11 Mouth-Watering Christmas Turkey Recipes That Will Steal the Show!
The holiday season is here, and that means it’s time to start thinking about your Christmas feast! If you’re like many home cooks, the pressure to impress your family and friends can feel overwhelming. After all, the holiday meal is often the centerpiece of the celebration, and nothing says “Christmas” quite like a perfectly cooked turkey. That’s why I’ve created this post, packed with 11 mouth-watering Christmas turkey recipes that are sure to steal the show.
This collection is for anyone who loves to gather around the table with loved ones during the holidays. Whether you’re an experienced chef or just starting out, you want your festive recipes to be memorable and delicious. You might be looking for something classic, like the Classic Roast Turkey with Stuffing, or perhaps a twist on tradition with a Spicy Chipotle Turkey with Avocado Cream. No matter your style or taste, there’s a recipe here that will fit your celebration perfectly.
In this post, you’ll find ideas that are not just tasty but also visually stunning. These holiday meal ideas are designed to bring cheer to your table and make your Christmas dinner feel special. From sweet glazes to savory herb rubs, each recipe comes with clear instructions and helpful tips to guide you through the cooking process. Your turkey will turn out juicy, flavorful, and ready to impress even the pickiest of eaters.
So, grab your apron and get ready to create a standout dish that your loved ones will rave about for years to come. Let’s dive into these 11 Christmas turkey recipes that are sure to make your holiday gathering unforgettable!
Key Takeaways
– Discover 11 unique turkey recipes, from classic to contemporary, to elevate your holiday feast.
– Learn how to prepare a Maple-Glazed Turkey with Cranberry Sauce, blending sweet and tart flavors for a festive twist.
– Explore the Mediterranean flavors in the Mediterranean Stuffed Turkey, filled with herbs and spices that bring a fresh touch to your table.
– Get tips for achieving a perfectly roasted turkey with crispy skin and juicy meat, ensuring your main dish shines.
– Find new ways to impress your guests and create lasting memories with easy-to-follow recipes designed for every skill level.
Contents
- 1. Herb-Butter Roasted Christmas Turkey
- 2. Maple-Glazed Turkey with Cranberry Sauce
- 3. Spicy Chipotle Turkey with Avocado Cream
- 4. Mediterranean Stuffed Turkey
- 5. Garlic and Lemon Roasted Turkey
- 6. Pomegranate-Glazed Turkey
- 7. Honey-Balsamic Glazed Turkey
- 8. Italian Herb and Parmesan Turkey
- 9. Southwest Chili Rubbed Turkey
- 10. Classic Roast Turkey with Stuffing
- 11. Lemon and Herb Brined Turkey
1. Herb-Butter Roasted Christmas Turkey
1. Herb-Butter Roasted Christmas Turkey
This Herb-Butter Roasted Christmas Turkey brings classic comfort to the table. A rich herb butter keeps the skin crisp and the meat juicy. The scent of rosemary, thyme, and sage fills the kitchen as it roasts. The method stays simple, so you can pull off a showpiece even on a busy holiday.
Ingredients:
– 12 lb turkey
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 onion, quartered
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a bowl, combine softened butter with chopped herbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Gently loosen the skin of the turkey and spread half of the herb butter under it. Use the remaining butter to coat the outside.
4. Stuff the cavity with onion quarters for added flavor.
5. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a pan and pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.
6. Roast for about 2.5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
FAQs:
Can I prepare it ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the herb butter a day in advance.
What sides pair well with this turkey? Classic sides like stuffing, cranberry sauce, and roasted vegetables are perfect.
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Maple-Glazed Turkey with Cranberry Sauce is a delightful centerpiece for your holiday meal. This recipe combines the savory richness of turkey with a sweet and sticky maple glaze, perfectly complemented by a tangy cranberry sauce. It’s an ideal choice for festive gatherings, ensuring your Christmas Turkey stands out on the table.
With its beautiful presentation and mouth-watering flavors, this dish will impress your family and friends, making it a great addition to your collection of holiday meal ideas.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
– 1 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 2 teaspoons onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth (for basting)
For the Cranberry Sauce:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup water
– Zest of 1 orange
– Juice of 1 orange
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Prepare the turkey: Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity. Rinse the turkey inside and out, then pat it dry with paper towels.
3. Make the maple glaze: In a bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted butter, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Glaze the turkey: Place the turkey in a roasting pan. Brush the maple glaze generously over the turkey, making sure to cover the breast and legs. Reserve some glaze for basting.
5. Roast the turkey: Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven, basting every 30 minutes with the reserved glaze. Roast for about 3 to 3.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
6. Prepare the cranberry sauce: In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, orange zest, orange juice, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
7. Rest and serve: Once the turkey is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. Serve slices of the turkey with a generous spoonful of cranberry sauce on the side.
Enjoy your delicious Maple-Glazed Turkey with Cranberry Sauce, a perfect dish for your festive recipes this holiday season!
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3. Spicy Chipotle Turkey with Avocado Cream
Bring a burst of flavor to your holiday table with this Spicy Chipotle Turkey. The smoky heat from chipotle in adobo pairs beautifully with the creamy, cooling avocado sauce, making it a perfect centerpiece for your festive recipes. This turkey is not only a feast for the senses but also easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones this holiday season.
Whether you’re hosting a grand gathering or an intimate dinner, this turkey recipe is sure to impress your guests and elevate your holiday meal ideas to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons McCormick Culinary Ground Chipotle Chile Pepper
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup adobo sauce (from chipotle peppers)
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
For the Avocado Cream:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
2. Make the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chipotle pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the adobo sauce, cilantro, and lime juice, mixing until well combined.
3. Season the Turkey: Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey, including under the skin where possible for maximum flavor.
4. Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey in a roasting pan and cook in the preheated oven. Roast for about 13-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste the turkey occasionally with its own juices for extra moisture.
5. Prepare the Avocado Cream: While the turkey is roasting, combine avocados, sour cream, lime juice, minced garlic, and salt in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Rest and Serve: Once the turkey is cooked, let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. Serve slices of turkey with a generous dollop of avocado cream on the side and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Enjoy this spicy chipotle turkey as a standout dish at your Christmas gathering, and watch it quickly become a holiday favorite!
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4. Mediterranean Stuffed Turkey
Mediterranean Stuffed Turkey is a delightful dish that brings together vibrant flavors and a stunning presentation, perfect for your festive gatherings. This recipe combines the richness of turkey with a light and colorful stuffing made from couscous, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. Not only does it look impressive on the table, but it is also easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for a holiday meal that will leave your guests raving.
The stuffing is not only flavorful but also light, complementing the turkey beautifully without overwhelming it. Each bite is a burst of Mediterranean goodness, making this dish a standout choice for your Christmas turkey feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
– 2 cups Near East Couscous Mix (Original)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup pitted olives, sliced (black or green)
– 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Prepare the Couscous: In a large pot, bring 1 cup of chicken broth to a boil. Add the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
3. Cook the Vegetables: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the fluffed couscous, sautéed onion and garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Stuff the Turkey: Carefully stuff the turkey cavity with the couscous mixture. Make sure not to overstuff, as the stuffing will expand during cooking.
6. Truss the Turkey: Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under the body to prevent them from burning.
7. Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 3 to 3.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Basting occasionally with the pan juices will help keep the turkey moist.
8. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.
This Mediterranean Stuffed Turkey will be a centerpiece for your holiday meal ideas, making it an unforgettable Christmas turkey recipe that everyone will love. Enjoy the festive flavors and the compliments from your guests!
Mediterranean Stuffed Turkey
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5. Garlic and Lemon Roasted Turkey
Bright and fresh, this Garlic and Lemon Roasted Turkey lifts the traditional roast. Garlic and lemon juice and zest permeate the meat for juicy bites. It pairs well with light sides and greens. Simple to pull off, with big flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 10 cloves garlic, minced
– Zest of 2 lemons
– 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 lemons, quartered
– Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley) for stuffing
– Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Prepare the Turkey: Remove the turkey giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Place it in a large roasting pan.
3. Make the Garlic Lemon Mixture: In a bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Season the Turkey: Gently loosen the skin over the turkey breast and rub half of the garlic lemon mixture directly onto the meat. Rub the remaining mixture all over the outside of the turkey.
5. Stuff the Turkey: Stuff the cavity with quartered lemons and fresh herbs.
6. Roast the Turkey: Drizzle olive oil over the turkey, then cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil. Roast in the preheated oven for about 2 to 2.5 hours, removing the foil for the last 30-45 minutes to allow the skin to crisp up.
7. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the thickest part of the turkey breast reaches 165°F (75°C). Let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving.
8. Serve: Carve the turkey, drizzle with pan juices, and serve with your favorite light sides and greens.
This Garlic and Lemon Roasted Turkey is sure to be a show-stopper at your holiday table, making your Christmas meal unforgettable.
Garlic and Lemon Roasted Turkey
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Pomegranate glaze gives this turkey a shiny, festive crust that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. Its sweet-tart flavor enhances the meat, making it an extraordinary centerpiece for your Christmas table. The bright, jewel-like seeds add both crunch and color, elevating the visual appeal of your dish. Pair this turkey with roasted vegetables and grains for a complete holiday meal that will impress your guests.
### Ingredients
– 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds), thawed
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup pomegranate molasses
– ¼ cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons minced garlic
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 cup pomegranate seeds (for garnish)
– Fresh herbs (such as rosemary and thyme, for garnish)
### Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Prepare the Turkey: Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper, both inside and out.
3. Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the pomegranate molasses, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, cinnamon, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring until well combined.
4. Apply the Glaze: Place the turkey in a large roasting pan. Brush the pomegranate glaze all over the turkey, reserving some for later basting.
5. Roast the Turkey: Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast. Baste with the reserved glaze every 30 minutes.
6. Rest and Garnish: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh pomegranate seeds and herbs for a festive touch.
7. Serve: Carve the turkey and arrange it on a platter, drizzling any remaining glaze over the slices for added flavor.
Enjoy this pomegranate-glazed turkey as the star of your festive recipes, making your holiday meal ideas unforgettable!
Pomegranate-Glazed Turkey
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7. Honey-Balsamic Glazed Turkey
This honey-balsamic glazed turkey is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday feast. The rich sweetness from the honey combined with the tangy balsamic vinegar creates a mouthwatering glaze that coats the turkey beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. The glossy sheen of the glaze not only enhances the turkey’s appearance but also adds a delightful taste that your guests will love. Pair this elegant dish with comforting sides for a truly memorable holiday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
– 1 cup honey
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the turkey from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. Place it in a large roasting pan.
2. Make the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until well combined and slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Glaze the Turkey: Brush half of the glaze generously over the turkey, making sure to coat all sides. Reserve the remaining glaze for basting.
4. Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste the turkey with the reserved glaze every 30 minutes to build up a beautiful, sticky layer.
5. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for a festive touch.
6. Enjoy: Serve the honey-balsamic glazed turkey with your favorite sides and watch it steal the show at your holiday meal!
Honey-Balsamic Glazed Turkey
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To elevate your holiday meal ideas this season, consider making an Italian Herb and Parmesan Turkey. This dish not only promises to be the centerpiece of your festive recipes but also brings a delightful combination of flavors that your guests will love. The golden, crispy crust of Parmesan and the aromatic herbs create an inviting aroma that will fill your home with warmth and joy.
### Ingredients
– 1 whole turkey (10-12 pounds)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
### Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.
3. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels and place it in a roasting pan.
4. Carefully loosen the skin of the turkey over the breast and thighs. Spread half of the Parmesan mixture under the skin, ensuring even coverage.
5. Rub the remaining mixture all over the outside of the turkey, making sure to cover all areas for maximum flavor and crispiness.
6. Squeeze the lemon juice over the turkey and place the lemon halves inside the cavity for added flavor.
7. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven, basting occasionally. Cooking time is approximately 13-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.
9. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve with your favorite sides.
This Italian Herb and Parmesan Turkey will surely become a family favorite and is sure to steal the show at your Christmas gathering!
Italian Herb and Parmesan Turkey
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Indulge in the bold flavors of Southwest Chili Rubbed Turkey, a standout dish that’s perfect for your Christmas feast. With a vibrant mix of chili powder, cumin, and paprika, this turkey offers a delightful smoky kick that lingers pleasantly on the palate. Topped with creamy avocado and fresh pico de gallo, it strikes a beautiful balance of flavors and colors, making it a visually stunning centerpiece for your holiday table.
This recipe is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s also easy to prepare, ensuring that you spend less time in the kitchen and more time celebrating with your loved ones. Gather around and enjoy this crowd-pleasing option that will surely steal the show at your festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
– 1/4 cup chili powder
– 2 tablespoons ground cumin
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons garlic powder
– 2 tablespoons onion powder
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 avocados, diced
– 1 cup pico de gallo (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Prepare the Turkey: Remove the turkey giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Place the turkey in a roasting pan.
3. Make the Rub: In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Apply the Rub: Drizzle the olive oil over the turkey, then generously rub the spice mixture all over the turkey, including under the skin for maximum flavor.
5. Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
6. Rest the Turkey: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
7. Serve: Carve the turkey and serve with diced avocado and pico de gallo on the side. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Enjoy this Southwest Chili Rubbed Turkey as a festive highlight in your holiday meal ideas, and watch your guests come back for seconds!
Southwest Chili Rubbed Turkey
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### 10. Classic Roast Turkey with Stuffing
The classic roast turkey is a timeless centerpiece that brings families together during the festive season. This dish features a juicy turkey paired with savory bread stuffing, making it a beloved choice for holiday gatherings. The stuffing not only keeps the turkey moist but also adds a comforting texture and rich flavor, making it perfect for any Christmas meal. Whether you’re celebrating with family or friends, this reliable dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups chopped onions
– 2 cups chopped celery
– 1 tablespoon dried sage
– 1 tablespoon dried thyme
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 12 cups cubed bread (day-old works best)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 large eggs, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Prepare the Turkey: Remove the giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Rub the softened butter all over the turkey, including under the skin for extra flavor.
3. Make the Stuffing: In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the onions and celery, sautéing until softened (about 5-7 minutes). Stir in the sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with the cubed bread, chicken broth, parsley, and beaten eggs. Mix well until the bread is moistened.
5. Stuff the Turkey: Gently stuff the turkey cavity with the stuffing mixture. Do not pack it too tightly, as the stuffing will expand during cooking.
6. Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey in a roasting pan, breast side up. Tuck the wing tips under the body and cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil. Roast in the preheated oven for about 3 to 4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Brown the Skin: Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the skin to brown. Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the pan juices for added flavor and moisture.
8. Rest Before Carving: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist turkey.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Carve the turkey and serve it alongside the stuffing and your favorite holiday sides. Enjoy this classic dish as part of your festive recipes and holiday meal ideas.
This classic roast turkey with stuffing is not just a meal; it’s a cherished tradition that brings the spirit of Christmas to your table.
Classic Roast Turkey with Stuffing
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Lemon and Herb Brined Turkey is a delightful centerpiece for any holiday feast. The brining process infuses the turkey with moisture and flavor, ensuring each bite is succulent and tasty. Bright lemon notes and aromatic herbs like thyme and rosemary elevate the flavor profile, creating a dish that’s both festive and impressive. This recipe sets a standard for holiday dining, making it a must-try for your Christmas table.
### Ingredients:
– 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
– 1 tablespoon allspice berries
– 1 tablespoon thyme
– 1 tablespoon rosemary
– Zest and juice of 2 lemons
– 4 quarts water
– Fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs (for stuffing)
– Optional: 1-2 cloves of garlic, crushed
### Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brine: In a large pot, combine the kosher salt, brown sugar, black peppercorns, allspice berries, thyme, rosemary, lemon zest, and juice. Add 4 quarts of water and bring to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar are dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
2. Brine the Turkey: Once the brine is cool, place the turkey in a large brining bag or container. Pour the brine over the turkey, ensuring it is fully submerged. If necessary, add additional water to cover the turkey. Seal the bag or cover the container and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours.
3. Prep for Roasting: After brining, remove the turkey from the brine and rinse it under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat it dry with paper towels.
4. Stuff the Turkey: Stuff the cavity of the turkey with fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs, and if desired, add crushed garlic for added flavor.
5. Roast the Turkey: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan. Roast the turkey for approximately 13-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the breast. Baste the turkey with its juices every 30 minutes.
6. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute for a moist turkey.
7. Carve and Enjoy: Carve the turkey and serve it with your favorite holiday sides. Enjoy the festive flavors that will surely impress your guests!
This Lemon and Herb Brined Turkey will be a standout dish at your Christmas gathering, complementing the joy and warmth of the holiday season beautifully.
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These 11 Christmas turkey recipes are sure to bring joy, flavor, and warmth to your holiday gatherings. Whether you prefer traditional flavors or daring twists, there’s a recipe here to suit every taste bud.
Get ready to impress your family and friends with a beautifully cooked turkey that not only looks stunning but tastes incredible. Happy cooking! May your holidays be filled with love, laughter, and delicious food!
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