roast turkey with gravy recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best roast turkey with gravy recipe

I’ve been making roast turkey with gravy for years, and it’s still one of my family’s favorite meals. It’s a classic recipe that never goes out of style.

The combination of the tender, juicy turkey and the rich, savory gravy is a match made in heaven. I love that it’s easy to make and can feed a crowd, making it perfect for holidays, special occasions, or even a regular family dinner.

My kids always ask for seconds, and my husband raves about the flavors. I’ve tried many variations over the years, but this basic recipe remains our go-to.

It’s also relatively healthy compared to some other comfort foods, as long as you don’t overdo it with the gravy. My friends and family always request this dish when they come over for dinner.

It’s become a staple in our household. I’ve learned that the key to a great roast turkey is low and slow cooking.

This allows the meat to stay moist and develops its signature flavor. A good roasting pan is essential, as it helps to distribute heat evenly and prevents the turkey from drying out.

Roast Turkey with Gravy

4.7 from 1849 votes

A classic roast turkey recipe with homemade gravy, perfect for holidays or family gatherings. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time3 hrs 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hrs
Servings: 10Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
1 onion, quartered
2 carrots, cut into chunks
2 celery stalks, cut into chunks
1 lemon, halved
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary

For the Gravy

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups turkey drippings
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2Remove giblets and neck from turkey cavity.
3Rinse turkey inside and out with cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
4Place onion, carrots, celery, and lemon in the turkey cavity.
5In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
6Rub the mixture evenly over the turkey skin.
7Place turkey breast-side up in a roasting pan.
8Roast in the preheated oven for 3 hours and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
9Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the pan drippings to keep it moist and to ensure even browning.
10While the turkey is roasting, prepare the gravy.
11In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
12Add flour and whisk to form a roux.
13Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns light brown.
14Gradually add the turkey drippings and chicken broth, stirring continuously.
15Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
16Season with salt, black pepper, and thyme.
17Stir until the gravy thickens slightly.
18Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
19This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
20Pour the gravy into a serving dish and serve alongside the carved turkey.

🔧Equipment

Roasting pan
Basting brush
Meat thermometer
Bowl
Whisk

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 145mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 5g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 45g

📝Notes

Tips: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature. For extra crispy skin, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 15-20 minutes of roasting.

Watch Video Of How Roast Turkey with Gravy Works

This roast turkey with gravy recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holiday meals, or even a cozy dinner at home. The leftovers can be used in a variety of dishes, making it a versatile and economical choice. I love how this dish brings everyone together, and the best part is that it’s not as complicated to make as you might think. The key to a perfect roast turkey is to brine it first.

This helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful. I usually brine my turkey overnight in a mixture of water, salt, sugar, and herbs. After brining, I pat the turkey dry and season it with salt, pepper, and herbs. Then, I roast it in the oven at a low temperature until it’s cooked through. The gravy is made from the drippings, which adds an extra layer of flavor.

The result is a juicy, flavorful turkey with a rich, savory gravy that’s perfect for any occasion. I love how this recipe brings comfort and joy to my family and friends. It’s a dish that’s always a hit, and I can’t wait to share it with you. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a bit of chicken broth if the gravy becomes too thick.

Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce. Enjoy your delicious roast turkey with gravy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Roast Turkey with Gravy

Q: What type of turkey should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, I recommend using a fresh or frozen whole turkey (3-4 kg). If you can’t find one, you can also use boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs.

Similar Posts