Turkey gravy without drippings is a Thanksgiving lifesaver: rich, silky, and full of savory flavor, with no turkey required. A golden butter and flour roux, flavorful broth, and a few seasoning tricks create gravy that tastes like it came from the roasting pan.
This make ahead turkey gravy is a lump-free gravy made with easy ingredients and about 25 minutes of work. It is the easy homemade gravy with broth that saves you from last-minute stress.
Recipe at a Glance
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 8 servings (about 4 cups) |
| Category | Sauce / Thanksgiving |
Why You’ll Love This Turkey Gravy Without Drippings
- Rich, savory flavor without any pan drippings
- Make ahead and free up your Thanksgiving Day
- Silky and lump-free with a few simple tricks
- Made with pantry staples
- Great on turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and more
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 shallot, finely minced, and 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups low-sodium turkey or chicken broth, warmed
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce and 1 teaspoon soy sauce, for color and depth
- ½ teaspoon black pepper and salt to taste
How to Make Easy Homemade Gravy with Broth
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat and cook the shallot for 2 minutes until soft.
- Add the garlic and thyme and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 to 3 minutes until the roux turns a light golden brown and smells nutty.
- Slowly pour in the warm broth, a little at a time, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring often, until the gravy thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Stir in the Worcestershire, soy sauce, and pepper, then taste and add salt as needed. Strain for extra smoothness if you like.
Tips for the Best Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy
- Use warm broth to avoid lumps when adding to the roux.
- Cook the roux until golden for deeper flavor.
- Whisk constantly as you add the liquid.
- Season at the end, since broth saltiness varies.
- Thin with a splash of broth if the gravy thickens as it sits.
Variations to Try: Easy Gravy Ideas
- Add sauteed mushrooms for a mushroom gravy.
- Stir in a splash of white wine or sherry after the roux.
- Add a spoonful of turkey drippings once the turkey is done for extra flavor.
- Use sage or rosemary in place of thyme.
How to Store It
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, whisking and thinning with broth as needed. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge overnight, then whisk well while reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make turkey gravy without drippings?
Use a butter and flour roux with flavorful broth, aromatics, and savory seasonings like Worcestershire and soy sauce.
How do I fix lumpy gravy?
Whisk vigorously, pour through a fine-mesh strainer, or blend briefly with an immersion blender.
Can I make gravy ahead of time?
Yes. Make it up to 4 days ahead and reheat it with a little extra broth.
How do I thicken gravy that is too thin?
Simmer longer or whisk in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons cold water.
Turkey Gravy Without Drippings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Melt the butter and cook the shallot for 2 minutes.
- Step 2: Add the garlic and thyme for 30 seconds.
- Step 3: Whisk in the flour and cook 2 to 3 minutes until light golden.
- Tip: Stir constantly.
- Step 4: Slowly whisk in the warm broth.
- Tip: Add the broth gradually to avoid lumps.
- Step 5: Simmer 8 to 10 minutes until thickened.
- Step 6: Season with Worcestershire, soy sauce, pepper, and salt and strain if desired.
Notes
Reheat with extra broth if the gravy thickens as it sits.