Brown Butter Herb Turkey Gravy
Brown Butter Herb Turkey Gravy is a deliciously rich and flavorful sauce that takes your turkey dinner to the next level. The nutty aroma of brown butter combined with fresh…
Tip: save now, cook later.Brown Butter Herb Turkey Gravy is a deliciously rich and flavorful sauce that takes your turkey dinner to the next level. The nutty aroma of brown butter combined with fresh herbs makes this gravy truly special. It’s smooth, comforting, and packed with all those classic flavors that remind me of holiday meals and cozy family gatherings.
I love making this gravy because it’s simple but feels fancy at the same time. The brown butter adds a beautiful depth that plain gravy can sometimes miss, and the herbs bring a fresh brightness that keeps the flavors balanced. Whenever I make it, the whole kitchen fills with that warm, inviting smell, which is always the best part of cooking for me.
My favorite way to enjoy this gravy is over slices of turkey with mashed potatoes on the side—there’s something about that combo that just feels like home. If you want a little extra, I like to spoon some of the gravy onto roasted vegetables too. It’s a great way to make the whole meal come together in a comforting and delicious way.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: Brown butter is the star here, giving the gravy a deep, nutty flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, try using a vegan butter or olive oil, though the flavor will be lighter.
Turkey Drippings: These bring authentic turkey flavor. If you don’t have drippings, use extra turkey or chicken stock with a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for depth.
Fresh Herbs (Rosemary, Sage, Thyme): Fresh herbs brighten the gravy and add warmth. Dried herbs can work but reduce quantity by half to avoid overpowering.
All-Purpose Flour: This thickens the gravy. For a gluten-free alternative, use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (mix cornstarch with cold stock first to avoid lumps).
How Do You Make Perfect Brown Butter Without Burning It?
Brown butter adds a rich flavor but can burn easily. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use a light-colored pan so you can watch the butter’s color change clearly.
- Melt butter over medium heat and swirl the pan often instead of stirring.
- Watch for the butter to foam and then change to a golden brown with a nutty smell (about 3-5 minutes).
- Remove from heat immediately when you see tiny brown specks to prevent burning.
Practicing this step will make your gravy flavorful and avoid any bitterness from burnt butter.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan – perfect size for making and thickening the gravy without spilling.
- Whisk – helps you mix the brown butter and flour smoothly to avoid lumps.
- Heatproof measuring cup or bowl – great for separating turkey drippings from fat.
- Fine mesh sieve (optional) – use this if you want a silky smooth gravy without herb bits.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add caramelized onions or shallots for a touch of sweetness and deeper flavor.
- Use sage and thyme only for a more traditional herb taste without rosemary.
- Stir in a splash of white wine or sherry for a bright, tangy twist.
- Mix in cooked mushrooms for an earthy hint and extra texture.
How to Make Brown Butter Herb Turkey Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup turkey drippings (from roasted turkey)
- 2 cups turkey or chicken stock (preferably homemade or low sodium)
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh sage, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This gravy takes about 15 minutes total: roughly 5 minutes to make the brown butter roux, a few minutes to add and whisk in the liquids, and about 5-7 minutes to simmer and thicken. It’s a quick way to add richness and flavor right after roasting your turkey.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey Drippings:
Once your turkey is roasted, carefully pour the drippings into a heatproof measuring cup or bowl. Let the drippings sit for a few minutes so the fat rises to the top. Using a spoon, scoop off about 6 tablespoons of the fat to use in your gravy.
2. Make the Brown Butter Roux:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Keep swirling the pan regularly until the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 5 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning it. Once browned, quickly whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes until the mixture looks golden and bubbly.
3. Add Liquids and Herbs:
Slowly whisk in the turkey drippings and the stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Then add the chopped rosemary, sage, and thyme. Stir everything together.
4. Simmer and Season:
Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer and stir often. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes or until the gravy thickens nicely. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. For a smoother gravy, strain it through a fine sieve before serving.
5. Serve Warm:
Pour the warm, delicious brown butter herb turkey gravy over your carved turkey slices, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. Enjoy the comforting and full-flavored touch it adds to your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Turkey Drippings for This Gravy?
Yes! Just thaw the drippings in the fridge overnight before using. Warm them gently before adding to the gravy to help incorporate smoothly.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Herbs?
If you don’t have fresh rosemary, sage, or thyme, use about half the amount of dried herbs instead. Add them earlier in the cooking process so they have time to release their flavors.
How Should I Store Leftover Gravy?
Store any leftover gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of stock or water if it’s too thick.
Can I Make the Gravy Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Make the gravy in advance and cool it completely. Reheat on the stove before serving, stirring often and adding a little extra stock if needed to loosen the gravy.
