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Easy Make Ahead Turkey Gravy Perfect for Holiday Dinners

Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy

This Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy delivers rich, savory flavor and smooth texture — all without the last-minute stress. Roasted turkey wings create a deep, golden stock that forms the base for a perfectly seasoned gravy you can prepare in advance and reheat on Thanksgiving Day.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Condiment, Gravy, Thanksgiving
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

  • 2 whole Turkey wings
  • 2 Carrots chopped
  • 3 stalks Celery chopped
  • 1 small Onion chopped
  • 4 cloves Garlic smashed
  • 6 cups Water
  • 5 tbsp Butter
  • 0.33 cup All-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp Apple cider vinegar
  • 1 pinch Salt to taste
  • 1 pinch Black pepper to taste
  • 0.125 tsp Kitchen Bouquet optional, for color and flavor

Method
 

  1. 1. Roast the Turkey and Vegetables: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange turkey wings, onion, celery, carrots, and garlic in a large Dutch oven or roasting pan. Roast uncovered for 2 hours until the turkey and vegetables are golden brown. Remove from oven.
  2. 2. Make the Stock: Add 6 cups of water to the pot and bring to a simmer on the stovetop. Cook uncovered for 45 minutes to extract flavor. You should have about 4 cups of stock; if less, add more water or chicken broth.
  3. 3. Strain and Chill: Strain the stock through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. Once chilled, skim and discard any fat that has risen to the top.
  4. 4. Make the Roux: In a large sauté pan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 30–60 seconds until golden and fragrant.
  5. 5. Add Stock and Finish: Gradually whisk in the reserved turkey stock and cider vinegar. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
  6. 6. Adjust Color (Optional): If desired, whisk in Kitchen Bouquet, starting with 1/8 teaspoon and adding more for deeper color.
  7. 7. Cool and Store: Let cool completely before storing in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Notes

Reheating Tip: Warm gravy gently over medium-low heat, whisking occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it becomes too thick.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the gravy up to 3 days before serving and store in the refrigerator. Reheat just before your Thanksgiving meal for stress-free serving.