Thanksgiving Gravy Recipes Without Wine

Elevate Your Holiday Feast with Rich, Smooth, and Flavorful Gravy

Thanksgiving dinner isn’t complete without a luscious, velvety gravy drizzled over turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, or roasted vegetables. But many traditional gravy recipes call for wine or alcohol to deepen the flavor—ingredients that not everyone uses or prefers. Fortunately, you don’t need wine to create a rich, savory gravy that tastes indulgent and comforting.

These Thanksgiving gravy recipes without wine are crafted to deliver maximum flavor and a silky texture using wholesome, accessible ingredients. They’re simple to make, require just one pot, and are perfect for making ahead so you can focus on enjoying the holiday with family.

From classic turkey gravy to vegetarian and gluten-free versions, this collection offers a variety of options suitable for every dietary preference. You’ll discover tips for thickening, seasoning, and storing your gravy to make your Thanksgiving meal truly memorable.

---

Why Choose Wine-Free Gravy?

While wine adds acidity and complexity to many gravies, it can also introduce alcohol flavors that some guests might avoid. Additionally, some families or cultures prefer meals without alcohol for personal or dietary reasons.

Making gravy without wine:

• Keeps flavors pure and clean — without any bitter or sharp alcohol notes.

• Is family-friendly — suitable for all ages and dietary restrictions.

• Simplifies preparation — no need to worry about cooking off alcohol properly.

• Allows versatility — use broth, vegetables, and herbs to build rich layers of flavor.

---

The Basics of Perfect Thanksgiving Gravy

Great gravy starts with great base ingredients and a few simple techniques:

• Good-quality stock or broth: Turkey, chicken, vegetable, or mushroom broth works best for rich flavor.

• Pan drippings or sautéed aromatics: Adds depth and savoriness.

• Flour or starch: For thickening, use all-purpose flour, cornstarch, or gluten-free alternatives.

• Seasonings and herbs: Salt, pepper, thyme, sage, rosemary, and garlic enhance the profile.

• Butter or oil: Adds richness and smooth texture.

---

Classic Turkey Gravy Without Wine

This classic turkey gravy uses pan drippings and broth to build a deep, savory flavor—no wine required.

Ingredients:

• Pan drippings from roasted turkey (or 4 tbsp butter if unavailable)

• 4 cups turkey or chicken broth (low sodium preferred)

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. After roasting your turkey, pour the drippings into a fat separator or let the fat rise to the top, then skim off excess fat, reserving about 4 tablespoons.

2. In a saucepan, heat the reserved fat or butter over medium heat.

3. Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).

4. Stir in flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 2-3 minutes to create a roux. It should turn light golden but not brown.

5. Slowly whisk in broth, blending to avoid lumps.

6. Add thyme, salt, and pepper.

7. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently.

8. Adjust seasoning and strain if desired for a smooth finish.

Serving Tip: Pour generously over sliced turkey and creamy mashed potatoes for a true Thanksgiving classic.

---

Vegetarian Mushroom Gravy (No Wine, No Meat)

This earthy mushroom gravy is a fantastic vegetarian option with plenty of umami and depth—no wine or animal products.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil or vegan butter

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 cups mixed mushrooms, finely chopped (cremini, shiitake, or button)

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour blend

• 3 cups vegetable broth (low sodium)

• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (adds umami)

• 1 tsp fresh thyme or sage

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil or vegan butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add onions and sauté until translucent.

3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and begin to brown (about 7-10 minutes).

4. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.

5. Sprinkle flour over mushroom mixture, stirring to coat and cook for 2 minutes.

6. Slowly add vegetable broth, whisking continuously.

7. Stir in soy sauce and herbs.

8. Simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes.

9. Season with salt and pepper and strain if desired.

Pro Tip: For a silky texture, use an immersion blender to partially puree the gravy before serving.

---

Gluten-Free Turkey Gravy Without Wine

This turkey gravy uses cornstarch as a gluten-free thickener and no wine, perfect for those avoiding gluten.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups turkey or chicken broth

• 1/4 cup pan drippings or 4 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 3 tbsp cold water (slurry)

• 1 small shallot, finely minced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp dried sage or poultry seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat pan drippings or butter in a saucepan.

2. Add shallots and garlic; sauté gently until soft.

3. Slowly pour in broth and bring to a gentle boil.

4. Stir in dried herbs.

5. Whisk in cornstarch slurry gradually and simmer until thickened (2-4 minutes).

6. Season with salt and pepper.

Serving Tip: Pour over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or gluten-free stuffing for a safe and savory holiday dish.

---

Tips for Thickening Gravy Without Wine or Alcohol

• Use a roux: A classic mixture of fat (butter, oil, or pan drippings) and flour cooked together before adding liquid.

• Cornstarch slurry: Mix cornstarch with cold water and stir into hot liquid to thicken quickly.

• Arrowroot or tapioca starch: Gluten-free alternatives that create a glossy, smooth texture.

• Reduce liquid: Simmer the gravy to evaporate some water content and intensify flavor and thickness.

• Puree vegetables: Blending sautéed onions, mushrooms, or roasted carrots into the gravy adds body naturally.

---

Flavor Boosters for Rich Gravy Without Wine

• Fresh herbs: Thyme, rosemary, sage, and parsley add warmth.

• Garlic and shallots: Provide depth and subtle sweetness.

• Soy sauce or tamari: Adds umami and saltiness without overpowering.

• Miso paste: A small spoonful can boost savory flavor (mix well).

• Vegetable powders: Such as mushroom or onion powder enhance the savory notes.

• Balsamic vinegar: Adds mild acidity (use sparingly).

---

How to Make Gravy Ahead and Store

Gravy can be made a day or two before Thanksgiving to save time:

• Store gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• To reheat, warm gently on the stove, whisking in extra broth or water if it’s too thick.

• If gravy separates, whisk vigorously or blend with an immersion blender to restore texture.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Gravy Without Wine

• Adding flour directly to hot liquid: Causes lumps. Always whisk flour into fat first to create a roux.

• Not whisking continuously: Results in clumps and uneven texture.

• Using overly salty broth: Leads to too-salty gravy—choose low sodium broth to control salt levels.

• Overcooking herbs: Add delicate herbs at the end to keep their flavor fresh.

• Ignoring resting time: Let gravy rest 5 minutes before serving to thicken properly.

---

Frequently Asked Questions About Thanksgiving Gravy Without Wine

Can I make gravy without pan drippings?

Yes! You can use butter or oil as your fat base and combine with broth and sautéed aromatics to make flavorful gravy.

What if I don’t have turkey broth?

Chicken broth or vegetable broth works well too. For deeper flavor, consider simmering vegetable scraps or mushroom stems to create a homemade broth.

How do I make gravy without lumps?

Make a roux by cooking flour in fat before adding liquid. Whisk constantly as you add broth slowly to prevent lumps.

Can I freeze homemade gravy?

Yes! Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.

What’s the best way to thicken gravy without flour?

Cornstarch or arrowroot slurry mixed with cold water is a great gluten-free thickener. Add gradually while stirring.

Is there a vegan Thanksgiving gravy option without wine?

Yes, mushroom or vegetable-based gravies made with plant-based butter or oil, vegetable broth, and natural seasonings offer delicious vegan choices.

---

Final Thoughts: No Wine Needed for Exceptional Thanksgiving Gravy

Crafting rich, savory gravy for your Thanksgiving feast doesn’t require wine or alcohol. With the right combination of broth, herbs, sautéed aromatics, and thickening agents, you can achieve a smooth, deeply flavored gravy everyone will love.

These recipes fit perfectly into any family tradition—whether you prefer classic turkey gravy, vegetarian mushroom gravy, or gluten-free options. Make your gravy ahead, adjust seasonings to taste, and enjoy the comforting, mouthwatering addition to your holiday table.