Beyond Gravy: 9 Creative Ways to Use Turkey Drippings

The savory drippings left in the pan after roasting your turkey are typically used for making gravy But don’t stop there! Turkey drippings contain incredible flavors that can enhance all kinds of dishes Get the most out of your holiday bird by using drippings in these creative ways,

Should You Save Turkey Drippings?

Absolutely! Turkey drippings are liquid gold. As the turkey roasts, its juices, fat, and seasoning blend together to create an intensely flavored liquid Drippings lend moisture, richness, and turkey essence to anything they’re added to.

Let your roasted bird rest before carefully pouring the drippings from the pan into a heatproof bowl or jar Place it in the fridge or freezer for storing and separating the fat With so many uses, it would be a shame to throw away those flavorful drippings!

Great Uses for Turkey Drippings

Instead of only making gravy, get more mileage from your turkey drippings with these ideas:

1. Make Savory Sauces

Whisk some frozen drippings into pan sauces, gravies, and au jus sauces served with prime rib, pork roast, or steak. The turkey flavor provides a rich, meaty base.

2. Use in Place of Oil or Butter

Saute aromatics like onions, garlic, and herbs in turkey drippings instead of oil when starting soups, stews, stuffings, or sauces. Turkey fat carries incredible flavor.

3. Flavor Vegetables

Roast potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and other veggies in a couple tablespoons of turkey fat for caramelized, turkey-infused flavor.

4. Fry Eggs

For next-level breakfast, fry your eggs in a bit of turkey drippings. The fat nicely crisps the edges and adds a hint of savory flavor.

5. Make Turkey Risotto or Rice

Add several spoonfuls of drippings to the broth when making turkey risotto. For plain rice, add a spoonful to the cooking water. The drippings provide extra moisture and turkey essence.

6. Season Stuffing and Dressing

Stir a few tablespoons of drippings into the liquid added to stuffing and dressing mixes. They’ll lend an incredible turkey flavor punch.

7. Enhance Soups

Whisk some frozen drippings into hearty soups like turkey noodle, minestrone, or chicken and rice. The drippings provide a subtle turkey undertone.

8. Flavor Mashed Potatoes

Mix a few spoonfuls of turkey drippings into the potatoes as you mash them. This adds moisture, richness, and seasoning without extra butter or cream.

9. Make Turkey Hash

Saute any turkey leftovers diced up with veggies in some hot drippings. Crack an egg on top for an easy, flavor-packed hash.

Storing and Freezing Drippings

Refrigerate fresh drippings up to 3 days. To freeze, pour into ice cube trays or a muffin tin then transfer cubes to a freezer bag once solid. Frozen drippings keep 6 months.

Thaw needed portions in the fridge before using. Remove any solidified fat from the top before using. With so many uses, your turkey drippings will be put to delicious use!