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); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 stick unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups crusty bread, cubed; 2 cups corn bread, cubed; 1 onion, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 tsp fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tsp dried sage; 2 eggs, beaten; 1/4 cup olive oil

Highlighted under: Holiday Home Favorites

When it comes to Thanksgiving, I can’t resist the allure of a beautifully roasted turkey. I’ve spent years perfecting my holiday turkey recipe, especially the herb stuffing that I create from scratch. The aroma of fresh herbs and spices wafting through the kitchen as it cooks is heavenly, and everyone in the family gathers, excited for a taste. This turkey never fails to impress, and I always add my own twist to make it uniquely mine. Let me share with you how to create a stunning centerpiece for your festive gathering.

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:07:34.485Z

Preparing Thanksgiving turkey has become a cherished tradition in my household. I love selecting seasonal herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage, which give the stuffing a fresh and aromatic profile. After years of experimenting, I found that using a combination of rustic bread and corn bread enhances the texture and flavor of the stuffing. It keeps the turkey moist during roasting and infuses every bite with delicious taste.

A crucial tip I discovered is to allow the turkey to rest after coming out of the oven. This step locks in the juices, leading to a succulent, tender turkey. I can't wait to serve it alongside my family's favorite sides!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Infused with a medley of seasonal herbs for aromatic flavor
Juicy and tender meat thanks to the stuffed goodness
A centerpiece that brings family and friends together

Elevate Your Herb Stuffing

The herb stuffing is the star of this turkey, and using day-old crusty bread is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. When you cube the bread, aim for pieces that are about an inch in size to ensure even absorption of flavors while maintaining a delightful chew. If you want to experiment, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or diced apples for a sweet contrast, which pairs nicely with the savory herbs.

Be sure to taste your stuffing before packing it into the turkey. The flavor of the herb mix is vital, and you might want to adjust seasonings—such as adding extra thyme or a touch of garlic powder—based on your family’s preferences. A hint of citrus zest, like lemon or orange, can also add brightness to the stuffing without overwhelming the traditional flavors.

Perfecting the Roasting Technique

Preheating the oven to the right temperature is key to preventing a dry turkey. I recommend using a digital meat thermometer to monitor cooking; inserting it into the thickest part of the thigh ensures that the meat is safely cooked while preserving juiciness. If the skin begins to brown too quickly, lightly tent the turkey with aluminum foil, which will help keep it moist and prevent burning.

During the roasting process, basting the turkey every 30 minutes with its own juices or the broth in the roasting pan helps to enhance flavor and moisture. As the turkey cooks, you’ll notice the skin turning a beautiful golden brown; this color is a sign of delicious, crispy skin. Just be careful not to open the oven door too often, as this can lead to temperature fluctuations and uneven cooking.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups chicken broth
1 stick unsalted butter, softened

For the Herb Stuffing

4 cups crusty bread, cubed
2 cups corn bread, cubed
1 onion, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tsp dried sage
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Stuffing

In a large bowl, combine the crusty bread, corn bread, onion, celery, garlic, parsley, rosemary, thyme, sage, and olive oil. Mix well and then add in the beaten eggs, stirring until combined.

Stuff the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Season the turkey inside and out with salt and pepper. Stuff the turkey with the herb mixture, packing it tightly but not too snugly. Rub the softened butter over the skin for crispiness.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey on a roasting pan and pour chicken broth into the bottom. Roast for about 3 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C).

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, allow the turkey to rest for 30 minutes before carving. This step helps retain all those delicious juices!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

To enhance flavors, consider brining the turkey overnight before cooking. This extra step can significantly increase the juiciness of the meat.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing the stuffing a day in advance can streamline your Thanksgiving meal. Once the herb mixture is combined, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully overnight, making the stuffing even tastier when cooked. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before stuffing the turkey so that the cooking time remains consistent.

For those who might worry about leftovers, rest assured that roasted turkey can be stored for up to four days in the fridge or frozen for up to six months. If freezing, carve the turkey and store it in airtight containers or freezer bags. When reheating, add a splash of broth to keep the turkey moist.

Serving Suggestions

For a beautiful presentation, carve the turkey and arrange it on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs, cranberries, and seasonal fruits like pears or figs. This not only looks enticing but also complements the flavors of the herb stuffing and roasted turkey, creating a visually stunning centerpiece for your dining table.

Consider pairing the turkey with a rich gravy made from drippings, or serve it alongside traditional sides like mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables for a complete meal. You could also add a light salad, like a spinach salad with pomegranate seeds, to balance the hearty flavors of the turkey and stuffing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just stuff the turkey right before roasting.

→ What should I serve with the turkey?

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

→ Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?

While dried herbs can be used, fresh herbs provide a more vibrant flavor, essential for a festive touch.

→ How do I know when the turkey is done?

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