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The Best Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy (With or Without Drippings)

A close-up of rich, brown turkey gravy seasoned with pepper, served in a white bowl on a wooden cutting board.
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You can make this rich, smooth turkey gravy ahead of time to save time on holiday cooking. This foolproof recipe works perfectly using pan drippings or just turkey stock for deep, savory flavor.

Ingredients

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  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups turkey stock (or chicken stock if drippings are unavailable)
  • 1/2 cup reserved turkey pan drippings (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried poultry seasoning (optional)

Instructions

  1. If using drippings: Measure out 1/2 cup of turkey pan drippings and set aside. If you do not have drippings, proceed to step 2 using only stock.
  2. Make the roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Cook, whisking constantly, for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is light golden brown. Do not let it burn.
  3. Incorporate liquid: Slowly whisk in the turkey stock, a little at a time, ensuring no lumps form before adding more. If using drippings, whisk them in now.
  4. Simmer and thicken: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking frequently. Reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the gravy thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  5. Season: Stir in the salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning, if using. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  6. To serve immediately: Keep warm over very low heat.
  7. To make ahead: Let the gravy cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, whisk in a splash of extra stock or water if it becomes too thick.

Notes

  • For the smoothest gravy, strain the finished gravy through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.
  • If your gravy is too thin after simmering, create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Whisk this into the simmering gravy and cook for 1 minute until thickened.
  • This recipe is excellent for making ahead for Thanksgiving dinner or Christmas feasts.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://devourdish.com/best-make-ahead-turkey-gravy-recipe/