Foolproof Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy Recipe
A reliable recipe for rich, smooth turkey gravy that works well using pan drippings or plain turkey stock, perfect for holidays or quick meals.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 20 min
- Total Time: 30 min
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup turkey fat or unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups turkey stock (low sodium preferred)
- 1/2 cup reserved turkey pan drippings (optional, for richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground preferred)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried sage (optional)
Instructions
- If using pan drippings, skim the fat from the roasting pan and measure out 1/2 cup. If you do not have drippings, use 1/2 cup of turkey fat or unsalted butter.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the fat or butter.
- Whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook this mixture, stirring constantly, for 2 to 3 minutes until it smells slightly nutty and turns a light tan color. Do not let it brown deeply.
- Slowly pour in the turkey stock while continuously whisking to prevent lumps.
- If using pan drippings, whisk them in now.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, still whisking occasionally. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the gravy thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Stir in the salt, pepper, and dried sage, if using. Taste and adjust seasonings.
- For the smoothest texture, strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.
- To make ahead, cool the gravy completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, whisking in a splash of stock or water if it becomes too thick.
Notes
- To avoid lumps when reheating, place the cold gravy in a saucepan and heat slowly over medium-low heat, whisking constantly until smooth before adding extra liquid.
- If you prefer a darker gravy, cook the roux for an additional 2 minutes until it reaches a deeper brown color.
- For extra savory flavor, add 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce during the final seasoning step.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 7
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 15