10 Delicious Make Ahead Turkey Gravy Recipes
Hosting a feast or simply craving the comfort of a home-cooked meal? Our roundup of 10 Delicious Make Ahead Turkey Gravy Recipes is your secret weapon for stress-free entertaining and cozy dinners alike. From rich, traditional flavors to inventive twists, these gravies promise to elevate your dishes with minimal last-minute fuss. Dive in and discover your next go-to recipe that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Classic Make Ahead Turkey Gravy

Craving that rich, velvety gravy without the last-minute panic? Our Classic Make Ahead Turkey Gravy is your ticket to stress-free feasting, ensuring you’re more ‘gravy train’ and less ‘gravy pain’ come dinner time.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups turkey stock
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Whisk in 1/2 cup all-purpose flour gradually, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden brown, ensuring no lumps remain for a smooth gravy.
- Slowly pour in 4 cups turkey stock, whisking constantly to combine seamlessly with the roux.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, simmering for 10 minutes to thicken, stirring occasionally.
- Season with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp dried thyme, adjusting the heat as needed to maintain a simmer without boiling over.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container for storage, or serve immediately for that ‘just-made’ freshness.
Velvety smooth with a depth of flavor that whispers ‘home,’ this gravy is the unsung hero of any plate. Drizzle it over mashed potatoes, or get adventurous by using it as a base for a savory pot pie—either way, it’s a game-changer.
Herb-Infused Make Ahead Turkey Gravy

Today’s the day to ditch the last-minute gravy panic and embrace the glory of make-ahead magic with this Herb-Infused Make Ahead Turkey Gravy. Trust us, your future self will thank you when you’re sipping champagne instead of stirring frantically.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups turkey stock
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Melt 1/4 cup unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour until smooth, cooking for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add 4 cups turkey stock, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Stir in 1 tbsp fresh thyme, 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container for storage.
Absolutely velvety and packed with herbaceous charm, this gravy is your ticket to stress-free feasting. Serve it over mashed potatoes, drizzle it on your turkey, or—dare we say—drink it straight from the gravy boat (no judgment here).
Rich and Creamy Make Ahead Turkey Gravy

Dive into the ultimate comfort food hack with this make-ahead turkey gravy that’s so rich and creamy, it’ll have your taste buds doing a happy dance long before the turkey even hits the table. Perfect for those who believe gravy isn’t just a side but the main event!
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups turkey stock
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat until fully liquid and slightly bubbly.
- Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour gradually to form a smooth roux, cooking for 2 minutes until golden to avoid a floury taste.
- Slowly pour in 4 cups turkey stock, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens to coat the back of a spoon.
- Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper, heating through for another 2 minutes without boiling to maintain creaminess.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container for make-ahead convenience.
Zesty and velvety, this gravy is a game-changer for holiday meals or any day that calls for a little extra indulgence. Try drizzling it over mashed potatoes or biscuits for a decadent twist that’ll steal the show.
Spicy Make Ahead Turkey Gravy

Ready to revolutionize your gravy game? This Spicy Make Ahead Turkey Gravy is your ticket to flavor town, with a kick that’ll wake up your taste buds faster than your morning alarm. Perfect for those who like their gravy with a side of sass and a sprinkle of spice.
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups turkey stock
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour until smooth, cooking for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add 4 cups turkey stock, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Stir in 1 tsp cayenne pepper, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tsp garlic powder.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Every spoonful of this gravy is a creamy, spicy delight that clings to your mashed potatoes like it’s giving them a warm hug. Try drizzling it over roasted veggies for an unexpected twist that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Vegan Make Ahead Turkey Gravy

Craving that rich, savory goodness of turkey gravy but keeping it plant-based? Our Vegan Make Ahead Turkey Gravy is here to save your holiday (or any day) with all the flavor and none of the fuss. Plus, it’s so good, even the turkey might get jealous.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried sage
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
- Whisk in flour to form a roux, stirring constantly for about 3 minutes until golden brown.
- Gradually add vegetable broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Stir in soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, sage, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving or storing.
Unbelievably smooth and packed with umami, this gravy is a game-changer for your vegan feast. Drizzle it over mashed potatoes, smother your favorite roast, or heck, drink it straight from the gravy boat—we won’t judge.
Gluten-Free Make Ahead Turkey Gravy

Yippee! If you’ve ever found yourself in a gravy-induced panic because your turkey decided to play hard to get with gluten, we’ve got your back with this make-ahead marvel that’s as forgiving as your grandma when you ‘accidentally’ eat the last cookie.
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 2 cups turkey stock
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in 1/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour until smooth, cooking for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add 2 cups turkey stock, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Stir in 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp dried thyme. Cook for an additional 1 minute to blend flavors.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Fantastic! This gravy is silky smooth with a rich, savory depth that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance. Serve it over mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food moment, or get wild and drizzle it on your morning biscuits for a breakfast that means business.
Slow Cooker Make Ahead Turkey Gravy

Who knew that the secret to the most velvety, flavor-packed turkey gravy could be as simple as letting your slow cooker do the heavy lifting? This ‘Slow Cooker Make Ahead Turkey Gravy’ is your ticket to stress-free holiday hosting, with a taste that’ll have your guests convinced you slaved over the stove for hours.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 8 cups turkey stock
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Melt 1 cup unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Whisk in 1 cup all-purpose flour gradually, cooking for 3-5 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden brown, ensuring no lumps remain for a smooth gravy.
- Slowly pour in 8 cups turkey stock, whisking continuously to combine smoothly with the butter and flour mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to your slow cooker, then stir in 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp dried thyme.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent any sticking or burning on the bottom.
- After cooking, give the gravy a final whisk to ensure it’s perfectly smooth and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Yum! This gravy boasts a luxuriously smooth texture and a rich, savory flavor that’s packed with depth. Serve it over mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food duo, or get creative by using it as a base for a hearty turkey pot pie filling.
White Wine Make Ahead Turkey Gravy

Oh, the joys of Thanksgiving prep! Between the turkey tantrums and the pie pressures, who wouldn’t want a gravy that’s ready to roll before the big day? Enter this make-ahead marvel, where white wine waltzes in to elevate your gravy game from ‘meh’ to ‘more, please!’
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups turkey stock
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Melt 1/4 cup unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour until smooth, creating a roux. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Gradually add 2 cups turkey stock, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Pour in 1/2 cup dry white wine, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and let the gravy simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper, adjusting to your preference.
- Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to an airtight container for storage.
Silky smooth with a hint of sophistication from the white wine, this gravy is your ticket to stress-free feasting. Drizzle it over mashed potatoes or get adventurous by using it as a base for a savory bread pudding. Either way, it’s a game-changer.
Mushroom Make Ahead Turkey Gravy

Delightfully decadent and ridiculously easy, this Mushroom Make Ahead Turkey Gravy is your secret weapon for stress-free feasts. Imagine a gravy so good, it’ll have your guests whispering sweet nothings to their plates—no turkey required for this showstopper!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups turkey stock
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add 1/2 cup all-purpose flour to the melted butter, whisking constantly for 2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in 4 cups turkey stock, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Stir in 1 cup sliced mushrooms, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Add 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves in the last minute of cooking for a fragrant finish.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving or storing.
Now, this gravy isn’t just a sidekick; it’s the main event with its velvety texture and umami-packed flavor. Serve it over mashed potatoes, drizzle it on roasted veggies, or—dare we say—drink it straight from the gravy boat (we won’t judge).
Caramelized Onion Make Ahead Turkey Gravy

Let’s face it, gravy can make or break your holiday feast, and this Caramelized Onion Make Ahead Turkey Gravy is here to ensure it’s the former. With a rich, deep flavor that’ll have your guests guessing your secret, it’s the unsung hero of your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups turkey stock
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 2 large onions, thinly sliced, and 1 tsp sugar to the skillet, stirring to coat the onions evenly.
- Cook the onions for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are deeply caramelized. Tip: Lower the heat if they start to burn.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup all-purpose flour over the caramelized onions, stirring constantly for 2 minutes to cook the flour.
- Gradually whisk in 4 cups turkey stock, ensuring no lumps remain. Tip: Warm the stock slightly before adding for smoother incorporation.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens.
- Stir in 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves. Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, but remember the flavors will deepen as it sits.
- Remove from heat and let cool before storing or serving.
Rich and velvety, this gravy boasts a sweet depth from the caramelized onions, balanced by the earthy thyme. Serve it over mashed potatoes or use it to elevate your leftover turkey sandwiches to gourmet status.
Conclusion
Kickstart your holiday feast with ease thanks to these 10 make-ahead turkey gravy recipes! Perfect for busy home cooks, each option promises to save time without sacrificing flavor. We’d love to hear which recipe becomes your go-to—drop a comment below. Loved this roundup? Share the love on Pinterest and help fellow cooks discover these delicious solutions!