No turkey drippings? No problem! This Turkey Gravy Without Drippings is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for holiday dinners, this homemade gravy uses broth, butter, and simple seasonings to create a silky, savory sauce that tastes just as delicious as traditional turkey gravy.
Whether you’re preparing a make-ahead gravy or simply need an alternative to drippings, this recipe delivers deep, comforting flavors in just 15 minutes. Serve it over roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, or even biscuits for a perfect holiday touch!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients Overview
- Butter & Flour: The base for a smooth, lump-free roux.
- Turkey or Chicken Broth: Adds rich, roasted flavor.
- Seasonings: A perfect balance of herbs and spices to enhance the taste.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups turkey broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth)
Directions
Step 1: Make the Roux
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden and smooth.
Step 2: Add the Broth
- Gradually whisk in turkey broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Season & Simmer
- Add salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, sage, and paprika.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce (if using) for extra depth.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Pour into a gravy boat and serve warm over turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing.
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
15 minutes
Nutrition (per serving, ~6 servings)
- Calories: ~90
- Fat: ~7g
- Carbohydrates: ~5g
- Protein: ~1g
Expert Tips
- For Extra Flavor: Use homemade turkey broth or add a splash of white wine.
- Make It Thicker: Let it simmer a little longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 teaspoons water).
- For a Smooth Texture: Strain the gravy before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this gravy ahead of time?
Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
What if my gravy is too thick?
Whisk in a little extra broth until desired consistency is reached.
Can I freeze turkey gravy?
Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat on the stovetop.
Storing & Freezing
- Storing: Keep in the fridge for 3 days and reheat on low heat.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.
Substitutions & Variations
- Dairy-Free: Use olive oil or dairy-free butter.
- Herb Swap: Try rosemary or parsley instead of sage.
- Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of turkey broth.
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Turkey Gravy Without Drippings
Equipment
- - Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- - Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- - 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- - 2 cups turkey broth or chicken broth
- - 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- - 1/2 teaspoon dried sage optional
- - 1/4 teaspoon paprika optional, for color
- - 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce optional, for depth
Instructions
- #### **Step 1: Make the Roux**
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over **medium heat**.
- Add flour and whisk continuously for **1-2 minutes** until lightly golden and smooth.
- #### **Step 2: Add the Broth**
- Gradually whisk in turkey broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Bring to a **gentle simmer**, stirring occasionally.
- #### **Step 3: Season & Simmer**
- Add salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, sage, and paprika.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce (if using) for extra depth.
- Simmer for **5-7 minutes**, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- #### **Step 4: Serve & Enjoy**
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Pour into a gravy boat and serve warm over turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing.
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