Silky, Rich, and Ready for Every Holiday Table

Introduction

Nothing completes a roast turkey or chicken dinner like a ladle of smooth, homemade gravy. This Perfect Turkey Gravy delivers classic comfort with just a handful of ingredients—no store-bought packets, no mystery ingredients. Whether made with pan drippings or chicken stock, it creates a savory, buttery sauce ideal for mashed potatoes, stuffing, and more.

Simple, quick, and deeply flavorful, this gravy can be made in advance or whipped up just before serving. With a well-balanced roux and carefully whisked stock, you get the kind of gravy that turns any meal into a feast.

🍽️ Recipe Overview

Yield: ~3 cups
Skill Level: Easy
Total Time: 15–20 minutes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
Cuisine: American
Course: Side Dish, Sauce
Calories: ~110 kcal per 1/4 cup serving

🛒 Ingredients and Their Purpose

Butter

½ cup (1 stick), cut into pieces
Forms the base of the roux, giving richness and depth.

Tip: Unsalted butter is ideal to control sodium.

All-Purpose Flour

½ cup
Combines with butter to create the roux and thickens the gravy.

Note: Equal parts butter and flour ensure a smooth, lump-free texture.

Coarse Black Pepper

1 tsp
Adds a warm, peppery bite and balance to the creamy base.

Pan Drippings OR Chicken Stock

4 cups
The flavorful liquid used to transform roux into gravy.

Use pan drippings from roasted turkey or chicken for maximum flavor.
Supplement or replace with chicken/turkey stock if needed.

Tip: Strain drippings and skim off excess fat for a smoother sauce.

🔪 Equipment Needed

Large saucepan or skillet
Fine mesh strainer (if using drippings)
Whisk
Ladle
Measuring cups and spoons

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Drippings (Optional)

If using turkey/chicken drippings:

Pour warm drippings through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl.
Allow to sit for a few minutes until fat rises to the top.
Skim off excess fat with a spoon.
If less than 4 cups, top off with chicken/turkey stock.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a large saucepan, melt ½ cup butter over medium-low heat.
Sprinkle in 1 tsp coarse black pepper.
Slowly whisk in ½ cup all-purpose flour until fully combined.
Stir constantly for 2–3 minutes, allowing the roux to cook lightly without browning.

Step 3: Build the Gravy

Slowly pour in the 4 cups of strained drippings or stock, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth.

Step 4: Simmer and Thicken

Increase heat slightly and bring to a gentle simmer.
Continue whisking for 5–7 minutes, or until gravy reaches desired thickness.
Taste and adjust seasoning (salt, more pepper, or a splash of stock if too thick).
Keep warm over very low heat until ready to serve.

🧂 Flavor & Texture Profile

Silky-smooth texture from the roux
Deep savory flavor from stock or drippings
Warm spice from coarse black pepper
Mildly buttery and well-balanced

🔄 Variations and Add-Ins

For a herbaceous twist: Add a sprig of thyme or rosemary while simmering
Make it gluten-free: Use 1:1 gluten-free flour
Add umami: Stir in a dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire
For extra richness: Whisk in a tablespoon of cream or butter before serving

💡 Tips for Success

Always whisk constantly to prevent lumps in the roux.
Use warm or room-temp stock to avoid shocking the roux.
If gravy becomes too thick, thin it with a bit more stock.
Taste before seasoning—drippings are often naturally salty.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezing: Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently while whisking.
Reheat: Warm on low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen

❓ FAQ

Can I use turkey gravy for chicken or pork?
Yes—this versatile sauce pairs well with many meats.

Why does my gravy taste floury?
The roux needs to be cooked for at least 2–3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just scale all ingredients evenly.

🧾 Nutritional Facts (Per ¼ Cup Serving – Approximate)

Calories: 110 kcal
Fat: 9 g
Carbohydrates: 6 g
Protein: 1 g
Sodium: Varies based on broth used

🍴 Final Thoughts

Perfect Turkey Gravy is more than just a side—it’s the finishing touch that brings an entire meal together. Simple, classic, and made from scratch in under 20 minutes, it’s a must-have on your holiday or Sunday dinner table. Make it once, and you’ll never reach for the packet again.

Send the next recipe when you’re ready!