Get ready to impress your guests and make this holiday season unforgettable with these 20 mouth-watering roasted turkey recipes. Whether you’re a classic fan or looking for something new and adventurous, we’ve got you covered. From flavorful glazes to savory herbs and spices, each of these recipes offers a unique twist on the traditional roasted turkey.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, with international flavors and techniques that will elevate your holiday meal game. Whether you’re looking for a classic herb-roasted turkey or something more exotic like a Cajun-spiced or Asian Five-Spice roasted turkey, we’ve got the perfect recipe for you.
So, grab your apron and get ready to roast – we’ll start with some of our favorite recipes below!
Classic Herb-Roasted Turkey with Garlic Butter
A timeless roasted turkey recipe, elevated by the savory flavors of fresh herbs and rich garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, thyme, sage, and rosemary until well combined.
4. Stuff the turkey cavity with half of the garlic butter mixture.
5. Rub the remaining garlic butter all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for about 4-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-1/2 hours
Maple-Glazed Roasted Turkey with Thyme
A classic roasted turkey gets a sweet and savory twist with this maple glaze infused with the warmth of thyme. Perfect for holidays or special occasions, this recipe yields a juicy and flavorful bird that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together maple syrup and olive oil.
4. Stuff the turkey cavity with thyme sprigs.
5. Brush the maple glaze all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast the turkey for 2-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Citrus and Rosemary Roasted Turkey
Elevate your holiday gathering with this flavorful and aromatic roasted turkey recipe, featuring the brightness of citrus and the earthiness of rosemary. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 oranges, sliced
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, sliced citrus fruits, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for about 2-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Baste the turkey with pan juices every 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: About 2-1/2 hours
Spiced Honey Mustard Roasted Turkey
Elevate your holiday table with this aromatic and flavorful roasted turkey recipe, featuring a sweet and tangy glaze infused with warm spices. This show-stopping centerpiece is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Rub the turkey all over with salt, pepper, and the honey-mustard mixture.
4. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
5. Roast for 3-1/2 to 4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Baste the turkey with the pan juices every 30 minutes during the last hour of cooking.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 3-1/2 to 4 hours
Garlic and Herb Butter Roasted Turkey
Elevate your holiday gathering with this aromatic and flavorful roasted turkey recipe, infused with the richness of garlic and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Rub the herb butter all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for approximately 4-4 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-4 1/2 hours
Apple Cider Brined Roasted Turkey
Elevate your holiday meal with this moist and flavorful turkey recipe, featuring the warm spices of apple cider and a hint of sweetness. This brined turkey is sure to be the star of your table.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons black peppercorns
– 2 tablespoons coriander seeds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large pot, combine apple cider, kosher salt, brown sugar, black peppercorns, coriander seeds, and garlic. Heat over medium heat, stirring until salt dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in thyme sprigs. Let cool completely.
4. Place turkey in a large container or brining bag. Pour cooled apple cider mixture over the turkey, ensuring it’s fully submerged.
5. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
6. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove turkey from brine and pat dry with paper towels. Roast for about 3-3 1/2 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Bacon-Wrapped Roasted Turkey with Sage
Elevate your holiday turkey game with this easy and impressive recipe that combines the savory flavors of bacon, sage, and roasted turkey. This dish is sure to be the star of your Thanksgiving or Christmas feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut in half
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 4 sprigs of fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, butter, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Wrap each half of bacon around the turkey’s legs, securing with toothpicks if needed.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle chopped sage over the turkey.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Cajun-Spiced Roasted Turkey with Creole Butter
Elevate your holiday meal with this flavorful and aromatic turkey recipe, infused with the bold flavors of Cajun country.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning blend
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 cup Creole butter (see below)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Creole Butter:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped scallions
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning blend, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for about 2-1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, baste the turkey with Creole butter every 10 minutes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-1/2 hours
Herb-Crusted Roasted Turkey with Lemon
Elevate your holiday meal with this flavorful herb-crusted roasted turkey, infused with the brightness of lemon and a hint of earthy herbs. This show-stopping centerpiece is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, thyme, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 30 minutes at 425°F (220°C), then reduce heat to 375°F (190°C) and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Baste with lemon juice every 20-30 minutes during the last hour of cooking.
Cooking Time: approximately 3-3 1/2 hours
Brown Sugar and Bourbon Glazed Roasted Turkey
Elevate your holiday table with this sweet and savory turkey recipe, featuring a rich brown sugar and bourbon glaze that will impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 2 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, bourbon, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and thyme.
4. Rub the glaze all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the turkey in a roasting pan for 2-1/2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Smoked Paprika Roasted Turkey with Orange Zest
Elevate your roasted turkey game with the deep, smoky flavor of paprika and the brightness of orange zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 oranges, zested
– 2 tbsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the turkey, then sprinkle with orange zest.
5. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 2 1/2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, drizzle honey over the turkey to add a touch of sweetness.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 1/2 hours
Pomegranate Molasses Roasted Turkey
Elevate your Thanksgiving dinner with this unique Pomegranate Molasses Roasted Turkey recipe, where the tangy sweetness of pomegranate molasses pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of turkey. This dish is sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together pomegranate molasses, olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.
5. Roast the turkey for about 2-1/2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Rosemary and Garlic Roasted Turkey Breast
A flavorful and aromatic twist on classic roasted turkey breast, this recipe combines the earthy essence of rosemary with the pungency of garlic to create a mouthwatering dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Place the turkey breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the garlic-rosemary mixture evenly over the turkey breast.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Brined Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze
Elevate your holiday turkey game with this moist and flavorful recipe that combines the perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. A simple brining process and a tangy cranberry glaze take center stage in this show-stopping dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1 gallon water
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– Fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large container, combine kosher salt, water, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil to create the brine.
2. Submerge the turkey in the brine for at least 8 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
4. Remove the turkey from the brine, pat dry with paper towels, and roast for about 4-5 hours or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine cranberries, honey, and orange juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey during the last 30 minutes of roasting.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 hours, including brining time.
Garlic and White Wine Roasted Turkey
Garlic and White Wine Roasted Turkey Recipe
Get ready to impress your family and friends with this flavorful and moist roasted turkey dish, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, white wine, olive oil, and thyme.
4. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast for about 3-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: About 3-1/2 hours
Herbed Butter Roasted Turkey with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your holiday meal with this show-stopping turkey recipe, infused with the savory flavors of herbed butter and sweet caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Rub the herbed butter all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven. Roast for about 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. While the turkey is cooking, caramelize the onions by heating them in a skillet over medium-low heat for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Once the turkey is done, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving with caramelized onions.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes (including resting time)
Spatchcocked Roasted Turkey with Lemon Pepper
Transform your holiday turkey into a show-stopper with this easy and impressive recipe. By removing the backbone, you’ll achieve even cooking and a beautifully browned bird.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Lay the turkey breast-side up on a large cutting board. Using kitchen shears, cut along both sides of the spine to remove it.
4. Turn the turkey over and flatten it as much as possible. Season the inside cavity with salt and pepper.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, lemon zest, juice, and lemon pepper seasoning.
6. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
7. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Asian Five-Spice Roasted Turkey
Elevate your Thanksgiving dinner with this flavorful twist on a classic roasted turkey. The aromatic combination of Asian five-spices, soy sauce, and honey creates a sweet and savory glaze that will leave your guests craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 2 tbsp Asian five-spice powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse and pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together five-spice powder, salt, and pepper. Rub all over the turkey, including under the skin.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey until well combined. Brush the mixture evenly over the turkey.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and drizzle with vegetable oil.
6. Roast for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste every 30 minutes with the pan juices.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Truffle Butter Roasted Turkey with Thyme
Elevate your holiday turkey game with this rich and savory recipe, featuring the deep flavors of truffle butter and thyme. This show-stopping main course is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons truffle butter
– 4 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, truffle butter, and thyme leaves.
4. Rub the butter mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season the turkey with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for about 3-1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-1/2 hours
Slow-Roasted Turkey with Herb Gravy
Transform your holiday feast with this slow-roasting technique that yields a juicy, flavorful turkey paired with a savory herb gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups turkey broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, butter, garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Rub this mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season the turkey with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 3-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. While the turkey is cooking, prepare the herb gravy by combining turkey broth and the pan drippings in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
8. Serve the turkey with the warm herb gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-1/2 hours
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests this holiday season with these mouth-watering roasted turkey recipes! From classic herb-roasted turkey with garlic butter to more adventurous options like maple-glazed turkey with thyme and Cajun-spiced turkey with Creole butter, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include smoky paprika turkey with orange zest, pomegranate molasses turkey, and truffle butter turkey with thyme. Whether you’re looking for a traditional or modern twist on the classic roasted turkey, these recipes are sure to delight.
