Easy Turkey Gravy From Drippings

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Save those pan drippings — they’re liquid gold for this classic turkey gravy we’ve been making every Thanksgiving for 17 years. It’s smooth, rich, and flavorful, made with drippings and simple pantry ingredients like flour, broth, and seasoning. Whether you have a little or a lot of drippings, this foolproof gravy comes together in minutes and instantly makes any turkey dinner taste like a celebration.

If you don't have pan drippings, here's how to make gravy without drippings.

Why You'll Love This Pan Dripping Turkey Gravy Recipe

We can all agree that turkey gravy belongs on every Thanksgiving table whenever a turkey is roasted. Every year, I make my juicy roast turkey breast, which yields just enough pan drippings to give this gravy its rich, savory flavor. Even a modest amount of drippings adds an unmistakable turkey succulence, and you can easily supplement with butter and broth or stock to make any size batch. This easy recipe comes together in minutes and consistently earns those “best gravy ever” compliments. Once you’ve made it this way, it’ll become part of your own holiday tradition, too.

What Are Turkey Drippings?

These are the ridiculously savory juices and fat that collect at the bottom of the roasting pan while your turkey cooks. They’re packed with flavor from the roasted bird with golden fat on top, rich juices below, and tiny browned bits (called fond) that add depth and color. Once strained, you’ll use both the fat and the juices to make a silky, full-bodied gravy that tastes like pure Thanksgiving.

What you'll need

• Turkey drippings – These are the flavorful fat and juices that collect in your turkey roasting pan. Even a small amount adds rich, roasted flavor. If you have drippings, don’t let them go to waste! They’re the key to the best turkey gravy you’ll ever make.
• All-purpose flour – This thickening agent gives the gravy body and a smooth, silky texture. It’s essential for making the roux that forms the base of your gravy.
• Broth or stock – Adds volume and depth. Homemade turkey stock gives the most authentic flavor, but chicken broth or vegetable broth works beautifully if that’s what you have.
• Salt and pepper – Taste and adjust the seasoning right before serving to balance all the flavors.

How to Make Turkey Gravy from Drippings

1. Strain the drippings. Pour the pan drippings through a fine-mesh sieve into a measuring cup to remove solids. You’ll be left with smooth, golden liquid. Let the drippings sit until the fat rises to the top. Skim off the fat and measure about ½ cup to use for your gravy base.

2. Make the roux. In a saucepan, melt the skimmed fat (or butter) over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for a few minutes until it turns lightly golden and smells nutty.

4. Add liquid and whisk. Gradually whisk in the reserved turkey juices or broth, a little at a time, until the mixture becomes smooth and begins to thicken.

5. Simmer and finish. Continue whisking until the gravy reaches your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper, then serve warm.

Transfer to your favorite gravy boat or ceramic bowl.

It's time to indulge in the best turkey gravy on all things!

Recipe tips

• Understanding turkey drippings: After roasting, the drippings naturally separate — golden fat on top, flavorful juices below. You’ll use both for this recipe to create the rich, classic gravy flavor we all love with holiday dinners.
• Roux color: The longer you cook the roux, the darker and deeper the gravy flavor will be. For a light, mild gravy, stop when it’s golden. For a darker, roastier flavor, cook it a little longer.
• Smoothing out lumps: A good whisk keeps the gravy lump-free, but if any appear, pour the finished gravy through a fine-mesh sieve for a silky finish.
• Making ahead: Turkey gravy can be made in advance and refrigerated. The flavor actually improves as it sits, so it’s a great dish to prepare ahead of time.
• Reheating: Warm the gravy over medium heat on the stove, whisking occasionally until heated through. Or microwave on medium power in short intervals, stirring between each until smooth.

Serving Ideas

Serve this delectable turkey gravy as an essential condiment for a plate of juicy turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry orange sauce, and other favorite holiday sides. It brings savory goodness to anything it touches.

Storage and reheat instructions

Cool the gravy completely and refrigerate the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm the gravy on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to restore its consistency if needed. Avoid overheating to prevent a change in texture or flavor.

📖 Recipe