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Classic Turkey Gravy Recipe

4.7 from 143 reviews

This classic Turkey Gravy recipe creates a rich, flavorful sauce perfect for pouring over roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing. Made from savory turkey drippings and thickened with a buttery roux, it’s smooth and deliciously seasoned with salt and pepper. Easy to prepare on the stovetop, this gravy enhances your holiday meal with a comforting, homemade touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Gravy Ingredients

  • 4 cups turkey drippings or turkey/chicken stock
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the drippings: If using turkey drippings, pour them through a fine-mesh strainer to remove any debris. Allow the strained drippings to cool slightly, then spoon off any fat that has risen to the top. If you don’t have 4 cups of liquid after this, add turkey or chicken stock to reach a total of 4 cups.
  2. Melt butter and make roux: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Once fully melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a smooth, golden roux without browning it too much.
  3. Add drippings and thicken: Slowly pour the turkey drippings or stock into the roux while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the gravy thickens and becomes smooth, about 10 minutes.
  4. Season and serve: Taste the gravy and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Serve the gravy immediately over your turkey or side dishes, or keep it warm until ready to use.

Notes

  • Skim the fat from the drippings to avoid greasy gravy unless you prefer it richer.
  • Whisk constantly when adding liquid to prevent lumps in the gravy.
  • Adjust thickness by cooking longer to thicken or adding more stock to thin.
  • Gravy can be made ahead and reheated gently, stirring occasionally to maintain smoothness.

Keywords: turkey gravy, Thanksgiving gravy, homemade gravy, turkey drippings sauce, stovetop gravy