This Herbed Turkey Gravy is a flavorful and smooth addition to your meal. With fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary, it makes your turkey taste even better!
I love pouring this gravy over mashed potatoes. It’s like a warm hug on your plate! Plus, it’s quick to whip up using turkey drippings. So good, you’ll want it every holiday!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey Drippings: These are essential for the best flavor. If you’re short on drippings, you can substitute with a good-quality turkey or chicken broth. Homemade broth is even better if you have it!
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for controlling saltiness. You can swap it for olive oil or a dairy-free butter for a lighter option.
Flour: All-purpose flour thickens the gravy perfectly. If you’re gluten-free, try using cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Just mix it in water first before adding to avoid lumps!
Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary bring great flavor. If fresh isn’t available, dried versions work too, but use less—about a third of the amount. You can also experiment with herbs like parsley or marjoram.
Cream: Heavy cream adds richness but is optional. If you’re looking for a lighter version, use milk, or even leave it out altogether.
How Do I Ensure My Gravy Is Smooth and Lump-Free?
The key to smooth gravy is the roux. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium heat to melt the turkey fat and butter. Make sure to stir constantly as you add the flour.
- Cook the flour until it turns golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. This helps get rid of the raw flour taste.
- When adding the drippings and broth, do it slowly while whisking continuously. This prevents lumps from forming.
- Keep whisking until the gravy simmers and thickens. If you see any lumps, you can use an immersion blender to smooth it out.
Following these steps will give you a delicious, smooth gravy that everyone will love!
Herbed Turkey Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups turkey drippings and broth (from roasted turkey)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1/2 teaspoon sage (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional for richness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Herbed Turkey Gravy will take about 10-15 minutes to prepare. This includes the time to gather your ingredients and make the gravy from the turkey drippings. It’s quick, easy, and will be the perfect addition to your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Drippings:
After roasting your turkey, pour the drippings through a fine mesh strainer into a measuring cup or bowl. Let it settle for a few moments to separate the fat from the juices. Skim off the excess fat, but make sure to reserve about 1/4 cup of it for a richer flavor!
2. Make the Roux:
In a medium saucepan, melt the reserved turkey fat along with the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir until fully melted. Next, whisk in the flour and continue to cook, stirring constantly for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns smooth and golden. This is your roux—an essential base for thickening the gravy!
3. Add the Drippings and Broth:
Now, slowly whisk in the turkey broth and your reserved drippings while continuing to whisk. This will help prevent any lumps from forming. Keep stirring until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
4. Simmer and Thicken:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
5. Add Fresh Herbs and Season:
Stir in the fresh thyme, rosemary, and optional sage. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes to allow those lovely herb flavors to infuse into the gravy. Then, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
If you want an extra creamy touch, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half right before serving. Pour the hot gravy over your turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing, and enjoy the rich, herby flavors!
This gravy is a delightful way to enhance your turkey dinner, making it memorable and full of flavor!
Can I Use Store-Bought Broth Instead of Drippings?
Absolutely! If you’re short on drippings, using a high-quality turkey or chicken broth will work well. Just make sure it’s flavorful to ensure a delicious gravy!
How Can I Make This Gravy Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this gravy gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with cornstarch. Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, and stir it in at the end until the gravy thickens.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Gravy?
Store any leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, 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 Without Turkey Drippings?
Yes, you can! Simply use all broth (about 4 cups) instead of drippings. You can also add some sautéed onions or mushrooms for extra flavor if you like!
