Butterball Turkey Gravy Ingredients: What’s Really Inside?

Turkey gravy is a must-have at many family gatherings, especially during Thanksgiving. If you’ve ever picked up a jar or packet of Butterball turkey gravy, you might have wondered what exactly goes into it. Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients, nutritional facts, and some tips for enjoying this classic comfort food. Whether you’re trying to make informed choices about what you eat or simply want to know more about what’s on your table, this guide will help you understand Butterball turkey gravy inside and out.

What Is Butterball Turkey Gravy?

Butterball turkey gravy is a ready-to-serve sauce designed to complement turkey and other holiday dishes. It’s made by the well-known Butterball brand, famous for their turkeys and related products. The gravy comes in jars, cans, or packets and is meant to save you time in the kitchen while still delivering that rich, savory flavor everyone loves.

Butterball Turkey Gravy Ingredients List

Here’s a breakdown of the typical ingredients found in Butterball turkey gravy:

• Water: The main base for the gravy.
• Turkey Broth: Made from turkey stock and seasonings to give that signature poultry flavor.
• Modified Cornstarch: Used as a thickener to give the gravy its smooth, pourable texture.
• Wheat Flour: Another thickening agent that also adds body.
• Turkey Fat: Adds richness and depth of flavor.
• Soy Protein Concentrate: Used to enhance the texture and protein content.
• Salt: For seasoning and flavor balance.
• Sugar: A small amount to round out the flavors.
• Natural Flavors: Proprietary blend for extra taste (may include herbs, spices, or extracts).
• Disodium Inosinate & Disodium Guanylate: Flavor enhancers that boost savory notes.
• Caramel Color: For that appealing brown hue.
• Onion Powder & Garlic Powder: Classic aromatics for added depth.
• Potassium Chloride: Sometimes used as a salt substitute for flavor enhancement.
• Spices: Additional herbs and spices for complexity.

Keep in mind that ingredient lists can change slightly based on the specific product (jar, can, or packet) or if Butterball updates their recipe. Always check the packaging if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.

Nutritional Information: What’s in a Serving?

Knowing the nutritional value of your favorite gravy can help you make better choices during big meals. Here’s what you’ll typically find in a 1/4 cup (about 60g) serving of Butterball turkey gravy:

• Calories: About 20-30 per serving
• Total Fat: 1-2 grams
• Saturated Fat: Less than 1 gram
• Sodium: Around 300-400 mg (about 13-17% of daily recommended intake)
• Total Carbohydrates: 3-5 grams
• Sugars: Less than 1 gram
• Protein: Less than 1 gram

This gravy is relatively low in calories and fat, but it does contain a moderate amount of sodium. If you’re watching your salt intake, you may want to use it sparingly or look for a low-sodium alternative.

Is Butterball Turkey Gravy Gluten-Free?

No, Butterball turkey gravy is not gluten-free. It contains wheat flour as one of its main thickeners. If you need a gluten-free option, you’ll need to look for gravies specifically labeled as such or consider making your own at home using gluten-free flour or cornstarch.

Does Butterball Turkey Gravy Contain Dairy?

The standard Butterball turkey gravy recipe does not list dairy ingredients like milk or butter. However, always double-check the packaging if you have allergies or sensitivities, as recipes and manufacturing processes can change.

Are There Any Allergens in Butterball Turkey Gravy?

The primary allergens present are wheat (from wheat flour) and soy (from soy protein concentrate). It does not typically contain milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, or shellfish. Still, always read the label for the most up-to-date information regarding allergens.

How to Use Butterball Turkey Gravy

This gravy is incredibly versatile! Here are some tasty ways to enjoy it:

• Pour over slices of roast turkey or chicken
• Spoon onto mashed potatoes for classic comfort food
• Add to stuffing or dressing for extra moisture and flavor
• Drizzle over biscuits or open-faced sandwiches
• Use as a dip for fries or roasted vegetables

Tips for Making Store-Bought Gravy Taste Homemade

If you want your store-bought Butterball turkey gravy to taste even better, try these simple upgrades:

• Add pan drippings: Stir in a few spoonfuls of drippings from your roasted turkey for extra richness.
• Sautéed aromatics: Cook some chopped onions, garlic, or mushrooms in butter and mix them into the gravy.
• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle in chopped parsley, thyme, or sage for a burst of freshness.
• A splash of cream: For a silkier texture and richer flavor.
• Pepper and spices: Adjust seasoning with black pepper, paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne if you like heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I freeze leftover Butterball turkey gravy?

Yes! Pour any leftover gravy into an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

How long does opened Butterball gravy last in the fridge?

Once opened, store unused gravy in the refrigerator and use within three to four days for best quality and safety.

Is Butterball turkey gravy vegetarian?

No. This gravy contains turkey broth and fat, so it’s not suitable for vegetarians. Look for vegetarian gravies if needed.

Can I use Butterball gravy as a base for soups or casseroles?

Absolutely! Its savory flavor makes it a great shortcut ingredient for hearty soups, pot pies, or casseroles. Just adjust seasoning as needed.

The Bottom Line

Butterball turkey gravy is a convenient way to bring classic flavor to your meals without spending hours in the kitchen. While it contains some processed ingredients and isn’t suitable for those avoiding gluten or soy, it’s generally low in calories and fat. With just a few tweaks, you can make it taste even more like homemade. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast or just want an easy way to add flavor to weeknight dinners, knowing what’s inside helps you make choices that fit your needs and tastes.