Savory Anytime Turkey Gravy
This savory turkey gravy is a beloved staple that has graced our family gatherings for years. With its rich flavor and velvety texture, it elevates any meal, from Thanksgiving feasts to casual dinners. Whether you have an abundance of pan drippings or need to rely on chicken broth, this versatile recipe is designed for success every time. It's easy to prepare ahead of time and can be kept warm on the stove until you're ready to serve. Any leftovers can be frozen for future use, delightful on mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Discover why this gravy has become a fan favorite and rave review magnet at our Holiday table!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
1/2 cup (melted)
all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (for roux)
all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons (for roux)
black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (freshly ground or to taste)
turkey pan drippings
4 cups (strained or chicken broth if needed)
Instructions
1
Begin by draining the pan drippings from your roasted turkey through a fine strainer into a bowl, allowing the liquid to separate from any solids.
2
Let the drippings sit for a few minutes, then skim off the excess fat from the surface with a spoon to achieve a leaner gravy.
3
If you have less than 4 cups of drippings, add chicken broth or water to reach the 4-cup mark. You can also use just chicken broth for a simpler version.
4
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter (or margarine) over low heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the black pepper to infuse the fat with flavor.
5
Whisk in the half cup of all-purpose flour and the additional 3 tablespoons, ensuring no lumps remain. Continue to whisk for about 3 minutes, allowing this roux to develop a light golden color.
6
Gradually pour in the turkey drippings or broth, whisking continuously. Increase the heat to medium-low and keep whisking until the gravy is bubbly and has thickened, which should take about 3 minutes.
7
For the best texture, serve the gravy immediately or keep it warm on the lowest heat setting until you’re ready to serve. If there’s any gravy leftover, cool it completely before freezing for later use.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Anytime Turkey Gravy?
Savory Anytime Turkey Gravy is a rich and velvety sauce made from turkey pan drippings or chicken broth, perfect for holidays or casual dinners.
Can I use chicken broth instead of turkey drippings?
Yes, you can use chicken broth as a simpler alternative or to supplement the turkey drippings to reach the required 4-cup measurement.
How do I prepare the turkey pan drippings?
Drain the drippings through a fine strainer into a bowl to separate the liquid from any solids before using.
How do I remove excess fat from the drippings?
Let the drippings sit for a few minutes and then skim the fat off the surface with a spoon.
What if I have less than 4 cups of drippings?
If you have less than 4 cups, simply add enough chicken broth or water to reach the 4-cup mark.
What are the ingredients for the roux?
The roux is made by whisking together 1/2 cup plus 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour into 1/2 cup of melted butter.
How long should I cook the roux?
Whisk the butter and flour for about 3 minutes until it develops a light golden color and no lumps remain.
When should I add the black pepper?
Sprinkle the black pepper into the melted butter before adding the flour to infuse the fat with flavor.
How do I thicken the gravy?
The gravy thickens as you whisk in the liquid and bring it to a bubbly state over medium-low heat for about 3 minutes.
Can I make this gravy ahead of time?
Yes, this gravy is easy to prepare ahead of time and can be kept warm on the stove until you are ready to serve.
How do I store leftover turkey gravy?
Cool the leftover gravy completely and then store it in the refrigerator or freeze it for later use.
Can I freeze this gravy?
Yes, any leftover gravy can be frozen for future use and is delicious on mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
What is the best way to serve the gravy?
Serve the gravy immediately for the best texture or keep it warm on the lowest heat setting.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in this recipe.
How do I avoid lumps in my gravy?
To avoid lumps, whisk the flour into the melted butter thoroughly and continue whisking while gradually adding the liquid.
Is this gravy suitable for Thanksgiving?
Absolutely, it is a fan favorite and a staple for Thanksgiving feasts and holiday tables.
What is the total amount of liquid used?
The recipe calls for a total of 4 cups of liquid, which can be turkey drippings, chicken broth, or a combination.
Does this recipe use freshly ground pepper?
The recipe suggests 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper or to taste.
What heat level should I use to melt the butter?
Melt the butter over low heat to prevent burning before adding the other ingredients.
What heat level is used for thickening the gravy?
Once the liquid is added, increase the heat to medium-low while whisking until it is bubbly and thick.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is designed for success and categorized as an easy recipe for both beginners and experienced cooks.
Can I use this gravy for roasted vegetables?
Yes, it is a delightful accompaniment to roasted vegetables as well as meat.
How much flour is needed in total?
You will need 1/2 cup plus an additional 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.
Do I need a special tool to strain the drippings?
A fine strainer is recommended to ensure the drippings are smooth and free of solids.
Why should I let the drippings sit?
Letting them sit allows the fat to rise to the top, making it easier to skim off for a leaner gravy.
What should I do if the gravy gets too thick?
You can whisk in a little more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
How long does the final thickening take?
It typically takes about 3 minutes of whisking once the mixture reaches a bubbly state.
Can I use water as the liquid?
While broth or drippings are preferred for flavor, you can use water to supplement the liquid if needed.
What type of saucepan is recommended?
A medium saucepan is ideal for preparing this amount of gravy.
Can this gravy be used for roast chicken?
Yes, while designed for turkey, the flavors work excellently with roast chicken as well.