Turkey Gravy Make Ahead
Elevate your holiday table with this rich and velvety Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy, a stress-free way to perfect your feast's centerpiece. Crafted with a golden roux of butter, flour, and turkey drippings, this classic gravy is infused with the earthy flavors of fresh thyme and bay leaf for a gourmet touch. Designed for effortless preparation, you can whip it up days in advance, allowing you to focus on the rest of your meal. Easily reheated and customizable with optional heavy cream for an indulgent finish, this luscious gravy pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing. With just 10 minutes of prep and plenty of make-ahead convenience, it’s the ultimate timesaving addition to your Thanksgiving or holiday menu.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons turkey drippings or fat
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey stock
- 2 pieces fresh thyme sprigs
- 1 piece bay leaf
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)
Instructions
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in the all-purpose flour and turkey drippings (or fat) to make a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes, whisking constantly, until the mixture is golden and smooth.
Gradually pour in the chicken or turkey stock, about 1/2 cup at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition to prevent lumps.
Add the fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaf to the gravy, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it gently simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf from the gravy, and season with salt and ground black pepper to taste. If desired, stir in the heavy cream for a richer flavor and texture.
Allow the gravy to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, warm the gravy in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the gravy becomes too thick, thin it out with a little additional stock or water.
Serve warm alongside your roasted turkey or any meal of choice.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
720 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 65.0 g | 83% | |
| Saturated Fat | 36.2 g | 181% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 158 mg | 53% | |
| Sodium | 1479 mg | 64% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 28.9 g | 11% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.4 g | 5% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.9 g | ||
| Protein | 8.4 g | 17% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 69 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 2.2 mg | 12% | |
| Potassium | 277 mg | 6% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
