pour them into a fine mesh strainer and allow them to cool slightly. This will separate the fat from the liquid. Remove the fat and reserve 4 cups of the drippings.
- If you don’t have enough drippings, add enough chicken stock to equal 4 cups.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Sprinkle in the black pepper and whisk to combine.
- Slowly add the flour, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the flour is well incorporated into the butter.
- Slowly begin pouring in the drippings and/or chicken broth, constantly whisking. Allow the gravy to cook for several minutes so that it can thicken up.
- Serve immediately or keep on very low heat until you’re ready to serve.
Tips:
- For a thicker gravy, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) and whisk it into the gravy.
- For a thinner gravy, add a little more chicken broth or drippings.
- Season to taste with additional salt and pepper.
Homemade Turkey Gravy from Drippings: A House of Nash Eats Favorite
This recipe from House of Nash Eats is another fantastic option for making delicious turkey gravy. It’s incredibly easy and uses only four simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup butter or fat (from turkey drippings)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups turkey drippings OR broth
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- If using drippings, pour them through a fine mesh sieve into a measuring cup. The broth will settle to the bottom, and the fat will rise to the top. You will need 2 1/2 cups of drippings. If you don’t have enough, just skim off the fat and add chicken broth or turkey stock to make up the difference.
- Heat the drippings or broth in the microwave or in a separate small saucepan on the stovetop.
- In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter or fat.
- Sprinkle the flour over the fat and whisk in to create a roux. Let the flour cook with the butter or fat for a minute or two to improve the flavor and avoid lumps.
- Gradually add the warm drippings or broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the gravy reaches the consistency you like.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Tips:
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour.
- For a herby gravy, add 2 teaspoons of chopped fresh thyme or rosemary and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley.
- Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for turkey gravy, cornstarch or flour?
Flour is the traditional thickener for turkey gravy, and it creates a richer flavor and texture. Cornstarch can also be used, but it may not have the same depth of flavor.
Can I make turkey gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can make turkey gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it gently before serving.
How do I thicken turkey gravy?
If your gravy is too thin, you can thicken it with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) or by adding a roux (a mixture of butter and flour cooked together).
How do I thin turkey gravy?
If your gravy is too thick, you can thin it out with a little additional chicken broth or water.
Can I freeze turkey gravy?
Yes, you can freeze turkey gravy in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 4 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Additional Resources
- Perfect Turkey Gravy Recipe with Drippings or Without: https://www.centercutcook.com/perfect-turkey-gravy/
- Homemade Turkey Gravy from Drippings: https://houseofnasheats.com/homemade-turkey-gravy-recipe/
- How to Make Turkey Gravy: https://www.thespruceeats.com/how-to-make-turkey-gravy-435392
- Turkey Gravy Recipe: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/23224/turkey-gravy/
Making delicious turkey gravy is easier than you think, whether you have drippings or not. With these two fantastic recipes and helpful tips, you’ll be able to wow your guests with a flavorful and satisfying gravy that perfectly complements your Thanksgiving feast. So grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece!
Storing Gravy for Turkey
Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before serving, reheat it in the stovetop or microwave, stirring and heating to a boil.
For up to four months, gravy prepared with a flour mixture can be frozen in freezable bags or an airtight container. Just thaw your frozen gravy in the fridge for the entire night, then gradually reheat it in a saucepan over medium-low heat while whisking all the time to avoid lumps. Add a sprinkle of flour or cornstarch mixture to thicken if necessary. Do not refreeze.
Turkey Gravy Recipe Tips for Success
- Simply thin out the gravy with a little more broth or water if it’s too thick.
- Using a thickening agent, you can make it thicker if it becomes too thin. In a small bowl, make a slurry with 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 1 tablespoon cold water. Whisk the slurry into your gravy.
- You can strain your gravy through a fine mesh strainer to get rid of any lumps if it’s lumpy. Use the method of gradually adding warm liquid to the roux while whisking to prevent lumps. Adding liquid too quickly can cause lumps.