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: 8-10 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds); 2 cups bread cubes; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 onion, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal Celebration Dishes

I love preparing this Seasonal & Festive Thanksgiving Herb Stuffed Turkey every year. There's something truly special about bringing together family and friends around the table, and this turkey becomes the centerpiece of our celebration. Infused with a myriad of herbs, spices, and the heartwarming scent of Thanksgiving, it fills my home with a festive atmosphere. Each bite offers a savory symphony of flavors that makes the effort so worthwhile. It’s not just a meal; it's a memory in the making, and I can't wait to share this joy with you!

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:29:34.914Z

When I first made this turkey, I was surprised by how easy it was to assemble such an impressive dish. The blend of herbs not only enhanced the flavor but also kept the meat incredibly moist during roasting. I focused on balancing fresh sage, thyme, and rosemary, creating a stuffing that felt both nostalgic and exciting. Each year, I find new ways to tweak the stuffing, adding in seasonal vegetables or different nuts for an extra layer of texture.

Another tip I can share is about basting. It’s easy to forget while preparing the side dishes, but basting the turkey every 30 minutes gives it that stunning golden-brown color and keeps the meat juicy. The aroma wafting through the kitchen during this time is pure bliss, encouraging everyone to gather around, enhancing the festive spirit. Trust me, your Thanksgiving will feel complete with this turkey as the star!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic herbs bring unforgettable flavors to your Thanksgiving feast.
The stuffing is versatile—you can customize it with your favorite seasonal ingredients.
Basting ensures perfectly juicy turkey with a delightful golden skin.

Choosing the Right Turkey

When selecting a turkey, opt for a fresh one if possible, as it often yields a more succulent flavor compared to frozen. For a 12-14 pound turkey, consider the age of the bird; younger turkeys typically have more tender meat. If you’re looking for a specific taste, heritage breeds are known for their richer flavor profiles, while regular supermarket turkeys are often more affordable and available.

Remember that the size of your turkey will affect cooking times. On average, expect a roasting time of about 13-15 minutes per pound at 325°F (165°C). To ensure even cooking, allow at least 24 hours of thawing time in the refrigerator for a frozen turkey.

Perfecting the Herb Stuffing

The stuffing is what elevates this turkey dish. Using a combination of fresh herbs adds not just flavor but also fragrance. I recommend using day-old bread for stuffing; its density absorbs the broth well without turning mushy. If you want to switch things up, feel free to add ingredients like diced apples, cranberries, or nuts to offer a touch of sweetness and texture.

For the best stuffing texture, ensure that the bread cubes are lightly toasted before mixing with the wet ingredients. This creates a charmingly crunchy exterior while remaining moist inside. If you prefer a lower-carb option, you might swap in vegetables like cauliflower or gluten-free bread.

Basting and Carving Tips

Basting is an essential step for achieving that golden skin and juicy meat. Every 30 minutes, use a baster or a ladle to pour the turkey's juices over the skin. This not only enhances flavor but also keeps the turkey moist. If you notice the skin browning too quickly, tent the turkey loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

After the turkey is done roasting, remember to let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is juicy and flavorful. When carving, start by removing the legs first and then the breast for a clean presentation.

Ingredients for Turkey

Turkey and Stuffing

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
2 cups bread cubes
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 onion, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Ingredients

Instructions

Prepare the Stuffing

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and celery, sautéing until soft. Stir in garlic and herbs, cooking for another minute. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, sautéed mixture, and broth. Mix well, adding salt and pepper to taste.

Stuff the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey and pat dry. Fill the cavity with the stuffing, securing with kitchen twine. Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan.

Roasting

Roast the turkey for about 3 hours, basting every 30 minutes with pan juices. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Rest and Serve

Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For the best results, brine the turkey overnight to enhance its juiciness and flavor. You can also add cranberries or apples to the stuffing for a sweet touch.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to ease the stress on Thanksgiving Day, consider making the herb stuffing a day in advance. Prepare it, store it in the refrigerator, and then stuff the turkey just before roasting. This will not only save time but also allow the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.

Additionally, you can brine your turkey a day prior for added moisture and flavor. A simple brine of water, salt, and sugar can work wonders. Just be sure to rinse it well and pat it dry before applying the seasoning and stuffing.

Storing Leftovers

Once the festivities are over and you have leftovers, make sure you store them properly to maintain flavor and texture. Place any leftover turkey and stuffing in airtight containers and refrigerate them within two hours of cooking to avoid spoilage. They should be consumed within four days, but can be frozen for longer storage.

When reheating, try to keep the turkey moist by sprinkling a little broth over it and covering it with foil. This will prevent it from drying out in the oven. Aim for a reheating temperature of about 325°F (165°C) until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this herb stuffed turkey with classic Thanksgiving sides such as mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole for a traditional spread. Don’t forget a rich gravy made from drippings for drizzling over the turkey.

For a twist, serve the turkey alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes to complement the herb flavors. A light salad with a vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a frozen turkey?

Yes, just ensure it is completely thawed before roasting. This can take several days in the refrigerator.

→ How do I know when the turkey is done?

Use a meat thermometer; the turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

→ Can I prepare the stuffing in advance?

Absolutely! Prepare the stuffing a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just fill the turkey right before roasting.

→ What sides go well with this turkey?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce.