A rich, velvety gravy is what turns a simple roast turkey into a memorable holiday centerpiece. This Easy Turkey Gravy recipe is all about flavor without the fuss. Whether you’re working with drippings from a freshly roasted bird or using broth, you’ll end up with a deeply savory, golden sauce that enhances everything on your plate.
This recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. It uses everyday pantry ingredients, and comes together in just 15 minutes. The texture is smooth and luxurious, and the flavor is bold enough to make even mashed potatoes exciting.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Turkey Gravy
This gravy is the ultimate finishing touch for your holiday meal. It’s fast, flexible, and foolproof. If you’ve ever been intimidated by making gravy from scratch, this method will ease those fears. It doesn’t require roasting a whole turkey or making stock days in advance. You can make it with drippings or with store-bought broth and still get fantastic results.
Plus, it’s easy to scale depending on your crowd. Add herbs like thyme or sage if you’re feeling fancy, or keep it classic and let the turkey flavor shine. It’s freezer-friendly, too, so you can make it ahead and focus on other parts of the meal.
Can I Use Turkey Broth If I Don’t Have Drippings?
Absolutely! Turkey broth is a great substitute if you don’t have drippings from a roast. It still gives that warm, meaty flavor that makes gravy irresistible. You can even mix turkey and chicken broth to deepen the flavor. If you want a little extra richness, add a splash of cream or a pat of butter at the end.
Ingredients for the Easy Turkey Gravy
To make the best Easy Turkey Gravy, you only need a handful of ingredients you likely already have. Each one plays an important role in building the depth and texture of the final gravy.
Butter is the fat base that combines with flour to create a roux, the backbone of a thick and glossy gravy.
All-purpose flour thickens the gravy. Cooking it in butter first ensures a smooth sauce without any raw flour taste.
Turkey drippings or turkey broth provide the signature savory flavor. If using drippings, be sure to separate the fat from the juices.
Salt enhances the natural flavors. Start with a little and adjust to taste at the end.
Black pepper adds a touch of heat and balance. Freshly ground is best.
Optional but flavorful: fresh thyme, sage, or a splash of cream for richness.

How To Make the Easy Turkey Gravy
Step 1: Make the Roux
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until golden. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and adds a nutty aroma.
Step 2: Add the Liquid
Gradually pour in your turkey drippings or broth while whisking constantly. The mixture will start to thicken quickly, so keep whisking to prevent lumps.
Step 3: Simmer and Season
Let the gravy simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir frequently. Season with salt and pepper, and add herbs if desired. If you like your gravy extra silky, stir in a small splash of cream.
Step 4: Serve Warm
Once your gravy is smooth, thickened, and full of flavor, pour it into a gravy boat and serve it hot. It’s perfect over turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, or even biscuits.
How to Store and Serve Easy Turkey Gravy
This Easy Turkey Gravy serves about 6 to 8 people generously, depending on how gravy-happy your crowd is. It holds well in a warm saucepan on the stove for serving, just stir it occasionally.
To store, let it cool and transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up if needed.
What to Serve With Easy Turkey Gravy?
Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are gravy’s best friend. The textures are made for each other.
Herb Stuffing
Drizzle this savory gravy over a classic bread stuffing to take it to new levels.
Roasted Vegetables
Try it over roasted carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts for a savory boost.
Biscuits
Flaky, buttery biscuits are the perfect vehicle for mopping up extra gravy.
Leftover Turkey Sandwiches
A spoonful of reheated gravy turns leftovers into something exciting again.
Garlic Green Beans
Add a ladle on the side for a cozy contrast to fresh, crisp beans.
Chicken or Pork Chops
It’s not just for turkey. This gravy works beautifully over other proteins, too.
Want More Gravy & Sauce Ideas?
If you love rich and savory sauces, you’ll want to check out these next:
- Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce Recipe
- Easy Cajun Cream Sauce Recipe
- Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
- Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Parmesan Pasta
- Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet
Save This Recipe For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it again when you need it.
Let me know in the comments how your gravy turned out. Did you go for drippings or broth? Did you sneak in any extra seasonings?
I always love hearing how people adapt these recipes to make them their own.
Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and dinner recipes on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and get inspired for your next delicious meal.
Conclusion
Gravy doesn’t have to be stressful, and this Easy Turkey Gravy proves it. With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can create a deeply flavorful sauce that brings your holiday plate to life. Whether you’re hosting a feast or making comfort food for a cozy night in, this gravy belongs on your table.

Easy Turkey Gravy
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
Description
This Easy Turkey Gravy recipe is your go-to for a rich, savory sauce made from simple pantry ingredients. Whether you use turkey drippings or broth, it’s ready in 15 minutes and adds the perfect finishing touch to holiday meals. Ideal for Thanksgiving or Sunday dinners, this homemade turkey gravy is smooth, flavorful, and fuss-free.
Ingredients
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups turkey drippings or turkey broth
1 4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1 4 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon fresh thyme or sage (optional)
2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)
Instructions
1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it turns a light golden color and smells slightly nutty.
3. Gradually pour in turkey drippings or broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Continue stirring as the gravy thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then add herbs or cream if using.
6. Simmer on low until it reaches your desired consistency.
7. Serve hot in a gravy boat or pour directly over your dishes.
8. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
Gravy thickens as it cools, so reheat with a splash of broth or water.
If using pan drippings, separate out the fat for a smoother finish.
Add fresh herbs or cream for an elevated flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 4 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg

