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Smooth homemade turkey gravy in a white gravy boat, set against a rustic backdrop with fresh sage leaves.

Homemade Turkey Gravy

Rich, savory homemade turkey gravy made from scratch with real turkey drippings, butter, and a simple roux. The finishing touch that ties your whole Thanksgiving dinner together.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 stick butter 1/2 cup
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 cups turkey drippings and juices top off with chicken broth if you have less than 2 cups
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • chicken stock optional, to thin the gravy

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Liquid measuring cup

Method
 

  1. Place the stick of butter in a large saucepan and sprinkle the black pepper on top. Melt over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally so it does not scorch and the pepper is evenly distributed.
  2. While the butter melts, pour the turkey drippings and juices into a liquid measuring cup. You need 2 cups total; if you are short, top off the difference with chicken broth.
  3. Once the butter has melted completely, slowly add the flour while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring over medium heat for about 2 minutes, until the roux is a smooth, golden, fragrant paste.
  4. Slowly pour the drippings into the roux while stirring. Keep stirring for several minutes as the gravy thickens. It is ready when it coats the back of a spoon. For a thinner gravy, whisk in a little extra chicken stock.
  5. Pour into a gravy boat and serve warm. To hold it, keep the saucepan on the lowest heat setting until the rest of the meal is ready.

Notes

  • You can make this gravy entirely with chicken broth, but turkey drippings give it the classic homemade flavor.
  • Gravy tastes best fresh off the stove, so make it last.