Turkey red wine gravy

Turkey red wine gravy is a rich sauce made with red wine, beef broth, and fresh thyme, perfect for enhancing roasted meats. This easy recipe results in a flavorful accompaniment that brings gourmet appeal to your holiday meal.

06 Feb 2026
Cook time 6 min
Prep time 2 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose white wheat flour
1/3 cup red wine
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp fresh thyme

Turkey red wine gravy is a rich and flavorful sauce that perfectly complements your holiday turkey or any roasted meat dish. By combining the robust flavors of red wine with the depth of beef broth and the earthiness of fresh thyme, this gravy is sure to elevate your meal to gourmet status. This recipe is both easy to follow and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Thyme:
- If using fresh thyme, remove the leaves from the stalks and chop finely. Set aside.

2. Melt Butter:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the butter. Allow it to melt completely, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn't burn.

3. Make a Roux:
- Once the butter is melted and slightly bubbly, sprinkle in the flour. Stir continuously with a whisk or wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth paste, typically taking about 2-3 minutes. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the roux turns a light golden brown color.

4. Add Wine:
- Slowly pour in the red wine while whisking continuously. The mixture may bubble vigorously; continue to whisk until it is smooth and thickened.

5. Incorporate Broth:
- Gradually add the beef broth, about 1/4 cup at a time, whisking constantly to maintain a smooth consistency. Make sure each addition is thoroughly incorporated before adding more.

6. Simmer & Stir:
- Once all the broth is added, bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes or until the gravy has reached your desired thickness.

7. Add Thyme:
- Stir in the fresh thyme and allow the gravy to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

8. Season & Serve:
- Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning if necessary (extra salt and pepper can be added if needed). Once the desired flavor and thickness are achieved, remove the pan from the heat.

9. Strain (Optional):
- For a smoother gravy, you can strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any thyme leaves or clumps. This step is optional based on your texture preference.

10. Serve Warm:
- Transfer the gravy to a serving jug or gravy boat and serve warm over your roasted turkey or any dish of your choice.

This Turkey red wine gravy is the ideal way to enhance your dinner with a gourmet touch. The robust combination of red wine and beef broth, paired with the aromatic thyme, results in a delicious and savory gravy that will leave your guests craving more. Try it with your next turkey dinner for a truly memorable meal.

Turkey red wine gravy FAQ:

How long does it take to make turkey red wine gravy?

The total time to make this gravy is about 25-30 minutes. This includes approximately 10-15 minutes of simmering after adding the broth.

How can I tell when the gravy is done?

The gravy is done when it has reached your desired thickness, which usually occurs after about 10-15 minutes of simmering. It should have a smooth consistency and coat the back of a spoon.

Can I store leftover turkey red wine gravy?

Yes, you can store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a little water or broth to regain the desired consistency.

What can I substitute for beef broth in this recipe?

You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the gravy's taste.

What type of red wine is best for this gravy?

A dry red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Pinot Noir works best for this gravy, as they provide robust flavor without being overly sweet.

Cooking Tips:

- Ensure that you cook the butter and flour together thoroughly to form a smooth roux, which will help thicken the gravy without lumps.

- Use a good quality red wine for the best flavor. A dry red wine will add depth without overpowering the other ingredients.

- Simmer the gravy gently to allow the flavors to meld together, and stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.

- If the gravy is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken. If it's too thick, you can add a small amount of additional broth or water until the desired consistency is reached.

- Strain the gravy before serving if you prefer a smoother texture.

Nutrition Facts

2 Servings
Calories 220kcal
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 12g
Fiber 1.50g
Sugar 0.36g
Fat 13g

Turkey red wine gravy