This Turkey Gravy Recipe is so easy to make and makes a rich, flavorful gravy that goes great with roast turkey. It will be your “secret weapon” this holiday season!
You can make the tastiest turkey gravy ever by using a simple, pre-cooked gravy base or broth along with all the browned turkey fat. If you want to speed things up even more, you can use store-bought turkey or chicken broth.
Making delicious turkey gravy can seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! This easy recipe for turkey gravy using chicken broth is simple and foolproof. With just a few basic ingredients, you’ll have rich, flavorful gravy that’s perfect for your Thanksgiving or holiday meal.
Why Make Turkey Gravy with Chicken Broth?
Using chicken broth as the base for your gravy offers several advantages:
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It’s convenient – No need to laboriously simmer and strain a homemade turkey stock. Just open a carton or can of chicken broth from the grocery store.
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Adds flavor – The savory notes of chicken broth enhance the flavor of the gravy.
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Versatile – You can make this gravy even if you don’t have turkey drippings
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Lower fat – Chicken broth has less fat than using all turkey drippings, resulting in a healthier gravy.
So don’t be afraid to use chicken broth in your turkey gravy – it makes the process easier and adds lots of flavor!
Easy Turkey Gravy Ingredients
- Chicken broth – use 2 cups
- Turkey drippings (optional) – use about 2 cups
- Butter – use 6 Tbsp
- Onion powder – use 1 tsp
- Dried thyme – use 1/2 tsp
- Flour – use 1/4 cup
- Salt and pepper to taste
That’s it! Just those simple ingredients are all you need.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps for flawless gravy every time:
1. Prepare the drippings
If you have drippings from roasting a turkey, pour them through a fine mesh strainer into a measuring cup. Let sit 5 minutes so the fat rises to the top. Skim off and discard excess fat.
2. Make the roux
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
3. Whisk in the broth
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the turkey drippings if using.
4. Simmer and season
Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes, until thickened. Season with onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve and enjoy!
Pour the gravy into a gravy boat or serve directly over sliced turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, or biscuits.
And that’s it – easy turkey gravy in just 20 minutes! The rich color and flavor will make it an instant holiday hit.
Turkey Gravy Tips
Follow these tips for perfect gravy every time:
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For a smoother gravy, first combine the flour and butter to make a paste before adding the broth.
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Whisk constantly when adding broth to prevent lumpy gravy.
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Simmer at least 5 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
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For a thinner gravy, add more broth. For thicker, increase the flour.
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For convenience, freeze extra gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
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Nutritional yeast can add savory flavor to vegetarian or vegan gravy.
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For a gluten free gravy, use cornstarch instead of flour.
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Drippings can be stored in the fridge up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this gravy need drippings?
No, drippings are optional. The chicken broth provides plenty of flavor by itself.
Can I prepare the gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the gravy up to 5 days in advance. Simply reheat gently before serving.
What’s the best way to thicken the gravy?
Using a flour and butter roux is the easiest and most foolproof way to thicken gravy evenly. Just be sure to whisk continuously.
What if my gravy turns out lumpy?
If lumps form, pour the gravy through a fine mesh strainer before serving to remove them. In the future, be sure to whisk constantly when adding liquid.
How long does leftover gravy last?
Leftover gravy can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for 2-3 months. Reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion
This easy recipe for turkey gravy made with chicken broth delivers on convenience and flavor. With just a handful of pantry staples, even novice cooks can whip up the perfect rich, savory gravy to accompany their holiday meal. The clever use of chicken broth streamlines the cooking process while adding flavor. Follow the simple step-by-step instructions for smooth, lump-free gravy every time. Enjoy this versatile gravy on turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, biscuits, and more for a new foolproof holiday tradition.
How to Make Gravy from Turkey Drippings
The brown bits and drippings in the bottom of the roaster are very tasty after roasting a turkey. To help lift all those tasty bits, make sure you add some hot gravy base or water.
- Base: Combine broth with any drippings from your turkey.
- Thicken: Whisk in cornstarch or flour.
- Season: Add herbs and seasonings.
How to Make Turkey Gravy
Don’t worry about making gravy for this year’s holiday feast! Crock Pot Stuffing, Green Bean Casserole, and No Boil Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes are in my “holiday survival kit” and keep me calm and happy while I host a lot of people! I also need an easy turkey gravy recipe!
You’ll start with a base of turkey broth or stock (either use a from-scratch recipe or store-bought). If you have any turkey drippings add them to the base for flavor. Just before serving, a mixture of cornstarch and flour is added to the turkey base to make gravy.