16+ Small Turkey For Thanksgiving Recipe Prepare To Be Amazed!
Published on: Mar 19, 2024
Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones and enjoying a delicious feast. Turkey is often the star of the show on this holiday, but not everyone needs to prepare a large bird to celebrate. For those with smaller gatherings or limited time, a small turkey for Thanksgiving can be the perfect solution. In this article, we'll share a professional and well-organized recipe for a small turkey that will still impress your guests and leave everyone satisfied.
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Fresh Sage, Fresh Thyme Leaves, Fresh Rosemary
Thanksgiving is just around the corner and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious and flavorful Garlic Smoked Turkey. This recipe is sure to impress your guests and become a new favorite for your holiday meals. The combination of garlic and smoke takes the traditional roasted turkey to a whole new level.
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Prosciutto Wrapped Turkey for Thanksgiving
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Kosher Salt, Black Peppercorns, Red Pepper
For a unique twist on the classic Thanksgiving turkey, try this Prosciutto Wrapped Turkey recipe. The salty and savory prosciutto adds a delicious depth of flavor to the turkey, making it a standout on your holiday table. Plus, the prosciutto helps keep the turkey moist and juicy while it roasts. Your family and friends will be asking for this recipe year after year.
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Prosciutto Wrapped Roasted Turkey for Thanksgiving
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Kosher Salt, Black Peppercorns, Red Pepper
Another delicious way to incorporate prosciutto into your Thanksgiving meal is with this Prosciutto Wrapped Roasted Turkey recipe. The prosciutto adds a crispy, salty crust to the turkey while keeping the meat incredibly tender and juicy. This is a great option for those who prefer a more traditional roasted turkey with a twist.
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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, the thought of cooking a turkey may seem daunting. But fear not, this guide on How To Cook a Turkey for Thanksgiving will walk you through the steps and give you tips and tricks to ensure a perfectly cooked and delicious turkey. From prepping the bird to carving it, this guide has got you covered.
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How to Make a Test Run Turkey for Thanksgiving
Main Ingredients: Turkey Legs, Honey, Chipotle Powder, Garlic Powder
Practice makes perfect, and when it comes to cooking a turkey for Thanksgiving, it's always a good idea to do a test run beforehand. This recipe for a Test Run Turkey for Thanksgiving is a great way to practice and perfect your cooking technique before the big day. Plus, you get to enjoy a delicious turkey dinner twice!
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Super Moist Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Butter, Dry White Wine, Chicken Stock, Fresh
No one likes a dry and flavorless turkey. That's why this Super Moist Turkey recipe is a must-try for your Thanksgiving feast. The secret to this recipe is brining the turkey for 24 hours before roasting. This locks in the moisture and infuses the turkey with flavor, resulting in a super moist and delicious bird.
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Keto Lasagna
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Shredded Mozzarella Cheese, Grated Parmesan
For all the keto lovers out there, this Keto Lasagna recipe is the perfect way to indulge in a comforting and delicious meal while staying true to your diet. Instead of traditional pasta, this recipe uses zucchini noodles and a flavorful meat and cheese filling. Trust us, you won't even miss the carbs.
This classic Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey recipe is a tried and true method for a perfectly cooked and flavorful bird. With a simple seasoning blend and a few key techniques, you can have a delicious and impressive turkey on your table in no time. Don't forget to save the drippings for a delicious homemade gravy!
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Turkey Tetrazzini
Main Ingredients: Spaghetti, Butter, Onion, Garlic, Mushrooms, Flour
If you're looking for a creative and delicious way to use up leftover turkey, this Turkey Tetrazzini recipe is a must-try. The combination of tender turkey, creamy sauce, and pasta creates a comforting and satisfying dish that the whole family will love. Plus, it's easy to make and perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
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Best Turkey Gravy
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Celery Stalk, Onion, Garlic, Ginger, Salt
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without a rich and flavorful gravy to drizzle over everything. This recipe for the Best Turkey Gravy is a game changer. Made with the drippings from your roasted turkey, this gravy is packed with flavor and will take your holiday meal to the next level.
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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. Instead of roasting a whole turkey, this recipe calls for roasting turkey breast and thighs, resulting in a quicker cooking time and a more evenly cooked bird. Plus, the herb and butter rub adds a delicious flavor to the meat.
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Turkey Brine
Main Ingredients: Warm Water, Salt, Orange, Onion, Lemon, Rosemary
As mentioned earlier, brining your turkey is the key to a moist and flavorful bird. This Turkey Brine recipe is a simple and easy way to ensure your turkey is packed with flavor and stays juicy while roasting. The brine includes delicious ingredients like apple cider, brown sugar, and herbs that infuse the meat with deliciousness.
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One Pan Turkey Casserole
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Onion, Garlic, Sliced Mushrooms, Chicken
If you're looking for a quick and easy way to use up leftover turkey, this One Pan Turkey Casserole is the answer. Made with simple ingredients like turkey, pasta, and vegetables, this casserole comes together in one pan and is perfect for a busy weeknight meal. Plus, it's a great way to switch up the turkey leftovers from your Thanksgiving feast.
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Turkey Pot Pie
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Butter, Sour Cream, Egg, Sweet
Another delicious way to use up leftover turkey is with this Turkey Pot Pie recipe. The flaky, buttery crust combined with a creamy and flavorful filling makes for the ultimate comfort food. This recipe is great for feeding a crowd or for freezing and enjoying later.
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Easy Sausage Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Sausage, Medium Carrots, Celery Stalks
If you're looking to switch up your Thanksgiving menu, this Easy Sausage Jambalaya is a great option. This hearty and flavorful dish is packed with sausage, vegetables, and rice, making it a filling and satisfying meal. Plus, it's a great way to add some Cajun flavor to your holiday feast.
This classic Roast Turkey for Thanksgiving recipe is a must-try for those who prefer a more traditional approach to cooking their holiday bird. With a simple seasoning blend and a few key techniques, you can have a delicious and impressive turkey on your table in no time. Don't forget to save the drippings for a delicious homemade gravy!
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Juiciest Turkey Ever
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Salted Butter, Paprika, Ground Oregano, Basil
If you're tired of dry and flavorless turkey, this recipe for the Juiciest Turkey Ever is here to save the day. With a few simple steps, you can achieve a perfectly cooked and incredibly juicy turkey every time. This recipe also includes a delicious herb butter rub that adds even more flavor to the meat.
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Leftover Turkey Soup
Main Ingredients: Butter Oil, Onion, Celery, Garlic, Carrots, Potatoes
After the big Thanksgiving feast, there's bound to be some leftover turkey. Instead of making the same leftover turkey sandwiches, try this Leftover Turkey Soup recipe. Packed with veggies, noodles, and tender turkey, this soup is a comforting and delicious way to use up those leftovers.
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Herb Butter Roasted Turkey
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Olive Oil, Garlic Cloves, Sage
For a flavorful and impressive Thanksgiving turkey, try this Herb Butter Roasted Turkey recipe. The combination of herbs and butter creates a delicious and crispy skin while keeping the meat tender and juicy. This recipe also includes a delicious herb butter sauce to drizzle over the sliced turkey.
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The Best Leftover Turkey Salad
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Mayonnaise, Dijon Mustard, Lemon Juice, Sugar
This recipe for The Best Leftover Turkey Salad is a great way to use up any remaining turkey from your Thanksgiving feast. Packed with crunchy veggies, dried cranberries, and a tangy dressing, this salad is a refreshing and flavorful way to enjoy those leftovers. Plus, it's a great option for a light and healthy post-Thanksgiving meal.
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Garlic Smoked Turkey for Thanksgiving
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Fresh Sage, Fresh Thyme Leaves, Fresh Rosemary
Impress your family and friends this Thanksgiving with a flavorful twist on the classic roasted turkey - a garlic smoked turkey. The infusion of smoky garlic flavors will take your turkey to the next level and leave everyone wanting more. This recipe is simple yet delicious and is sure to become a new holiday favorite.
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Prosciutto Wrapped Turkey for Thanksgiving
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Kosher Salt, Black Peppercorns, Red Pepper
For a truly indulgent and decadent Thanksgiving dinner, try making a prosciutto wrapped turkey. The prosciutto adds a salty and savory element to the tender turkey, making it a standout dish on the dinner table. This recipe may take a bit more effort, but the end result is worth every bite.
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Prosciutto Wrapped Roasted Turkey for Thanksgiving
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Kosher Salt, Black Peppercorns, Red Pepper
If you're looking for a simpler version of the prosciutto wrapped turkey, try this recipe. It still packs a flavorful punch with the prosciutto, but it's easier and quicker to prepare. Plus, the roasted method ensures a juicy and tender turkey, perfect for a stress-free Thanksgiving dinner.
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How To Cook a Turkey for Thanksgiving
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Low Sodium Chicken Broth, Unsalted Butter
For those who are new to cooking a turkey for Thanksgiving, it can seem like a daunting task. But fear not, with this step-by-step guide, you'll have a perfectly cooked turkey in no time. From prepping the bird to carving and serving, this recipe covers everything you need to know for a successful Thanksgiving dinner.
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How to Make a Test Run Turkey for Thanksgiving
Main Ingredients: Turkey Legs, Honey, Chipotle Powder, Garlic Powder
Don't want to risk a dry or overcooked turkey on Thanksgiving day? Try making a test run turkey beforehand. This recipe allows you to practice and perfect your turkey cooking skills, ensuring a delicious and stress-free Thanksgiving dinner for all.
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Super Moist Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Butter, Dry White Wine, Chicken Stock, Fresh
Want a turkey that's juicy and moist with every bite? Look no further than this super moist turkey recipe. The secret lies in the brine, which infuses the turkey with flavor and moisture, resulting in a succulent and tender turkey that will have everyone raving.
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Keto Lasagna
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Shredded Mozzarella Cheese, Grated Parmesan
For those following a keto diet, Thanksgiving can be a challenging time. But with this keto lasagna recipe, you can still indulge in a delicious and satisfying meal. This low carb version of the classic lasagna is packed with flavor and is sure to be a hit with everyone at the dinner table.
Sometimes, the simplest recipes are the best. This roasted Thanksgiving turkey recipe is a classic for a reason - it's easy to make and yields a delicious and tender turkey with crispy skin. Serve it with all your favorite Thanksgiving sides for a traditional and satisfying holiday meal.
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Turkey Tetrazzini
Main Ingredients: Spaghetti, Butter, Onion, Garlic, Mushrooms, Flour
If you're looking for a creative way to use up leftover turkey, try making a turkey tetrazzini. This creamy and flavorful pasta dish is a great way to repurpose Thanksgiving leftovers and is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Plus, it's quick and easy to make, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
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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 pour over everything. This recipe will teach you how to make the best turkey gravy, using the drippings from your roasted turkey and a few simple ingredients. It's the perfect finishing touch to your Thanksgiving meal.
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Oven Roasted Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Unsalted Butter, Lemon, Fresh Thyme Leaves
For a classic and foolproof way to cook your Thanksgiving turkey, try this oven roasted turkey recipe. The oven does all the work, resulting in a perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful turkey. This recipe is great for beginners and is sure to impress your holiday guests.
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Turkey Brine
Main Ingredients: Warm Water, Salt, Orange, Onion, Lemon, Rosemary
For an extra juicy and flavorful turkey, try brining your bird before roasting. This turkey brine recipe is easy to make and adds a delicious blend of herbs and spices to the turkey. It's a simple step that will take your Thanksgiving turkey to the next level.
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One Pan Turkey Casserole
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Onion, Garlic, Sliced Mushrooms, Chicken
Looking for a quick and easy way to use up leftover turkey? This one pan turkey casserole is the answer. It's a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for a cold fall evening. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover Thanksgiving sides as well.
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Turkey Pot Pie
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Butter, Sour Cream, Egg, Sweet
If you're tired of traditional leftover turkey sandwiches, try making this turkey pot pie. It's a unique and delicious way to use up leftover turkey and vegetables, all wrapped up in a flaky crust. It's a crowd-pleasing dish that's sure to become a new post-Thanksgiving tradition.
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Easy Sausage Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Sausage, Medium Carrots, Celery Stalks
For a non-traditional Thanksgiving dish, try making this easy sausage jambalaya. It's a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that's perfect for feeding a crowd. The combination of sausage, rice, and vegetables makes for a satisfying and comforting dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
If you're looking for a twist on the classic roasted turkey, try this recipe. The addition of a few simple ingredients, like lemon and herbs, takes this roast turkey to the next level. It's a flavorful and impressive dish that will be the star of your Thanksgiving dinner.
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Juiciest Turkey Ever
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Salted Butter, Paprika, Ground Oregano, Basil
Want to ensure your turkey is juicy and tender every time? Try this recipe for the juiciest turkey ever. The secret lies in a combination of a brine and a butter rub, resulting in a turkey that's packed with flavor and moisture. Plus, it's a simple recipe that even beginners can master.
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Leftover Turkey Soup
Main Ingredients: Butter Oil, Onion, Celery, Garlic, Carrots, Potatoes
Don't let any of your leftover turkey go to waste with this hearty and flavorful turkey soup recipe. It's a great way to use up any remaining turkey and vegetables, and it's a comforting and satisfying meal for those chilly post-Thanksgiving days.
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Herb Butter Roasted Turkey
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Olive Oil, Garlic Cloves, Sage
Take your roasted turkey to the next level with this herb butter roasted turkey recipe. The herb butter adds a delicious and fragrant element to the turkey, resulting in a flavorful and tender bird. It's a simple and delicious way to elevate your Thanksgiving meal.
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The Best Leftover Turkey Salad
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Mayonnaise, Dijon Mustard, Lemon Juice, Sugar
Don't know what to do with all your leftover turkey? Try making this delicious and versatile leftover turkey salad. It's a great way to use up any remaining turkey and can be enjoyed as a sandwich, wrap, or on top of a bed of greens. It's a refreshing and tasty way to enjoy Thanksgiving leftovers.
The Benefits of a Small Turkey for Thanksgiving
When it comes to Thanksgiving, the traditional mindset is often "bigger is better." However, there are many benefits to choosing a small turkey for your holiday meal. For starters, a small turkey is much easier to handle and cook. It takes less time to thaw and requires less oven space, making it perfect for those with smaller kitchens or multiple dishes to prepare. Additionally, a small turkey is more budget-friendly and can help reduce food waste. You won't have to worry about being left with a ton of leftovers or struggling to find creative ways to use them up. Plus, with a smaller bird, you can focus on quality over quantity, opting for a free-range or organic option.
Preparing the Perfect Small Turkey for Thanksgiving
Now that you know the benefits of a small turkey, let's get into the recipe. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Gather the following ingredients:
1 small turkey (8-10 pounds)
1 stick of butter, softened
1 tablespoon dried sage
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Combine the herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rinse the turkey and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and rub the softened butter all over the bird. Sprinkle the herb mixture over the turkey, making sure to cover all areas.
Cooking the Small Turkey
Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Cook for approximately 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the foil and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked and flavorful small turkey for Thanksgiving! Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a stress-free holiday meal. And don't forget to save the bones to make a delicious turkey broth for soups and stews later on. With this recipe, you can have all the traditional flavors and warmth of Thanksgiving without the excess and hassle. Share this recipe with others who may be looking for a smaller alternative to the classic Thanksgiving turkey. Happy cooking!
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