Are you craving a comforting, flavorful gravy but short on time? Look no further! This ground turkey gravy recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's incredibly easy to make, bursting with savory goodness, and healthier than traditional beef gravy. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and will quickly become a staple in your quick dinner ideas arsenal. Get ready to elevate your mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even your favorite pasta dish to new heights!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups turkey or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for richer flavor)
Instructions:
-
Brown the Turkey: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. This step is crucial for building flavor in your delicious dish.
-
Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. The aroma alone will make your mouth water!
-
Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the turkey and onion mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This step thickens the gravy.
-
Simmer the Gravy: Gradually whisk in the turkey or chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Add the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency. If you prefer a richer gravy, stir in the butter during the last minute of cooking.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your homemade ground turkey gravy hot over your favorite dish. It's a perfect complement to mashed potatoes, roasted chicken, or even as a dipping sauce for vegetables.
Tips for the Best Ground Turkey Gravy:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the ground turkey, ensure the skillet isn't overcrowded. Work in batches if necessary to achieve even browning.
- Use low heat for thickening: Once you've added the broth, reduce the heat to low to prevent scorching and ensure even thickening.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your preference. A dash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add extra depth of flavor.
- Make it ahead: This gravy can be made ahead of time and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Variations:
- Mushroom Gravy: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms along with the onions for an earthy twist.
- Creamy Gravy: Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream during the last few minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier texture.
- Spicy Gravy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on additions)
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Approximately 8-12g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This easy recipe for ground turkey gravy is a simple yet satisfying addition to your repertoire of healthy meals. It's a perfect example of how homemade cooking can be both delicious and efficient, providing a fantastic base for countless delicious dishes. Enjoy!