Looking for a dish that wows your guests without stressing you out? There is nothing like the smell of a roasting turkey on a chilly autumn afternoon.
This Classic Turkey Gravy is the silky, savory finish your holiday table deserves. You can make it in minutes while your turkey rests. It is the ultimate way to bring everyone together for a cozy meal.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a holiday winner because it uses real pan drippings. It is much more flavorful than anything you can buy in a jar. You will love how rich and golden it turns out every time.
It is budget-friendly and uses simple pantry staples you already have. This gravy is perfect for busy fall weeknights or your big Thanksgiving feast. It turns any meal into a soul-warming comfort food experience.
Simple Method
Making gravy feels intimidating, but I promise you can do this. You simply whisk flour into the turkey fat to make a quick roux. Then, you slowly add stock until it becomes perfectly smooth.
Even if you have never made gravy before, this method is foolproof. The key is constant whisking to prevent any lumps from forming. You will feel so proud when you pour this over your dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are mostly pantry staples that let the turkey flavor shine.
- 1/4 cup turkey pan drippings (separated fat)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups turkey stock
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh sage, minced
Step-by-Step
- Pour turkey pan drippings into a glass measuring cup and allow the fat to rise to the top.
- Skim 1/4 cup of the fat and place it into a medium saucepan over medium heat; supplement with unsalted butter if drippings are insufficient.
- Whisk the all-purpose flour into the hot fat to create a roux and cook for 2 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Gradually pour in the turkey stock while whisking constantly to ensure a smooth, lump-free consistency.
- Stir in the remaining concentrated pan juices (the liquid below the fat layer).
- Bring the gravy to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until thickened to the desired consistency.
- Add salt, pepper, and minced sage to the mixture.
- Strain through a fine-mesh sieve if a perfectly smooth texture is desired, then serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Pour this warm gravy into a beautiful boat for the table. It is the best companion for fluffy mashed potatoes and tender sliced turkey. You can also drizzle it over homemade stuffing for extra moisture.
Set the table, light a candle, and enjoy this feast with your family. It makes every bite of your holiday dinner feel extra special and delicious. Your guests will definitely ask for the recipe!
Storage & Reheating
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for three days. You can also freeze this gravy for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of stock if the gravy gets too thick.
Recipe Tips
- Don’t skip skimming the fat for the most authentic flavor.
- Whisk constantly while adding stock to avoid any unwanted lumps.
- Use unsalted butter if your turkey didn’t produce enough fat.
- Make the gravy while the turkey rests to save precious time.
- For Thanksgiving, double the batch because everyone loves extra gravy.
- Strain the mixture through a sieve for a restaurant-quality finish.
- Add a pinch of extra sage for a boost of garden-fresh aroma.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap sage for fresh thyme for a different herbal note.
- Use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make this safe for everyone.
- Add a splash of heavy cream for a richer, creamier texture.
- Stir in a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper umami flavor.
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day early and reheat it. Just add a little stock when warming it up to keep it silky and smooth.
What if my gravy is too thin?
Simply let it simmer for a few more minutes on the stove. It will naturally thicken as the excess liquid evaporates.
Will kids like the fresh sage?
Most kids enjoy the mild, savory flavor sage adds to the gravy. If they are picky, you can leave the herbs out entirely.
I hope this cozy recipe brightens your fall evenings and holiday gatherings. Give it a try and let every bite warm you up. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Classic Turkey Gravy
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup turkey pan drippings (separated fat)
- 1/4 cup all -purpose flour
- 2 cups turkey stock
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh sage, minced
Instructions
- Pour turkey pan drippings into a glass measuring cup and allow the fat to rise to the top.
- Skim 1/4 cup of the fat and place it into a medium saucepan over medium heat; supplement with unsalted butter if drippings are insufficient.
- Whisk the all-purpose flour into the hot fat to create a roux and cook for 2 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Gradually pour in the turkey stock while whisking constantly to ensure a smooth, lump-free consistency.
- Stir in the remaining concentrated pan juices (the liquid below the fat layer).
- Bring the gravy to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until thickened to the desired consistency.
- Add salt, pepper, and minced sage to the mixture.
- Strain through a fine-mesh sieve if a perfectly smooth texture is desired, then serve immediately.
