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 lbs); 8 cups bread cubes (stale, preferably); 1 cup chopped onion; 1 cup chopped celery; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh thyme, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 stick unsalted butter, melted; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Festive Dish Collection

I always look forward to Thanksgiving, especially because of this delicious herb-stuffed turkey that has become a family tradition. The combination of seasonal herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary not only fills the turkey with flavor but also fills my home with the comforting scents of the holiday season. I've perfected this recipe over the years to ensure that the turkey stays moist with a beautiful golden skin, making it the centerpiece that everyone gathers around at the table. It truly captures the essence of Thanksgiving.

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:11:35.100Z

When I first decided to tackle a whole turkey, I was both excited and nervous. I experimented with a variety of herbs and stuffings, but realized that sticking to seasonal ingredients brought out the best flavors. The fragrance of fresh herbs while roasting makes everything feel festive, and my guests can’t get enough of it. This turkey has become a staple at our Thanksgiving gatherings, and sharing it with loved ones makes it even more special.

One tip that really helped me achieve that perfect juicy turkey is to let it rest after roasting. It may be tempting to slice right into it, but letting it sit for about 20 minutes allows the juices to redistribute. This way, every bite is tender and full of flavor. Additionally, consistently basting while it cooks ensures that every part of the turkey is packed with that tasty herb stuffing flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic herbs that bring the comfort of the holiday season
Succulent turkey with a savory, flavorful stuffing
A centerpiece that impresses and delights at any Thanksgiving table

Choosing the Right Turkey

When selecting your turkey, opt for a fresh bird whenever possible, as it typically offers better flavor and texture compared to frozen options. A turkey in the 12-14 lbs range is ideal for roasting, as it strikes a nice balance between cooking time and meat yield. If it’s frozen, ensure it's fully thawed several days in advance; a general rule is 24 hours of thawing time for every four pounds of turkey.

Pay attention to the turkey's specifics, such as whether it’s free-range or organic. These factors contribute uniquely to the flavor and texture. Free-range turkeys often have more flavorful, firmer meat due to their varied diet and active lifestyles, while organic turkeys are raised without antibiotics and hormones, which can enhance the overall taste and quality.

Perfecting the Stuffing

The stuffing is just as important as the turkey itself; it should be flavorful and have a pleasant texture. For the best result, use bread cubes that are a day or two old. Stale bread absorbs liquid without becoming mushy, resulting in a stuffing that is moist yet has defined chunks. You can also mix different types of bread to create additional flavor profiles, such as sourdough or cornbread.

Be mindful of the herbs and their freshness. Fresh herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary impart vibrant flavors that dried herbs simply can’t replicate. If you’re in a pinch, you can use dried herbs, but use them sparingly—about one-third of the amount of fresh herbs. Make sure to sauté your aromatics, the onions and celery, before mixing them into the stuffing; this adds a depth of flavor and a lovely aromatic quality to the final dish.

Ingredients

Ingredients for the Herb Stuffing

Turkey and Stuffing

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
8 cups bread cubes (stale, preferably)
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped celery
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped
1/4 cup fresh thyme, chopped
1/4 cup fresh rosemary, chopped
1 stick unsalted butter, melted
Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Seasoning

Instructions

Steps to Prepare the Turkey

Prepare the Turkey

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

Make the Stuffing

In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, onions, celery, garlic, sage, thyme, and rosemary. Pour in the melted butter and chicken broth, mixing until the bread is moist but not soggy.

Stuff the Turkey

Loosely fill the turkey cavity with the stuffing, securing the opening with kitchen twine. Rub the turkey skin with butter, then season it with salt and pepper.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey in a roasting pan and cover it with aluminum foil. Roast in the preheated oven for about 2 hours, then remove the foil and continue roasting for an additional hour, basting every 30 minutes.

Check Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Allow the turkey to rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.

Serving Tips

Pro Tips

For extra crispiness, uncover the turkey for the last 30 minutes of roasting. You can also add some sliced lemons or apples to the cavity for an extra burst of flavor.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover turkey and stuffing, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator, where they can last up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing your leftovers. The turkey can be portioned and wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe bags, where it will keep well for up to four months. When you’re ready to reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.

For optimal texture when reheating, consider adding a splash of chicken broth to the stuffing to prevent it from drying out in the oven. Cover the dish with foil to trap moisture, then remove it for the last 10-15 minutes to allow a golden crust to develop. I find that doing this helps maintain the delightful contrast between the crispy top and the soft inside.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to garnishing your turkey, fresh herbs or citrus slices can add a beautiful pop of color and enhance the presentation. Consider placing some fresh rosemary or sage sprigs around the turkey on the serving platter for an extra festive look. If you want to elevate the meal further, a light drizzle of a homemade gravy made from pan drippings and cream can tie all the flavors together beautifully.

Pair your turkey with classic sides such as roasted vegetables, cranberry sauce, or creamy mashed potatoes to create a well-rounded meal. Don’t shy away from incorporating non-traditional sides, like a wild rice salad or Brussels sprouts with bacon to add a modern twist to your Thanksgiving table. Whatever you choose, make sure you have plenty of delicious bites to go around, as leftovers are always a treat!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen turkey?

Yes, but be sure to completely thaw it in the refrigerator for several days before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for fresh herbs?

Dried herbs can be used, but use only a third of the amount since they are more concentrated.

→ How do I keep my turkey moist?

Basting the turkey frequently while cooking helps keep it moist, as well as ensuring it’s rested before carving.

→ Can I make the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to stuff the turkey just before roasting.