Turkey Gravy Recipe

This Turkey Gravy Recipe is a must-have for your holiday table, bringing rich, savory flavors to your meals. Made from turkey drippings, butter, and aromatic herbs, this gravy is not just for Thanksgiving; it elevates any gathering or family dinner. Its smooth texture and delicious taste make it the perfect complement to roasted turkey and a variety of sides.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of turkey drippings and fresh sage creates an irresistible depth of flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can make this gravy without fuss.
• Versatile Use: While perfect for holiday meals, this gravy also enhances everyday dishes like mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.
• Gluten-Free Option: Easily substitute with gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it a convenient addition to your meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes all the difference in creating a smooth and flavorful gravy. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large sauté pan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sauté pan: A deep pan helps prevent splatters while cooking the onions and thickening the gravy.
• Whisk: This tool ensures a smooth consistency by preventing lumps when adding the turkey drippings.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the right flavor balance in your gravy.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful Turkey Gravy, gather the following ingredients:

For the Gravy

• 2 cups de-fatted turkey drippings (add chicken or turkey stock if you don’t have enough drippings to make the full 2 cups)
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (use 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour substitute to make gluten free)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons apple juice (optional)
• 1 to 2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage (optional)

How to Make Turkey Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

In a large (10 to 12-inch), deep sauté pan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions are lightly browned. This step develops deep flavor and should not be rushed.

Step 2: Add Flour and Seasoning

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the softened onions. Then stir in the kosher salt and ground black pepper. Cook this mixture while stirring continuously for one full minute to eliminate any raw flour taste.

Step 3: Incorporate Turkey Drippings

Gradually pour in the 2 cups of de-fatted turkey drippings while whisking constantly. This will help prevent lumps from forming and ensure that your mixture is smooth.

Step 4: Enhance with Flavors

Stir in the apple juice and chopped fresh sage if you’re using them. These ingredients add aromatic complexity and depth to your gravy.

Step 5: Simmer Until Thickened

Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it bubble gently while stirring often until it reaches your desired thickness, about 4 to 5 minutes. Taste carefully and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Remove from heat and serve the gravy hot alongside turkey and your favorite sides for a delicious finishing touch.

Enjoy your homemade Turkey Gravy with friends and family at your next meal!

How to Serve Turkey Gravy Recipe

Turkey gravy is a delightful addition to any holiday meal, enhancing the flavors of your main dish and sides. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of your Turkey Gravy Recipe.

Classic Pairings

• Roasted Turkey: The traditional pairing that every holiday feast deserves.
• Mashed Potatoes: Ladle over creamy mashed potatoes for a savory comfort food experience.

Creative Uses

• Savory Bread Pudding: Drizzle over bread pudding for added moisture and flavor.
• Stuffing: Pour on top of turkey stuffing to elevate its taste.

Additional Options

• Vegetable Medley: Use as a sauce for steamed vegetables to enhance their natural flavors.
• Biscuits: Serve with warm biscuits for a delicious brunch or side option.

How to Perfect Turkey Gravy Recipe

Perfecting your Turkey Gravy Recipe can take your dish from good to great. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs like sage can significantly improve the flavor profile of your gravy.
• Adjust Consistency: If your gravy is too thick, whisk in a little chicken or turkey stock until it reaches the desired texture.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper gradually for balanced seasoning.
• Whisk Constantly: To avoid lumps, keep whisking while adding drippings; this ensures a smooth gravy.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Gravy Recipe

When serving turkey gravy, side dishes play an essential role in creating a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic, perfect for soaking up gravy.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of carrots, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts adds color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Cornbread Dressing: A sweet and savory stuffing that pairs beautifully with rich turkey gravy.
4. Green Bean Casserole: A classic dish topped with crispy onions for added texture and flavor.
5. Sweet Potato Mash: Naturally sweet potatoes combined with butter create a comforting contrast with savory gravy.
6. Cranberry Sauce: A tart complement to the richness of the turkey and gravy, balancing out flavors perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make simple mistakes when preparing a Turkey Gravy recipe. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the drippings: Not using turkey drippings can lead to bland gravy. Make sure to collect the drippings from your roasted turkey for a rich flavor.
• Not whisking enough: Failing to whisk continuously while adding liquid can create lumps. Whisk vigorously throughout this step for a smooth consistency.
• Overcooking the flour: Cooking flour too long can result in a burnt taste. Cook just until it’s lightly golden and fragrant, usually about one minute.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your gravy flat. Always taste before serving and tweak with salt or pepper as needed.
• Rushing the simmering process: Skipping the simmering time can prevent proper thickening. Allow your gravy to simmer gently until it reaches your preferred thickness.
• Using cold stock or drippings: Adding cold liquids straight from the fridge can shock the mixture and affect consistency. Warm your stock or drippings before adding them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover turkey gravy in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Turkey Gravy Recipe

• Pour the cooled gravy into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Turkey Gravy Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat gravy in an oven-safe dish, covering it with foil.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Turkey Gravy recipe.

Can I make Turkey Gravy ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this Turkey Gravy recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.

What if I don’t have enough turkey drippings?

If you find yourself short on turkey drippings, substitute with chicken or turkey stock to reach the required amount.

How do I thicken my turkey gravy if it’s too thin?

If your gravy is too thin, mix equal parts of flour and water or broth into a slurry and stir it into the gravy while it’s simmering.

Can I make this Turkey Gravy recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour substitute for a delicious gluten-free version.

Final Thoughts

This Turkey Gravy recipe adds depth and flavor to any meal, especially during festive occasions. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different herbs or spices based on your preference. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its rich taste alongside your favorite dishes!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Turkey Gravy Recipe

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

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Description

Elevate your holiday meals with this delightful Turkey Gravy Recipe, designed to bring a rich, savory flavor to your table. Crafted from turkey drippings and aromatic herbs, this gravy offers a smooth texture that pairs perfectly with roasted turkey and a variety of sides. Not just for Thanksgiving, this easy-to-make sauce enhances everyday dishes like mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables. With a quick cooking time and the option for gluten-free adaptation, it’s a versatile addition to any meal. Impress your family and friends with this homemade turkey gravy that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups de-fatted turkey drippings (or chicken stock)
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free substitute)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons apple juice (optional)
• 1 to 2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large sauté pan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add finely chopped onions and cook for about 10–12 minutes until lightly browned.
2. Sprinkle in the flour, salt, and pepper; stir continuously for one minute.
3. Gradually whisk in the turkey drippings while ensuring no lumps form.
4. If desired, stir in apple juice and sage for added flavor complexity.
5. Simmer gently until thickened, approximately 4–5 minutes, adjusting seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot alongside your favorite dishes.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: ¼ cup (60g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 15mg