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: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (12–14 pounds); 4 cups diced fresh bread; 1 cup diced onion; 1 cup diced celery; 1/2 cup butter; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Holiday Kitchen Favorites

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays, and nothing brings the family together like a perfectly roasted turkey. I love preparing this Seasonal & Festive Thanksgiving Herb Stuffed Turkey, which is infused with the aromatic flavors of fresh herbs and spices. The stuffing is packed full of seasonal ingredients that elevate the dish to something truly special. Whether it’s the scent wafting through the kitchen or the beautiful presentation at the table, this recipe never fails to impress my guests and leave them wanting more.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:44:42.636Z

Last Thanksgiving, I wanted to try something new and decided to create a herb-stuffed turkey. I combined a variety of fresh herbs, including rosemary, thyme, and sage, with savory vegetables for the stuffing. The result was a dish filled with depth of flavor, showing off the beauty of seasonal ingredients. I also found that rubbing herb butter under the skin ensures the turkey stays moist, really elevating the quality of the meat.

Another tip I discovered was to let the turkey rest after roasting. Giving it at least 30 minutes helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and full of flavor. My family couldn't stop raving about the tenderness and richness of this turkey, making it a classic in our holiday rotation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic herbs that fill the kitchen with festive scents
Juicy, tender turkey infused with rich flavors
Perfectly balanced stuffing for a delicious side

Perfecting Your Herb Stuffing

The stuffing in this recipe plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor of the turkey. Using day-old bread is ideal, as it absorbs the broth and seasonings without becoming too mushy. For added texture, consider mixing in chestnuts or diced apples for a sweet crunch, which pairs beautifully with the savory herbs. The key is ensuring the stuffing is moist but not overly wet; it should hold together when you squeeze it in your hand.

Balancing the herbs is another essential element. Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage not only provide aromatic depth but also freshness to cut through the richness of the turkey. If fresh herbs aren’t available, you can substitute with dried herbs, using about one-third the amount, but remember that the flavor will be more subdued. Well-seasoned stuffing complements the turkey, enhancing both its flavor and texture.

Techniques for a Juicy Turkey

When it comes to roasting your turkey, temperature and time are critical. Preheating the oven to 325°F (165°C) is standard for even cooking. A turkey weighing 12–14 pounds will typically take around 3 to 3.5 hours to reach the perfect internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Utilizing a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh will help ensure it's cooked safely without drying out.

Basting the turkey during roasting not only keeps the meat moist but also enhances the browning of the skin. I encourage basting every 30 minutes with the pan juices to encourage that golden, crispy exterior. If the skin begins to brown too quickly, you can tent the turkey with aluminum foil to prevent burning while it finishes cooking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your turkey:

Turkey and Stuffing

1 whole turkey (12–14 pounds)
4 cups diced fresh bread
1 cup diced onion
1 cup diced celery
1/2 cup butter
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
Salt and pepper to taste

Herb Butter

1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to keep all ingredients fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your turkey:

Prepare the Stuffing

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and celery, sautéing until softened. In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with the diced bread. Add the broth, herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the bread is moist but not soggy. Set aside.

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey inside and out, then pat dry. Combine the room temperature butter with the chopped herbs, salt, and pepper, and rub it under the skin and over the exterior of the turkey.

Stuff and Roast the Turkey

Fill the cavity of the turkey with the prepared stuffing. Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan, breast side up. Roast for about 3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), basting occasionally.

Rest and Serve

Once done, remove the turkey from the oven and cover loosely with foil. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Carving the turkey can be a bit tricky; take your time to ensure even slices for beautiful presentation.

Pro Tips

Always keep an eye on the internal temperature to avoid overcooking. Using high-quality, fresh herbs makes a significant difference in flavor!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If planning to prepare the turkey in advance, you can make the stuffing up to a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator after fully cooling, and fill the turkey just before roasting. This allows the flavors to blend well and ensures the stuffing is fresh. When storing leftover turkey, slice it and place it in an airtight container; it can last in the fridge for about four days.

For longer storage, consider freezing leftover turkey. Place slices in a vacuum-sealed bag or wrap in foil, then in a freezer bag, ensuring as much air as possible is removed. Frozen turkey can maintain its best quality for up to six months. When reheating, use a low temperature and add a splash of broth to keep it moist, as microwaving can lead to dryness.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your herb stuffed turkey with seasonal sides like roasted root vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes to create a balanced meal. A cranberry sauce can add a tangy contrast to the savory flavors of the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience. Don't forget a fresh green salad to provide a crisp element, helping to cut through the richness of the turkey.

Drizzling the freshly carved turkey with a homemade pan gravy made from the drippings can elevate the dish further. For a delightful presentation, serve slices on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs, citrus slices, or pomegranate seeds for a pop of color. This will not only make your plate visually appealing but also assure your guests of the homemade care in your Thanksgiving feast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the stuffing in advance?

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

→ What should I do if my turkey is browning too quickly?

If the turkey is browning too fast, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while it cooks through.

→ Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs, but use them sparingly as they are more concentrated in flavor. A general rule is to use one-third the amount of dried herbs.

→ What sides go well with stuffed turkey?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole pair wonderfully with stuffed turkey.