This Easy Homemade Turkey Gravy is rich, velvety, and packed with deep roasted turkey flavor—made in just 15 minutes on the stovetop.
Using a simple golden roux, savory bone broth, and flavorful turkey drippings this classic gravy delivers five-star Thanksgiving flavor without any fuss—especially if you are using my Cider and Herb Roasted Whole Turkey recipe.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or serving a Sunday roast, this quick and reliable gravy recipe ties the whole meal together. It’s smooth, perfectly seasoned, and customizable, making it the only turkey gravy recipe you’ll ever need.
Why you’ll love this recipe!
What ingredients do I need?
- Unsalted butter: Provides richness and forms the base of your roux for thickening.
- All-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy to the perfect silky consistency.
- Chicken bone broth: Adds depth and body—regular broth works too.
- Turkey drippings: The key to flavor; use as much as you can collect. I recommend using my Cider and Herb Roasted Whole Turkey recipe too, the flavors from this are unbelievable!
- Fresh thyme leaves: Brightens the gravy with fresh herbal flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential finishing seasoning.
Recipe Variations
- Garlic & Herb Gravy: Add 1–2 minced garlic cloves and extra rosemary or sage.
- Wine-Infused Gravy: Add ¼ cup white wine when simmering the roux.
- Creamy Turkey Gravy: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream at the end.
- Onion Gravy: Cook sliced onions in butter until caramelized before adding flour.
Pro Tips
- Pour slowly and whisk constantly while adding broth to avoid lumps.
- Warm broth works best—it blends into the roux more smoothly.
- Strain your drippings for a clean, restaurant-quality gravy.
- Use a fat separator if your drippings are very oily (although I rarely do unless it is excessive)
- Simmer to thicken—never boil aggressively or the texture can break.
Can I Substitute?
Yes! Like always though, any substitutions made to the recipe can result in a change in texture and/or flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free 1:1 all-purpose blend OR substitute cornstarch slurry (2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water—add at the end).
- Dairy-Free: Replace butter with vegan butter or refined coconut oil.
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and lightly season at the end.
- Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth + butter + mushrooms for flavor (omit drippings).
Leftovers and Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently over low heat. Whisk in a splash of broth or water if it thickens.
- Make Ahead: Prepare 1–2 days ahead and reheat before serving.
But, I Still Have A Few Questions…
How much gravy does this recipe make?
About 3 cups—enough for 8–12 servings.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Simply double every ingredient. Simmer a little longer if needed to reach your desired thickness.
What if I don’t have enough turkey drippings?
Use additional chicken broth or bone broth. A splash of Worcestershire adds roasted depth if needed.
Can I make this gravy ahead of time?
Yes. Make it up to 3 days ahead and store in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove and whisk to smooth.
How do I fix lumpy gravy?
Blend with an immersion blender or pour through a fine-mesh strainer.
Why is my gravy too thin?
Simmer longer to reduce. Or whisk 1 tsp flour with a little warm broth and add slowly until thickened.
Why is my gravy too thick?
Whisk in more broth or drippings until it loosens.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Replace butter with vegan butter or a neutral oil. Texture will be slightly less silky but still delicious.
What if my gravy tastes bland?
Add more salt and pepper first. A splash of turkey drippings, Worcestershire sauce, or a tiny bit of soy sauce can boost flavor.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh thyme?
Yes. Use ½ teaspoon dried thyme.
How long does leftover gravy last?
Up to 4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months frozen.
How do I reheat gravy?
Warm on the stove over low heat, whisking until smooth. Add broth if it has thickened in the fridge.
Can I freeze turkey gravy?
Absolutely! Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
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Make sure to tag @thehomechefmomma on Instagram or Facebook, and leave a review or comment if you make these. I always get so excited to see your creations, variations of the recipe, and feedback! Just remember to be kind in your comments, there is still a person behind this screen! 🙂
Easy Homemade Turkey Gravy
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 c. Chicken bone broth regular broth is okay too
- 1 c. Turkey drippings
- 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme leaves only
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- After roasting your turkey, pour the pan drippings into a measuring cup or bowl. Skim off excess fat (save some for flavor if desired) and remove any large pieces of herbs, vegetables, or meat.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter and flour over medium heat. Whisk constantly for 2–3 minutes until the mixture turns golden, starts to bubble, and smells nutty.
- Slowly whisk in 2 cups of chicken bone broth until smooth and lump-free.
- Add in thyme leaves and simmer on low for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the turkey drippings gradually, whisking constantly to incorporate.
- Bring gravy to a gentle simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently until thickened.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- If the gravy is too thick, whisk in drippings if available (otherwise use more bone broth).
- Keep warm until ready to serve over turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing.
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Nutritional Content Disclaimer
I choose not to include nutritional information with my recipes, as these values can be calculated from the ingredients provided. With my background as a pediatric nurse practitioner and my own family experience with disordered eating, I understand how focusing on numbers can affect our relationship with food. My philosophy is that all foods have a place—sweet, savory, nourishing, or indulgent. I aim to share recipes that support a healthy, joyful approach to eating. My hope is that this space also encourages a balanced, healthy relationship with food for you and your family too.