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); 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; Salt and pepper, to taste; 10 cups cubed bread (preferably stale); 1 large onion, chopped; 3 stalks celery, chopped; 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 3 cups chicken or turkey broth; 2 large eggs, beaten

Highlighted under: Seasonal Feast Favorites

As Thanksgiving approaches, I can’t help but feel excited about preparing our family’s feast, and this Seasonal & Festive Thanksgiving Herb Stuffed Turkey is my go-to recipe. The aroma of fresh herbs wafting through the kitchen brings everyone together, sparking joy and nostalgia. I love how the stuffing combines traditional flavors with a hint of seasonal flair, and the crispy skin pairs beautifully with the tender, juicy meat. It’s the centerpiece that ties all our favorite holiday dishes together, making this occasion truly special.

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-26T22:53:34.212Z

In my kitchen, Thanksgiving feels incomplete without a beautifully roasted turkey. Last year, I decided to try stuffing the turkey with a blend of fresh herbs, bread, and vegetables, and it turned out to be a showstopper! The secret is to let the turkey rest after cooking, allowing the juices to redistribute for maximum flavor.

This recipe not only elevates the taste of the turkey but also fills the house with a warmly inviting scent that beckons loved ones to gather around the table. Each bite encapsulates the essence of fall, making every moment worth celebrating.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The delightful aroma of fresh herbs that fills your kitchen
Juicy turkey paired with a savory, flavorful stuffing
A beautiful centerpiece that impresses guests and family

Selecting the Perfect Turkey

When choosing your turkey, size matters. A 12-14 pound turkey typically serves around 10-12 people, making it ideal for a family feast. Look for a bird that is pale in color, indicating freshness, with a clean, unblemished skin. For a more flavorful option, consider a heritage breed, which tends to have a richer taste due to its traditional raising methods.

To ensure even cooking, thaw your turkey in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours per 4-5 pounds. This method takes longer but helps retain moisture. If you’re pressed for time, a cold water thawing method can be employed: submerge the turkey in its original packaging and change the water every 30 minutes, allowing 30 minutes of thawing time per pound.

Mastering the Stuffing Technique

The stuffing is where you can be as creative as possible! Stale bread is key here — it soaks up the broth without becoming mushy. If you don’t have stale bread, simply toast fresh bread cubes in a 300°F oven for about 15 minutes until dry and slightly golden. This method replicates the necessary texture that makes for a perfect stuffing.

Customizing your stuffing is also an option. If you want a bit of sweetness, integrate dried cranberries or apricots. For a more savory flavor, you could add cooked sausage or mushrooms. Just remember to adjust your broth slightly to account for the additional liquid from any cooked ingredients, ensuring that your stuffing remains moist but not soggy.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Stuffing

10 cups cubed bread (preferably stale)
1 large onion, chopped
3 stalks celery, chopped
1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
3 cups chicken or turkey broth
2 large eggs, beaten

Prepare your ingredients in advance for a stress-free cooking experience.

Instructions

Prepare the stuffing

In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the onion and celery, cooking until soft, about 5 minutes. Combine the cooked vegetables with the cubed bread, herbs, broth, and beaten eggs in a large bowl. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.

Prepare the turkey

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Rinse the turkey inside and out, pat dry, and season with salt and pepper. Loosely fill the turkey cavity with the stuffing.

Roast the turkey

Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Rub the remaining butter over the skin. Roast in the oven for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Rest and serve

Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite Thanksgiving sides.

Enjoy your delicious turkey with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavorful turkey, consider brining it overnight. You can also substitute some of the bread with cornbread for a different texture.

Roasting Tips

Roasting the turkey at 350°F is a good rule of thumb for even cooking, ensuring that the exterior becomes beautifully golden while the meat retains its juiciness. To combat uneven cooking, rotate your turkey halfway through the roasting process, and consider tenting the breast with foil if it browns too quickly before the thighs reach the desired temperature.

Basting the turkey is another important aspect to maintain moisture. During the last hour of roasting, baste your turkey every 30 minutes with the accumulated juices. This ensures a golden, crispy skin while keeping the meat succulent and avoids drying out the breast.

Resting and Carving

Letting your turkey rest for at least 30 minutes after roasting allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing flavor and moisture. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm, which also allows for easier carving. If you carve too soon, you risk losing all those delicious juices.

When carving, use a sharp carving knife to slice the breast meat. Start at the top of the breast and work downward, making even slices. For the legs, gently pull them away from the body and use the knife to cut through the joint. Using these methods ensures even portions, showcasing the beautifully cooked meat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a frozen turkey?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before starting the recipe.

→ How do I know when the turkey is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

→ Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you're ready to stuff the turkey.

→ What sides go well with this turkey?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce complement this turkey wonderfully.