Creamy, savory, and deeply flavorful, this is truly the best turkey gravy recipe you’ll ever make. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving or simply need a comforting sauce to drizzle over your weeknight mashed potatoes, this gravy delivers every time. It’s velvety smooth with rich depth from turkey drippings, a touch of herbs, and a buttery finish that enhances everything on your plate.

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity—no packet mixes, no complicated steps. Just a few pantry staples and the golden drippings from your roasted turkey. Even if you’re using store-bought stock, you can still capture the cozy, homestyle flavor that makes this gravy taste like it came straight from grandma’s kitchen.

What Kind of Turkey Drippings Should I Use?

If you’re roasting a whole turkey, the drippings in the bottom of your pan are liquid gold. These are a mix of rendered fat, juices, and browned bits—also known as fond—that form the backbone of this gravy’s flavor. You can use drippings from a turkey breast or leg quarters too. Just make sure to strain out any burnt bits so your gravy stays smooth and clean.

No drippings? No problem. A bit of butter, turkey or chicken stock, and a few drops of Worcestershire sauce can replicate that same savory depth.

Ingredients for the Best Turkey Gravy Recipe

Turkey Drippings – The star of the show. They provide an unmatched richness and savory base.

Butter – Adds body and silkiness to the gravy, especially if your drippings are lean.

All-Purpose Flour – Used to create a roux that thickens the gravy to just the right consistency.

Turkey or Chicken Stock – Balances the flavor and adds volume. Opt for low-sodium so you can control the salt level.

Fresh Herbs (Thyme, Sage, or Rosemary) – A touch of herbaceous depth adds a holiday vibe and rounds out the flavors.

Salt and Black Pepper – Simple seasonings that bring everything together.

Worcestershire Sauce (Optional) – A tiny splash goes a long way in boosting umami, especially if you’re not using drippings.

How To Make the Best Turkey Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Separate the Drippings

After roasting your turkey, carefully pour the drippings from the pan into a heatproof container. Let it sit for a few minutes so the fat rises to the top. Skim off some of the fat, leaving about 2 to 3 tablespoons for your roux.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the reserved turkey fat (or butter). Whisk in the flour and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly. This removes the raw flour taste and builds a flavorful base.

Step 3: Add the Stock and Drippings

Slowly whisk in your turkey stock while continuing to stir to avoid lumps. Add the strained turkey drippings and keep whisking until the mixture is smooth.

Step 4: Simmer and Thicken

Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook for about 5–7 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking or clumping.

Step 5: Season and Add Herbs

Add fresh thyme, sage, or rosemary for a layer of herbaceous flavor. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you’re skipping the drippings, a dash of Worcestershire sauce deepens the flavor beautifully.

Step 6: Strain (Optional)

For ultra-smooth gravy, strain it through a fine mesh sieve into a serving dish. This step removes any lumps or herb stems for a silky finish.

How to Serve and Store This Turkey Gravy

This turkey gravy is made to elevate everything on your plate. Pour it generously over roast turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, stuffing, or even green beans for a flavorful boost. It’s also a fantastic dip for soft dinner rolls!

If you’re preparing ahead of time, the gravy stores beautifully. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, whisking to restore its silky consistency. If it thickens too much, just stir in a splash of stock or water.

You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have turkey drippings?

No worries! Use butter instead and combine with turkey or chicken stock. Add a little Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for depth.

Can I make this gravy gluten-free?

Absolutely. Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. If using cornstarch, make a slurry with cold stock and add it at the end.

How do I fix lumpy gravy?

Use a fine mesh strainer to remove lumps, or blend with an immersion blender for a quick fix.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, and it reheats beautifully. Just keep it in the fridge and reheat on low, whisking to bring it back to life.

Can I add cream?

You can! A splash of heavy cream will make the gravy even richer and more decadent. Stir it in at the end after thickening.

Is this gravy only for turkey?

Not at all. This base recipe works great with chicken, pork, or even meatloaf. It’s a go-to gravy for any comfort meal.

Want More Sauce & Gravy Ideas?

If this rich turkey gravy recipe has you craving more savory sauces, you’ll love exploring these other flavorful options from my kitchen:

Try the Creamy Mushroom Ravioli for a cozy weeknight pasta with silky mushroom sauce.
Pair your next dinner with Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes—a comfort classic drenched in buttery goodness.
This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Linguine recipe brings brightness and richness in one pan.
Love seafood? Don’t miss the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna for a decadent layered dish.
Add flavor to your veggie nights with Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes and Veggies—an easy side dish with built-in gravy appeal.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday or comfort food board so you can whip up the best gravy every season.

And I’d love to hear how yours turned out—did you use fresh herbs or keep it classic? Did you go full cream for extra richness?

Share your results or tag me with your version! Find more cozy, savory sauces and everyday meals on my Pinterest: Life with Nina.

Let’s keep the gravy goodness going!

The Best Turkey Gravy Recipe

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: About 2 1/2 cups 1x
Category: Sauces & Gravies
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Description

This easy and flavorful turkey gravy is rich, smooth, and perfect for the holidays or cozy comfort meals. Made with or without drippings, it’s flexible and always delicious with turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and more.