Easy 15-Minute Turkey Gravy Without Drippings: Your Go-To Recipe for Rich, Flavorful Sauce
Discover the secret to making rich, savory turkey gravy in just 15 minutes, even when you don’t have pan drippings! This incredibly simple recipe utilizes turkey stock, butter, flour, poultry seasoning, and a touch of salt and pepper to create a velvety smooth sauce that rivals any gravy made from scratch. It’s the ultimate solution for those times when your turkey doesn’t yield enough natural juices, or when you simply need a quick, delicious gravy without the fuss of roasting a whole bird. Perfect for holiday meals, everyday dinners, or transforming Thanksgiving leftovers, this easy turkey gravy recipe is a game-changer.
While homemade gravy from drippings (or with a turkey neck) often boasts the most profound flavor, mastering how to make a delicious turkey gravy without the drippings is an invaluable culinary skill. This recipe comes in incredibly handy for various scenarios: perhaps you desire a savory, homemade gravy but aren’t roasting a whole turkey, or you’ve prepared a boneless turkey breast that offers minimal drippings. It’s also ideal for those post-Thanksgiving days when you’ve run out of gravy but still have plenty of delicious leftover turkey to enjoy.
This easy gravy recipe ensures you’re never without a comforting, flavorful sauce. It’s incredibly versatile and adaptable, making it a staple in any kitchen. Whether you’re making a special holiday feast or just a simple weeknight meal, this quick and easy turkey gravy recipe guarantees a delicious addition to your table every time.
Moreover, not everyone roasts a Thanksgiving turkey using traditional methods. If you’re preparing a slow cooker boneless turkey breast, smoking your bird, or deep-frying it, you often won’t have the pan drippings typically used for gravy. This no-drippings recipe ensures you can still enjoy a rich, homemade gravy, no matter how you cook your turkey. It’s a reliable recipe that delivers consistent results and incredible flavor, making it a must-have for your culinary repertoire.
Why You’ll Adore This Easy Turkey Gravy Recipe
- Unforgettable Rich Flavors: This gravy isn’t just a thick sauce; it’s a burst of savory, aromatic goodness. The combination of turkey broth, butter, and poultry seasoning creates a depth of flavor that complements any turkey dish, making every bite incredibly satisfying.
- Ready in a Flash (15 Minutes!): Life is busy, and sometimes you need quick solutions without compromising on taste. This recipe comes together in a mere 15 minutes, from start to finish, making it perfect for last-minute meal additions or when you’re juggling multiple dishes.
- Ideal for Any Turkey Preparation: Whether you’re not cooking a whole turkey, or your cooking method (like smoking or deep-frying) doesn’t produce drippings, this recipe has you covered. It frees you from the necessity of pan drippings, offering a reliable, delicious gravy every time.
- Fantastic Make-Ahead Option: Preparing for a holiday meal or a large gathering? This turkey gravy can be made days in advance, stored, and reheated beautifully. This allows you to focus on other dishes and reduce stress on the big day, knowing your gravy is perfectly ready.
- Simple, Foolproof Process: Even if you’re a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is designed for success. With clear, step-by-step instructions and minimal ingredients, you’ll achieve a perfect, lump-free gravy effortlessly.
- Versatile Beyond Turkey: While designed for turkey, the rich flavor profile makes this gravy a wonderful accompaniment to chicken, pork, mashed potatoes, and even French fries, expanding its utility in your kitchen.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Gravy
This section provides detailed ingredient notes and helpful substitution options to ensure your gravy turns out perfectly every time. You can find all specific measurements, a complete ingredient list, and full instructions in the printable recipe card located at the very end of this post.
- Butter: This is the foundation of your rich, velvety gravy. Using unsalted butter gives you more control over the final saltiness, but salted butter works just as well – just adjust any added salt accordingly. Butter not only adds flavor but also helps create a smooth roux for thickening. You could use olive oil or another cooking fat as a substitute, but butter provides the best flavor and texture for classic gravy.
- All-Purpose Flour: When combined with butter, flour creates a roux, the magical thickening agent for sauces and gravies. The key is to cook it long enough to remove the raw flour taste and achieve a light golden color, which deepens the flavor without making the gravy too dark. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend, adjusting the quantities as needed (a cornstarch slurry is often preferred for gluten-free thickening).
- Turkey Broth (or Stock): The heart of your gravy’s flavor. You can use either turkey broth or turkey stock, whether homemade for an even richer taste or store-bought for convenience. Opt for a low-sodium broth if available, especially if you’re sensitive to salt or using salted butter, as this allows you to season to taste more precisely. Chicken broth or a combination of chicken and beef broth can also be used if turkey broth is hard to find.
- Seasoning: A thoughtful blend of Poultry Seasoning, Salt, and Black Pepper elevates the flavor profile. Poultry seasoning typically includes sage, thyme, rosemary, marjoram, and a hint of nutmeg, which are classic flavors that beautifully complement turkey. The salt is crucial for bringing out all the flavors, but remember to add it to taste, particularly if you’re using a low-sodium broth and/or unsalted butter. Freshly ground black pepper will always provide a superior aroma and taste compared to pre-ground varieties.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Gravy without Turkey Drippings
Follow these easy, step-by-step instructions with accompanying photos to master this delicious turkey gravy. For the complete printable recipe, including exact measurements and nutritional information, please refer to the dedicated recipe card found below.
Step 1: Create the Roux Foundation
Begin by melting the butter in a medium saucepan or a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and shimmering, gradually whisk in the all-purpose flour. It’s crucial to whisk continuously as you add the flour to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking constantly for 1-2 minutes until the mixture transforms into a smooth, light golden-brown paste. This process, known as making a roux, cooks out the raw flour taste and provides the essential thickening power for your gravy. A properly cooked roux should smell slightly nutty and be uniform in color.
Step 2: Incorporate the Broth and Seasonings
With your golden roux ready, it’s time to introduce the liquid. Slowly and gradually pour in the turkey broth, whisking constantly and vigorously as you do so. Adding the broth slowly and whisking continuously is key to achieving a silky-smooth gravy without any lumps. The roux will absorb the liquid and thicken it evenly. Once the broth is fully incorporated and smooth, sprinkle in the poultry seasoning and black pepper. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the gravy, infusing it with their aromatic flavors.
Step 3: Simmer and Thicken to Perfection
Continue to heat the gravy over medium heat, whisking often to prevent sticking and ensure uniform thickening. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, where you’ll see small bubbles breaking the surface. Allow the gravy to simmer for approximately 3-5 minutes, or until it reaches your desired thickness. As it simmers, the flour particles will fully hydrate and expand, leading to a perfectly thickened gravy. If you prefer a thinner gravy, you can add a little extra broth or water. For a thicker consistency, simmer for an extra minute or two, or refer to our Pro Tip below.
Step 4: Final Seasoning and Serving
Once the gravy has reached your preferred consistency, remove it from the heat. This is the crucial moment to taste and adjust the seasoning. Add salt to taste, remembering that the saltiness of your broth and butter can vary. Start with a small pinch and add more if needed, tasting as you go. Once perfectly seasoned, transfer your delicious, homemade turkey gravy into a beautiful gravy boat or serving bowl. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors you’ve created from scratch!
Pro Tip for a Thicker Gravy: The Cornstarch Slurry
If you prefer an even thicker gravy, or if your gravy hasn’t quite reached your desired consistency after simmering, a cornstarch slurry is your secret weapon. To make one, simply combine 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl, whisking until a smooth, lump-free mixture forms. Gradually stir this slurry into your simmering gravy, a little at a time, while continuously whisking. Allow the gravy to simmer for another minute or two after adding the slurry; cornstarch thickens rapidly and creates a glossy finish. This method allows you to control the thickness precisely, ensuring your gravy is perfect every time.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Proper storage and reheating ensure you can enjoy your delicious homemade gravy for days to come. This make-ahead gravy is perfect for busy weeknights or preparing for larger gatherings.
Refrigerator: Store any leftover gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to the container to prevent condensation and maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, this turkey gravy freezes beautifully! Pour it into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags (leaving a little headspace for expansion). It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How to Reheat: To reheat, simply pour the gravy back into a saucepan and gently warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Gravy tends to thicken considerably when chilled, so be prepared to add a splash of extra turkey broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Whisk it often as it reheats to prevent lumps and ensure it’s smoothly brought back to its original luscious texture.
Expert Recipe Tips for the Best Gravy
- Enhance with Pan Drippings (If Available): While this recipe is designed to be made without drippings, if your roast turkey does produce some, don’t let them go to waste! Skim off any excess fat from your pan drippings and add the flavorful liquid to this recipe along with the turkey broth. This will infuse your gravy with an even deeper, more authentic turkey flavor. Just remember to adjust the amount of broth slightly to maintain the right consistency.
- Achieve a Lump-Free Gravy: The secret to a perfectly smooth gravy lies in meticulous whisking. When adding the flour to the melted butter to form the roux, and especially when gradually pouring in the broth, whisk continuously and vigorously. This ensures the flour disperses evenly and prevents lumps. If you do end up with a few stubborn lumps, you can always pass the finished gravy through a fine-mesh sieve for an extra-smooth finish.
- Season to Taste at the End: Broths and butters can vary significantly in their sodium content. To avoid overly salty gravy, I highly recommend waiting until the very end, once your gravy has thickened, to taste and add salt if needed. This allows you to fine-tune the seasoning perfectly. If using low-sodium broth and unsalted butter, you’ll likely need to add a bit more salt.
- Double or Halve for Your Needs: This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Easily double the ingredients if you’re feeding a larger crowd or want extra gravy for leftovers. Conversely, halve the recipe for a smaller portion or a quick weeknight meal. The principles and steps remain the same, just adjust your saucepan size accordingly.
- Don’t Rush the Roux: Cooking the flour and butter for 1-2 minutes until it’s light golden brown is essential. This step eliminates the raw flour taste and develops a richer, nuttier flavor in your gravy. Patience here pays off in the final taste.
Irresistible Serving Suggestions
This versatile, make-ahead turkey gravy extends far beyond just your Thanksgiving turkey! Its rich, savory flavor makes it a fantastic addition to a multitude of dishes, transforming everyday meals into something special. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy your homemade gravy:
- Classic Comfort: Drizzle generously over creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or classic stuffing.
- Hearty Sandwiches: Smother it over an open-faced turkey sandwich, perfect for using up leftover turkey.
- Pork Pairings: It’s a wonderful accompaniment to your slow cooker ranch pork chops, adding a layer of rich, savory flavor.
- Potato Perfection: Pour it over roasted potatoes, baked potatoes, or even dip your French fries in it for a delicious twist! Consider it with your favorite party potatoes or crispy potato wedges.
- Meatball Magic: Serve it on the side of your turkey and stuffing balls or any type of meatball.
- Breakfast & Brunch: Don’t limit it to dinner! Try it with biscuits, hash browns, or even savory crepes.
- Vegetable Enhancement: A little gravy can make steamed or roasted vegetables incredibly appealing.
Creative Additions and Flavor Variations
This foundational turkey gravy recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for numerous delicious additions and variations to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!
- Experiment with Different Broth Flavors: While turkey is traditional, this easy homemade gravy recipe works just as well with other flavorful broths. Swap the turkey broth for beef stock to create a silky-smooth beef gravy, perfect for mashed potatoes or roasts, or use chicken stock for a lighter, yet equally delicious chicken gravy. You may need to alter the seasonings slightly to complement the new flavor profile, but you’ll still achieve a wonderful depth of flavor and a really good gravy.
- Substitute with a Mixed Broth: If your grocery store is out of turkey broth, don’t fret! A clever alternative I often use is a mixture of beef broth and chicken broth. This combination surprisingly creates a rich, complex flavor that mimics turkey broth quite well. Alternatively, you can simply substitute with just one or the other, depending on your preference and availability.
- Elevate with Giblets for Extra Depth: You can make a flavorful giblet gravy without drippings by using the giblets (typically found inside a whole turkey) to make a homemade stock while your bird is cooking. Simmer the giblets with some aromatics like onion, carrot, and celery in water, then use this rich, homemade giblet stock in place of store-bought turkey broth. This adds an incredible depth of savory flavor. While you might wonder why you wouldn’t use the drippings if you’re cooking a bird, the truth is, sometimes pan drippings are sparse, or some folks simply prefer the cleaner, less greasy flavor of a giblet-based gravy.
- Herbaceous Enhancements: For an extra layer of aroma and taste, consider adding fresh or dried herbs to your simmering gravy. A sprig of fresh rosemary, thyme, or a bay leaf can be added while the gravy simmers, then removed before serving. A pinch of dried sage or a dash of onion or garlic powder can also boost the savory notes.
- A Touch of Wine or Sherry: For a more sophisticated flavor, deglaze your pan (if you have any residual bits from cooking turkey pieces) with a splash of dry white wine or sherry before adding the broth. Allow it to simmer and reduce for a minute or two to burn off the alcohol, then proceed with the recipe. This adds a subtle complexity and richness.
- Mushroom Infusion: Sauté finely diced mushrooms (cremini or button) in the butter before adding the flour. This will add an earthy depth to your gravy, making it perfect for pairing with beef or as a vegetarian-friendly option (if using vegetable broth).
More Recipes for Your Holiday Table
- Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
- Crockpot Glazed Carrots
- Corn Casserole
- Broccoli Cheese Casserole
- Potato Rolls
Turkey Gravy Without Drippings
Author: Jaclyn
Ingredients
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ cups turkey broth or stock
- ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper or to taste
- salt to taste
Instructions
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Melt butter in a saucepan or large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the flour and whisk until there aren’t any lumps. Cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, until it turns a light golden brown.
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Slowly and gradually pour in the broth, whisking constantly to combine. Add poultry seasoning and pepper.
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Continue to heat, whisking often, until it comes to a simmer. Allow the gravy to simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until thickened.
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Taste and add salt, if desired.
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Serve in a gravy boat or bowl and enjoy.
Notes
Broth: If the store doesn’t have any turkey broth I like to use a combination of beef broth and chicken broth. But you can also sub with just beef broth or chicken broth.
Storage & reheating: Refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat on stovetop. Whisk often and add broth or water to thin, as needed.
Nutrition
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