No holiday meal is complete without a delicious gravy to drizzle over turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes. Ina Garten’s Turkey Gravy delivers just that—deeply savory, smooth, and made from the flavorful pan drippings of a perfectly roasted bird. It’s the ideal finishing touch to your Thanksgiving or Sunday roast.

What Is Ina Garten’s Turkey Gravy?

This gravy is made by whisking together roasted turkey drippings, flour, and stock, then simmering the mixture until thickened. Ina sometimes enriches hers with wine or cognac and enhances the flavor with seasonings or turkey giblets for extra depth.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Turkey Gravy

Classic, rich flavor – Made from real pan drippings
Smooth, glossy texture – Restaurant-quality finish
Quick and easy – Comes together in minutes
Make-ahead friendly – Reheats beautifully
Perfect complement to any roast – Especially turkey
Elevates your entire meal – From stuffing to mashed potatoes
Flexible recipe – Use broth if you don’t have drippings

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Turkey Gravy

¼ cup pan drippings from roast turkey (or ¼ cup unsalted butter)
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups turkey or chicken stock (preferably homemade or low-sodium)
1 tablespoon Cognac or dry white wine (optional)
½ teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional: turkey giblets, chopped parsley, or pan-roasted onions for flavor

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten’s Turkey Gravy

Step 1: Collect the Drippings

After roasting your turkey, pour the pan drippings into a fat separator. Let rest for a few minutes, then pour the juices into a saucepan and discard most of the fat (or use as desired).

Step 2: Make a Roux

In the same pan (or a clean saucepan), heat ¼ cup of the fat or butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly golden and smooth.

Step 3: Add the Stock and Wine

Slowly whisk in the turkey or chicken stock and the Cognac or wine, if using. Continue whisking to avoid lumps.

Step 4: Simmer Until Thickened

Bring to a simmer and cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring often, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. If too thick, add a little more stock.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Add salt and pepper to taste. For extra depth, stir in chopped giblets or herbs, if using. Serve warm over turkey and sides.

What to Serve With Turkey Gravy

Roast turkey or turkey breast – The perfect pairing
Mashed or roasted potatoes – Soaks up the gravy beautifully
Stuffing or dressing – Adds moisture and flavor
Biscuits or dinner rolls – For dipping
Green beans or Brussels sprouts – With a drizzle of gravy
Meatloaf or roasted chicken – Great for repurposing leftovers
Leftover turkey sandwiches – Spread warm or chilled

Expert Tips for Mastering the Recipe

Use a fat separator – Helps get clean pan juices
Whisk constantly while adding liquid – Prevents lumps
Cook the flour before adding stock – Removes raw taste
Simmer gently, not rapidly – Keeps texture smooth
Add a splash of wine or Cognac – For depth of flavor
Strain the gravy if needed – For an ultra-smooth finish
Make a double batch – It disappears fast!

Variations of the Recipe

Use shallots or onions – Sauté with fat for added flavor
Add a dash of Worcestershire or soy sauce – For umami
Stir in cream or butter at the end – For richness
Make it gluten-free – Use cornstarch instead of flour
Add chopped fresh thyme or sage – For herbal notes
Deglaze the pan with wine before adding stock – Boosts flavor
Make it vegetarian – Use butter and veggie stock, skip drippings

How to Store Leftover Gravy

Refrigerate in an airtight container – Keeps for 3–4 days
Reheat gently on the stovetop – Whisk to restore texture
Add broth if too thick when reheating – Adjust consistency
Freeze in small portions – For up to 2 months
Label and date containers – Helps with meal planning
Avoid boiling when reheating – Prevents breaking or separation
Strain before storing – Removes any solids or lumps

How Do I Reuse Leftover Turkey Gravy?

Pour over open-faced turkey sandwiches – Classic comfort
Mix into mashed potatoes or stuffing – Adds moisture
Add to soups or stews – As a thickener
Use in shepherd’s pie – With turkey and veggies
Toss with pasta and roasted veggies – For a creamy sauce
Drizzle over roasted meats or tofu – Instant upgrade
Top baked potatoes or rice bowls – Cozy and filling

Nutritional Value (per ¼ cup serving)

Calories: 90
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 250mg
Sugar: 0g
Fiber: 0g

FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten’s turkey gravy ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gravy up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, whisking until smooth.

What can I use if I don’t have turkey drippings?

You can substitute the drippings with unsalted butter and use turkey or chicken stock as the liquid base. It still produces a rich, flavorful gravy.

How do I prevent lumps in the gravy?

Whisk the flour into the fat thoroughly before adding liquid. Then, slowly add the stock while whisking constantly to maintain a smooth texture.

Can I freeze leftover turkey gravy?

Yes, turkey gravy freezes well. Cool completely, store in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.

Final Words

Ina Garten’s Turkey Gravy is the perfect complement to your holiday table or Sunday dinner. With its rich, velvety texture and bold, savory flavor, it brings the entire meal together.