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Best Turkey Gravy Recipe

Best Turkey Gravy Recipe

A smooth, rich, and easy turkey gravy made with drippings or butter—perfect for roast dinners and leftovers.

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Calories: 90
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • ¼ cup turkey drippings
  • or unsalted butter if drippings are not available
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 to 3 cups warm turkey stock or chicken stock
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional Flavor Boosters
  • ¼ teaspoon poultry seasoning
  • 1 –2 tablespoons heavy cream for richer gravy
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder or garlic powder
  • A few drops Worcestershire sauce

Method
 

  1. Place a saucepan over medium heat. Add turkey drippings directly from the roasting pan. If using butter instead, allow it to melt completely until foamy but not browned.
  2. Sprinkle flour evenly over the fat. Whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly golden. This step is essential to remove the raw flour taste and create depth of flavor.
  3. While whisking constantly, slowly pour in the warm turkey or chicken stock. Start with 2 cups and whisk until the gravy is smooth with no lumps. Keep whisking as the gravy begins to thicken.
  4. Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring often, until it reaches your preferred thickness. If it becomes too thick, add more stock a little at a time.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add optional ingredients like cream or poultry seasoning if desired. Remove from heat once silky and smooth.

Notes

  • Always use warm stock, not cold, to prevent lumps.
  • Whisk constantly while adding liquid for a smooth texture.
  • If gravy is too thick, thin with additional warm stock.
  • If gravy is too thin, simmer a few extra minutes uncovered.
  • For ultra-smooth gravy, strain through a fine sieve before serving.
  • This gravy works perfectly with turkey, chicken, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and vegetables.
  • Leftover gravy can be reused with leftover turkey sandwiches or rice dishes.