Turkey gravy is an essential part of any Thanksgiving feast or holiday dinner. With its rich, savory flavor, gravy ties the entire meal together and makes even the simplest dishes taste special. But making gravy completely from scratch can be time-consuming and messy. That’s where using a convenient gravy packet comes in! With just a few extra ingredients, you can transform a store-bought gravy mix into homemade-tasting perfection in minutes.
Why Start with a Gravy Packet?
Gravy packets provide a solid flavor base on which to build your gravy. They contain pre-measured seasonings, thickeners like cornstarch or flour, and flavorings like onions, herbs, and broth powders. This eliminates the guesswork of getting proportions just right. Packets also reduce prep time since you don’t have to gather and measure a long list of individual spices and ingredients. Simply add the liquid and fat specified on the package, and you’ll have smooth, lump-free gravy in no time.
When choosing a mix, look for turkey, chicken, or traditional brown gravy packets from trusted brands. Opt for low-sodium versions if desired. Gluten-free options are also available. Make sure to check the ingredients to avoid any potential allergens.
Get the Most Flavor from Your Turkey Drippings
One key to flavorful gravy made from a packet is starting with richly seasoned pan drippings from roasting a turkey or turkey breast. After roasting remove the turkey from the pan and place the roasting pan on the stovetop. Add 1-2 cups of broth or water and simmer for 5-10 minutes scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This infuses all those tasty browned bits into the gravy for maximum flavor.
Next, pour the liquid through a gravy separator or strainer to remove any large turkey pieces Let it sit for 5 minutes so the fat rises to the top, then skim it off and discard it. The defatted pan drippings add meaty flavor and richness to your gravy.
Simple Steps for Gravy Success
Making delicious gravy with a packet involves just 3 easy steps
1. Whisk in the packet.
Empty the gravy packet into a medium saucepan. Whisk vigorously to break up any lumps.
2. Gradually add liquid.
Slowly whisk in the amount of water, broth, or milk specified on the package directions until smooth. Broth enhances flavor while milk lends a creamy consistency. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, whisking frequently.
3. Simmer and finish.
Reduce heat and let the gravy simmer for 5 minutes, stirring often, until thickened to your desired consistency. Add any extra seasonings to taste.
And that’s all there is to it! With just a few minutes of hands-on time, you can make smooth, rich turkey gravy with the help of a packet shortcut.
Tips for Taking Your Packet Gravy to the Next Level
- For an extra flavor boost, use a combination of broth and milk or cream instead of just water.
- Stir in fresh herbs like sage, rosemary, thyme or parsley near the end.
- For a silky texture, blend the gravy with an immersion blender after simmering.
- To loosen the gravy, whisk in additional hot liquid like broth a little at a time.
- To thicken it more, simmer longer or whisk in a bit of cornstarch slurry.
- Drizzle in wine, sherry, brandy or bourbon for depth.
- Season assertively with salt, pepper and other spices. Flavors will mild out.
Serving Suggestions for Delicious Turkey Gravy
Your homemade turkey gravy made from a packet will shine when served:
- Warm, over mashed potatoes, stuffing, turkey, or biscuits.
- As a flavorful sauce over roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips or Brussels sprouts.
- As an addition to turkey soup, pot pie or casseroles to add moisture and savoriness.
- Over turkey sandwiches with cranberry sauce for leftover Thanksgiving meals.
- Poured into a gravy boat for guests to help themselves.
- Chilled and sliced when firm for turkey salad sandwiches.
With just a few basic ingredients and a couple special twists, a plain gravy packet can be the start of rich, gourmet-quality gravy. Give your holiday bird the delicious gravy it deserves with this easy homemade recipe. Your guests will be coming back for seconds!
How to Store Homemade Gravy Mix
Keep your gravy mix in an airtight container, stored in a cool, dry spot like your pantry. It will stay fresh for up to six months, so you’ll always have a quick and tasty option on hand for easy meals.
What can I use instead of bouillon?
If you don’t have bouillon granules, crushed bouillon cubes will work just fine. Make sure they’re crushed finely to mix well with the flour.
How To Make Turkey Gravy Packets TASTE BETTER!
FAQ
How to make packet turkey gravy better?
- Add in some white wine. …
- Thicken it with a cornstarch slurry. …
- Stir in pan drippings. …
- Simmer with fresh herbs. …
- Add an umami-rich condiment. …
- Sauté some vegetables. …
- Add roasted garlic.
How to use gravy packet in turkey?
- Combine water and gravy mix in saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until gravy comes to a boil; simmer 1 minute.
- Serve over turkey, stuffing, hot turkey sandwiches or as needed.
What to do with turkey gravy packet?
Serve over turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, hot meat sandwiches, rice or noodles. Use in casserole or pot pie recipes.
How to make turkey gravy quickly?
Whisk flour into turkey fat until golden, about 5 minutes. Whisk liquid from turkey drippings and turkey stock into fat-flour mixture; increase heat to medium and cook, whisking continuously, until gravy is smooth and desired consistency, 5 to 10 minutes. Season gravy with pepper.
How do you make turkey gravy with a packet?
Pour the hot gravy into a gravy boat or serving bowl and serve immediately. That’s all it takes to make smooth, flavorful turkey gravy with the help of a packet! For even more flavor, stir in a spoonful of chopped fresh sage, thyme or parsley at the end. This easy recipe uses turkey drippings and a gravy packet for foolproof gravy every time.
How much gravy does a turkey breast make?
Pour into a gravy boat and serve. Don’t use the turkey gravy packet that comes with the turkey or turkey breast. This recipe makes approximately 4 cups of gravy when using a gravy packet. If a gravy packet from the turkey is not used, this recipe makes approximately 3 cups.
How do you make turkey gravy with Turkey drippings?
1 packet (0. 87 ounce) turkey gravy (I like the McCormick brand). (Be sure to strain turkey drippings to get rid of any big chunks before using.) ). Place strained turkey drippings in a large saucepan. Let it sit for five minutes, then skim any fat that rises to the top.
How do you make turkey gravy from scratch?
Mix 1 1/2 cups cold water, 1 cup turkey drippings, and 2 packages McCormick Turkey Gravy Mix together in a bowl. Add gravy mixture to the saucepan; mix well. Continue with Step 2 as directed above. Cinnamon-Chipotle: Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Can you add garlic to a turkey gravy packet?
Adding garlic is one of the easiest ways to enhance the gravy packet that comes with turkey. A little teaspoon or two of fresh lemon juice goes a long way. Try chopped cilantro, a little parsley, or dill. See how Traeger smoking a turkey can be made juicy and delicious without a brine… Can you use this recipe for any turkey gravy packet?
What are the best turkey gravy packets for beginners?
This is the Simply Organic turkey gravy packet mix from Whole Foods. There are so many good ones, but it’s one of the best turkey gravy packets for beginners. You can find all sorts of turkey packets out there, but this recipe demonstration will specifically walk you through using a dry gravy seasoning packet.