Seasonal & Festive Thanksgiving Herb Stuffed Turkey

Name: Seasonal & Festive Thanksgiving Herb Stuffed Turkey
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs); 4 cups bread cubes (stale or toasted); 1 cup chopped onion; 1 cup chopped celery; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Celebration Table Favorites

I absolutely love Thanksgiving, and nothing captures the spirit of the holiday quite like a perfectly stuffed turkey. In my kitchen, the aromas of herbs and spices transform the atmosphere, making it feel warm and inviting. The combination of fresh herbs like rosemary and sage with a hint of lemon brightens the rich flavors and adds depth to every bite. This recipe is my favorite because it brings family together and creates lasting memories around the dinner table. With careful preparation, I can ensure a juicy, flavorful turkey that everyone will adore.

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:39:35.719Z

Every Thanksgiving, I take extra care in preparing my herb stuffed turkey. It's a labor of love that pays off in flavor and tenderness. I’ve experimented with various stuffing ingredients over the years, but the classic blend of bread, herbs, and citrus results in a sublime dish everyone raves about. The key to a moist turkey is basting regularly and ensuring you don’t overcook it—so keeping an eye on the internal temperature is essential.

I've learned from experience to let the turkey rest after roasting. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is succulent. When I take the turkey out of the oven and lift that golden-brown skin, the scent is always a reminder of the memories attached to every Thanksgiving feast. Sharing this meal with loved ones is what it's all about!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Aromatic blend of fresh herbs for a delightful flavor
Juicy, tender turkey cooked to perfection
Brings friends and family together for a memorable feast

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of herbs is crucial for a flavorful stuffed turkey. Fresh rosemary, sage, and thyme not only enhance the turkey's aroma but also penetrate the meat, imparting their essence with every bite. If fresh herbs are unavailable, using dried herbs can work in a pinch, but remember to reduce the quantity by half since dried herbs are more potent.

Using quality bread for the stuffing also makes a significant difference. A hearty, rustic bread holds up better when mixed with broth, preventing a mushy texture. Stale or toasted bread is ideal as it absorbs the flavors while maintaining integrity. If you want to add a twist, consider a sourdough or herb-infused loaf for added complexity.

Roasting Techniques

An even roast is vital for a perfectly cooked turkey. To achieve this, ensure your turkey is at room temperature before placing it in the oven; this typically takes about 30 minutes. Using a roasting rack lifts the turkey away from the pan, allowing for all-around heat circulation and yielding a crispy skin. If the skin begins to darken too quickly, tent the turkey loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Basting is not only about flavor; it also helps to keep the skin moist. Every 30 minutes, use a ladle or turkey baster to spoon the pan juices over the turkey. This technique helps achieve that beautiful golden color while keeping the meat juicy. Aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) is crucial for both safety and optimal texture.

Ingredients

Turkey and Stuffing

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
4 cups bread cubes (stale or toasted)
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
1 lemon, zested and juiced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels, then season the cavity generously with salt and pepper.

Make the Stuffing

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and celery, cooking until softened. Stir in the herbs, lemon zest, and juice. Add the bread cubes, followed by the chicken broth, mixing well. Season with salt and pepper, then let cool.

Stuff the Turkey

Once the stuffing is cool, loosely pack it into the turkey cavity. Do not overstuff. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under the body.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Pour some broth into the pan to maintain moisture. Roast the turkey for 2.5 to 3 hours, basting every 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Serve

Once done, transfer the turkey to a cutting board. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Tips

Pro Tips

Basting the turkey with its drippings helps achieve a crispy skin. If the skin browns too fast, cover it with foil to prevent burning.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing the stuffing a day in advance can ease the cooking process on Thanksgiving Day. After cooking the vegetables, mix in the herbs and bread, allowing the stuffing to cool. Store it in the refrigerator overnight; just remember to bring it back to room temperature before stuffing the turkey. This approach also allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a more robust taste.

Roasting the turkey can also be efficiently planned. If you're cooking a larger bird, consider starting the roasting process earlier in the day. Once roasted, the turkey can rest for up to an hour, giving you valuable time to prepare side dishes or appetizers, ensuring everything is ready at the same time.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your herb stuffed turkey with traditional Thanksgiving sides like creamy mashed potatoes, tangy cranberry sauce, and roasted vegetables. The turkey's savory flavors pair well with sweet elements, creating a wonderful balance on the plate. For an extra touch, drizzle some of the pan gravy over your servings; it enhances every element of the meal.

If you’re looking to vary the experience, consider serving leftover turkey with a fresh herb salad with citrus vinaigrette the day after. It provides a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the turkey and stuffing, making the most out of your Thanksgiving feast while introducing a lighter option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance, just refrigerate it until you're ready to stuff the turkey.

→ What should I do if my turkey is frozen?

Make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator for 24 hours per 4-5 pounds of turkey before cooking.

→ How long should I let my turkey rest after cooking?

Allow the turkey to rest for at least 20-30 minutes for the juices to redistribute before carving.

→ Can I use other herbs for the stuffing?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in any herbs you enjoy, such as parsley or oregano, to customize the flavor.