Homemade Turkey Gravy With Pan Drippings Recipe
Introduction
This homemade turkey gravy is a perfect way to elevate your roast turkey dinner using the flavorful pan drippings. Rich, savory, and infused with fresh herbs, it’s a classic gravy that’s easy to make and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 cup roasted turkey pan drippings
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons white wine
- 3.5 cups chicken broth
- Salt, optional, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Instructions
- Step 1: Strain the turkey drippings into a small bowl and let them sit for a few minutes until the fat rises to the top. Skim off most of the fat, leaving about 2 tablespoons for flavor. Pour the drippings into a saucepan over medium-high heat and whisk in the flour. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it forms a thick paste. Add a bit more flour if needed to reach the right consistency.
- Step 2: When the flour mixture starts to turn golden brown, whisk in the white wine and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring continuously. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the gravy simmer for about 10 minutes, whisking frequently until it thickens.
- Step 3: Stir in the chopped thyme, rosemary, and black pepper. If the gravy is too thick, whisk in a little more chicken broth to thin it out. Taste and add salt as needed. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, use homemade turkey or chicken stock instead of broth.
- If you prefer a smoother gravy, strain it once more before serving.
- Swap fresh herbs for dried, using about one-third of the amount.
- Add a splash of cream or butter at the end for a silkier texture.
Storage
Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use this gravy recipe without pan drippings?
Yes, you can substitute the turkey pan drippings with butter or oil for the fat, but the flavor will be less rich and may require additional seasoning.
How do I thicken gravy if it’s too thin?
Mix a small amount of flour or cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry, then whisk it into the simmering gravy a little at a time until you reach your desired thickness.
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Homemade Turkey Gravy With Pan Drippings Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 cups 1x
Description
This homemade turkey gravy recipe uses flavorful pan drippings from your roasted turkey, combined with fresh herbs and a touch of white wine, to create a rich, savory sauce perfect for enhancing your holiday meals or any turkey dinner.
Ingredients
Gravy Base
- 1 Cup Roasted Turkey Pan Drippings
- 1/2 Cup Flour
- 2 Tablespoons White Wine
- 3.5 Cups Chicken Broth
Seasonings
- 1/2 Teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 Teaspoon Fresh Thyme, chopped
- 1 Teaspoon Fresh Rosemary, chopped
- Salt, optional, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Pan Drippings: Strain your turkey pan drippings into a small bowl and let them sit for a few minutes so the fat rises to the top. Skim off most of the fat, leaving about 2 tablespoons to retain flavor.
- Create Roux: Add the reserved pan drippings to a saucepan set over medium-high heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until it forms a thick paste and starts turning golden brown. If the paste is too thin, add a little more flour.
- Deglaze with Wine: Slowly whisk in the white wine and continue whisking for about 2 minutes to cook off the alcohol and develop flavor.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, then reduce heat to medium-low. Let the gravy cook for about 10 minutes, whisking frequently until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Season and Adjust: Stir in the fresh thyme, rosemary, and black pepper. If the gravy is too thick, whisk in additional chicken broth until you reach your preferred thickness. Taste and add salt as needed.
- Serve: Pour the warm gravy over your turkey or side dishes and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors.
Notes
- Be sure to strain your pan drippings carefully to avoid lumps in the gravy.
- If you prefer a richer gravy, leave a bit more fat in the drippings.
- Adjust herbs according to your taste; dried herbs can be substituted but use less (about 1/3 the amount).
- Use fresh thyme and rosemary for best flavor.
- This gravy can be made ahead and reheated gently with a splash of broth to loosen it.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: turkey gravy, homemade gravy, pan drippings, holiday gravy, Thanksgiving gravy, fresh herbs gravy
