Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy for Thanksgiving (No Drippings)
Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy for Thanksgiving is a simple and delicious gravy that doesn’t require turkey drippings. It’s smooth, flavorful, and perfect for anyone who wants to skip the extra step…
Tip: save now, cook later.Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy for Thanksgiving is a simple and delicious gravy that doesn’t require turkey drippings. It’s smooth, flavorful, and perfect for anyone who wants to skip the extra step of saving pan juices after roasting the bird. This gravy uses rich broth, herbs, and a bit of butter and flour to create that classic gravy taste we all love.
I love how easy this gravy is to prepare ahead of time, which takes a lot of stress off Thanksgiving day. You can make it the day before, refrigerate it, and just warm it up when the turkey is ready to be served. I always keep some extra broth on hand just in case I want to thin it out a bit morning-of. It’s a real lifesaver and always gets compliments from my family.
When serving, I like to pour this gravy over mashed potatoes, stuffing, or even roasted veggies. It brings everything on the plate together with cozy, comforting flavor. If you’re short on time or just want a smooth homemade gravy without the fuss, this recipe is a great go-to that feels like a win every time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broth: Turkey or chicken broth gives this gravy its rich flavor. Low sodium is best so you control the salt. If you don’t have turkey broth, chicken broth or even vegetable broth works well as substitutes.
Butter & Flour (Roux): Butter adds creaminess while flour thickens the gravy. Unsalted butter lets you adjust the salt easily. For a dairy-free version, try olive oil or vegan butter, but the flavor will change a bit.
Herbs: Thyme is classic here for a warm, earthy note. Fresh herbs add brightness if stirred in at the end. Don’t worry if you only have dried thyme; it works just fine and is more convenient.
How Do I Make a Smooth, Lump-Free Roux and Gravy?
Making the roux and combining it with broth can feel tricky, but it’s all about whisking and patience:
- Start melting butter on medium heat without browning it.
- Add flour and whisk constantly for 2-3 minutes until it’s a light golden and smells nutty. This cooks out the raw flour taste.
- Slowly add broth in small amounts, whisking continuously to mix well and prevent lumps.
- Keep whisking as you add the rest of the broth, then bring to a gentle simmer. The gravy will thicken gradually.
- If lumps form, whisk vigorously or strain before serving.
For reheating, gently warm and whisk to keep the texture smooth. Add broth or water if it gets too thick. Making it ahead means less stress and a gravy that’s ready to pour right when dinner’s served.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan – perfect size for making and reheating the gravy without splashing.
- Whisk – helps you mix the roux and broth smoothly, preventing lumps.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate butter, flour, and seasoning amounts.
- Heatproof spatula or wooden spoon – handy for scraping the sides of the pan.
- Storage container with lid – essential for making the gravy ahead and storing it in the fridge.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Stir in a splash of cranberry juice or orange zest for a subtle fruity twist that pairs well with Thanksgiving turkey.
- Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, richer gravy—great if you want a deeper flavor and some texture.
- Mix in cooked and crumbled cooked sausage for a meaty boost that works well on mashed potatoes or stuffing.
- Use fresh sage or rosemary instead of thyme for a piney, fragrant flavor that’s classic in fall dishes.
Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy for Thanksgiving (No Drippings)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups turkey or chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of active cooking time. If you plan to make it ahead, allow extra time to cool and chill the gravy in the refrigerator. Reheating only takes a few minutes before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Roux:
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once it starts bubbling but not browning, whisk in the flour. Keep whisking constantly for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light golden and has no raw flour smell.
2. Add Broth and Seasonings:
Slowly pour in the turkey or chicken broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add dried thyme and optional garlic powder. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking often, and cook for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
3. Final Touches and Storage:
Taste the gravy and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and stir in fresh herbs if you want extra aroma. Let the gravy cool slightly, then transfer to a container and refrigerate if making ahead. To serve, gently warm over low heat, stirring and thinning with broth or water if needed.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Heatproof spatula or wooden spoon
- Storage container with lid
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a splash of cranberry juice or orange zest for a fruity twist.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms for a richer, earthy flavor.
- Include cooked crumbled sausage for a meaty boost.
- Swap thyme with fresh sage or rosemary for a piney, fragrant note.
Can I Use Frozen Broth for This Gravy?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the broth completely in the fridge overnight before using. This helps it integrate smoothly into the roux without causing lumps.
Can I Make This Gravy Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the gravy up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to serve, gently reheat on low heat, whisking and adding broth or water if it’s too thick.
How Can I Thicken the Gravy If It’s Too Thin?
If your gravy is thinner than you’d like, mix a small amount of flour with cold water to make a slurry, then whisk it into the simmering gravy a little at a time until it reaches your desired thickness.
What Should I Serve This Gravy With?
This turkey gravy is perfect poured over roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and roasted vegetables—classic Thanksgiving favorites that soak up all the delicious flavor!
