20 Savory Turkey Gravy Recipes Perfect for Thanksgiving

Posted on April 28, 2025

Thanksgiving just isn’t complete without a rich, flavorful turkey gravy to tie the whole meal together—whether you’re drizzling it over mashed potatoes, smothering your stuffing, or ladling it onto juicy slices of bird. From classic pan drippings to creative twists with herbs, wine, or even mushrooms, we’ve rounded up 20 savory turkey gravy recipes that’ll make your holiday feast unforgettable. Ready to find your new go-to? Let’s dig in!

Classic Homemade Turkey Gravy

Classic Homemade Turkey Gravy

Nothing beats the rich, savory flavor of homemade turkey gravy—it’s the crowning glory of any holiday table!

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups turkey or chicken stock (low-sodium)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup pan drippings (from roasted turkey, optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2–3 minutes until golden and bubbly, stirring constantly.
  2. Slowly pour in the stock while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add the pan drippings (if using) and bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Stir in the salt, black pepper, thyme, and garlic powder. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until thickened to a silky consistency.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and serve warm.

The secret to this gravy’s deep flavor? A slow-simmered roux and those golden pan drippings—it’s pure comfort in every spoonful.

Tip: For extra richness, whisk in a splash of heavy cream or a pat of butter at the end.

Creamy Mushroom Turkey Gravy

Creamy Mushroom Turkey Gravy

This rich, velvety gravy is a game-changer for holiday dinners, blending earthy mushrooms with savory turkey drippings for a next-level comfort sauce.

Ingredients:

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 8 oz cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups turkey or chicken stock
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

Instructions:

  1. Melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add 8 oz cremini mushrooms and 1 small yellow onion, sautéing for 6–8 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
  2. Sprinkle 3 tbsp all-purpose flour over the mixture, stirring constantly for 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste.
  3. Gradually whisk in 2 cups turkey stock, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until thickened (about 3–4 minutes).
  4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 tbsp fresh thyme, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp salt. Simmer for 2 more minutes until luxuriously smooth.

The secret here? Sautéing mushrooms until they release their juices creates an umami-packed base that makes store-bought stock taste homemade.

Tip: For extra depth, stir in a splash of dry white wine with the onions and mushrooms.

Herb-Infused Turkey Gravy

Herb-Infused Turkey Gravy

This rich, aromatic gravy is the perfect way to elevate your roasted turkey, with fresh herbs and a silky-smooth finish.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups turkey or chicken stock (homemade or low-sodium)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped shallots
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh sage, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tsp fresh rosemary, minced
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallots and cook for 3 minutes until softened, then stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 2 minutes to form a golden roux. Slowly pour in the stock while whisking to prevent lumps.
  3. Add the sage, thyme, rosemary, kosher salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in the apple cider vinegar. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

The fresh herb blend gives this gravy a bright, earthy depth that pairs beautifully with roasted turkey—no bland gravies here!

Tip: For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a pat of butter at the end.

Roasted Garlic Turkey Gravy

Roasted Garlic Turkey Gravy

This rich, velvety gravy gets its deep flavor from slow-roasted garlic and pan drippings—perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes or your holiday turkey.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole head garlic
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cups turkey or chicken stock
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp chopped fresh thyme
  • ½ cup pan drippings from roasted turkey (optional, but recommended)

Instructions:

  1. Roast the garlic: Preheat oven to 400°F. Slice off the top of the garlic head to expose cloves, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 40 minutes until caramelized and soft. Squeeze cloves into a bowl when cool.
  2. Make the roux: Melt ¼ cup butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in ¼ cup flour and cook for 2 minutes until golden, stirring constantly.
  3. Simmer: Gradually whisk in 4 cups stock, ½ cup pan drippings (if using), and mashed roasted garlic. Add ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper, and ½ tsp thyme. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8–10 minutes until thickened, stirring often.

The roasted garlic adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory drippings—no lumps, just silky perfection. Tip: For extra depth, stir in a splash of dry white wine with the stock.

White Wine Turkey Gravy

White Wine Turkey Gravy

This white wine turkey gravy is silky, aromatic, and just fancy enough to impress—without any fuss. A splash of dry white wine adds bright acidity to balance the rich drippings.

  • 3 cups turkey drippings (or chicken stock if needed)
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried)
  1. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes until golden and nutty.
  2. Slowly pour in 3 cups turkey drippings, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Stir in 1/4 cup dry white wine, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves. Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy coats the back of a spoon.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve for extra silkiness (optional).

The wine’s bright acidity cuts through the richness, making this gravy taste lighter than traditional versions—perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes or stuffing.

Tip: No drippings? Use chicken stock and a spoonful of turkey or chicken base for depth.

Onion and Thyme Turkey Gravy

Onion and Thyme Turkey Gravy

This rich, aromatic gravy is the perfect way to elevate your roasted turkey, with caramelized onions and earthy thyme adding depth to every spoonful.

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups turkey or chicken stock (low-sodium)
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes until soft and lightly caramelized.
  2. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a golden roux.
  3. Gradually pour in the stock, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Stir in the thyme, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to a velvety consistency.

The slow-cooked onions lend a subtle sweetness that balances the savory turkey drippings, making this gravy a standout even without pan drippings.

Tip: For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a pat of butter at the end.

Bacon-Enhanced Turkey Gravy

Bacon-Enhanced Turkey Gravy

This rich, smoky gravy turns your holiday turkey into a next-level masterpiece—thanks to crispy bacon and a splash of bourbon for depth.

Ingredients

  • 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups turkey or chicken stock (warmed)
  • 2 tbsp bourbon (optional but recommended)
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp, about 6–8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving 3 tbsp of bacon fat in the pan.
  2. Add the butter to the bacon fat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes until golden, scraping up any browned bits.
  3. Gradually pour in the warm stock, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until thickened.
  4. Stir in the bourbon, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2 more minutes, then fold in the crispy bacon. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

The bourbon adds a subtle warmth that balances the smoky bacon, while the crispy bits give every bite a satisfying crunch. Tip: For extra silkiness, strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.

Spicy Chipotle Turkey Gravy

Spicy Chipotle Turkey Gravy

This smoky, spicy twist on classic turkey gravy adds a kick to your holiday table—perfect for those who love bold flavors.

Ingredients:

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups turkey or chicken stock
  • 1 tbsp finely minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
  • 1 tsp adobo sauce (from the can)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Melt 3 tbsp unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tbsp all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes until golden and fragrant.
  2. Gradually pour in 2 cups turkey or chicken stock, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Stir in 1 tbsp minced chipotle pepper, 1 tsp adobo sauce, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and 1/4 tsp ground cumin. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to a gravy consistency.
  4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and serve warm.

The smoky heat from the chipotle balances the richness of the gravy, making it a standout companion for mashed potatoes or roasted turkey.

Tip: For extra depth, stir in a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end.

Maple Bourbon Turkey Gravy

Maple Bourbon Turkey Gravy

This rich, slightly sweet gravy adds a cozy twist to your holiday table—bourbon and maple syrup bring warmth without overpowering the turkey’s savory goodness.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups turkey or chicken stock
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup bourbon
  • 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp kosher salt

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, melt the 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Whisk in the 1/4 cup flour and cook for 2 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  2. Slowly pour in the 4 cups stock, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
  3. Carefully add the 1/4 cup bourbon (it may splatter), then stir in the 2 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp salt. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until the gravy coats the back of a spoon.

The bourbon’s oakiness and maple’s caramel notes balance beautifully—just enough sweetness to complement roasted turkey or mashed potatoes.

Tip: For extra depth, use stock made from turkey drippings or brown the butter lightly before adding the flour.

Slow-Cooker Turkey Gravy

Slow-Cooker Turkey Gravy

This hands-off gravy lets your slow cooker do the work, delivering rich, velvety flavor without the last-minute scramble.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups turkey or chicken stock (low-sodium)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

  1. Melt 1/4 cup unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for 2 minutes until golden to make a roux.
  2. Transfer the roux to a slow cooker. Add 1/2 cup diced yellow onion, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp salt. Pour in 4 cups turkey stock and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, whisking until smooth.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours, stirring once halfway. The gravy will thicken slightly but will continue to reduce after cooking.
  4. For a silky texture, strain through a fine-mesh sieve before serving, pressing the onions and garlic to extract maximum flavor.

The slow cooker deepens the savory notes of the stock and herbs, giving this gravy a restaurant-quality depth without fuss. Tip: For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream after straining.

Gluten-Free Turkey Gravy

Gluten-Free Turkey Gravy

This rich, velvety gravy skips the flour but keeps all the savory depth—perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes or your holiday turkey.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups turkey or chicken stock (low-sodium)
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup cold water
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • Pan drippings from roasted turkey (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, black pepper, and salt until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  2. Pour in the stock (and pan drippings, if using) and bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Slowly drizzle into the simmering stock, whisking constantly.
  4. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens to coat the back of a spoon. Taste and adjust seasoning.

The cornstarch slurry gives this gravy a glossy finish without any grittiness—just smooth, herb-infused comfort in every bite.

Tip: For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a pat of butter at the end.

Vegan Mushroom Turkey Gravy

Vegan Mushroom Turkey Gravy

This rich, umami-packed vegan mushroom turkey gravy is the ultimate plant-based upgrade for your holiday table—no one will miss the drippings!

  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
  • 8 oz cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  1. Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the mushrooms and cook for 8 minutes until tender and browned.
  2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in 3 tbsp flour and stir constantly for 2 minutes to form a golden paste.
  3. Whisk in 2 tbsp nutritional yeast, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp thyme, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Gradually pour in the vegetable broth, whisking to eliminate lumps.
  4. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to a silky gravy consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning.

The secret? Browning the mushrooms deepens the flavor, while nutritional yeast adds a savory depth that mimics turkey drippings. Tip: For extra richness, blend half the gravy until smooth before stirring it back in.

Caramelized Onion Turkey Gravy

Caramelized Onion Turkey Gravy

This rich, savory gravy gets its deep flavor from slowly caramelized onions, adding a sweet-savory twist to your holiday turkey or mashed potatoes.

Ingredients:

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups turkey or chicken stock
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

Instructions:

  1. Melt 3 tbsp unsalted butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and 1 tsp sugar, stirring to coat. Cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and caramelized.
  2. Sprinkle 1/4 cup flour over the onions and stir for 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in 3 cups stock until smooth.
  3. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, and cook for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Stir in 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1 tbsp fresh thyme.
  4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 3 more minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

The caramelized onions add a subtle sweetness that balances the savory gravy—perfect for drizzling over roasted turkey or fluffy biscuits.

Tip: For extra depth, deglaze the pan with 1/4 cup dry white wine after caramelizing the onions, then proceed with the flour.

Apple Cider Turkey Gravy

Apple Cider Turkey Gravy

This rich, slightly sweet gravy is the perfect way to tie together your holiday meal, with apple cider adding a cozy depth of flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups turkey or chicken stock
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

  1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden and bubbly.
  2. Slowly pour in turkey stock and apple cider, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Stir in fresh thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat to low and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in apple cider vinegar for brightness.

The apple cider caramelizes slightly as it cooks, giving this gravy a subtle sweetness that balances the savory drippings beautifully.

Tip: For extra richness, substitute 1/2 cup of the stock with pan drippings from your roasted turkey.

Smoked Paprika Turkey Gravy

Smoked Paprika Turkey Gravy

This rich, smoky gravy turns pan drippings into a velvety sauce with just the right kick—perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes or Thanksgiving turkey.

Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups turkey or chicken stock (low-sodium)
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tbsp pan drippings from roasted turkey (optional, for extra depth)

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, melt the ¼ cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the ¼ cup all-purpose flour and cook for 2–3 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  2. Gradually pour in the 3 cups turkey stock, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Stir in the 2 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp black pepper, and ½ tsp salt. For extra richness, add the 2 tbsp pan drippings (if using).
  4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

The smoked paprika adds a warm, campfire-like aroma that pairs beautifully with roasted meats—no one will guess it’s just a 15-minute sauce!

Tip: For a smoother texture, strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.

Rosemary and Sage Turkey Gravy

Rosemary and Sage Turkey Gravy

This rich, herby gravy is the perfect way to elevate your roast turkey—fragrant with rosemary and sage, it’s a savory hug in every spoonful.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups turkey or chicken stock (low-sodium)
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh sage, finely chopped
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp pan drippings (from roasted turkey, optional but recommended)

Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden and bubbly.
  2. Gradually pour in the stock, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add the pan drippings (if using) and bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Stir in the rosemary, sage, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.

The secret here? Browning the flour in butter first—it deepens the flavor and gives the gravy a velvety texture without being gloppy.

Tip: For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream right before serving.

Creamy Parmesan Turkey Gravy

Creamy Parmesan Turkey Gravy

This rich, velvety gravy turns pan drippings into a luxurious sauce with a nutty Parmesan finish—perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes or turkey.

Ingredients:

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups turkey or chicken stock (warmed)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Salt to taste (start with 1/4 tsp)

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and cook for 2 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  2. Gradually pour in 2 cups warmed turkey stock, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Reduce heat to low. Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup Parmesan, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook for 2 more minutes, stirring until the cheese melts and the gravy coats the back of a spoon.
  4. Season with salt to taste (add more stock if too thick). Serve warm.

The Parmesan adds a savory depth that makes this gravy stand out—no one will guess it comes together in just 10 minutes!

Tip: For extra flavor, stir in 1 tbsp of chopped fresh thyme or a splash of white wine with the stock.

Chicken Stock-Based Turkey Gravy

Chicken Stock-Based Turkey Gravy

Ingredients:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups chicken stock (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon pan drippings from roasted turkey (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions:

  1. Melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  2. Slowly pour in 4 cups chicken stock and 1/2 cup dry white wine, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Stir in 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. If using, add 1 tablespoon pan drippings for extra richness. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.

The white wine adds a subtle brightness that balances the gravy’s savory depth—no one will guess it only takes 15 minutes! Tip: For a smoother texture, strain through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.

Brown Butter Turkey Gravy

Brown Butter Turkey Gravy

This rich, nutty gravy turns pan drippings into something extraordinary—thanks to brown butter’s toasty depth and a splash of white wine for brightness.

Ingredients:

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups turkey or chicken stock (warmed)
  • ½ cup dry white wine
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook, swirling occasionally, until it turns amber and smells nutty (about 4–5 minutes).
  2. Whisk in ¼ cup all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly, until golden (1–2 minutes).
  3. Pour in ½ cup dry white wine, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer until reduced by half (2–3 minutes).
  4. Gradually whisk in 3 cups turkey stock until smooth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
  5. Stir in 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, ½ tsp kosher salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.

The brown butter adds a caramelized complexity that makes this gravy taste like it simmered for hours—even though it’s ready in 20 minutes.

Tip: For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.

Giblet Turkey Gravy

Giblet Turkey Gravy

This rich, savory gravy turns turkey giblets into a deeply flavorful sauce that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients:

  • 1 turkey neck and giblets (heart, gizzard, liver)
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey broth
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, chopped
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp dried thyme

Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the turkey neck, giblets, broth, onion, and celery. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 1 hour, skimming foam occasionally.
  2. Strain the broth into a bowl, reserving the giblets. Discard the neck, onion, and celery. Finely chop the giblets and set aside.
  3. In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until golden. Gradually whisk in the reserved broth until smooth.
  4. Stir in the chopped giblets, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper, and 1/4 tsp thyme. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until thickened to a gravy consistency.

The secret here? Simmering the giblets first builds a robust base, while the chopped bits add a satisfying texture you won’t get from store-bought gravy.

Tip: For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a pat of butter at the end.

Conclusion

With 20 delicious turkey gravy recipes to choose from, your Thanksgiving feast is sure to be a hit! Whether you prefer classic flavors or bold twists, there’s something here for everyone. Give one (or a few!) a try, and let us know which one was your favorite in the comments. Don’t forget to share this roundup with fellow gravy lovers on Pinterest—happy cooking and happy holidays!

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment