Classic Turkey Gravy Recipe Easy Homemade Traditional Gravy from Drippings
A rich and comforting homemade turkey gravy made from pan drippings, perfect for Thanksgiving and cozy dinners. This easy recipe delivers smooth, flavorful gravy with simple ingredients and traditional techniques.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup turkey drippings (collected from roasting pan)
- 2–3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free option)
- 2 cups turkey or chicken stock/broth, preferably low sodium
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- A small sprig of fresh thyme or a pinch of fresh sage (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder or 1 tablespoon finely minced shallots (optional)
Instructions
- Collect the drippings: After roasting your turkey, carefully pour the drippings into a measuring cup. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the fat to rise. Skim off about 1/4 cup of fat to use for the roux. If you have less, add butter to make up the difference.
- Make the roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the fat (turkey fat plus butter if needed). Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 2-3 minutes until it turns a golden tan color and smells nutty.
- Add stock gradually: Slowly pour in the turkey or chicken stock, whisking constantly to keep the mixture smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until the gravy thickens. Add more stock if too thick.
- Season and flavor: Stir in salt, pepper, and onion powder or minced shallots if using. Add fresh thyme or sage. Let simmer for another 3 minutes to meld flavors.
- Strain (optional): For an ultra-smooth gravy, strain through a fine mesh sieve into a serving bowl to remove lumps or herb stems.
- Final touches: Taste and adjust seasoning. For richer gravy, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of cream or half-and-half just before serving. Keep warm until ready to serve.
Notes
If gravy becomes too thick after resting, whisk in a tablespoon of warm stock or water to loosen. If too thin, whisk in a slurry of flour and cold water and simmer a minute longer. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan margarine. For gluten-free, use cornstarch or arrowroot powder instead of flour.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Calories: 50
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 4
- Saturated Fat: 1.5
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Protein: 1
Keywords: turkey gravy, homemade gravy, Thanksgiving gravy, turkey drippings, easy gravy recipe, traditional gravy, gluten-free gravy option