There’s nothing quite as comforting as the rich aroma of make ahead turkey gravy wafting through your kitchen on a chilly fall day. Picture this: thick, velvety goodness ready to cascade over your mashed potatoes, turkey slices, and any other dish in need of a savory hug. crockpot lentil taco chili turkey pumpkin chili recipe The flavors meld together beautifully, creating an experience that dances on your taste buds and warms the soul.

Now, let’s not forget the chaos of holiday cooking. Between juggling side dishes and entertaining family members who insist on sharing their unsolicited cooking advice, having a make ahead turkey gravy ready to go is a game-changer. smoky chipotle turkey meatballs soup This recipe promises to save you time while delivering that homemade flavor we all crave during festive meals.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This make ahead turkey gravy is quick and simple to prepare, allowing you more time for family and fun.
It boasts a deep flavor profile that elevates any dish it touches.
The beautiful brown color and smooth texture will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to complement chicken or beef dishes throughout the year!

Ingredients for make ahead turkey gravy

maple glazed Brussels sprouts.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Turkey Drippings: The foundation of great gravy; use drippings from a roasted turkey for unbeatable flavor. For more inspiration, check out this slow cooker pot roast recipe.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for thickening; choose unbleached flour for a richer taste.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness; using unsalted allows better control over the seasoning.
Chicken or Turkey Stock: Use low-sodium stock to keep the gravy balanced; homemade stock is ideal if you’re feeling ambitious.
Soy Sauce: A splash enhances umami flavors; opt for low-sodium variety so it doesn’t overpower.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, ensuring your gravy has just the right zing!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make make ahead turkey gravy

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Collect Turkey Drippings

After roasting your turkey, collect those glorious drippings from the roasting pan. Pour them into a fat separator or let them sit so the fat rises to the top—this way, you’ll have that heavenly liquid gold ready without all the grease.

Step 2: Make a Roux

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt about half a cup of unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in an equal amount of all-purpose flour until smooth. Cook this mixture for about two minutes until it turns golden brown—this roux is key for thickening!

Step 3: Add Stock and Drippings

Slowly pour in two cups of chicken or turkey stock while continuing to whisk away lumps like they owe you money. Then add in those fragrant turkey drippings and keep stirring until it’s well combined.

Step 4: Season with Umami

Stir in a splash of soy sauce (around one tablespoon) along with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer gently for about five minutes—it should thicken up beautifully during this time.

Step 5: Adjust Consistency

If your gravy is thicker than an awkward family gathering conversation, simply add more stock until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste again and adjust seasoning if necessary—no one likes bland gravy!

Step 6: Serve with Love

Transfer your magnificent make ahead turkey gravy into a serving bowl or directly over mashed potatoes or turkey slices. Watch as everyone gathers around your creation like moths to a flame! For more inspiration, check out this creamy scalloped potatoes recipe.

Enjoy every flavorful spoonful knowing you’ve saved yourself precious time during meal prep—and don’t forget to bask in the glory of compliments that follow!

You Must Know

Make ahead turkey gravy is a game-changer for holiday feasts.
Not only does it save time, but it also elevates any dish with rich flavor.
This gravy can be made ahead and stored, ensuring you can focus on enjoying the festivities instead of slaving away in the kitchen.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in butter until fragrant. Then, whisk in flour to create a roux before adding turkey drippings and broth. Simmer gently while stirring until thickened, ensuring a smooth texture and delicious depth of flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your gravy by adding herbs like thyme or sage for extra flavor. You can also swap turkey broth with chicken broth if that’s what you have on hand. A splash of white wine can add a delightful zing.

Storing & Reheating

Store your make ahead turkey gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For a lump-free gravy, whisk vigorously while adding liquid to the roux.
Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning as needed.
If using store-bought broth, opt for low-sodium varieties for better control over salt levels.

Sharing this recipe with friends turned my kitchen into a cozy gathering spot last Thanksgiving. They couldn’t get enough of the rich flavors, which made all that prep worth it!

FAQs:

What is make ahead turkey gravy?

Make ahead turkey gravy is a convenient sauce prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy your holiday or special occasion meals without the last-minute stress. By using turkey drippings, broth, and seasonings, this gravy enhances the flavor of your dishes. Preparing it ahead of time means you can simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve, ensuring a smooth and flavorful addition to your Thanksgiving feast or any turkey dinner.

How can I store make ahead turkey gravy?

To store make ahead turkey gravy, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the gravy in portions. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently to maintain its creamy consistency.

Can I use chicken broth instead of turkey broth for make ahead turkey gravy?

Yes, you can use chicken broth as a substitute for turkey broth when making make ahead turkey gravy. While it may slightly change the flavor profile, chicken broth still provides a rich base that complements the other ingredients. If you want to retain that classic turkey flavor, consider blending both broths or adding some turkey drippings if available.

How do I thicken make ahead turkey gravy?

To thicken make ahead turkey gravy, you can use a simple roux made from equal parts flour and fat, such as butter or pan drippings. Cook this mixture until it’s golden brown before whisking in your broth. Alternatively, cornstarch mixed with cold water can also work well; just remember to add it gradually until you achieve your desired thickness.

Conclusion for make ahead turkey gravy:

Make ahead turkey gravy offers a practical solution for enhancing your holiday meals without added stress. By preparing this savory sauce in advance, you ensure that your dining experience remains delightful and seamless. Storing the gravy properly allows for easy reheating while maintaining its delicious flavor and creamy texture. Whether using turkey or chicken broth, you’ll create a meal centerpiece that will impress your guests and elevate any dish you serve. Enjoy every moment of your holiday feast!