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 (12-14 pound) whole turkey, thawed; 2 cups bread crumbs; 1 cup onion, finely chopped; 1 cup celery, finely chopped; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup white wine; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Holiday Magic Kitchen

I love the joy and warmth that comes from preparing a Thanksgiving feast, especially when it centers around a beautifully roasted turkey. This herb-stuffed turkey recipe has quickly become a tradition in my home, and I find that the blend of seasonal herbs creates an incredible depth of flavor. Not only is it delicious, but the aroma fills the house, making everyone feel welcomed. Every bite of this juicy turkey, bursting with herby goodness, is sure to impress your guests and make your Thanksgiving celebration memorable.

Created by

Ivy Richardson

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:25:34.694Z

Preparing this herb stuffed turkey has become one of my favorite Thanksgiving rituals. I remember the first time I created this dish; the combination of fresh herbs like sage, rosemary, and thyme really enhanced the turkey's flavor. I've learned that marinating the turkey overnight not only infuses flavor but keeps the meat incredibly juicy.

One important tip I discovered is to cover the turkey with foil for the first half of the cooking time to prevent it from browning too quickly. This way, the skin gets beautifully golden while the meat cooks through evenly. Every Thanksgiving, I look forward to the proud moment of serving this centerpiece dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic blend of fresh herbs for an unforgettable flavor
Juicy, tender turkey with a perfectly golden skin
A festive centerpiece that brings everyone together

      

Understanding the Aromatic Herb Stuffing

The stuffing is the heart of this herb-stuffed turkey. Each fresh herb contributes unique flavors and aromas; for instance, parsley provides a grassy brightness, while rosemary adds a piney depth. Combining these with the sweetness of sautéed onions and celery offers a balance that complements the rich turkey meat. Don't rush this step; ensure that the vegetables are softened and aromatic before adding them to the bread crumbs to enhance the stuffing's overall flavor profile.

When mixing the stuffing ingredients, be careful not to over-moisten it with chicken broth. You want it to be moist enough to hold together but not soggy, as that can lead to a texture that doesn’t cook properly. A good rule of thumb is to mix until you achieve a consistency similar to damp sand—this will ensure your stuffing turns out perfectly during roasting.

Roasting Technique for Perfect Turkey

Roasting at 325°F (165°C) is ideal for ensuring the turkey remains juicy while achieving a crispy skin. It's crucial to monitor the internal temperature, especially in the thickest part of the breast and thigh. Use a meat thermometer to ensure you reach 165°F (74°C); this is the safe temperature for poultry. Be aware that cooking times can vary by 15-30 minutes depending on the oven and the size of the turkey, so don’t rely solely on a timer.

Basting your turkey with the chicken broth, white wine, and olive oil mixture not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a golden, crispy skin. I recommend basting every 30 minutes, ensuring you cover all exposed surfaces. When removing the foil, keep an eye on the skin; it should shimmer and start to brown, indicating it's time for the final push of roasting.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey, thawed
2 cups bread crumbs
1 cup onion, finely chopped
1 cup celery, finely chopped
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Basting

1 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup white wine
2 tablespoons olive oil

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Stuffing

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery; sauté until softened. In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, sautéed mixture, parsley, thyme, rosemary, sage, salt, and pepper.

Mix in chicken broth until the stuffing is moist, but not soggy.

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the turkey giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Season the cavity with salt and pepper.

Stuff the turkey with the prepared herb stuffing.

Roast the Turkey

Place the stuffed turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Combine chicken broth, white wine, and olive oil in a small bowl and brush the mixture over the turkey. Cover the turkey loosely with foil and roast for the first 2 hours.

Finish Roasting

Remove the foil and continue roasting for an additional hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste every 30 minutes for an even, golden skin.

Serve

Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite Thanksgiving sides and enjoy!

Enjoy your Turkey!

Pro Tips

For maximum flavor, consider brining the turkey overnight before cooking. This will help ensure moist meat and a rich taste.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing the herb stuffing a day in advance can save time on the big day. Just keep it refrigerated and let it come to room temperature before stuffing the turkey. This will also allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, if you want to prepare the turkey ahead, you can season it with salt and pepper and keep it covered in the fridge overnight, giving it a more robust flavor once roasted.

If you're planning to make additional sides for your Thanksgiving feast, consider preparing mashed potatoes or casseroles the day before as well. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge and reheat them while your turkey rests after roasting. This way, you can focus all your energy on carving and serving the star of your dinner.

Serving Suggestions

When it's time to serve, make sure to let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes after pulling it from the oven. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is juicy and tender. Use this time to plate your sides, making sure to showcase a colorful array of Thanksgiving sides like cranberry sauce, roasted vegetables, and stuffing.

For presentation, consider carving the turkey directly at the table. Not only does this create a festive atmosphere, but it also allows guests to choose their preferred pieces. If you have leftover turkey, it makes for excellent sandwiches the following day, layered with cranberry sauce and stuffing for a delightful post-Thanksgiving meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ How long should I cook a turkey?

A turkey should generally be cooked for about 13-15 minutes per pound at 325°F (165°C).

→ What is the best way to ensure the turkey doesn't dry out?

Basting the turkey frequently and covering it with foil for the first part of cooking helps keep it moist.

→ Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to use.

→ What internal temperature should the turkey reach?

The turkey must reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast or thigh.