Turkey Gravy Recipe

A white gravy boat filled with turkey gravy sits on a table next to mashed potatoes, sliced roast meat, rosemary sprigs, and fresh parsley.

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This silky, deeply savory Southern Turkey Gravy from Drippings comes together in minutes using your pan drippings and a few pantry staples. It’s smooth, lump-free, and the kind of gravy your family will ask for every year.

Prep Time5

Cook Time10

Total Time15

Course: Sauce, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Southern

Servings: servings

Author: kara

Ingredients

¼ cup turkey drippings
¼ cup all-purpose flour
3 cups unsalted stock turkey or chicken
black pepper to taste
salt only if needed

Instructions

In a saucepan (off the heat), whisk the turkey drippings and flour together until the mixture is completely smooth. Starting cold helps prevent lumps.
¼ cup turkey drippings, ¼ cup all-purpose flour
Place the pan over medium heat. Cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, until the mixture smells slightly nutty and begins to bubble. This cooks out the raw flour flavor.
Slowly whisk in the stock. Add a little at a time at first, whisking until smooth before adding more.
3 cups unsalted stock
Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring often, until thickened to your desired consistency.
Add black pepper to taste. Salt only if needed. Your drippings may already be salty enough.
black pepper, salt
Serve warm. Ladle over turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, or any Thanksgiving side you love.

Notes

Short on drippings? Supplement with butter until you reach ¼ cup total fat.
Too thick? Whisk in additional stock a splash at a time.
Too thin? Simmer a little longer — the gravy will thicken as it cooks.
Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days early. Cool completely, refrigerate, then warm over medium-low heat with a splash of stock to loosen.
Freezer-Friendly: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently while whisking.
Extra depth: A tiny splash of Worcestershire can add color and deeper savory flavor.

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