Introduction: Can Gravy Be Rich, Flavorful, and Effortless?
Want to elevate your Thanksgiving meal with a silky, savory sauce? Homemade Thanksgiving Gravy, inspired by Ina Garten’s recipe, transforms turkey drippings into a rich, flavorful gravy with the perfect balance of buttery onions, Cognac, and optional cream. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars from 323 reviews, this easy recipe is a holiday must-have. Ready to whisk up a gravy that ties your feast together? Let’s dive into this simple yet luxurious recipe!
Overview: Why Homemade Thanksgiving Gravy Shines
Homemade Thanksgiving Gravy is loved for its velvety texture, deep flavor, and quick preparation. Here’s what makes it special:
- Time Requirement: 5 minutes prep, 25 minutes cooking (12-15 minutes for onions, 2-3 minutes for flour, 4-5 minutes to thicken), totaling 30 minutes.
- Difficulty Level: Easy—requires basic sautéing and whisking, perfect for all skill levels.
- Why It’s Special: Caramelized onions, turkey drippings, and a splash of Cognac create a rich, savory gravy that enhances any holiday meal. This recipe yields 3 cups, serving about 8-12 with a holiday feast.
Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any meal featuring roast turkey or chicken.
Essential Ingredients
Homemade Thanksgiving Gravy uses simple ingredients for a bold, silky result. Here’s what you’ll need for 3 cups:
- ¼ pound (1 stick) unsalted butter: Builds a rich, flavorful base.
- 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion (2 onions): Adds sweet, caramelized depth.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances flavor.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds subtle spice.
- Defatted turkey drippings plus low-sodium chicken stock to make 2 cups, heated: The savory backbone.
- 1 tablespoon Cognac or brandy: Boosts complexity with a warm note.
- 1 tablespoon white wine (optional): Adds brightness.
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional): Creates a creamier texture.
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Turkey Drippings: Provide authentic roast flavor; chicken stock supplements volume.
- Butter and Onions: Form a sweet, rich base through caramelization.
- Flour: Ensures a smooth, thickened texture.
- Cognac: Adds a sophisticated, aromatic depth.
Substitutions and Variations
- Butter: Swap with plant-based butter for vegan or olive oil for a lighter option.
- Onions: Use shallots or leeks for a milder flavor.
- Flour: Replace with gluten-free 1:1 flour or cornstarch (use 2 tablespoons dissolved in cold water).
- Turkey Drippings/Chicken Stock: Use all chicken or vegetable stock for vegetarian/vegan.
- Cognac/Brandy: Substitute with apple juice, sherry, or omit for non-alcoholic.
- White Wine: Use lemon juice or omit.
- Heavy Cream: Swap with half-and-half, plant-based cream, or omit for a lighter gravy.
- Vegan Option: Use vegetable stock and plant-based butter; omit cream or use vegan cream.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch; ensure stock is gluten-free.
- Flavor Variations:
- Herb Gravy: Add 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme or rosemary with the onions.
- Garlic Gravy: Add 1 minced garlic clove with the onions.
- Mushroom Gravy: Sauté 8 ounces sliced mushrooms with the onions.
- Spicy Gravy: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne or hot sauce with the seasonings.
- Wine-Forward Gravy: Increase white wine to ¼ cup for brighter flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Homemade Thanksgiving Gravy is a quick process that yields a rich, silky sauce. Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Gather and Prep
- Gather all ingredients: 1 stick butter, 1 ½ cups chopped onions, ¼ cup flour, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, 2 cups heated turkey drippings plus chicken stock, 1 tablespoon Cognac, 1 tablespoon white wine (optional), 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional).
- Chop 2 onions to yield 1 ½ cups.
- Collect turkey drippings from your roasted turkey (e.g., from the World’s Simplest Thanksgiving Turkey recipe); defat by skimming or using a separator.
- Combine drippings with chicken stock to make 2 cups; heat gently in a saucepan or microwave.
Tip: Chop onions finely for faster cooking; heat stock to ensure smooth blending.
Step 2: Cook Onions
- In a large (10- to 12-inch) sauté pan, melt 1 stick butter over medium-low heat.
- Add 1 ½ cups chopped onions and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
Tip: Cook onions slowly to caramelize without burning; stir to ensure even browning.
Step 3: Thicken the Base
- Sprinkle ¼ cup flour into the pan and whisk to combine.
- Add 1 teaspoon kosher salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
- Cook, whisking constantly, for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Tip: Whisk vigorously to avoid lumps; keep heat medium-low to prevent scorching.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Finish
- Slowly add the 2 cups heated turkey drippings and chicken stock mixture, whisking to combine.
- Add 1 tablespoon Cognac or brandy.
- Cook uncovered over medium heat for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- If using, add 1 tablespoon white wine and 1 tablespoon heavy cream; stir to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Tip: Add liquids gradually while whisking for a smooth texture; simmer until gravy coats a spoon.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve hot, about ¼-⅓ cup per serving, in a gravy boat or bowl.
- Pair with roast turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing for a holiday feast.
Tip: Keep warm over low heat or in a double boiler until serving; stir before pouring.
Assembly: Building the Perfect Homemade Thanksgiving Gravy
Making Homemade Thanksgiving Gravy is all about creating a rich, cohesive sauce. Here’s how to make it shine:
- Onions and Butter: Caramelize for a sweet, savory base.
- Flour: Thickens for a silky texture.
- Drippings and Stock: Provide authentic turkey flavor and volume.
- Cognac and Cream: Add sophistication and richness.
Presentation Tips
- Serve in a warm gravy boat for an elegant touch.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a pinch of black pepper.
- Pair with holiday classics like creamy mashed potatoes or sausage and herb stuffing.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Homemade Thanksgiving Gravy is great for make-ahead prep or leftovers.
- Storage:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers; leave room for expansion.
- Make-Ahead:
- Prepare gravy up to 2 days ahead using chicken stock alone; add drippings when reheating.
- Freeze with or without drippings; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, whisking in a splash of stock or water to restore consistency.
- Tip: Whisk well after reheating to restore smoothness; avoid boiling to prevent separation.
Recipe Variations
Homemade Thanksgiving Gravy is versatile and easy to customize. Here are some fun twists:
- Creamy Herb Gravy: Add 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage or thyme with the cream.
- Giblet Gravy: Add chopped, cooked turkey giblets with the stock.
- Vegan Gravy: Use vegetable stock and plant-based butter; omit cream or use vegan cream.
- Gluten-Free Gravy: Use gluten-free flour or 2 tablespoons cornstarch dissolved in cold water.
- Wine-Rich Gravy: Replace Cognac with ¼ cup red wine for deeper flavor.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Based on 12 Servings of ¼ Cup)
- Calories: Approximately 100-120 kcal (varies with cream and wine use).
- Protein: Low, from stock.
- Fat: Moderate, from butter and optional cream.
- Carbs: Low, from flour and onions.
- Note: For precise nutrition, calculate based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Conclusion: Savor the Silky Perfection!
Homemade Thanksgiving Gravy is the finishing touch that brings rich, savory, and silky perfection to your holiday plate. With caramelized onions, turkey drippings, and a splash of Cognac, it’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any roast dinner. Easy to make with a big flavor payoff, this gravy is sure to impress your guests. So, grab your whisk, whip up this luxurious recipe, and elevate your feast. We’d love to hear how your gravy turns out—share your creations in the comments or on social media!
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Homemade Thanksgiving Gravy
Description
Want to elevate your Thanksgiving meal with a silky, savory sauce? Homemade Thanksgiving Gravy, inspired by Ina Garten’s recipe, transforms turkey drippings into a rich, flavorful gravy with the perfect balance of buttery onions, Cognac, and optional cream.
Ingredients
Homemade Thanksgiving Gravy uses simple ingredients for a bold, silky result. Here’s what you’ll need for 3 cups:
- ¼ pound (1 stick) unsalted butter: Builds a rich, flavorful base.
- 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion (2 onions): Adds sweet, caramelized depth.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances flavor.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds subtle spice.
- Defatted turkey drippings plus low-sodium chicken stock to make 2 cups, heated: The savory backbone.
- 1 tablespoon Cognac or brandy: Boosts complexity with a warm note.
- 1 tablespoon white wine (optional): Adds brightness.
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional): Creates a creamier texture.
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Turkey Drippings: Provide authentic roast flavor; chicken stock supplements volume.
- Butter and Onions: Form a sweet, rich base through caramelization.
- Flour: Ensures a smooth, thickened texture.
- Cognac: Adds a sophisticated, aromatic depth.
Substitutions and Variations
- Butter: Swap with plant-based butter for vegan or olive oil for a lighter option.
- Onions: Use shallots or leeks for a milder flavor.
- Flour: Replace with gluten-free 1:1 flour or cornstarch (use 2 tablespoons dissolved in cold water).
- Turkey Drippings/Chicken Stock: Use all chicken or vegetable stock for vegetarian/vegan.
- Cognac/Brandy: Substitute with apple juice, sherry, or omit for non-alcoholic.
- White Wine: Use lemon juice or omit.
- Heavy Cream: Swap with half-and-half, plant-based cream, or omit for a lighter gravy.
- Vegan Option: Use vegetable stock and plant-based butter; omit cream or use vegan cream.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch; ensure stock is gluten-free.
- Flavor Variations:
- Herb Gravy: Add 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme or rosemary with the onions.
- Garlic Gravy: Add 1 minced garlic clove with the onions.
- Mushroom Gravy: Sauté 8 ounces sliced mushrooms with the onions.
- Spicy Gravy: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne or hot sauce with the seasonings.
- Wine-Forward Gravy: Increase white wine to ¼ cup for brighter flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather and Prep
- Gather all ingredients: 1 stick butter, 1 ½ cups chopped onions, ¼ cup flour, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, 2 cups heated turkey drippings plus chicken stock, 1 tablespoon Cognac, 1 tablespoon white wine (optional), 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional).
- Chop 2 onions to yield 1 ½ cups.
- Collect turkey drippings from your roasted turkey (e.g., from the World’s Simplest Thanksgiving Turkey recipe); defat by skimming or using a separator.
- Combine drippings with chicken stock to make 2 cups; heat gently in a saucepan or microwave.
Tip: Chop onions finely for faster cooking; heat stock to ensure smooth blending.
Step 2: Cook Onions
- In a large (10- to 12-inch) sauté pan, melt 1 stick butter over medium-low heat.
- Add 1 ½ cups chopped onions and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
Tip: Cook onions slowly to caramelize without burning; stir to ensure even browning.
Step 3: Thicken the Base
- Sprinkle ¼ cup flour into the pan and whisk to combine.
- Add 1 teaspoon kosher salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
- Cook, whisking constantly, for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Tip: Whisk vigorously to avoid lumps; keep heat medium-low to prevent scorching.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Finish
- Slowly add the 2 cups heated turkey drippings and chicken stock mixture, whisking to combine.
- Add 1 tablespoon Cognac or brandy.
- Cook uncovered over medium heat for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- If using, add 1 tablespoon white wine and 1 tablespoon heavy cream; stir to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Tip: Add liquids gradually while whisking for a smooth texture; simmer until gravy coats a spoon.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve hot, about ¼-⅓ cup per serving, in a gravy boat or bowl.
- Pair with roast turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing for a holiday feast.
Tip: Keep warm over low heat or in a double boiler until serving; stir before pouring.
FAQs
1. Why is my gravy lumpy?
Insufficient whisking or adding stock too quickly can cause lumps; whisk constantly and add liquids gradually.
2. Can I make this without turkey drippings?
Yes, use 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock for a flavorful alternative.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written; use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for a gluten-free version.
4. Why is my gravy too thin?
Under-cooking or too much liquid can thin it; simmer longer or add a slurry (1 tablespoon flour + 2 tablespoons water).
5. Can I skip the Cognac?
Yes, omit or replace with apple juice or broth for a non-alcoholic version.
6. Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, make up to 2 days ahead with stock; add drippings when reheating, or freeze for 3 months.
7. What are the health benefits of this dish?
Onions provide antioxidants; high fat from butter and cream, so enjoy in moderation.