Name: Turkey Gravy Recipe: Rich and Savory
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup turkey drippings; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups chicken or turkey broth; 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream; 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional); Optional: Fresh thyme (chopped parsley); Suggested Pairings: Red wine (roasted turkey)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Turkey Gravy is a classic side dish, perfect for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or comfort meals. This rich, savory gravy, made with flavorful turkey drippings and a smooth, velvety texture, elevates roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing with every pour. Presented in a white ceramic gravy boat, optionally garnished with fresh thyme or parsley, this Turkey Gravy recipe offers a warm, appetizing aesthetic that enhances any table. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a flavorful, crowd-pleasing accompaniment that brings cozy, festive charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Turkey Gravy:

1/4 cup turkey drippings (fat and juices from roasted turkey)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken or turkey broth (preferably low-sodium)
1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth)

For Serving:

Optional: Fresh thyme, chopped parsley
Suggested Accompaniments: Roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing
Suggested Pairings: Red wine (e.g., Pinot Noir), sparkling cider
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic gravy boat
Suggested Equipment: Medium saucepan, whisk, measuring cups/spoons, fat separator (optional), strainer

Step-by-Step Process

Prepare Drippings: After roasting a turkey, pour pan drippings into a fat separator or bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes to separate fat from juices. Measure 1/4 cup fat; reserve remaining juices.
Make Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, heat turkey fat. Whisk in flour and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden and bubbly to form a smooth roux.
Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in broth and reserved turkey juices (about 1/2 cup, if available). Add milk or cream. Cook, whisking constantly, for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
Season Gravy: Stir in thyme, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Taste and adjust with a pinch of salt or extra thyme for balanced flavor. If lumpy, strain through a fine mesh strainer.
Serve: Pour Turkey Gravy into a white ceramic gravy boat. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. Serve hot with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, red wine, or sparkling cider.

Tips for Better Turkey Gravy

Use a fat separator to easily isolate turkey fat for a smoother gravy.
Taste the gravy before serving to balance savory, herbaceous flavors; adjust cautiously.
Whisk constantly while adding liquids to prevent lumps in the roux.
If drippings are limited, supplement with additional broth or butter for fat.
Present in a white ceramic gravy boat to highlight the rich, velvety texture and garnishes.
Make ahead: Prepare gravy up to 2 days in advance; store in the fridge, reheat gently, and thin with a splash of broth if needed.
For a thicker gravy, reduce broth to 1 1/2 cups or add 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley in a white ceramic gravy boat for a warm, festive look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Turkey Gravy: Replace flour with gluten-free flour or 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water.
Dairy-Free Turkey Gravy: Omit milk or cream; use additional broth or unsweetened almond milk.
Low-Sodium Turkey Gravy: Use low-sodium broth and reduce salt to 1/4 tsp.
Herb-Infused Turkey Gravy: Add 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary or sage with the thyme.
Creamy Mushroom Turkey Gravy: Sauté 1 cup sliced mushrooms in the fat before adding flour.
Spicy Turkey Gravy: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or 1 tsp hot sauce with the seasonings.
Garlic Turkey Gravy: Add 1 minced garlic clove to the roux for extra depth.
Wine-Enhanced Turkey Gravy: Replace 1/2 cup broth with dry white wine for a sophisticated flavor.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring until smooth.
Freeze gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat, whisking to restore texture.
Serve hot for the best flavor and pourable consistency.
Use as a side for roasted meats, potatoes, or holiday dishes.
Pair with red wine or sparkling cider to complement the rich, savory flavor.
Presented in a white ceramic gravy boat with garnishes for an appetizing, festive charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 8 servings (1/4 cup each):

Calories: 110 kcal
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 380mg
Total Carbohydrates: 6g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 2g
Vitamin A: 2% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 0% Daily Value
Calcium: 4% Daily Value
Iron: 2% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-sodium options reduce sodium to ~200mg). Moderate in fat; enjoy lean proteins for balance.

Conclusion

This Turkey Gravy recipe delivers a rich, savory side dish, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple drippings into a festive classic. Its straightforward preparation and warm presentation make it a favorite. The velvety texture and herbaceous flavor enhance every dish it accompanies. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing appeal.