recipe for turkey gravy from the giblets
The Best recipe for turkey gravy from the giblets
The health benefits of using the giblets for gravy are pretty neat too. Turkey meat is lean, and the fat from the giblets adds flavor without overpowering the dish. Itās a way to keep things balancedāenough richness to satisfy without relying on heavy cream or butter. Plus, itās something I can prep ahead of time, so Iām not scrambling on the day of the big meal. Whether itās for Thanksgiving or just a regular Sunday dinner, this gravy is that reliable, crowd-pleasing touch that makes everything feel complete. My family loves it because itās simple, flavorful, and never fails to bring everyone together.

Turkey Gravy from Giblets
A simple, flavorful gravy made from the giblets of a roasted turkey. Perfect for thickening turkey juices and adding richness to your holiday meal.
š„Ingredients
- 1 cup giblets (chest, liver, or heart)
- 1/2 cup turkey drippings
- 1/2 cup chicken or turkey broth
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt to taste
šØāš³Directions
-
1
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 1ā2 minutes until fragrant. -
2
Slowly whisk in the giblets, drippings, and broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let it cook uncovered for 10ā15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. -
3
Strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining giblet bits. Stir in the Dijon mustard, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Adjust seasoning to taste.
š§Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Fine-mesh strainer
šNutrition Facts (per serving)
šNotes
Watch Video Of How Turkey Gravy from Giblets Works
ā Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Gravy from Giblets
How do I know when the giblets are fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check their internal temperatureāgiblets should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety. If you donāt have one, cook them until theyāre opaque and no longer translucent in the center.
Can I use a different pan for cooking the giblets?
Yes, but for best results, use a deep, heavy-bottomed skillet (like cast iron or stainless steel) to ensure even heat distribution and prevent splattering. Avoid nonstick pans, as they can break down the flavor.
What if I donāt have a thermometer?
A good rule of thumb is to cook giblets until theyāre fully opaque and slightly crispy on the edges. Remove them from the pan and let them rest for a minute before cuttingāif theyāre still slightly translucent, they need more time.
How do I prevent the gravy from becoming too thick?
After straining the gravy, whisk in a splash of chicken or turkey stock (about 1ā2 tablespoons) to loosen it. If itās still too thick, warm it gently over low heat and stir until it reaches your desired consistency. Avoid overcooking the stock to prevent bitterness.
