18 Best Recipe For Turkey For Thanksgiving Taste The Magic Today!
Published on: Mar 24, 2024
Thanksgiving is a time for delicious food and cherished memories with loved ones. And no Thanksgiving feast is complete without a succulent turkey as the centerpiece. But with so many recipes and methods out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one. That's why we've done the research and tested various recipes to bring you the ultimate recipe for turkey for Thanksgiving. This mouth-watering turkey will be the star of your holiday table and have your guests asking for seconds.
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Fresh Sage, Fresh Thyme Leaves, Fresh Rosemary
If you're looking for a unique and flavorful twist on your typical Thanksgiving turkey, then look no further than this garlic smoked turkey recipe. The combination of smoky, savory flavors from the garlic and the wood chips make for a mouthwatering bird that will impress all of your guests.
First, you'll need to prepare your smoker by soaking some wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes. While the chips are soaking, prepare your turkey by rubbing it with a mixture of minced garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Let it sit for at least an hour to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Once the wood chips are ready, place them in the smoker and preheat to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the turkey on the smoker and let it cook for about 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The result? A perfectly tender and juicy garlic smoked turkey that will be the star of your Thanksgiving feast.
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Prosciutto Wrapped Turkey for Thanksgiving
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Kosher Salt, Black Peppercorns, Red Pepper
If you want to take your Thanksgiving turkey to the next level, try this prosciutto wrapped turkey recipe. The thinly sliced prosciutto adds a delicious salty flavor to the turkey, while also helping to keep the meat moist and tender.
To make this dish, start by wrapping your turkey in a layer of prosciutto, making sure to cover the entire bird. Then, place the turkey in a roasting pan and cook in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
The result is a beautifully golden and crispy prosciutto wrapped turkey that will impress all of your guests. Serve it with some roasted vegetables and a side of cranberry sauce for a complete and delicious Thanksgiving meal.
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Prosciutto Wrapped Roasted Turkey for Thanksgiving
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Kosher Salt, Black Peppercorns, Red Pepper
If you love the idea of a prosciutto wrapped turkey, but want a more traditional roasted turkey flavor, then this recipe is for you. By roasting the turkey in the oven, you get that classic crispy skin and tender meat, but with the added flavor and moisture from the prosciutto.
To make this dish, simply follow the same steps as the prosciutto wrapped turkey recipe above, but instead of cooking it in a roasting pan, place the turkey on a roasting rack inside a roasting pan. This will allow the heat to circulate around the turkey, resulting in a perfectly cooked bird.
The prosciutto will crisp up in the oven, adding a delicious texture and flavor to the turkey. Serve it with your favorite Thanksgiving sides for a meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
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How To Cook a Turkey for Thanksgiving
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Low Sodium Chicken Broth, Unsalted Butter
If you're cooking a turkey for the first time for Thanksgiving, it can be a little intimidating. But with this simple and foolproof recipe, you'll have a perfectly cooked turkey that will impress even the most experienced cooks.
First, prepare your turkey by rinsing it and patting it dry. Then, stuff the cavity with your favorite herbs and aromatics, such as thyme, rosemary, and garlic. Next, rub the turkey with a mixture of butter, salt, pepper, and other seasonings of your choice. Finally, place the turkey in a roasting pan and cook in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Let the turkey rest for about 20 minutes before carving and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy bird. And there you have it – a perfectly cooked turkey that will be the star of your Thanksgiving table.
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How to Make a Test Run Turkey for Thanksgiving
Main Ingredients: Turkey Legs, Honey, Chipotle Powder, Garlic Powder
If you're feeling a bit nervous about cooking a turkey for the first time on Thanksgiving, why not do a test run beforehand? This will not only give you some practice, but also allow you to make any adjustments or changes to the recipe before the big day.
To make a test run turkey, simply follow the same steps as the "How To Cook a Turkey for Thanksgiving" recipe above, but on a smaller scale. Use a turkey breast instead of a whole turkey, and adjust the cooking time accordingly. This will give you a chance to experiment with different seasonings and cooking methods without the pressure of Thanksgiving dinner.
Plus, you'll have some delicious turkey leftovers to enjoy afterwards!
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Super Moist Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Butter, Dry White Wine, Chicken Stock, Fresh
One of the biggest challenges when cooking a turkey is keeping it moist. But with this recipe, you'll get a super moist and flavorful turkey every time.
The key to a moist turkey is to brine it beforehand. This involves soaking the turkey in a mixture of salt, water, and other seasonings for at least 12 hours before cooking. The salt in the brine helps to break down the proteins in the turkey, resulting in a more tender and juicy bird.
Once the turkey has been brined, follow the same steps as the "How To Cook a Turkey for Thanksgiving" recipe above. You'll be amazed at how moist and delicious your turkey turns out.
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Keto Lasagna
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Shredded Mozzarella Cheese, Grated Parmesan
If you're following a keto diet, you may think that lasagna is off limits. But with this low-carb and keto-friendly lasagna recipe, you can still enjoy this classic comfort food.
Instead of using traditional lasagna noodles, this recipe uses thinly sliced zucchini as the layers. This not only cuts down on carbs, but also adds a delicious vegetable component to the dish. The lasagna is then filled with a mixture of ground beef, ricotta cheese, and marinara sauce, and topped with mozzarella cheese.
After about 30 minutes in the oven, you'll have a delicious and satisfying keto lasagna that the whole family will love.
If you want a simple and no-fuss way to cook your Thanksgiving turkey, then this roasted turkey recipe is for you. With just a few ingredients, you'll get a perfectly roasted turkey that is juicy and full of flavor.
Start by rubbing the turkey with a mixture of butter, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings of your choice. Then, place the turkey in a roasting pan and cook in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
For extra flavor, you can baste the turkey with its own juices every hour or so. And don't forget to let it rest before carving and serving – this will ensure a tender and juicy turkey. Serve with your favorite Thanksgiving sides for a delicious and classic holiday meal.
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Turkey Tetrazzini
Main Ingredients: Spaghetti, Butter, Onion, Garlic, Mushrooms, Flour
If you're looking for a way to use up your Thanksgiving leftovers, try making this delicious turkey tetrazzini. This creamy and cheesy pasta dish is the ultimate comfort food that the whole family will love.
To make this dish, simply mix together cooked pasta, shredded turkey, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce made with butter, flour, milk, and cheese. Top with some breadcrumbs and more cheese, then bake in the oven until golden and bubbly.
This is a great way to use up leftover turkey, and it also freezes well for a quick and easy meal later on.
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Best Turkey Gravy
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Celery Stalk, Onion, Garlic, Ginger, Salt
A great turkey gravy is the perfect finishing touch to your Thanksgiving meal. And with this recipe, you'll get a delicious and flavorful gravy that will have everyone asking for seconds.
To make this gravy, use the drippings from your roasted turkey and mix it with some flour and broth to create a thick and flavorful sauce. You can also add some herbs and seasonings of your choice for even more flavor.
Pour this gravy over your turkey and mashed potatoes for a delicious and classic Thanksgiving combination.
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Oven Roasted Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Unsalted Butter, Lemon, Fresh Thyme Leaves
For a simple and classic way to cook your Thanksgiving turkey, try this oven roasted turkey recipe. This method involves cooking the turkey in the oven, resulting in a crispy skin and tender meat.
First, prepare your turkey by rinsing it and patting it dry. Then, stuff the cavity with your favorite herbs and aromatics, such as thyme, rosemary, and garlic. Next, rub the turkey with a mixture of butter, salt, pepper, and other seasonings of your choice.
Place the turkey in a roasting pan and cook in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Baste the turkey with its own juices every hour or so for extra flavor. Once done, let it rest before carving and serving for a delicious and classic Thanksgiving meal.
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Turkey Brine
Main Ingredients: Warm Water, Salt, Orange, Onion, Lemon, Rosemary
As mentioned earlier, brining is a great way to ensure a moist and flavorful turkey. And with this turkey brine recipe, you'll get a delicious and tender bird that will impress all of your guests.
To make the brine, mix together water, salt, sugar, herbs, and other seasonings of your choice. Let the turkey soak in the brine for at least 12 hours before cooking. Then, follow the same steps as the "How To Cook a Turkey for Thanksgiving" recipe above.
You'll be amazed at the difference a simple brine can make in the flavor and texture of your turkey.
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One Pan Turkey Casserole
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Onion, Garlic, Sliced Mushrooms, Chicken
If you're looking for an easy and delicious way to use up your Thanksgiving leftovers, try making this one pan turkey casserole. It's a great way to use up leftover turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
In a baking dish, layer shredded turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. Top with some grated cheese and bake in the oven until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This is a great and comforting meal to enjoy the day after Thanksgiving.
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Turkey Pot Pie
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Butter, Sour Cream, Egg, Sweet
Another great way to use up leftover turkey is in a hearty and delicious pot pie. This recipe combines turkey, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all topped with a flaky pie crust.
To make this pot pie, start by cooking the vegetables in a skillet, then add in the turkey and a creamy sauce made with butter, flour, and chicken broth. Pour the mixture into a pie dish and top with a layer of pie crust. Bake in the oven until golden and bubbly.
This is a great way to use up leftover turkey, and it also freezes well for a quick and easy meal later on.
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Easy Sausage Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Sausage, Medium Carrots, Celery Stalks
If you want to switch things up and try something other than turkey for Thanksgiving, this easy sausage jambalaya is a great option. It's a one pot meal that is full of flavor and perfect for feeding a crowd.
To make this dish, cook some sausage, onion, and bell pepper in a large pot. Then, add in some rice, chicken broth, and seasonings, and let it all simmer until the rice is cooked through. You can also add in some shrimp or other seafood for even more flavor.
Serve this jambalaya with some crusty bread for a delicious and satisfying Thanksgiving meal.
If you want a classic and foolproof way to cook your Thanksgiving turkey, try this roast turkey recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you'll get a perfectly cooked bird that is juicy and full of flavor.
First, prepare your turkey by rinsing it and patting it dry. Then, stuff the cavity with your favorite herbs and aromatics, such as thyme, rosemary, and garlic. Next, rub the turkey with a mixture of butter, salt, pepper, and other seasonings of your choice.
Place the turkey in a roasting pan and cook in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Baste the turkey with its own juices every hour or so for extra flavor. Once done, let it rest before carving and serving for a delicious and classic Thanksgiving meal.
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Juiciest Turkey Ever
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Salted Butter, Paprika, Ground Oregano, Basil
If you want a turkey that is super juicy and tender, then you have to try this recipe. The secret? Cooking the turkey in a bag.
Simply place the turkey in a large oven bag, along with some herbs, seasonings, and a little bit of butter. Seal the bag and cook in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
The result is a perfectly cooked and super juicy turkey that will have everyone coming back for more.
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Leftover Turkey Soup
Main Ingredients: Butter Oil, Onion, Celery, Garlic, Carrots, Potatoes
Instead of making the usual turkey sandwiches with your Thanksgiving leftovers, try making this delicious and comforting leftover turkey soup. It's a great way to use up any leftover turkey and vegetables, and it's a hearty and satisfying meal.
In a large pot, add in your cooked turkey, vegetables, and chicken broth. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, then add in some cooked pasta or rice. This soup is perfect for those cold and cozy days after Thanksgiving.
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Herb Butter Roasted Turkey
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Olive Oil, Garlic Cloves, Sage
If you want to add some extra flavor to your Thanksgiving turkey, try this herb butter roasted turkey recipe. The combination of herbs and butter makes for a delicious and flavorful bird.
To make this dish, prepare your turkey by rubbing it with a mixture of softened butter, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Then, place the turkey in a roasting pan and cook in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
The result is a beautifully golden and flavorful turkey that will be the star of your Thanksgiving feast.
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The Best Leftover Turkey Salad
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Mayonnaise, Dijon Mustard, Lemon Juice, Sugar
For a light and refreshing way to use up your leftover turkey, try making this delicious turkey salad. It's a great option for those days when you don't want a heavy meal.
Simply mix together shredded turkey, diced apples, dried cranberries, and a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey. Serve it on a bed of lettuce or in a sandwich for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Garlic Smoked Turkey for Thanksgiving
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Fresh Sage, Fresh Thyme Leaves, Fresh Rosemary
If you're looking to add a unique twist to your Thanksgiving dinner, look no further than this Garlic Smoked Turkey recipe. This mouthwatering dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, with its delicious blend of flavors and tender, juicy meat.
To make this recipe, start by preparing your smoker and getting it to the desired temperature. While the smoker is heating up, you can prepare the turkey by rubbing it with a flavorful blend of garlic, herbs, and spices. This will infuse the meat with a wonderful aroma and taste.
Once the smoker is ready, place the turkey in and let it smoke for a few hours, basting occasionally with a delicious mix of butter and honey. The end result is a beautifully caramelized and flavorful turkey that will have everyone going back for seconds.
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Prosciutto Wrapped Turkey for Thanksgiving
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Kosher Salt, Black Peppercorns, Red Pepper
For a more elegant Thanksgiving dinner, try this Prosciutto Wrapped Turkey recipe. Not only does the prosciutto add a touch of sophistication, but it also helps to keep the turkey moist and juicy during the cooking process.
To prepare this dish, start by seasoning the turkey with a blend of herbs and spices. Then, carefully wrap the turkey in thinly sliced prosciutto, making sure to cover the entire bird. This will help to lock in the moisture and add a delicious layer of flavor to the finished dish.
Roast the turkey in the oven until it reaches the desired internal temperature, and then let it rest before carving. The prosciutto will become crispy and add a delicious crunch to every bite of this delectable Thanksgiving entrée.
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Prosciutto Wrapped Roasted Turkey for Thanksgiving
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Kosher Salt, Black Peppercorns, Red Pepper
If you want all the deliciousness of a prosciutto-wrapped turkey but don't have access to a smoker, this Prosciutto Wrapped Roasted Turkey recipe is perfect for you. It combines the best of both worlds, with the prosciutto adding flavor and moisture to the turkey while roasting in the oven.
To make this dish, follow the same steps as the previous recipe, but instead of smoking the turkey, simply roast it in the oven. You'll still get that delicious prosciutto flavor and crispy texture, making this a great option for those who prefer a more traditional Thanksgiving meal.
Be sure to save the pan drippings to make a delicious gravy to go with your turkey. The combination of flavors will make this a Thanksgiving meal to remember.
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How To Cook a Turkey for Thanksgiving
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Low Sodium Chicken Broth, Unsalted Butter
If you're new to cooking Thanksgiving dinner or just need a refresher, this How To Cook a Turkey recipe is a must-read. It breaks down the process step by step, making it easy for anyone to prepare a delicious and juicy turkey for the holiday.
The key to cooking the perfect turkey is to start with a good brine. This will help to ensure that the meat stays moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process. Then, season the turkey with herbs and spices and roast it in the oven until it reaches the desired internal temperature.
Be sure to let the turkey rest before carving to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy bird. Follow this recipe, and you'll have a perfectly cooked turkey in no time.
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How to Make a Test Run Turkey for Thanksgiving
Main Ingredients: Turkey Legs, Honey, Chipotle Powder, Garlic Powder
If you're feeling nervous about cooking a turkey for the first time, this How to Make a Test Run Turkey recipe is a great way to practice before the big day. It's also a great option for those looking to try out a new recipe or cooking method.
This recipe uses a simple and foolproof roasting method that will result in a delicious, juicy turkey. You can use the same seasoning and brining techniques as you would for your Thanksgiving turkey to get an accurate test run of the final product.
Not only will this give you a chance to perfect your turkey cooking skills, but it also means you get to enjoy a delicious turkey dinner twice in one month. Win-win!
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Super Moist Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Butter, Dry White Wine, Chicken Stock, Fresh
If you struggle with getting your turkey to come out moist and juicy, this Super Moist Turkey recipe is here to save the day. It uses a unique cooking method that involves basting the turkey with a citrus and herb-infused butter throughout the roasting process.
The result is a turkey that is bursting with flavor and incredibly tender. The extra effort of basting is well worth it for the end result. Plus, you can use the leftover butter to make a delicious gravy to go with your turkey.
This recipe is sure to impress your guests and become a new tradition at your Thanksgiving dinner table.
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Keto Lasagna
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Shredded Mozzarella Cheese, Grated Parmesan
For those looking to switch up their Thanksgiving menu or accommodate dietary restrictions, this Keto Lasagna recipe is a great option. It's a delicious and satisfying alternative to traditional Thanksgiving dishes and is perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
This lasagna is made using layers of sliced zucchini instead of pasta, making it a healthier and lighter option. It's also packed with flavorful ground beef, cheese, and a rich tomato sauce.
Even those who aren't following a specific diet will love this tasty and unique addition to your Thanksgiving feast.
If you're a fan of classic Thanksgiving flavors, this Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey recipe is for you. It uses traditional herbs and spices like rosemary, thyme, and sage to infuse the turkey with a delicious and familiar taste.
The key to this recipe is to let the turkey marinate in the herb blend for several hours before roasting. This will help to enhance the flavor and make the meat more tender.
Roasting the turkey in the oven also allows for a crispy skin and evenly cooked meat. Serve this turkey with your favorite Thanksgiving sides for a meal that will make you feel nostalgic and satisfied.
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Turkey Tetrazzini
Main Ingredients: Spaghetti, Butter, Onion, Garlic, Mushrooms, Flour
If you have a lot of leftover turkey after Thanksgiving, this Turkey Tetrazzini recipe is a great way to use it up. This creamy and comforting dish combines tender pieces of turkey with mushrooms, pasta, and a rich sauce.
It's a great way to switch up your leftovers and make something new and delicious. Plus, it's a one-pot meal that makes clean up a breeze. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, especially during the holiday season.
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Best Turkey Gravy
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Celery Stalk, Onion, Garlic, Ginger, Salt
No Thanksgiving dinner is complete without a delicious gravy to go with your turkey, and this Best Turkey Gravy recipe is a must-try. It uses the flavorful pan drippings from your roasted turkey and a few simple ingredients to make a rich and savory sauce.
The key to this recipe is to constantly whisk the gravy as it thickens to prevent any lumps from forming. The end result is a smooth and flavorful gravy that will take your Thanksgiving meal to the next level.
Be sure to make extra because everyone will want to smother their turkey and mashed potatoes with this delicious gravy.
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Oven Roasted Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Unsalted Butter, Lemon, Fresh Thyme Leaves
If you're short on time or oven space, this Oven Roasted Turkey recipe is a great option. It uses a high-heat cooking method to quickly and evenly roast the turkey, resulting in a tender and flavorful bird.
To make this recipe, you'll need a roasting pan with a rack to elevate the turkey and allow the heat to circulate. This will help to create a crispy skin and evenly cooked meat.
Roasting the turkey in the oven also frees up space on the stovetop for other Thanksgiving dishes. This recipe is perfect for those who want a delicious turkey without all the fuss.
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Turkey Brine
Main Ingredients: Warm Water, Salt, Orange, Onion, Lemon, Rosemary
If you want to take your turkey to the next level, try this Turkey Brine recipe. Brining involves soaking the turkey in a saltwater solution for several hours before cooking, which helps to infuse the meat with moisture and flavor.
This recipe uses a combination of apple cider, herbs, and spices to create a brine that will make your turkey extra juicy and flavorful. Just be sure to plan ahead, as the turkey needs to brine for at least 12 hours before roasting.
Once you try this brine, you'll never want to cook a turkey without it again.
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One Pan Turkey Casserole
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Onion, Garlic, Sliced Mushrooms, Chicken
For a simple and delicious way to use up leftover turkey, try this One Pan Turkey Casserole recipe. It combines tender chunks of turkey with vegetables and a creamy sauce, all baked in one dish for easy cleanup.
This casserole is perfect for those busy days after Thanksgiving when you don't want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. It also makes for a great weeknight meal anytime during the holiday season.
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Turkey Pot Pie
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Butter, Sour Cream, Egg, Sweet
If you're looking for a comforting and hearty way to use up leftover turkey, this Turkey Pot Pie recipe is a winner. This dish combines tender pieces of turkey with carrots, peas, and potatoes, all baked in a flaky pie crust.
The key to this recipe is to make a thick and flavorful gravy to go with the turkey and vegetables. This will ensure that the filling is rich and satisfying. Serve this pot pie with a side salad for a complete and delicious meal.
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Easy Sausage Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Sausage, Medium Carrots, Celery Stalks
If you're tired of traditional Thanksgiving flavors and want to spice things up, try this Easy Sausage Jambalaya recipe. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that combines sausage, shrimp, and a variety of spices for a delicious and unique meal.
This dish can be made in one pot and is perfect for feeding a crowd. The combination of flavors and textures will make this a standout dish at any Thanksgiving feast.
This Roast Turkey for Thanksgiving recipe is a classic and foolproof way to cook your holiday bird. It uses a simple blend of herbs and spices to season the turkey, and the roasting method allows for a crispy skin and moist meat.
Be sure to let the turkey rest before carving to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy bird. Serve with all your favorite Thanksgiving sides for a traditional and delicious meal.
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Juiciest Turkey Ever
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Salted Butter, Paprika, Ground Oregano, Basil
If you want a turkey that is guaranteed to be juicy and delicious, try this Juiciest Turkey Ever recipe. It uses a combination of white wine and chicken broth to create a flavorful and moist cooking environment for the turkey.
The result is a perfectly cooked turkey with a crispy skin and tender meat that everyone will love. This recipe is a great option for those who want a simple and foolproof way to make a delicious Thanksgiving turkey.
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Leftover Turkey Soup
Main Ingredients: Butter Oil, Onion, Celery, Garlic, Carrots, Potatoes
For a comforting and flavorful way to use up leftover turkey, try this Leftover Turkey Soup recipe. It combines tender pieces of turkey with vegetables and a rich and flavorful broth.
This soup is perfect for those chilly days after Thanksgiving when you want something warm and satisfying. It's also a great option for using up any leftover vegetables from your holiday meal.
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Herb Butter Roasted Turkey
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Olive Oil, Garlic Cloves, Sage
For a turkey that is bursting with flavor, try this Herb Butter Roasted Turkey recipe. The combination of herbs, butter, and garlic creates a delicious and aromatic coating for the turkey that infuses the meat with a wonderful taste.
This recipe also uses a roasting method that allows for even cooking and crispy skin. The end result is a beautiful and flavorful turkey that will impress your guests and have them asking for the recipe.
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The Best Leftover Turkey Salad
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Mayonnaise, Dijon Mustard, Lemon Juice, Sugar
For a light and refreshing way to use up leftover turkey, try this Best Leftover Turkey Salad recipe. It combines tender pieces of turkey with cranberries, almonds, and a tangy dressing for a delicious and healthy meal.
This salad is perfect for a post-Thanksgiving lunch or dinner when you want something light and nutritious. It's also a great option for those looking to balance out all the indulgent holiday foods.
Preparing the Turkey
Choose the Right Size
When selecting your turkey, it's important to consider the size. A good rule of thumb is to estimate 1 pound of turkey per person, so a 15-pound bird should be enough for a gathering of 15 people. Keep in mind that larger turkeys may take longer to cook and require more prep work.
Thawing the Turkey
To ensure your turkey cooks evenly and thoroughly, it's important to properly thaw it. The safest way to thaw a turkey is in the refrigerator, allowing 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds of meat. If you're short on time, you can also use the cold water method by placing the turkey in a leak-proof bag and submerging it in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. Never thaw a turkey at room temperature, as this can lead to bacterial growth.
Brining the Turkey
For a moist and flavorful turkey, consider brining it beforehand. Brining involves soaking the turkey in a mixture of water, salt, and other seasonings for several hours before cooking. This allows the turkey to absorb the flavors and retain moisture, resulting in a tender and juicy bird.
Cooking the Turkey
Preheat the Oven
Before placing your turkey in the oven, make sure it's preheated to 325°F. This is the ideal temperature for cooking a turkey, as it allows the meat to cook evenly without drying out.
Stuffing the Turkey
While some may prefer to stuff their turkey, it's important to note that this can increase the cooking time and lead to unevenly cooked meat. Instead, consider using aromatics such as herbs, onions, and citrus fruits to add flavor to the turkey while it cooks.
Basting the Turkey
Basting a turkey involves brushing or spooning juices over the meat throughout the cooking process. While this may seem like a traditional step, it actually doesn't do much for the flavor or moisture of the turkey. In fact, opening the oven door to baste can cause the oven temperature to drop, resulting in longer cooking time. Consider using a basting bag or brush instead.
Using a Meat Thermometer
The best way to ensure your turkey is cooked to perfection is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey, making sure it doesn't touch any bones. The turkey is cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Serving the Turkey
Let it Rest
After removing the turkey from the oven, let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist turkey.
Carving the Turkey
To carve the turkey, start by removing the legs and wings. Then, make a horizontal cut along the breastbone and carve thin slices. Don't forget to save the drippings from the pan to make a delicious gravy to accompany the turkey.
With this best recipe for turkey for Thanksgiving, you'll have a perfectly cooked and flavorful turkey that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Happy Thanksgiving!
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