Roast Turkey and Gravy from Luby's features tender, juicy slices of slow-roasted turkey smothered in savory, homemade brown gravy, served alongside classic sides for a comforting, hearty meal.
Equipments
- Roasting pan
- Rack (for roasting pan)
- Meat thermometer
- Carving knife
- Cutting board
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Basting brush
- Aluminum foil
- Ladle
- Serving platter
- Gravy boat
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (10-12 lbs)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 2 celery stalks, cut into large pieces
- 2 carrots, cut into large pieces
- (For Gravy:)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups turkey drippings (or chicken broth)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
Choose a whole turkey weighing between 10 to 12 pounds to ensure even roasting and tender, juicy slices. Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the turkey and enhance the natural flavors alongside garlic powder, onion powder, and a mix of dried herbs like thyme, sage, and rosemary for aromatic seasoning. Chicken broth and turkey drippings provide the base for a rich, savory homemade gravy, thickened with all-purpose flour for the perfect consistency. Make sure to monitor the turkey's internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking or undercooking. Your Roast Turkey and Gravy from Luby's copycat menu will deliver a comforting, hearty meal with classic side accompaniments.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Remove giblets and neck from turkey; pat turkey dry with paper towels.
- Place turkey on rack in roasting pan.
- Brush turkey with melted butter.
- Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, sage, and rosemary; rub mixture over turkey (outside and inside).
- Stuff turkey cavity with onion, celery, and carrots.
- Tie legs with kitchen twine (if desired); tuck wings under turkey.
- Pour chicken broth into roasting pan.
- Tent turkey loosely with aluminum foil.
- Roast turkey, basting occasionally with pan juices, for about 13-15 minutes per pound, or until meat thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) in thickest part of thigh.
- Remove foil about 45 minutes before done for browning.
- Transfer turkey to cutting board; let rest 20-30 minutes.
- Strain drippings from roasting pan into saucepan; skim fat.
- Add flour to drippings; whisk and cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth (or additional drippings) until smooth.
- Simmer gravy, whisking, until thickened.
- Season gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
- Carve turkey; arrange slices on serving platter.
- Serve with ladle of hot gravy from gravy boat.
Substitution
Roast Turkey and Gravy from Luby's copycat menu delivers tender, juicy turkey slices enveloped in rich, homemade brown gravy, paired with traditional sides for a satisfying meal. If whole turkey is unavailable or too large, you can substitute with turkey breasts or thighs, adjusting cooking time accordingly. When roasting, use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165degF for safe consumption. If turkey drippings are insufficient for gravy, supplement with chicken broth to maintain the savory flavor and desired consistency. Your leftover gravy can be stored in an airtight container and reheated gently to preserve taste and texture.
Tips
Ensure the turkey is completely thawed and patted dry to promote even cooking and a crisp skin. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone; your turkey is safely cooked when it reaches 165degF (74degC). Resting the turkey for 20-30 minutes before carving allows juices to redistribute, ensuring moist slices. When making gravy, skim fat from the drippings to avoid greasy texture, and whisk continuously to prevent lumps for a smooth, flavorful sauce.
Nutritions
Your roast turkey provides a rich source of high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and immune function. The mixture of herbs such as thyme, sage, and rosemary offers antioxidants that may promote overall health. Turkey drippings and butter contribute to the meal's fat content, supplying energy and fat-soluble vitamins but should be consumed in moderation to manage cholesterol intake. The homemade brown gravy adds flavor while increasing sodium, so balancing it with low-sodium chicken broth can help maintain heart health.
Storage
Store your roast turkey and gravy in airtight containers in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. For optimal flavor and texture, consume the turkey and gravy within 3 to 4 days. To reheat, warm the turkey slices and gravy gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165degF (74degC) for safety.
Variation or Alternatives
You can enhance the flavor of your roast turkey by brining it overnight in a mixture of water, salt, sugar, and herbs before roasting, which helps retain moisture and adds depth. Instead of using dried herbs, substitute fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage for a more vibrant aroma and taste. For a richer gravy, deglaze the roasting pan with white wine or apple cider before adding the flour and broth. Consider roasting the turkey at a higher temperature, around 425degF (218degC), for the first 30 minutes to achieve crispier skin, then lowering it to 325degF (163degC) to finish cooking evenly.
Allergies
Roast Turkey and Gravy from Luby's may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to wheat or gluten, as the gravy contains all-purpose flour. Those with poultry allergies should avoid the turkey itself, and the presence of herbs like thyme, sage, and rosemary could potentially trigger sensitivities in rare cases. Your careful consideration of these ingredients is important to prevent allergic responses when enjoying this meal.
Why this recipe?
Luby's Roast Turkey and Gravy menu is beloved for its tender, flavorful turkey paired with rich, homemade gravy that perfectly complements the dish. The recipe's hearty, comforting taste brings a nostalgic feel of classic home-cooked meals, making it a go-to choice for many diners. Trying to make a copycat version allows you to recreate that delicious meal in your own kitchen, offering both satisfaction and the joy of sharing a restaurant-quality dish with loved ones. Your homemade roast turkey and gravy will capture the warmth and taste that has made Luby's a favorite.