This easy turkey gravy recipe is a must-have for any holiday feast, made with turkey drippings, homemade turkey broth, and simple ingredients. The result is a smooth, creamy, and flavorful gravy perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive meal. It takes just 20 minutes to prepare and is sure to enhance your turkey and side dishes.
Ingredients:
¼ cup turkey drippings
¼ cup unsalted butter
2 cups turkey broth (made by simmering the turkey neck and gizzard)
¼ cup cornstarch
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Prepare the Base:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter along with the turkey drippings over medium heat. This combination creates a rich, flavorful base for your gravy.
Add the Cornstarch:
Whisk in the cornstarch until fully combined with the butter and drippings. Allow the mixture to cook for 2-3 minutes, letting it turn slightly golden brown. This step helps thicken the gravy and gives it a silky texture.
Incorporate the Broth:
Gradually add the turkey broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. This homemade broth, made by simmering the turkey neck and gizzard, infuses the gravy with deep, savory flavor.
Simmer to Desired Consistency:
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Reduce the heat and let the gravy simmer until it thickens to your preferred consistency, usually in about 5-7 minutes.
Season and Serve:
Once the gravy has thickened, season it with salt and pepper to taste. Then, serve it warm alongside your turkey and other holiday dishes.
Serving Tips:
Serve Warm: Always serve turkey gravy warm, as it enhances the flavor and texture. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little turkey broth or water if it has thickened too much.
Complementing Dishes: Turkey gravy pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and vegetables. It also works great drizzled over biscuits or served alongside homemade dinner rolls.
Presentation: For a beautiful touch, serve the gravy in a gravy boat or a small serving bowl with a ladle for easy pouring.
Storage Tips:
Refrigerating Leftovers: Allow any leftover gravy to cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing for Later: If you have extra gravy, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Store the gravy in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stovetop, adding extra broth if necessary.
Stir Occasionally: When reheating, make sure to stir the gravy occasionally to ensure it heats evenly and doesn’t form any lumps.
Can I use store-bought turkey broth instead of homemade broth?
Yes, you can use store-bought turkey broth if you’re short on time or prefer a quicker option. However, homemade turkey broth, made by simmering the neck and gizzard, adds richer flavor to the gravy. If you use store-bought broth, consider adding extra seasonings like herbs or garlic to enhance the taste.
How can I make turkey gravy without cornstarch?
If you don’t have cornstarch, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour. Use about 3 tablespoons of flour in place of the ¼ cup of cornstarch. Make a roux by whisking the flour into the butter and turkey drippings, then proceed with the recipe as usual.
What should I do if my gravy turns out too thick?
If your gravy becomes too thick, simply add more turkey broth or water, a little at a time, while stirring until it reaches your desired consistency. If you’re using water, you may need to adjust the seasoning to ensure the flavor remains rich.
Can I make this gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can make turkey gravy ahead of time. Prepare it, let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat the gravy on the stovetop, adding more broth if necessary to thin it out.
Conclusion:
This turkey gravy recipe is sure to be a hit at your next holiday gathering. Whether you’re serving it with turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing, it adds the perfect finishing touch to your meal. Enjoy!
If you’re looking for a simple and delicious turkey gravy recipe that will complement your Thanksgiving or holiday meal, look no further! This easy turkey gravy is made with flavorful turkey drippings and a rich homemade turkey broth, resulting in a smooth, creamy, and mouthwatering sauce. Perfect for drizzling over your turkey and side dishes, this gravy is a must-have for your festive table.
Ingredients
¼ cup turkey drippings
¼ cup unsalted butter
¼ cup cornstarch
2 cups turkey broth (made by simmering the neck and gizzard)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Base: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and turkey drippings over medium heat.
Add the Cornstarch: Whisk in the cornstarch until fully combined and cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown.
Incorporate the Broth: Gradually add the turkey broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
Simmer to Desired Consistency: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens.
Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm with your turkey and sides.
Notes
If your gravy is too thick, add more broth to adjust the consistency.
This recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.
For a gluten-free version, substitute cornstarch with a gluten-free flour blend.