Thanksgiving is about gathering with loved ones, sharing stories, and enjoying a delicious feast! The turkey is at the heart of this festive meal, a centerpiece that can genuinely make or break your Thanksgiving dinner.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or trying to cook turkey for the first time, finding the perfect recipe is essential.
Thanksgiving Turkey Recipes
In this post, we've gathered 40+ of the best Thanksgiving turkey recipe ideas, ranging from classic to creative. We guarantee you’ll find something that will impress your guests and satisfy everyone's taste buds.
Get ready to make your holiday memorable with a mouthwatering turkey that everyone will rave about!
Cajun Turkey Breast
Smoked Turkey with Bourbon Brine
Simple Oven-Roasted Turkey Breast
How To Slow Roast Turkey
Lemon-Herb Turkey Breast Recipe
Oven-Baked Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
Roast Turkey Breast Recipe
How To Cook a Wild Turkey
Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin
Slow Cooker Boneless Turkey Breast (with Cranberry Sauce!)
Butter Basted Turkey
Roast Turkey Breast with Traditional Stuffing
Smoked Turkey Breast with Cumin
Succulent Smoked Whole Turkey
Puerto Rican Style Thanksgiving Turkey (Pavochón)
Crock Pot Turkey Breast With Lemon Butter
How to Brine and Roast Turkey (Homemade Gravy)
Herb Citrus Brined Turkey Breast
Instant Pot Turkey Breast with Gravy
Deep Fried Turkey
Spatchcock Turkey Recipe (Juicy With Crispy Skin!)
Cajun Smoked Turkey
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Turkey Breast with Garlic Herb Sauce
The Best Oven-Roasted Garlic Herb Turkey Breast
Herb Butter Whole Roasted Turkey
How to Cook Turkey Breast in a Roaster Oven
Roast Tandoori Turkey
Maple-Butter Glazed Turkey Roast
Ninja Foodi Turkey Breast & Gravy
Herb Roasted Turkey with White Wine Gravy
Roast Turkey with Sage and Orange
Juicy Dry Brined Spatchcock Turkey
Classic Roast Thanksgiving Turkey
Smoked Turkey Breast with Herb Butter
Instant Pot Turkey Breast with Garlic and Gravy
Brined Roasted Turkey with Maple Glaze
Perfect Roast WholeTurkey
Slow Cooker Turkey Crown
Smoked Turkey Breast
Tips for Preparing Turkey for Thanksgiving
- Thawing: If your turkey is frozen, make sure to give it plenty of time to thaw. The best way is to leave it in the fridge for several days before cooking. Plan on about 24 hours of thawing time for every 4-5 pounds of turkey. Don't cut corners when thawing the turkey; it is best to do it the right way so no one gets food poisoning during the holidays.
- Brining: Consider brining your turkey to keep it extra moist and juicy. You can use a wet brine with salt and spices or a dry brine with salt rubbed all over the skin. Brining should be done 12-24 hours before cooking.
- Seasoning: Don’t be shy with the seasonings! Rub the turkey GENEROUSLY inside and out with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Try rosemary, thyme, or sage for a classic flavor.
- Cooking Time: If the turkey is unstuffed, a good rule of thumb is to cook it for about 13-15 minutes per pound. If the temperature is between 160 and 165 degrees F, the turkey is done.
- Resting Time: After cooking, let the turkey rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it juicier.
- Carving: Use a sharp knife to remove the legs and wings first, then slice the breast meat. Remember to carve against the grain for the best texture!
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
After your Thanksgiving feast, store leftover turkey in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can use it in:
- Sandwiches and wraps
- Salads
- Soups and dinner bowls
- Meatballs
- Shepherd's pie
- Air fryer stuffed peppers
Thanksgiving Turkey: Frequently Asked Questions
YES, but be sure to check the internal temperature of both the turkey and the stuffing. The stuffing should also reach 160-165°F to ensure it's safe to eat.
You should throw away your Thanksgiving turkey if it’s been sitting out for over 2 hours. If the temperature is really warm, like over 90°F, that time drops to just 1 hour. It’s always better to be safe and avoid food poisoning!
A good rule is to plan for about 1 to 1.5 pounds of turkey per person. This way, you'll have enough meat and some leftovers to enjoy later!
To keep your turkey moist, consider basting it with pan juices during cooking or adding a bit of broth to the bottom of the roasting pan. Covering the turkey with foil for part of the cooking time can also help retain moisture.
Did You Like This Article?
Leave a comment below and share it on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest!
Comments
No Comments