This herbed turkey gravy is rich and full of flavor, perfect for drizzling over your favorite dishes. It’s made with turkey drippings and fresh herbs for a warm, comforting taste!
I love how easy it is to make this gravy from leftover turkey! It adds a special touch to mashed potatoes and stuffing, making it feel like a cozy holiday meal, even on a regular day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey Drippings: These are key for flavor. If you don’t have drippings, you can use butter or olive oil instead and add a bit of smoked paprika to mimic that depth.
Broth: Homemade turkey broth is fantastic if you have it. However, chicken broth or store-bought low-sodium broth works just fine too. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
Flour: All-purpose flour gives the gravy its thick texture. If you’re gluten-free, try using cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to adjust the amount as needed.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage make this gravy fragrant. If fresh isn’t available, the dried versions will work, but use less as they’re more concentrated.
How Do I Make the Gravy Smooth Without Lumps?
A common challenge is ensuring your gravy is lump-free. Here’s how to avoid those pesky lumps:
- Start by making a roux: Cook the flour with turkey drippings or butter for a few minutes.
- When adding broth, do it slowly while whisking continuously. This helps incorporate the liquid smoothly.
- If lumps form, you can always use an immersion blender or strain the gravy to get it silky.
With these tips, you’ll have a smooth, delicious gravy ready for your meal!
Herbed Turkey Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/4 cup turkey drippings (from roasted turkey)
- 3 cups turkey or chicken broth (preferably homemade or low sodium)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried rosemary)
- 1/2 tsp fresh sage, finely chopped (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation plus an additional 10-15 minutes of cooking time to bring everything together. It’s a quick and easy way to elevate your meals with rich flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Collect Your Drippings:
After roasting your turkey, carefully pour the drippings into a measuring cup. Let it sit for a few minutes so the fat can rise to the top. Skim off about 1/4 cup of the fat and set it aside, discarding any burnt bits. This will give your gravy a beautifully rich flavor!
2. Start the Base:
In a medium saucepan, melt the reserved turkey drippings or butter over medium heat. Allow it to heat up, making sure it doesn’t bubble too much, as you want to create a nice base for your gravy.
3. Create the Roux:
Whisk in the flour while stirring constantly. This step is crucial for making a smooth roux. Cook the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes until it turns a light golden color, making sure it doesn’t burn. This gives the gravy a nice depth of flavor!
4. Add Broth Slowly:
Slowly whisk in the turkey or chicken broth, continuing to stir to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and combined. It should start to thicken slightly as you cook.
5. Bring on the Herbs:
Add the chopped thyme, rosemary, and the optional sage to your gravy mixture. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, merging all those lovely flavors.
6. Thicken Your Gravy:
Continue to cook while stirring frequently, allowing the gravy to thicken to your desired consistency. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes, so keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t get too thick.
7. Season to Taste:
Taste your gravy and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Adjust the seasoning to match your preference!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your rich herbed turkey gravy hot over turkey, mashed potatoes, or any of your favorite side dishes. Enjoy the comforting and delightful flavors!
And there you have it—a delicious herbed turkey gravy that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Can I Use Chicken Broth Instead of Turkey Broth?
Absolutely! Chicken broth works great as a substitute. It will still give your gravy a flavorful base, making it delicious with any dish.
How Do I Store Leftover Gravy?
Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
Can I Make This Gravy Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the gravy a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stovetop before serving, adding some additional broth if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
What If My Gravy Turns Out Lumpy?
If you encounter lumps, don’t worry! You can use an immersion blender to smooth it out or strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps. This will leave you with a nice, silky texture!