This homestyle turkey gravy is smooth and full of flavor, perfect for pouring over mashed potatoes or turkey! It’s made with drippings and a few simple ingredients you probably already have.
Making gravy can be a fun challenge! I always feel like a kitchen superstar when I whip this up—just keep stirring and watch it come together. Your dinner guests will be impressed! 🦃✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey drippings: These are key for flavoring your gravy. If you don’t have enough, you can use chicken broth or even a bit of vegetable broth to boost flavor.
Unsalted butter: This adds richness. If you’re watching your sodium, use unsalted butter. Otherwise, you can use flavored olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a lighter option.
All-purpose flour: This thickens your gravy. For a gluten-free option, try using cornstarch mixed with a bit of water instead.
Turkey or chicken broth: Stick with low sodium to control salt levels. If you’re out, make a quick broth using bouillon cubes or use water as a last resort, but add extra seasonings!
Seasonings: Sage complements the turkey flavor nicely, but feel free to swap it out for thyme or rosemary. Adjust to your taste!
How Do You Make a Lump-Free Gravy?
The key to smooth, lump-free gravy is in the roux. Here’s how to master it:
- Start with room temperature drippings and butter. If they’re cold, they won’t blend well.
- Mix flour into the fat thoroughly over medium heat. Whisk continuously to avoid lumps—this step is crucial!
- Add broth gradually. Pour a little, whisk, and let it incorporate before adding more. This keeps the mixture smooth.
- If lumps do form, don’t worry! Whisk vigorously or use an immersion blender to smooth everything out.
How to Make Homestyle Turkey Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/4 cup turkey drippings (from roasted turkey pan)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups turkey or chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried sage or poultry seasoning (optional)
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This homestyle turkey gravy takes about 10 minutes of preparation and cooking time. It’s quick and easy, making it the perfect finishing touch to your holiday feast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Collect the Drippings:
After you roast your turkey, pour the pan drippings carefully into a measuring cup and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting time allows the fat to rise to the top. Skim off the top layer of fat and measure out about 1/4 cup. If you don’t have enough drippings, use unsalted butter to make up the difference.
2. Start the Fat Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, melt the reserved turkey fat and unsalted butter together over medium heat. Keep an eye on it as you don’t want it to burn!
3. Make the Roux:
Once the fat is melted, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. Whisk it together with the fat to create a roux. Keep whisking for about 3-5 minutes, until the mixture is bubbling and turns a light golden brown. This step helps to cook out any raw flour taste.
4. Stir in the Broth:
With the roux ready, gradually pour in your turkey or chicken broth. Keep whisking as you add the broth to prevent any lumps from forming. This will help the gravy be nice and smooth!
5. Simmer and Thicken:
Bring your gravy to a simmer. Stir and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens to your liking. If it gets too thick, you can add a little more broth or water.
6. Season to Taste:
Add salt, pepper, and optional sage or poultry seasoning. Give it a taste and adjust any seasonings to your preference.
7. Strain if Desired:
If you want an ultra-smooth texture, pour the gravy through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl to strain out any lumps or bits.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your homestyle turkey gravy is now ready to serve! Pour it warm over your roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and any other sides you are enjoying. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you’d like a little color.
Enjoy your classic homestyle turkey gravy—rich, savory, and perfect for all your holiday meals!
Can I Use Store-Bought Broth?
Absolutely! Store-bought broth is a great time-saver and can still yield delicious results. Just opt for low-sodium varieties to control the saltiness in your gravy.
How Can I Thicken the Gravy if It’s Too Thin?
If your gravy is too thin, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to create a slurry. Gradually add it to the simmering gravy while whisking until it thickens to your liking.
Can I Make This Gravy Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the gravy a day in advance! Just prepare it, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a little more broth or water if needed to restore the consistency.
What Should I Do If My Gravy Has Lumps?
No worries if lumps form! Simply whisk vigorously to break them up, or use an immersion blender for a quick fix. Straining the gravy through a fine mesh sieve will also help achieve a smooth texture.
Homestyle Turkey Gravy
Smooth, flavorful turkey gravy made from pan drippings, broth, and a simple roux—perfect for pouring over roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and all your holiday sides.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup turkey drippings (from roasted turkey pan)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups turkey or chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried sage or poultry seasoning (optional)
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- After roasting your turkey, carefully pour the pan drippings into a measuring cup. Let them sit for a few minutes so the fat rises to the top, then skim off the fat and measure out about 1/4 cup. If you don’t have enough drippings, top up with unsalted butter.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the reserved turkey fat and the unsalted butter. Cook until the butter is fully melted and the mixture is hot but not browned.
- Sprinkle the flour over the melted fat mixture and whisk to form a smooth paste (roux). Continue whisking for 3–5 minutes, until the roux is bubbly and turns a light golden color to cook off the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the turkey or chicken broth while whisking constantly. Add a little at a time, whisking until smooth before adding more, to keep the gravy lump-free.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook, whisking frequently, for 5–7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. If it becomes too thick, whisk in a splash of extra broth or water.
- Season the gravy with salt, black pepper, and dried sage or poultry seasoning if using. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
- For an extra-smooth texture, strain the gravy through a fine mesh sieve into a serving bowl or gravy boat, pressing gently with a spoon to catch any lumps or bits.
- Serve the gravy warm over roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and your favorite sides. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you’d like.