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Turkey Gravy That Tastes Like Grandma’s: The Only Thanksgiving Gravy Recipe You’ll Ever Need

Homemade Turkey Gravy

This turkey gravy recipe brings deep, nostalgic flavor to your Thanksgiving table, whether you're using roasted drippings, stock, or classic giblets. It's smooth, savory, and the perfect cozy finish to every plate.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Giblet Simmering Time (optional) 1 hour
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: American
Calories: 90
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Gravy
  • 1/4 cup fat from turkey drippings or butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups turkey stock or broth or use drippings + water
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • fresh herbs (optional) such as thyme or sage
Optional Giblet Stock
  • 1 set turkey giblets neck, heart, gizzard
  • 2 cups water for simmering giblets
  • 1 bay leaf optional
  • chopped giblets optional, to stir into final gravy

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. After roasting your turkey, pour the drippings into a container. Let the fat separate and skim off about ¼ cup to use. Alternatively, use butter.
  2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the fat or butter. Whisk in an equal amount of flour to form a roux. Cook for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden.
  3. Gradually whisk in the turkey drippings and stock. Keep stirring to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Season with salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Simmer for 5–10 minutes until thick and glossy.
  5. Optional: For giblet gravy, simmer giblets with water and aromatics for 45–60 minutes. Strain and use the broth in place of stock. Stir chopped giblets into gravy before serving.
  6. Pour into a warm gravy boat or serving bowl and serve immediately over turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing.

Notes

To make ahead, store the gravy base and reheat gently before serving. For smoother texture, strain before pouring into the gravy boat. This recipe can be doubled easily for large gatherings.