20+ Real Simple Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe Savor The Mouthwatering Goodness!
Published on: Mar 2, 2024
Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, delicious food. And what better centerpiece for your holiday table than a perfectly cooked turkey? But cooking a turkey can seem intimidating, especially if it's your first time. That's why I'm sharing with you my real simple Thanksgiving turkey recipe. This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also produces a juicy and flavorful turkey that will impress your guests. So, let's get started and make your Thanksgiving a memorable one with this foolproof turkey recipe.
Spice up your Thanksgiving dinner with this delicious Mexican-inspired turkey recipe. Marinated in a flavorful blend of spices, this turkey is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Start by rubbing a mixture of cumin, paprika, and chili powder all over the turkey. Then, let it marinate for a few hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
Roast the turkey in the oven until it's tender and juicy. The combination of spices and citrus will give your turkey a unique and delicious flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Looking for a classic Thanksgiving turkey recipe? Look no further! This roasted turkey is seasoned with a simple blend of rosemary, thyme, and sage for a traditional flavor that never disappoints.
For extra moisture, baste the turkey with a mixture of melted butter and chicken broth while it cooks. This will also help create a beautiful golden brown skin.
Don't forget to let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute for a juicier and more flavorful bird.
Don't let your Thanksgiving leftovers go to waste! This hearty and comforting pot pie is the perfect way to use up any extra turkey, vegetables, and gravy.
Cut the turkey into bite-sized pieces and mix it with frozen vegetables and leftover mashed potatoes for a quick and easy filling. Top it off with a flaky pie crust and bake until bubbly.
This creative and delicious way to use up leftovers will have you looking forward to Thanksgiving every year.
4of 20
Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Johnny S Seasoning Salt, Unsalted Butter, Fresh
There's nothing worse than a dry turkey on Thanksgiving. That's why this recipe focuses on keeping the turkey juicy and tender throughout the cooking process.
The secret? Brining. Soak your turkey in a mixture of salt, sugar, and seasonings for at least 24 hours before roasting. This will help the turkey absorb and retain moisture, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful bird.
Just be sure to rinse the turkey before cooking to remove any excess salt.
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Salt, Sugar, Mandarin Oranges, Fresh Sage
Want to brine your turkey but don't have the time or space to do it? This easy and convenient recipe is for you.
Instead of soaking the turkey in a large container, simply mix the brine in a resealable bag and place the turkey inside. This will also help save space in your fridge.
Roast the turkey in the oven as usual and enjoy a juicy and flavorful Thanksgiving turkey without the hassle.
If you're looking for a simple and stress-free Thanksgiving turkey recipe, this one's for you. With just a few basic ingredients, you can have a delicious turkey on the table in no time.
Simply rub the turkey with a mixture of olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast it in the oven until it's golden brown and juicy.
This easy and no-fuss recipe will allow you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the holiday with your loved ones.
For those looking for a healthier option, this clean eating Thanksgiving turkey recipe is perfect. It's free from processed ingredients and uses only whole foods for a nutritious and delicious meal.
Instead of butter, use olive oil to rub on the turkey for a lighter and healthier option. And instead of a traditional stuffing, try a quinoa and vegetable stuffing for added fiber and nutrients.
With this recipe, you can enjoy a guilt-free Thanksgiving without sacrificing flavor.
8of 20
Maple Bacon Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Maple Syrup, Fresh Sage, Bacon, Chicken Stock
Looking for a sweet and savory twist on your Thanksgiving turkey? This maple bacon roasted turkey is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Brush the turkey with a mixture of maple syrup and bacon grease, then wrap it in strips of bacon before roasting. The bacon will not only add flavor, but also help keep the turkey moist and tender.
The maple bacon combination will give your turkey a sweet and salty flavor that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
9of 20
Garlic Butter Thanksgiving Turkey With Gravy
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Unsalted Butter, Salt, Smoked Paprika, Dried
For a rich and flavorful Thanksgiving turkey, try this garlic butter recipe. The combination of garlic and butter will give your turkey a rich and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with a homemade gravy.
Simply rub the turkey with a mixture of garlic, butter, and herbs before roasting. Use the drippings from the turkey to make a delicious and flavorful gravy to pour over the turkey and mashed potatoes.
10of 20
Thanksgiving Turkey Hot Dish.
Main Ingredients: Croissants, Butter, Turkey, Leftover Gravy, Shredded
Hot dish, also known as casserole, is a staple in many Thanksgiving dinners. This creamy and comforting hot dish is packed with leftover turkey, vegetables, and a creamy sauce.
Mix the turkey and vegetables with a cream of mushroom soup and top it with crispy fried onions for added flavor and texture. Bake until bubbly and enjoy a delicious and filling Thanksgiving hot dish.
11of 20
How to Roast a Thanksgiving Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Butter, Fresh Parsley, Fresh Rosemary, Fresh
If you're new to cooking Thanksgiving dinner, learning how to roast a turkey is essential. This step-by-step recipe will guide you through the process and help you achieve a perfectly roasted and flavorful turkey.
Start by seasoning the turkey with a blend of spices and herbs and stuffing it with aromatics like onion, garlic, and lemon. Then, roast it in the oven until it's tender and golden brown.
With this recipe, you'll be able to impress your guests with a delicious and well-cooked Thanksgiving turkey.
12of 20
Foolproof Sous Vide Thanksgiving Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Kosher Salt, Fresh Sage Leaves, Oil
For a foolproof and tender Thanksgiving turkey, try cooking it sous vide. This method involves cooking the turkey in a water bath at a precise temperature for a perfectly cooked bird every time.
After seasoning the turkey, vacuum seal it and place it in the water bath. The low and consistent temperature will help keep the turkey moist and tender without overcooking it.
Finish the turkey off in the oven for a golden brown and crispy skin. Your guests will be amazed by the juiciness and flavor of this sous vide Thanksgiving turkey.
13of 20
Cheesy Thanksgiving Turkey Leftover Skillet
Main Ingredients: Stuffing, Butter, Turkey, Cheddar Cheese Soup, Colby
Leftovers don't have to be boring. This cheesy and delicious Thanksgiving turkey leftover skillet is a great way to use up any extra turkey and stuffing.
Sauté onion, celery, and carrots in a skillet before adding the leftover turkey and stuffing. Top it off with gravy and shredded cheese and bake until everything is hot and bubbly.
This creative and satisfying dish is a great way to use up leftovers while incorporating new flavors and textures.
14of 20
How to Cook Thanksgiving Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Unsalted Butter, Yellow Onions, Garlic Cloves
If you're a beginner cook, learning how to cook a Thanksgiving turkey can seem like a daunting task. But with the right recipe, it can be a simple and rewarding experience.
This recipe breaks down the process into easy and manageable steps, from preparing the turkey to carving and serving. It also includes tips and tricks to help ensure a delicious and successful outcome.
Put a Southern twist on your Thanksgiving dinner with this delicious turkey gumbo. This rich and flavorful dish is packed with leftover turkey, vegetables, and a spicy andouille sausage.
Make a roux and cook it with onion, bell pepper, and celery before adding the turkey and sausage. Let it simmer until the flavors are well combined and serve over rice.
This hearty and satisfying dish will warm you up on a cold Thanksgiving night.
16of 20
Thanksgiving Turkey in the Slow Cooker
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Turkey Broth, Onion, Celery, Butter, Parsley
Take some of the stress out of cooking Thanksgiving dinner by using your slow cooker to make the turkey. This convenient and easy recipe allows you to set it and forget it, leaving you with more time to focus on other dishes.
Simply season the turkey and place it in the slow cooker with some broth and aromatics. Let it cook on low for several hours until it's tender and falling off the bone.
This hands-off method will give you a moist and tender turkey every time.
17of 20
Thanksgiving Turkey In A Brown Paper Shopping Bag
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Salt, Pepper, Onion, Celery Stick, Carrot
If you're looking for a unique and delicious way to cook your Thanksgiving turkey, try using a brown paper shopping bag. This method has been used for generations and results in a moist and flavorful turkey.
Rub the turkey with a mixture of seasonings and place it in the bag with some vegetables. The bag will help keep the turkey moist and prevent it from drying out.
The result is a beautifully browned and flavorful turkey that will be the star of your Thanksgiving dinner.
18of 20
Thanksgiving Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Water, Brown Sugar, Hot Sauce, Worcestershire
Of course, we can't forget the classic Thanksgiving turkey recipe. This foolproof method will give you a juicy and flavorful turkey every time.
Start by brining the turkey for at least 24 hours before roasting. Then, stuff it with aromatics like onion, garlic, and herbs for added flavor. Roast in the oven until it's tender and golden brown.
Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a classic and delicious Thanksgiving meal.
19of 20
Easy Thanksgiving Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Onion, Lemon, Fresh Rosemary, Fresh Thyme
For those short on time, this easy Thanksgiving turkey recipe is the perfect solution. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious and moist turkey on the table in no time.
Simply season the turkey with a mixture of salt and pepper and roast in the oven until it's tender and golden brown. The result is a delicious and no-fuss turkey that everyone will love.
20of 20
Bacon Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Kosher Salt, Light Brown Sugar, Smoked Paprika
Everything is better with bacon, and this bacon roasted Thanksgiving turkey is no exception. The combination of bacon and herbs gives this turkey a unique and savory flavor that will have everyone coming back for more.
Preparing the Turkey
Brining the Turkey
First and foremost, brining is the key to a flavorful and tender turkey. Brining is the process of soaking the turkey in a saltwater solution, which adds moisture and flavor to the meat. To brine the turkey, you will need a large pot or cooler to fit the turkey and enough space in the fridge to store it. Start by dry brining the turkey with salt and herbs the night before, or, for a quicker option, wet brine it for a few hours before cooking. Whichever method you choose, make sure to rinse the turkey before cooking to remove excess salt.
Seasoning the Turkey
Once the turkey is brined, it's time to season it. Herbs and spices are essential for adding depth of flavor to your turkey. I like to use a combination of rosemary, thyme, and sage, along with some garlic and butter. Gently lift the skin of the turkey and rub the herb mixture under the skin, as well as on the outside. This will ensure that the flavors penetrate the meat. You can also stuff the cavity of the turkey with some onions, lemons, and herbs for additional flavor.
Cooking the Turkey
Roasting the Turkey
Roasting is the most common method for cooking a turkey, and it's also the most foolproof. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Basting the turkey with melted butter or turkey drippings every 30 minutes will help to keep the meat moist. You can also cover the turkey with foil for the first half of the cooking time to prevent the skin from becoming too dark. The turkey is done when the internal temperature of the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Frying the Turkey
For a faster cooking time and a crispier skin, you can also fry your turkey. However, this method requires caution and should only be done outdoors. Use a deep-frying thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and make sure to lower the turkey slowly to avoid splashing. Fried turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 170 degrees Fahrenheit.
Serving the Turkey
Once the turkey is cooked, let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender turkey. Carve the turkey into thin slices and serve with your favorite side dishes. And there you have it, a perfectly cooked Thanksgiving turkey that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
In conclusion, with this real simple Thanksgiving turkey recipe, you don't have to be intimidated by cooking a turkey. Just remember to brine, season, and cook it with care, and you'll have a delicious and impressive centerpiece for your holiday feast. Happy Thanksgiving!