No holiday meal or Sunday dinner feels complete without a rich, flavorful gravy to pour over your turkey and sides. This Turkey Gravy recipe is the perfect way to add depth and comfort to your plate. Made with turkey drippings, fresh herbs, and a simple roux, this gravy is velvety smooth and full of savory goodness. Whether you’re serving it with a holiday turkey or a weeknight roast, this recipe is sure to elevate your meal. It’s simple to make and uses ingredients you likely already have on hand, making it an easy addition to your dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich & Flavorful: The turkey drippings provide the perfect base for a savory, rich gravy.
Quick & Easy: With just a few simple steps, this gravy comes together in under 20 minutes.
Perfect for Any Meal: Whether it’s for a Thanksgiving feast or a regular family dinner, this gravy is versatile and always a hit.
Customizable: You can adjust the thickness and seasoning to your liking.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups turkey drippings (from a roasted turkey) or chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, finely chopped (optional, for added depth)
Instructions
Make the Roux:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes, forming a smooth paste (this is called a roux). This step helps thicken the gravy.
Add the Drippings or Broth:
- Gradually add the turkey drippings or chicken broth to the roux, a little at a time, while whisking constantly. This will help prevent lumps from forming.
- Continue adding the liquid until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
Season the Gravy:
- Stir in the salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
- For a herby twist, stir in fresh thyme for added flavor.
Simmer & Thicken:
- Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. If it gets too thick, simply add a little more broth to loosen it up.
- If you prefer a smoother gravy, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.
Serve:
- Once the gravy has thickened and the flavors have melded together, pour it over your roasted turkey or any other dish you like.

Nutritional Information
Calories: 50
Carbs: 4g
Fat: 3g
Protein: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Tips for Success
- Use Turkey Drippings: If you’re roasting a turkey, use the pan drippings for a more authentic flavor. They bring an extra richness to the gravy.
- Thickening Tip: If the gravy is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken. If it’s too thick, add a bit more broth to reach the desired consistency.
- Make Ahead: You can make this gravy ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it over low heat, adding a bit more broth to loosen it up if needed.
- No Drippings? No Problem: If you don’t have turkey drippings, chicken or vegetable broth works just as well.
Why This Recipe Works
- Simple Ingredients: This gravy uses basic ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, making it both accessible and delicious.
- Perfect Consistency: By whisking the flour and drippings together, you create a smooth and velvety gravy that coats your food beautifully.
- Rich Flavor: The turkey drippings (or broth) provide the deep, savory flavor that makes this gravy the perfect complement to your turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing.
This Turkey Gravy is a must-have for any dinner table. Rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare, it enhances your holiday meals or any comforting feast with a touch of homemade goodness. Whether you’re drizzling it over your turkey, mashed potatoes, or vegetables, this gravy brings everything together in the most delicious way. Say goodbye to store-bought versions and enjoy the homemade touch in every bite!
Easy Turkey Gravy – A Flavorful Classic to Complement Your Feast
2 cups
servings5
minutes10
minutes50
kcalThis Turkey Gravy is a rich and savory addition to any roasted turkey or festive meal. Made with turkey drippings or chicken broth, butter, and a touch of flour to create a smooth and velvety texture, this gravy enhances the flavors of your meal without overpowering them. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it’s the perfect way to elevate your turkey dinner or holiday feast. The classic flavor profile, combined with the option to adjust seasoning and consistency, makes it a versatile recipe for any occasion.
Ingredients
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups turkey drippings (from a roasted turkey) or chicken broth
1 tsp salt (or to taste)
½ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
½ tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
1 tsp fresh thyme, finely chopped (optional, for added depth)
Instructions
- Make the Roux:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes, forming a smooth paste (this is called a roux). This step helps thicken the gravy. - Add the Drippings or Broth:
Gradually add the turkey drippings or chicken broth to the roux, a little at a time, while whisking constantly. This will help prevent lumps from forming.
Continue adding the liquid until the gravy reaches your desired consistency. - Season the Gravy:
Stir in the salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
For a herby twist, stir in fresh thyme for added flavor. - Simmer & Thicken:
Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. If it gets too thick, simply add a little more broth to loosen it up.
If you prefer a smoother gravy, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before serving. - Serve:
Once the gravy has thickened and the flavors have melded together, pour it over your roasted turkey or any other dish you like.
Notes
- Use Turkey Drippings: If you’re roasting a turkey, use the pan drippings for a more authentic flavor. They bring an extra richness to the gravy.
Thickening Tip: If the gravy is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken. If it’s too thick, add a bit more broth to reach the desired consistency.
Make Ahead: You can make this gravy ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it over low heat, adding a bit more broth to loosen it up if needed.
No Drippings? No Problem: If you don’t have turkey drippings, chicken or vegetable broth works just as well.