Giblet gravy is the kind of dish that can transport you back to your grandmother’s kitchen, filled with the warmth of family gatherings and the irresistible scent of comfort food simmering on the stove. Imagine a rich, velvety sauce, teeming with savory bits and a hint of herbs that drapes itself lovingly over mashed potatoes or turkey, transforming any meal into a feast. This dish is not just about flavor; it’s about nostalgia, a sprinkle of chaos in the kitchen, and those moments when you realize that life is better with gravy.

As we prepare for festive occasions or cozy family dinners, giblet gravy often takes center stage. It’s the unsung hero that elevates a simple roast into culinary royalty. With its delightful aromas wafting through the air and its hearty texture warming your heart, this gravy doesn’t just accompany your meal; it embraces it. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delicious adventure!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Giblet gravy is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy cooks and newcomers alike.
- The robust flavor profile combines savory herbs with rich stock, creating a comforting experience.
- Its beautiful color and texture make any dish look gourmet without extra effort.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to complement everything from turkey to vegetarian dishes!
Ingredients for Giblet Gravy
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Turkey Giblets: These flavorful parts include the heart, liver, and gizzard which add depth to your gravy.
Chicken or Turkey Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness while enhancing flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: This thickening agent helps create that luscious consistency we all love in gravies.
Butter: A little bit of butter adds richness; choose unsalted for more control over seasoning.
Onion: Fresh onion brings sweetness and depth; finely chop it for even cooking.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds aromatic flavor; fresh is best but powdered will work in a pinch.
Herbs (Thyme & Sage): These classic herbs provide essential earthy notes that make the gravy sing.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Giblet Gravy
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Rinse the giblets under cold water and set aside after chopping them into small pieces.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent—about five minutes—then toss in minced garlic for an additional minute.
Step 3: Cook the Giblets
Add chopped giblets to the skillet. Cook them until browned and fragrant—about eight minutes—stirring occasionally. You want those little pieces of goodness to be gloriously golden.
Step 4: Create a Roux
Sprinkle flour over the giblet mixture while stirring constantly for about two minutes until well combined. This creates a roux that will thicken your gravy.
Step 5: Add Broth and Herbs
Gradually pour in chicken or turkey broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add thyme and sage at this point for maximum flavor infusion.
Step 6: Simmer
Let your gravy simmer on low heat for about ten minutes until it thickens beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
Transfer to plates generously drizzled over mashed potatoes or turkey slices for an unforgettable meal! Enjoy each bite as you reflect on memories made around the dinner table—and maybe even create some new ones!
You Must Know
- Giblet gravy offers more than just a delicious sauce; it’s a culinary hug on your plate.
- This recipe makes it easy to elevate your holiday meals or cozy dinners.
- Rich, savory, and packed with flavor, this dish is perfect for pairing with turkey, mashed potatoes, or even biscuits.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by simmering the giblets in broth to extract maximum flavor. While they cook, sauté onions and garlic for a robust base. Once your giblets are tender, chop them finely and stir into the gravy mixture for that ultimate comfort food experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your giblet gravy by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. For a kick, toss in some black pepper or hot sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping chicken broth for a richer beef broth to deepen the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover giblet gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy texture without scorching it.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making giblet gravy, start with well-cooked giblets for maximum flavor extraction.
- Avoid thickening too soon; allow the flavors to meld before adjusting consistency.
- Finally, taste frequently and season gradually for perfect balance.
Sometimes I whip up this giblet gravy just to impress my friends at dinner parties. The look on their faces when they taste it is priceless—like I’ve just revealed the secret of life!
FAQs :
What is giblet gravy?
Giblet gravy is a rich and flavorful sauce made from the giblets of poultry, typically including the heart, liver, gizzard, and neck. This traditional accompaniment enhances the taste of roasted turkey or chicken dishes. It often features a blend of sautéed onions, flour for thickening, and broth, making it a comforting addition to holiday meals. By using giblets, this gravy adds depth to your dish while minimizing waste. Making giblet gravy from scratch allows you to control the seasoning and achieve a homemade flavor that complements any festive table.
How do you make giblet gravy?
To make giblet gravy, start by cooking the giblets in water or broth until tender. Remove them from the pot and chop finely. In a separate pan, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add flour to create a roux and gradually stir in the strained cooking liquid until smooth. Incorporate the chopped giblets back into the mixture and simmer until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs to taste. This method ensures a robust flavor profile that pairs perfectly with turkey or chicken.
Can you use giblet gravy on other dishes?
Yes! Giblet gravy is versatile and can enhance various dishes beyond just turkey or chicken. You can drizzle it over mashed potatoes, biscuits, or even roasted vegetables. Its rich flavor also makes it an excellent topping for rice or pasta dishes. Experimenting with different pairings can elevate your meals and provide a comforting touch to any recipe. Whether during Thanksgiving or any day of the year, this gravy can bring warmth to your dining experience.
How long does giblet gravy last in the fridge?
Giblet gravy can last in the refrigerator for about three to four days when stored properly in an airtight container. To maximize its freshness, ensure that it cools completely before refrigerating. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it instead. When frozen, it retains its quality for up to three months. When ready to use again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove to restore its creamy consistency.
Conclusion for Giblet Gravy :
In summary, giblet gravy is a delightful addition that brings extra flavor to your meals. By utilizing poultry giblets and following simple steps for preparation, you can create a delicious sauce that enhances various dishes beyond just turkey or chicken. Remember its versatility allows for creative pairings throughout the year. Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy this comforting sauce multiple times after your initial meal. Making giblet gravy from scratch truly enriches your culinary repertoire!
Giblet Gravy
Giblet gravy is a classic, comforting sauce that brings warmth and richness to your holiday meals and family dinners. Made with turkey giblets, aromatic herbs, and a luscious roux, this easy-to-make gravy transforms simple dishes into culinary delights. Drizzle it over mashed potatoes or turkey for an unforgettable feast that evokes nostalgia and creates cherished memories around the table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup turkey giblets (heart, liver, gizzard)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey broth
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
Instructions
- Rinse and chop the turkey giblets into small pieces.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onions and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic for another minute.
- Add the chopped giblets to the skillet and cook until browned (about 8 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture while stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in the broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add thyme and sage.
- Simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: For enhanced flavor, use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if needed. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.






