Seasonal & Festive Thanksgiving Herb Stuffed Turkey

Name: Seasonal & Festive Thanksgiving Herb Stuffed Turkey
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 3 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds); 4 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups bread cubes, preferably sourdough; 1 cup diced onion; 1 cup diced celery; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh thyme, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh rosemary, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 2 cups chicken broth; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Highlighted under: Festive Kitchen Moments

Every Thanksgiving, I look forward to preparing a feast, but nothing compares to the aroma and flavors of my herb-stuffed turkey. This recipe is my go-to for creating that perfect centerpiece, bursting with seasonal herbs and spices. As it roasts, the fragrance fills my kitchen, making it a joyous experience to share with family. With each bite, the tender meat and savory stuffing make everyone gather around to savor the moment. This turkey not only looks stunning on the table but tastes like a warm hug that brings us all together.

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-26T21:38:35.790Z

While experimenting with Thanksgiving recipes, I realized that the right balance of herbs can elevate a turkey from ordinary to extraordinary. I played around with thyme, rosemary, and sage, discovering how well they blend and complement the rich flavors of the turkey. It's a culinary journey that I relish, especially when the crowd favorites come out to share their thoughts on the stuffing! My family still talks about that one year when I added a hint of orange zest.

The key to a succulent turkey lies in both the brining and stuffing. I always brine it overnight for tenderness and moisture. This method truly makes a difference, leading to juicy, flavorful meat that pulls apart beautifully. It's these details, like using fresh herbs and a citrus twist, that make our Thanksgiving meals unforgettable.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Aromatic blend of fresh herbs that fill the kitchen with holiday cheer
Juicy turkey that stays flavorful and moist throughout
A stuffing that perfectly complements the turkey, adding layers of flavor

      

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Thanksgiving herb-stuffed turkey:

Ingredients for Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
4 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients for Stuffing

4 cups bread cubes, preferably sourdough
1 cup diced onion
1 cup diced celery
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh thyme, chopped
1/4 cup fresh rosemary, chopped
1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped
1/2 cup dried cranberries
2 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Prepare these ingredients ahead of time to make assembly quick and fun!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly herb-stuffed turkey:

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pat the turkey dry with paper towels, then rub it all over with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.

Make the Stuffing

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and celery, cooking until soft. Stir in the garlic and herbs, cooking until fragrant.

Remove from heat and combine with bread cubes and cranberries in a large bowl.

Stuff the Turkey

Gently fill the turkey cavity with the stuffing mixture. Secure the opening with kitchen twine or toothpicks.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast for about 13 minutes per pound, basting occasionally with chicken broth, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Rest and Serve

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

Don’t forget to save the drippings for a delicious gravy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can brine your turkey overnight in a solution of water, salt, and spices. This enhances moisture and seasoning throughout the meat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen turkey?

Yes, just make sure to fully thaw the turkey in the refrigerator for several days before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for fresh herbs?

You can use dried herbs, but reduce the quantity by about one-third since dried herbs are more concentrated.

→ How can I ensure my turkey is juicy?

Brining the turkey and basting it regularly while roasting will help retain moisture.

→ What should I do with leftovers?

Leftover turkey can be used in soups, sandwiches, or salads. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge.