As the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving feast, a delicious and savory turkey gravy can elevate the entire meal. But why settle for just any old recipe when you can have a creamy, dreamy one that will leave everyone begging for more? In this article, we’re sharing our top 20 creamy turkey gravy recipes to help make your holiday gathering truly unforgettable.
From classic combinations to innovative twists, these gravies are sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Whether you prefer rich and savory, bold and spicy, or smooth and herby, there’s a recipe on this list that’s sure to suit your taste. So why wait? Dive in and discover the perfect creamy turkey gravy to make your Thanksgiving dinner truly special.
Classic Homemade Turkey Gravy
Elevate your turkey dinner with this rich and savory homemade gravy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup turkey drippings (reserved from roasting the turkey)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. Gradually add turkey drippings and chicken broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened to your liking.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
This classic homemade gravy recipe is the perfect accompaniment to your roasted turkey dinner. With its rich, savory flavor and smooth texture, it’s sure to be a crowd pleaser!
Rich and Savory Mushroom Turkey Gravy
Elevate your holiday meals with this rich and savory mushroom turkey gravy that’s sure to impress your guests. This recipe is a perfect blend of earthy mushrooms, aromatic herbs, and tangy flavors that complement roasted turkey or mashed potatoes beautifully.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1 cup turkey broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start browning, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in white wine (if using), then turkey broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Herb-Infused Turkey Gravy
Elevate your holiday meal with this rich and flavorful turkey gravy infused with fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups turkey drippings or pan juices
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the turkey drippings or pan juices, whisking to combine.
4. Add the thyme and sage, stirring to incorporate.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the gravy has reached your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow-Cooked Onion and Garlic Turkey Gravy
Elevate your turkey dinner with this rich and flavorful gravy, infused with the sweetness of caramelized onions and pungency of sautéed garlic. This slow-cooked gravy is perfect for serving over roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or stuffing.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup turkey broth (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark golden brown and caramelized.
2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add the turkey broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and cook, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes or until the gravy has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in the butter until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including caramelizing onions)
White Wine and Thyme Turkey Gravy
Elevate your holiday meal with this rich and savory turkey gravy infused with the subtle flavors of white wine and thyme. This easy-to-make gravy is perfect for serving alongside roasted meats or as a dip for crusty bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup turkey drippings (from roasting pan)
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry, such as Chardonnay)
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
2. Gradually add turkey drippings, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
4. Stir in white wine and thyme leaves. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until sauce has reduced slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southern-Style Sausage and Turkey Gravy
Southern-Style Sausage and Turkey Gravy Recipe
A classic Southern comfort food recipe that combines the flavors of sausage and turkey gravy, perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup turkey drippings (or substitute with vegetable oil)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, sprinkle flour into the skillet and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually stir in chicken broth and turkey drippings (or oil). Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add cooked sausage back into the gravy and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Bacon-Infused Smoky Turkey Gravy
Elevate your holiday meals with this savory gravy, infused with the rich flavors of crispy bacon and smoky turkey broth. This recipe is perfect for serving alongside roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or stuffing.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup turkey broth (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the crumbled bacon and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the bacon and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually pour in the turkey broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rosemary and Sage Turkey Gravy
Elevate your holiday meal with this aromatic Rosemary and Sage Turkey Gravy, perfectly balanced to complement the flavors of roasted turkey and savory sides.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups turkey drippings (from roasting pan)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 teaspoons)
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add flour; whisk until smooth, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Gradually pour in turkey drippings and chicken broth, whisking continuously.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in chopped rosemary and dried sage.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Butter Turkey Gravy
Elevate your holiday meals with this rich and savory turkey gravy infused with the sweetness of caramelized onions and the richness of butter. This recipe is perfect for serving alongside roasted or mashed potatoes, stuffing, or as a dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cups turkey drippings (or chicken broth)
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re dark golden brown and caramelized.
2. Remove the onions from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the butter to the same skillet and melt it over medium heat.
4. Sprinkle the flour into the melted butter and whisk to combine.
5. Gradually add the turkey drippings or chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until thickened to your liking.
7. Stir in the caramelized onions and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Red Wine Reduction Turkey Gravy
A rich and flavorful gravy to accompany your roasted turkey, made with reduced red wine and a hint of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup turkey drippings (from roasting)
– 1/2 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine turkey drippings, red wine, and butter.
2. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.
4. Stir in garlic and thyme.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over roasted turkey.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Creamy Giblet Turkey Gravy
Elevate your holiday meal with this rich and creamy turkey gravy infused with the savory flavors of giblets. Perfect for serving alongside roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups turkey giblets (neck, heart, liver), chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped giblets and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Sprinkle flour over the giblets and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let gravy simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened to desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Garlic and Parmesan Turkey Gravy
Elevate your turkey dinner with this savory gravy infused with the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup turkey drippings (from roasted or cooked turkey)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually pour in turkey drippings, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
7. Remove from heat and stir in chicken broth and Parmesan cheese.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Maple-Glazed Turkey Gravy
This sweet and savory gravy is the perfect accompaniment to your holiday turkey. Made with pure Canadian maple syrup, this rich and flavorful sauce is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup turkey drippings (or chicken broth)
– 1/4 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually add the turkey drippings or chicken broth, whisking constantly.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened to your liking.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the maple syrup.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cajun Turkey Gravy
Elevate your holiday meal with this bold and savory Spicy Cajun Turkey Gravy, perfect for serving over roasted turkey or mashed potatoes. This recipe combines the warmth of Cajun spices with a kick of heat from hot sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup turkey drippings (or chicken broth)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco or Frank’s RedHot)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in turkey drippings and spices until smooth.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in hot sauce and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Apple Cider Turkey Gravy
Elevate your holiday feast with this sweet and savory turkey gravy infused with the flavors of apple cider.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups turkey drippings or pan juices
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Gradually add the turkey drippings or pan juices, whisking until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add the apple cider and continue to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens to your liking.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Shallot and Thyme Turkey Gravy
Roasted Shallot and Thyme Turkey Gravy Recipe
Elevate your holiday meals with this rich and savory gravy, featuring the sweet caramelized flavors of roasted shallots and fragrant thyme.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups turkey drippings or pan juices
– 1/4 cup roasted shallot jam (see note)
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the turkey drippings or pan juices, roasted shallot jam, and flour until smooth.
2. Add the thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened to your liking.
5. Stir in the butter until melted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Note: To make roasted shallot jam, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice 1 large shallot into thin rings and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized and tender. Let cool before blending into a smooth jam.
Brown Butter and Sage Turkey Gravy
Transform your holiday turkey into a show-stopper with this rich and savory gravy infused with the warmth of brown butter and the earthiness of sage.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups turkey drippings (from roasting or cooking)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Add the flour and whisk to combine, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Gradually pour in the turkey drippings, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the chopped sage leaves and season with salt to taste.
6. Serve warm over your roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom and Leek Turkey Gravy
Elevate your holiday meal with this rich and creamy Turkey Gravy featuring sautéed mushrooms and leeks.
Creamy Mushroom and Leek Turkey Gravy Recipe
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium leek, thinly sliced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup turkey drippings or chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add leek and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in turkey drippings or broth, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bourbon-Infused Turkey Gravy
Elevate your holiday turkey with this rich and savory bourbon-infused gravy that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups turkey drippings (from cooking the turkey)
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually add the turkey drippings, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the bourbon whiskey, salt, and pepper.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herb-Butter Roasted Turkey Gravy
Elevate your holiday meal with this flavorful and easy-to-make herb-butter roasted turkey gravy. This rich, savory sauce is the perfect accompaniment to your roasted turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup turkey drippings
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and rosemary)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped herbs and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Sprinkle flour over the herb mixture and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until lightly browned.
5. Gradually stir in turkey drippings and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Summary
Get ready to elevate your Thanksgiving turkey game with these 20 creamy turkey gravy recipes! From classic homemade to rich and savory mushroom, there’s a recipe for every taste. Try slow-cooked onion and garlic, white wine and thyme, or southern-style sausage and turkey – or get adventurous with bacon-infused smoky, rosemary and sage, or caramelized onion and butter. With options like red wine reduction, creamy giblet, garlic and parmesan, maple-glazed, spicy Cajun, apple cider, roasted shallot and thyme, brown butter and sage, and bourbon-infused, you’re sure to find the perfect gravy for your holiday meal.
