Transform your Thanksgiving meal with this rich and savory Turkey Gravy. This recipe is easy to make and adds that perfect finishing touch to your holiday feast. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a gravy that’s smooth, flavorful, and perfect for drizzling over your turkey, mashed potatoes, and more.
Why You’ll Love This Holiday Classic
- Quick and Easy . Ready in just 15 minutes, this gravy is perfect for any occasion, not just Thanksgiving.
- Rich Flavor . The depth of flavor from the turkey drippings and broth makes this gravy stand out.
- Customizable . Adjust the thickness, seasoning, or even add a splash of wine for a personalized touch.
Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner, this turkey gravy will elevate your meal with its rich and savory taste.
What Does Turkey Gravy Taste Like?
Turkey gravy has a rich, savory, and slightly buttery flavor that perfectly complements roasted turkey and other Thanksgiving dishes. The base of the gravy, made from turkey drippings, adds a deep, meaty flavor with a hint of roasted goodness.
The addition of broth enhances this taste, giving it a smooth, velvety texture. You will also notice subtle earthy notes from herbs like thyme or rosemary, and a slight tang if a splash of wine or sherry is added.
Overall, turkey gravy is warm, comforting, and full of umami, making it the perfect accompaniment to holiday meals.
Is It Better To Thicken Turkey Gravy With Flour Or Cornstarch?
If you’re making a classic turkey gravy with a rich, hearty feel, flour might be the better choice. For a lighter, smoother gravy, cornstarch could be more appropriate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Turkey Drippings - The flavorful fat and juices left in the pan after roasting your turkey.
- Butter - Adds richness and helps create a smooth consistency.
- All-Purpose Flour - Thickens the gravy to the perfect consistency.
- Turkey or Chicken Broth - Adds depth to the gravy and helps control the thickness.
- Salt and Pepper - Essential for seasoning to taste.
- Fresh Herbs - A sprig of thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
- White Wine or Sherry (optional)- Adds complexity and a touch of elegance to the gravy.
How To Make Turkey Gravy With Drippings
- Gather Your Drippings . After roasting your turkey, pour the drippings into a measuring cup. Let it sit for a few minutes to separate the fat from the juices. Skim off the fat, reserving about 1 cup for the gravy.
- Make the Roux . In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the reserved turkey fat and flour, whisking continuously to form a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden color, which will ensure your gravy doesn’t taste floury.
- Add the Broth . Slowly whisk in the turkey or chicken broth, continuing to stir to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season and Enhance . Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a splash of white wine or sherry and a sprig of fresh herbs. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Strain and Serve . For a silky smooth gravy, strain it through a fine mesh sieve into a serving dish. Serve hot over your turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and more!
Tips And Tricks
Making turkey gravy can be straightforward, but a few tips and tricks can elevate your gravy to the next level. Here’s how to make it perfect:
- Gradually Add Liquid . Add the liquid a little at a time, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. This ensures a smooth gravy.
- Season Carefully . Pan drippings can be salty, so go easy on the salt. Instead, focus on adding freshly ground black pepper and herbs like thyme or sage for extra flavor.
- Thicken to Your Liking . If you need to thicken it further, mix a little cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry, then whisk it into the gravy while simmering.
- Strain for a Smooth Texture . This removes any lumps, pieces of turkey, or bits of herbs, leaving you with a silky gravy.
Variations
Here are some delicious variations for homemade turkey gravy that you can try to add a unique twist to your holiday meal:
- Mushroom Gravy - Sauté the mushrooms in butter until they’re browned and tender, then add them to the gravy. This adds a rich, earthy flavor and a hearty texture.
- Onion Gravy - Thinly slice onions and cook them slowly in butter until they’re golden brown and caramelized. Stir them into the gravy for added sweetness and depth.
- Creamy Gravy - Stir in the cream towards the end of cooking, after the gravy has thickened, for a rich and smooth finish.
What To Eat With Turkey Gravy
Turkey gravy is a versatile and flavorful sauce that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some delicious options to enjoy with it:
- Mashed Potatoes - A classic pairing, creamy mashed potatoes soak up the rich flavors perfectly.
- Roast Turkey - Of course, it is traditionally served over roasted turkey, adding moisture and flavor to the meat.
- Stuffing - Drizzle turkey gravy over stuffing (or dressing) to add extra moisture and a savory boost.
- Roasted Vegetables - Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or root vegetables are elevated with a drizzle of turkey gravy.
How Long Does It Last?
Store leftover turkey gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little broth or water to loosen if needed.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes! Turkey gravy freezes well. Pour cooled gravy into a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
More Spectacular Sauces
- Bang Bang Sauce
- Big Mac Sauce
- Baja Sauce
- Keto Ranch Dressing
- Raspberry Vinaigrette
- Egg Roll Dipping Sauce
Turkey Gravy Recipe | Turkey Graving With Drippings
Ingredients
- ▢ 1 cup Turkey Drippings
- ▢ 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter
- ▢ 1/4 cup All Purpose Flour
- ▢ 4 cups Turkey Broth , or Chicken if Turkey isn’t available
- ▢ 1/4 tsp Kosher Salt
- ▢ 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- ▢ 1 sprig Fresh Thyme
- ▢ 1/4 cup White Wine , optional
Instructions
- Gather Your Drippings . After roasting your turkey, pour the drippings into a measuring cup. Let it sit for a few minutes to separate the fat from the juices. Skim off the fat, reserving about 1/4 cup for the gravy.
- Make the Roux . In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the reserved turkey fat and flour, whisking continuously to form a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden color, which will ensure your gravy doesn’t taste floury.
- Add the Broth . Slowly whisk in the turkey or chicken broth, continuing to stir to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season and Enhance . Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a splash of white wine or sherry and a sprig of fresh herbs. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Strain and Serve . For a silky smooth gravy, strain it through a fine mesh sieve into a serving dish. Serve hot over your turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and more!
Get support & connect with our community on Facebook!
Nutrition
If you already signed up, you should have received an email with a password to give you unlimited access to our FREE Printable Library. The password is case sensitive. Enter it below and get printing!
Password:
Turkey Gravy Recipe | Turkey Graving With Drippings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Turkey Drippings
- 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter
- 1/4 cup All Purpose Flour
- 4 cups Turkey Broth or Chicken if Turkey isn’t available
- 1/4 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- 1 sprig Fresh Thyme
- 1/4 cup White Wine optional
Instructions
- Gather Your Drippings . After roasting your turkey, pour the drippings into a measuring cup. Let it sit for a few minutes to separate the fat from the juices. Skim off the fat, reserving about 1/4 cup for the gravy.
- Make the Roux . In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the reserved turkey fat and flour, whisking continuously to form a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden color, which will ensure your gravy doesn’t taste floury.
- Add the Broth . Slowly whisk in the turkey or chicken broth, continuing to stir to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season and Enhance . Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a splash of white wine or sherry and a sprig of fresh herbs. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Strain and Serve . For a silky smooth gravy, strain it through a fine mesh sieve into a serving dish. Serve hot over your turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and more!
Turkey Gravy Recipe | Turkey Graving With Drippings https://twosleevers.com/turkey-gravy-recipe/
If you’re craving a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth side dish that perfectly complements any holiday spread, these Air Fryer Candied Yams are a must-try! This easy recipe takes the classic candied yams to a whole new level, providing a delightful combination of sweetness and a slightly crispy exterior, thanks to the magic of the air fryer.
Why You’ll Love These At Your Dinner Table
- Quick and Efficient . Ready in a fraction of the time it takes to bake in the oven, these candied yams are perfect for busy holiday meal preparations.
- Caramelized Goodness . The air fryer’s intense heat caramelizes the sugar coating, giving the yams a heavenly sweetness with a hint of crispiness.
- Minimal Effort . A straightforward recipe that requires minimal hands-on time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your holiday feast.
- Versatile Side Dish . These candied yams pair seamlessly with a variety of main courses, making them a versatile and welcomed addition to any holiday table.
Are Candied Yams Good?
Absolutely! Air Fryer Candied Yams offer a delightful twist on the classic oven-baked version. The air fryer’s high heat ensures that the yams are tender on the inside and perfectly caramelized on the outside. The result is a side dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
What’s The Difference Between Candied Yams And Sweet Potatoes?
When you see “candied yams” in a recipe, it’s often made with sweet potatoes, specifically the orange-fleshed variety. This holds true in this recipe as well.
If you’re using true yams, the flavor and texture may be different from what many people associate with candied yams in the U.S. Always check the specific type of sweet potato or yam recommended in the recipe for the best results.
Why Are My Candied Yams Runny?
If your candied yams are turning out runny, there could be a few reasons for this issue. Here are some common factors to consider:
- Excess Liquid . Candied yam recipes typically involve creating a syrup or glaze that coats the sweet potatoes. If there is too much liquid in the recipe or if the yams release a significant amount of liquid during cooking, it can result in a runny consistency.
- Overcooking . If the yams are cooked for too long, they might become mushy and release more liquid than desired. It’s essential to cook the yams until they are tender but not overly soft.
What Are Candied Yams Made Of?
- Sweet Potatoes - Peeled and cut into uniform slices, these form the delicious base of the dish.
- Brown Sugar - Adds sweetness and contributes to the beautiful caramelization.
- Butter - Unsalted, melted butter helps coat the yams, enhancing their richness.
- Maple Syrup - Drizzled over the yams, maple syrup adds a natural sweetness and a touch of fall flavor.
- Cinnamon - A warm and aromatic spice that complements the natural sweetness of the yams.
- Nutmeg - Ground nutmeg adds a hint of warmth and depth to the dish.
- Salt - A pinch of salt balances the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
How To Make Candied Yams In The Air Fryer
- Prepare the Yams . Peel and slice the yams into even rounds or wedges. Ensuring uniform size helps them cook evenly.
- Coat with Sugar Mixture . In a bowl, combine brown sugar, melted butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Toss the yam slices in this luscious mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Air Fry to Perfection . Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the yam slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden and caramelized.
- Serve and Enjoy . Transfer the candied yams to a serving dish, and optionally sprinkle with a bit of extra cinnamon for a visual touch. Serve warm and watch them disappear!
Tips And Tricks
Making Air Fryer Candied Yams is a delightful experience, and a few tips and tricks can help you achieve the best results:
- Even Slices - Try to cut the yams into uniform slices to ensure even cooking. This helps maintain a consistent texture throughout.
- Don’t Overcrowd - Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook the yams in a single layer to allow proper air circulation, ensuring they crisp up evenly.
- Check for Doneness - Keep an eye on the yams as they cook to prevent burning. Adjust the cooking time if needed based on your air fryer model.
Variations
Feel free to get creative and add your own twist to these Air Fryer Candied Yams:
- Pecans or Walnuts - Add a crunchy element by tossing in some chopped nuts before air frying.
- Marshmallow Topping - For a classic holiday touch, sprinkle mini marshmallows on top during the last few minutes of cooking until they’re golden brown.
- Orange Zest - Enhance the flavor profile with a burst of citrus by adding a sprinkle of fresh orange zest before serving.
What To Serve With Candied Yams
These Air Fryer Candied Yams are a versatile side dish that pairs well with various main courses and holiday classics:
- Roast Turkey or Chicken - The sweetness of the yams complements the savory flavors of roast poultry.
- Glazed Ham - A festive ham glazed with flavors like maple or brown sugar is an excellent companion.
- Pork Roast - Whether it’s a pork loin or a succulent pork shoulder, the yams add a sweet contrast.
- Vegetarian Options - For a vegetarian feast, serve these candied yams alongside dishes like stuffed acorn squash or vegetable Wellington.
How Long Do They Last?
Air Fryer Candied Yams are best enjoyed fresh, but if you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their delightful texture.
Can You Freeze Them?
While freezing may affect the texture, you can freeze candied yams in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating in the air fryer for the best results.
More Flavorful Side Dishes
- Cheesy Potatoes
- Keto Stuffing
- Low Carb Green Bean Casserole
- Air Fryer Broccoli
- Instant Pot Greek Green Beans
Candied Yams Recipe | Air Fryer Candied Yams
Ingredients
- ▢ 2 Sweet Potatoes
- ▢ 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
- ▢ 3 tbsp Unsalted Butter
- ▢ 2 tbsp Maple Syrup
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Ground Cinnamon
- ▢ 1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg
- ▢ Salt , to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Yams . Peel and slice the yams into even rounds or wedges. Ensuring uniform size helps them cook evenly.
- Coat with Sugar Mixture . In a bowl, combine brown sugar, melted butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Toss the yam slices in this luscious mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Air Fry to Perfection . Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the yam slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden and caramelized.
- Serve and Enjoy . Transfer the candied yams to a serving dish, and optionally sprinkle with a bit of extra cinnamon for a visual touch. Serve warm and watch them disappear!
Get support & connect with our community on Facebook!
Nutrition
And don’t forget to check out my air fryer cookbooks! Every day easy air fryer , and Air Fryer Revolution .
