Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy for Thanksgiving
Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy for Thanksgiving is a lifesaver when you're juggling a million things in the kitchen. This gravy is rich, flavorful, and silky smooth, made with all the classic…
Tip: save now, cook later.Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy for Thanksgiving is a lifesaver when you’re juggling a million things in the kitchen. This gravy is rich, flavorful, and silky smooth, made with all the classic ingredients that bring out that perfect turkey dinner magic. The best part? You prepare it ahead of time, so when the big day arrives, you have one less thing to worry about.
I love that this gravy lets me focus on cooking the turkey and sides without stressing about making gravy last minute. I usually make it the day before, store it in the fridge, and then just warm it up before serving. It saves so much time and keeps the holiday cooking calm and collected, plus it tastes just as fresh and delicious as if it was made right then and there.
My favorite way to serve this gravy is pouring it generously over sliced turkey and fluffy mashed potatoes. It’s always the first thing to disappear at the table, and I think everyone loves how smooth and rich it is. If you’re like me and want a little peace of mind on Thanksgiving, this make-ahead turkey gravy is the perfect helper to make your holiday meal extra special without the extra stress.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: Butter adds richness and helps create the roux for thickening. You can use olive oil if you need a dairy-free option, but butter gives the best flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: This is the thickening agent. For gluten-free, try a blend of cornstarch or arrowroot powder, but add it slowly to avoid lumps.
Turkey Broth or Stock: Homemade turkey broth is ideal for deep flavor. If you don’t have time, store-bought low-sodium broth works well. Avoid salty broths to control seasoning.
Dried Herbs (Sage, Thyme, Rosemary): These bring classic Thanksgiving flavors. Fresh herbs can be used but add them later to keep the fresh note. Adjust amounts to taste.
Worcestershire Sauce or White Wine (Optional): These add extra depth to the gravy. You can skip if you prefer a simpler flavor or leave out the wine for a non-alcoholic version.
How Do You Make Smooth, Lump-Free Turkey Gravy?
Making gravy without lumps can seem tricky, but the key is in the roux and slow, steady mixing.
- Start by melting butter and whisking the flour into it. Keep stirring constantly until the roux turns a light golden color—this cooks out the flour taste.
- Add turkey broth gradually, about half a cup at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition. This slows the flour from clumping and helps a smooth texture.
- Keep the gravy at a gentle simmer. Stir often so it thickens evenly. Avoid boiling, which can break the sauce texture.
- If lumps form, whisk quickly and strongly or strain the gravy through a fine mesh sieve for silky smoothness.
- Reheat gently on serving day and add a little broth or water if the gravy thickens too much.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan – perfect for making the roux and simmering the gravy evenly without burning.
- Whisk – helps blend flour and liquid smoothly to avoid lumps.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts, especially flour and broth.
- Airtight container – great for storing your make-ahead gravy safely in the fridge.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – handy for occasional stirring while reheating the gravy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add sautéed mushrooms for a rich, earthy flavor that pairs well with turkey.
- Mix in a splash of sherry or brandy during reheating for a subtle sweetness and warmth.
- Stir in finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving for brightness.
- Swap some turkey broth for chicken or vegetable stock to suit what you have on hand.
Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy for Thanksgiving
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups low-sodium turkey broth or stock (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or a splash of white wine for depth
How Much Time Will You Need?
This gravy takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You can make it up to two days ahead of Thanksgiving and just reheat it gently on the day you serve. This helps you save time and stress during the busy holiday!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Roux
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour. Keep whisking constantly for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture turns a golden blonde. Be careful not to burn it.
2. Add the Broth
Slowly pour in the turkey broth, about half a cup at a time. Whisk well after each addition so the gravy stays smooth and lump-free.
3. Season the Gravy
Add the dried sage, thyme, rosemary, and if you like, Worcestershire sauce or a splash of white wine for added flavor. Stir everything together.
4. Simmer and Thicken
Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer, stirring often. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes until it thickens to the consistency you like. Keep the heat low to avoid boiling.
5. Final Touches
Season the gravy with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Take it off the heat and let it cool.
6. Store and Reheat
Pour the cooled gravy into an airtight container and refrigerate. On Thanksgiving day, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it gets too thick, add a little turkey stock or water to thin it out.
7. Serve
Pour the warm, smooth turkey gravy over your sliced turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing. Enjoy your Thanksgiving meal with this delicious, ready-ahead gravy!
Can I Make the Turkey Gravy Ahead of Time?
Yes! This gravy can be made up to two days before Thanksgiving. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat it on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve.
How Can I Avoid Lumps in My Gravy?
Whisk the flour and butter together thoroughly to form a smooth roux before adding broth slowly in small amounts, whisking constantly. This helps prevent lumps from forming.
What Can I Use if I Don’t Have Turkey Broth?
You can substitute chicken broth or vegetable stock if turkey broth isn’t available. Just keep in mind this may slightly change the flavor but will still taste delicious.
How Do I Fix Gravy If It’s Too Thick or Too Thin?
If the gravy is too thick, whisk in a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer it a bit longer to thicken or whisk in a small flour slurry (flour mixed with cold water) gradually.