Gather ’round, my friends—today I’m excited to share one of my absolute go-to recipes for homemade turkey gravy that doesn’t require any drippings. Yes, that’s right! We’re diving into the world of Easy Turkey Gravy, and believe me, it’s as comforting as snuggling up in your coziest blanket on a chilly evening. Growing up, Thanksgiving was a big deal in my house, not just for the turkey, but because of that rich, velvety gravy that would cover everything on my plate. The aroma of the holiday always lingered long after the meal, and now, whenever I whip up this gravy, it takes me right back to those wonderful family gatherings.
What I love most about this gravy is how simple it is to make and that I can whip it up on a whim, whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a regular Tuesday night. Its flavor is rich and comforting, and you’ll never guess it didn’t come from any dripping pan! So, grab your whisk, and let’s get cooking!
What’s in Easy Turkey Gravy?
Unsalted Butter: This is our base. It provides richness and helps make the roux. Using unsalted lets you control the saltiness of the final dish.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for thickening the gravy. This blend creates the roux that gives our gravy its smooth texture.
Chicken or Turkey Broth: This is where you can infuse lots of flavor into our gravy. Homemade broth is fantastic, but I often rely on low-sodium store-bought for convenience.
Onion Powder, Garlic Powder: These are my secret flavor enhancers! They add that savory depth that every good gravy needs.
Dried Thyme: A little earthy goodness that complements the turkey beautifully.
Salt & Black Pepper: These are the classic seasonings that can transform a good dish into a great one. Always adjust to your taste!
Soy Sauce (optional): I know it sounds a bit unexpected, but a splash in the last minute adds a delightful umami kick that elevates the gravy. Trust me!
Fresh Parsley: I love to sprinkle this on just before serving for a pop of color and freshness!
Is Easy Turkey Gravy Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about the health aspect for a second. I mean, we all need some gravy in our lives, right?
Butter: While it adds richness, we are using it sparingly here. It’s a source of healthy fats when used in moderation.
Flour: This is a common thickener in many dishes, including gravy. If you’re looking to cut down on gluten, you could sub in a gluten-free flour.
Broth: Using low-sodium broth can help keep your sodium intake in check. Plus, chicken or turkey broth is a great source of protein and is usually low in calories.
On the flip side, keep in mind that gravy can be calorie-dense, especially if you pour it generously on everything (and who can blame you?). Balance is key, my friends!
Ingredients List
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 4 cups chicken or turkey broth
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for added umami)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
*Serves about 4-6 people, depending on how generous you are with your gravy!*
How to Make Easy Turkey Gravy?
1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden brown.
3. Gradually add the broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
4. Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
5. Bring the gravy to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened to your desired consistency. If using soy sauce, stir it in during the last minute of cooking.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
7. For a smoother gravy, remove from heat and strain through a fine-mesh sieve.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Your Ultimate Gravy Guide
This gravy can be made ahead of time—what a lifesaver! Just store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
If you want to switch things up, you could experiment with adding mushrooms for a delicious twist or even some cream for a richer texture. I love serving this gravy over roasted turkey or, let’s be honest, even spooned over mashed potatoes. Dreamy!
I hope you’ll give this Easy Turkey Gravy a try and make it your own. I can’t wait for you to create those warm, nostalgic moments just like I did. And don’t forget to share your gravy adventures with me! Happy cooking, friends!
