Gravy is the unsung hero of a perfect holiday meal, tying together turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and more with its velvety texture and rich, meaty flavor. But have you ever tried Sausage Turkey Fat Gravy? This version takes traditional turkey gravy to the next level by incorporating the deep, savory flavors of sausage drippings and turkey fat.
Whether you’re preparing this gravy for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just an indulgent weekend dinner, this guide will walk you through every step. From selecting the right ingredients to troubleshooting common mistakes, you’ll learn how to create the most mouthwatering, restaurant-quality gravy right in your kitchen.
Ingredients & Variations
Essential Ingredients for Sausage Turkey Fat Gravy
To create a rich and flavorful gravy, you need just a few key ingredients:
- Turkey Drippings – These come from the roasted turkey and provide deep, roasted flavors.
- Sausage Drippings – The rendered fat from high-quality sausage adds richness and spice.
- Butter (Optional) – Helps smooth out the consistency and enhances the flavor.
- Flour or Cornstarch – Acts as a thickening agent.
- Broth (Turkey or Chicken) – Provides the base for the gravy.
- Salt and Pepper – To season the gravy perfectly.
- Milk or Heavy Cream (Optional) – Adds a silky, creamy texture.
- Herbs and Spices – Sage, thyme, garlic, or black pepper can add depth to the flavor.
Choosing the Best Sausage for Maximum Flavor
The type of sausage you use can dramatically impact the flavor of your gravy. Some great options include:
- Breakfast Sausage – A mild, slightly sweet flavor.
- Italian Sausage – Offers a bolder, spiced taste.
- Spicy Sausage – Adds heat for those who enjoy a kick.
- Chicken or Turkey Sausage – A leaner option that still adds robust flavor.
Turkey Drippings: How to Extract and Store Properly
To get the best turkey drippings:
- After roasting the turkey, pour the juices from the roasting pan into a heatproof bowl.
- Let it sit for a few minutes, then skim off excess fat.
- Save both the fat (for cooking) and the flavorful drippings (for the broth base).
Pro tip: If you have extra drippings, store them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for future use.
Thickening Agents: Flour vs. Cornstarch
Both flour and cornstarch can be used to thicken gravy, but they work differently:
- Flour – Creates a smooth, creamy consistency. Use a roux (flour cooked with fat) for best results.
- Cornstarch – Produces a glossy, translucent gravy and is gluten-free.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Preparing the Turkey Drippings
- Once your turkey is roasted, carefully collect the drippings from the bottom of the pan.
- Pour them into a measuring cup and let the fat rise to the top.
- Separate the fat from the liquid using a spoon or a fat separator.
- Reserve about ¼ cup of turkey fat for making the roux.
Browning the Sausage for Extra Flavor
- In a large skillet, cook ½ pound of sausage over medium heat.
- Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and crispy.
- Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
Mixing in the Roux: The Secret to Smooth Gravy
- In the same skillet with the sausage fat, add ¼ cup of turkey fat and ¼ cup of flour.
- Stir continuously over medium heat, cooking for about 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
- Slowly whisk in 2 cups of turkey or chicken broth, making sure to prevent lumps.
Simmering and Achieving the Perfect Consistency
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly.
- Add the reserved cooked sausage back into the gravy.
- Continue cooking for 5–10 minutes, adjusting thickness with additional broth if needed.
- Season with salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or spices.
Pro tip: If the gravy gets too thick, add more broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer.
Flavor Enhancements & Secret Additions
Herbs and Spices for a Depth of Flavor
To enhance your gravy, consider adding:
- Sage – Earthy and perfect for pairing with turkey.
- Thyme – Adds a fresh, slightly minty taste.
- Black Pepper – Essential for a touch of heat.
- Onion Powder – Provides depth and richness.
- Garlic Powder – Boosts savory notes.
Adding Cream or Milk for a Richer Texture
For a creamier gravy:
- Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream at the end for a smooth texture.
- If using milk, add it slowly to prevent curdling.
- Avoid boiling after adding dairy to maintain consistency.
The Role of Wine, Stock, or Worcestershire Sauce
- White Wine – Adds acidity and brightness.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Brings umami depth.
- Turkey or Chicken Stock – Enhances meaty flavors.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Classic Pairings: Turkey, Mashed Potatoes, and More
Sausage Turkey Fat Gravy pairs beautifully with:
- Roast Turkey – The ultimate combination.
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes and rich gravy are a match made in heaven.
- Stuffing – A perfect way to moisten dry stuffing.
- Biscuits – Ideal for a Southern-style meal.
Unconventional Pairings: Biscuits, Breakfast Foods, and Pasta
Thinking outside the box? Try serving this gravy with:
- Biscuits and Gravy – A delicious breakfast twist.
- Eggs and Hashbrowns – Drizzle over eggs for a rich breakfast.
- Pasta – A surprising yet satisfying combination.
Using Leftover Gravy Creatively
If you have leftover gravy, here are some creative uses:
- As a Dip – Serve with crusty bread.
- Over Meatloaf – Enhances the flavor.
- In a Shepherd’s Pie – Adds a rich base layer.
Sausage Turkey Fat Gravy
Ingredients
- ½ lb turkey sausage or any sausage of choice
- ¼ cup turkey fat reserved from roasted turkey drippings
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour or cornstarch for gluten-free
- 2 cups turkey or chicken broth low sodium
- ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk optional, for creamier texture
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp thyme optional, for extra flavor
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce for added depth
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Drippings & Sausage
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the turkey sausage until browned and crispy.
- Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
- Step 2: Make the Roux
- Add ¼ cup turkey fat to the skillet. If needed, add 1 tbsp butter.
- Stir in ¼ cup flour, whisking continuously for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
- Step 3: Add the Broth & Seasonings
- Slowly pour in 2 cups turkey or chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Add cooked sausage, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Step 4: Simmer & Adjust Consistency
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If too thick, add more broth; if too thin, simmer longer.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce and optional heavy cream for extra richness.
- Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Pour over biscuits, mashed potatoes, or roasted turkey. Serve immediately!
Notes
For a 3-ingredient turkey gravy – Use only turkey drippings, flour, and broth.
To make turkey bacon gravy and biscuits – Swap sausage for crispy turkey bacon.
Make it spicy! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use spicy turkey sausage.
For dairy-free gravy – Use oat milk or almond milk instead of cream.
Nutrition
Common Mistakes & Troubleshooting
Avoiding Lumps in the Gravy
- Always whisk continuously when adding liquid to the roux.
- Strain the gravy through a sieve if lumps appear.
Fixing a Too-Thick or Too-Thin Gravy
- Too thick? Add more broth, a little at a time.
- Too thin? Let it simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry.
Balancing Salt and Seasoning
- Start with a small amount of salt; add more gradually.
- If the gravy is too salty, add a splash of unsalted broth or a pinch of sugar.
Healthier Alternatives & Dietary Adjustments
While traditional sausage turkey fat gravy is undeniably rich and flavorful, there are ways to make it healthier without sacrificing taste.
Low-Fat and Dairy-Free Options
If you’re looking for a lighter turkey sausage recipe, try these adjustments:
- Use turkey breakfast sausage instead of pork sausage – It has less fat but still provides great flavor.
- Substitute butter with olive oil – This keeps the dish heart-friendly.
- Use almond or oat milk instead of heavy cream – A great alternative for dairy-free gravy.
- Skim off excess turkey fat before making the roux to cut down on calories.
For a simple 3-ingredient turkey gravy, all you need is turkey drippings, flour (or cornstarch), and broth—a lighter option that still delivers rich, deep flavor.
Gluten-Free Alternatives for Thickening
For those avoiding gluten, there are great substitutes:
- Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and add it to the simmering gravy.
- Arrowroot Powder: Similar to cornstarch but results in a slightly glossy texture.
- Gluten-Free Flour Blends: Perfect for making a roux without sacrificing flavor.
Using Chicken or Plant-Based Sausage for Variations
For a unique twist on this turkey sausage recipe, try:
- Chicken Sausage: A milder alternative that still adds depth to the gravy.
- Plant-Based Sausage: For a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Turkey Bacon Gravy and Biscuits: Instead of sausage, use crispy turkey bacon for a smoky, delicious alternative.
If you’re a fan of turkey gravy and biscuits, this easy biscuits and gravy with turkey sausage recipe is a must-try!
Storage & Reheating Tips
Gravy is one of those magical dishes that tastes even better the next day, but only if stored properly.
Best Ways to Store Leftover Gravy
To keep your sausage turkey fat gravy fresh:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Pour into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat Without Losing Flavor and Texture
To reheat while maintaining the original smooth texture:
- Stovetop Method: Heat on low, stirring frequently.
- Microwave Method: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring each time.
- Thin it Out: Add a little broth or milk if the gravy becomes too thick.
Can You Freeze Sausage Turkey Fat Gravy? Yes! Just allow it to cool completely before freezing. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Learn more about the history of sausage gravy and how it evolved over time.
FAQs: Answering Your Burning Questions
What is the history of sausage gravy?
Sausage gravy has roots in Southern cuisine, where it originated as a hearty, inexpensive meal during the colonial era. Farmers and workers needed a filling breakfast, and sausage gravy served over biscuits became a staple.
What is the origin of turkey gravy?
Traditional turkey gravy has been around for centuries, dating back to European cooking traditions. Early settlers brought the practice of making gravy from roasted meats to America, leading to the classic Thanksgiving turkey gravy and biscuits we enjoy today.
What is another name for sausage gravy?
Sausage gravy is often called “country gravy” or “sawmill gravy” in the Southern U.S. The term “sawmill gravy” originated from lumber camps, where the dish was made using simple, inexpensive ingredients.
What makes a gravy a gravy?
A true gravy is made by combining fat, flour, and liquid (broth or milk). The key to good gravy is the balance of flavors and consistency, which can range from thick to thin depending on personal preference.
Expert Tips for the Best Sausage Turkey Fat Gravy
1. Use Homemade Turkey Stock
If you have time, making your own turkey stock from roasted bones and vegetables will elevate the depth of flavor.
2. Don’t Skip the Roux
The secret to a silky-smooth gravy is cooking the flour and turkey fat together until it reaches a golden brown color.
3. Add a Splash of Worcestershire Sauce
A few drops of Worcestershire sauce bring umami depth and balance out the richness.
4. Pair with the Right Side Dishes
This turkey sausage recipe pairs well with mashed potatoes, stuffing, and even pasta. If you’re looking for more unique meals, try Meatballs with Alfredo Sauce or French Onion Chicken Crock Pot for additional comforting dishes.
5. Experiment with Different Sausages
Want to change up the flavor? Try spicy Italian turkey sausage or apple-infused turkey breakfast sausage recipe for a slightly sweet and savory twist.
6. Make a Spicy Version
For those who like heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes gives this turkey bacon gravy and biscuits an extra kick.
More Delicious Comfort Food Recipes
Looking for more hearty and flavorful meals? Check out these recipes:
- Taco Soup Frios – A delicious twist on taco night.
- Meatballs with Alfredo Sauce – Perfectly creamy and satisfying.
- French Onion Chicken Crock Pot – A slow-cooked masterpiece.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Turkey Fat Gravy recipe is the ultimate way to enhance your holiday meal or create a comforting breakfast like easy biscuits and gravy with turkey sausage. Whether you’re using it for Thanksgiving turkey, biscuits, or even pasta, this gravy is sure to become a family favorite.
With simple ingredients, a foolproof method, and expert tips, you can now make restaurant-quality gravy at home. Try it with turkey sausage, bacon, or even plant-based alternatives to suit your dietary preferences.
So, the next time you’re craving a rich, hearty gravy, whip up a batch of this turkey bacon gravy and biscuits—you won’t regret it! 🍽️