Pioneer Woman’s Giblet Gravy is a classic and flavorful addition to your holiday table. Made with turkey giblets, drippings, and a rich roux, this gravy is the perfect complement to turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing. It’s a traditional recipe that enhances any festive meal with its deep, savory flavors.

What is Pioneer Woman Giblet Gravy?

Pioneer Woman’s Giblet Gravy is a rich, savory gravy made from turkey drippings, giblets (heart, liver, neck, and gizzard), and a roux. The giblets are simmered to tender perfection, then finely chopped and incorporated into the gravy, adding flavor and texture.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Rich flavor: The giblets and drippings create a deeply savory and hearty gravy.
Perfect for holidays: Completes turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes beautifully.
Traditional recipe: A nostalgic dish that’s a staple on many Thanksgiving and Christmas tables.

Easy to make: With simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful gravy in under an hour.
Customizable: Adjust the seasoning and texture to suit your preferences.

Ingredients Needed to Make Pioneer Woman Giblet Gravy

1 turkey neck and giblets (heart, liver, gizzard)

4 cups water or chicken broth
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups turkey drippings (or additional broth)
1/4 tsp black pepper
Salt, to taste

Optional: 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Giblet Gravy

Step 1: Cook the Giblets

In a medium saucepan, combine the turkey giblets (excluding the liver), neck, and 4 cups of water or chicken broth.

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the giblets are tender. Add the liver during the last 10 minutes of simmering to prevent overcooking.
Strain the broth and reserve it for later. Remove the giblets and neck, letting them cool. Chop the giblets finely, and remove any meat from the neck bones. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2-3 minutes, or until the roux is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 3: Add the Liquid

Gradually whisk in the turkey drippings (or additional broth if drippings are unavailable) and the reserved giblet broth.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Incorporate the Giblets

Stir in the finely chopped giblets and neck meat.
Season with black pepper and salt to taste, adjusting as needed.

Step 5: Add Optional Garnishes

Stir in the chopped hard-boiled eggs, if desired, for added texture.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Step 6: Serve

Pour the giblet gravy into a serving dish or gravy boat and serve hot alongside turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing.

What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Giblet Gravy

Roast turkey: The ultimate pairing for this rich, flavorful gravy.

Mashed potatoes: Spoon generously over creamy mashed potatoes for the perfect bite.
Stuffing or dressing: Adds moisture and flavor to your holiday stuffing.
Biscuits: Serve over warm, flaky biscuits for a comforting addition to any meal.

Green beans: Drizzle over green beans or other vegetables for an extra touch of flavor.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Giblet Gravy

Cook the giblets properly: Simmer the giblets until tender for the best flavor and texture.
Strain the broth: Straining the broth ensures a smooth base for your gravy.

Whisk continuously: Stir the roux and liquid constantly to prevent lumps.
Adjust consistency: If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of broth. If it’s too thin, simmer longer to thicken.
Taste before seasoning: The drippings may already contain salt, so adjust carefully.

Variations of Pioneer Woman Giblet Gravy

Herb-Infused Gravy: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the giblet broth for a fragrant twist.
Creamy Giblet Gravy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk for a richer texture.
Spicy Gravy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a hint of heat.

Vegetarian Gravy: Substitute the giblets with sautéed mushrooms and vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
Wine-Enhanced Gravy: Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the roux for a subtle tang.

Storing Pioneer Woman Giblet Gravy: Best Practices

Refrigerate leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freeze for later: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Label the container: Mark the date to track freshness if freezing.

Reheating Pioneer Woman Giblet Gravy: Best Practices

Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens during storage.

Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until warmed through.

FAQs

What can I use if I don’t have turkey drippings for giblet gravy?

If you don’t have turkey drippings, you can use chicken or turkey broth as a substitute. Add a bit of butter to the broth to mimic the richness of drippings and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Can you make giblet gravy ahead of time?

Yes, you can make giblet gravy ahead of time. Prepare the gravy without the drippings and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the gravy and stir in the drippings for the freshest flavor.

How do you thicken giblet gravy?

To thicken giblet gravy, make a roux by whisking equal parts butter and flour, then slowly add the broth and drippings. If the gravy is still too thin, simmer it longer or whisk in a slurry made of cornstarch and water.

Is giblet gravy safe to eat if I don’t use the liver?

Yes, giblet gravy is still safe and delicious without the liver. Simply omit the liver from the recipe and proceed with the neck and other giblets for a flavorful gravy.

Final Words

Pioneer Woman’s Giblet Gravy is a classic recipe that elevates any holiday meal. With its deep, savory flavor and tender pieces of giblets, it’s the perfect accompaniment to turkey, mashed potatoes, and more.

This easy-to-follow recipe ensures a rich, delicious gravy that will impress your guests and become a holiday tradition.

Try it for your next festive gathering and enjoy the comforting, homemade flavors!

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