The combination of herbs and spices in this rub will flavor your turkey to perfection and become your go-to turkey rub. Look no further for the BEST turkey seasoning recipe you will ever make!
Thanksgiving dinner’s traditional herbs and spices are all perfectly blended into one blend for your bird, giving it the most incredible flavors! I love adding flavorful seasonings to make any meat or poultry taste incredible. For delicious seasoned meat, try this baked chicken, this amazing chicken recipe, or my favorite air fryer pork chops.
This turkey rub is a combination of aromatic dried herbs and savory spices. Because thyme, rosemary, and sage are meant to be together on a turkey, I adore the combination of them. There is just something about their complementary flavors that make Thanksgiving turkey magic!.
Rubbing these flavors into your turkey will guarantee the tastiest bird your guests will ever have. After everyone tries this dry rub, I promise they will always ask you to oversee the turkey. And if you’re asked to handle the turkey, you can finish the meal with these simple one-hour rolls, my dad’s potatoes, and my grandmother’s stuffing!
These tasty herbs and spices are the ideal combination to enhance the flavors of your turkey, and the best part of this seasoning rub for turkey is that you probably already have all of the herbs in your cupboard! Your turkey will taste AMAZING, and you’ll use this rub recipe exclusively for all future turkeys you cook.
Ah, the majestic turkey A centerpiece of Thanksgiving feasts and holiday gatherings, this bird holds a special place in our culinary traditions. But how do we elevate its flavor to new heights, ensuring a juicy, succulent, and unforgettable experience? The answer lies in the magic of turkey seasoning.
This guide delves into the world of turkey seasoning, providing you with two exceptional recipes and valuable tips to create the perfect flavor profile for your bird. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this comprehensive resource will equip you with the knowledge and inspiration to make your turkey a culinary masterpiece.
The Best Turkey Seasoning Recipes: A Tale of Two Titans
Recipe 1: The Classic Blend from Delish
This recipe offers a timeless combination of herbs and spices, perfect for those seeking a traditional Thanksgiving flavor. The ingredients are readily available in most pantries making it a convenient and accessible choice.
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon + 1 1/2 teaspoons dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
Recipe 2: The Ultimate Turkey Rub from The Recipe Critic
This recipe boasts a unique blend of aromatic herbs and savory spices, designed to infuse your turkey with a depth of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. The inclusion of fresh herbs adds an extra layer of complexity and freshness.
Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions for Both Recipes:
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk until thoroughly mixed.
- Rub the seasoning generously over the entire surface of your turkey, ensuring even coverage.
- For Recipe 1, you can optionally use melted butter before applying the seasoning for added richness and browning.
- Cook your turkey according to your preferred recipe.
Tips and Variations:
- Make it ahead: Both recipes can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
- Adjust the heat: If you prefer a spicier turkey, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the mix.
- Sweeten it up: For a touch of sweetness, incorporate 1 tablespoon of brown sugar into the seasoning.
- Experiment with fresh herbs: Substitute dried herbs with fresh ones for an even more vibrant flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much turkey seasoning should I use?
A general guideline is to use 1 tablespoon of salt for every 4 pounds of turkey. The recipes provided above are sufficient for a 12-14 pound turkey.
Should I oil or butter my turkey?
While not mandatory, oiling or buttering your turkey before applying the seasoning can enhance browning and add a crispy texture to the skin.
How do I store leftover turkey seasoning?
Transfer the unused seasoning to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
Can I use this seasoning on other meats?
Absolutely! This versatile seasoning blend can be used on chicken, Cornish hens, pork roasts, and even vegetables.
Additional Resources:
- Delish Turkey Seasoning Recipe: https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/a41721462/turkey-seasoning-recipe/
- The Recipe Critic Turkey Seasoning Recipe: https://therecipecritic.com/turkey-seasoning/
With these two exceptional turkey seasoning recipes and valuable tips, you’re now equipped to transform your Thanksgiving turkey into a culinary masterpiece. Experiment, explore, and let your creativity guide you as you create a flavor profile that will leave your guests in awe. Remember, the key to a truly memorable turkey lies in the perfect blend of spices and your own personal touch. So, get ready to impress and enjoy the delicious fruits of your labor!
How To Store Turkey Seasoning
This homemade turkey rub is a custom blend of seasonings for your Thanksgiving turkey. You will never purchase turkey seasoning from the store again after making this at home. Homemade seasonings are superior because the flavors can be customized and the herbs are more fresh.
- Following the mixing of your ingredients, place the seasoning in an airtight container and seal it. Store in a dark, cool place for up to two months.
How to Make the Best Seasoning For Turkey
The simplest part of Thanksgiving dinner is making this turkey seasoning—it only takes five minutes to prepare, and you’ll be amazed at how quick it is! The best thing is that this dry rub can be prepared in advance and stored for when you need it. Anything that you can make before Thanksgiving day is a win in my book!.
- Mixing the Ingredients: Put all the ingredients in a bowl and mix them together with a whisk.
- Rub: Completely coat a 10–13-pound turkey with the spice mixture, being sure to coat the top and bottom. Then cook your seasoned turkey according to your recipe.
- Store: For up to two months, if you won’t be using it right away, keep it in a sealed container.
My absolute favorite seasonings are homemade ones because you can adjust the amount of heat, add extra flavor, or even double the recipe to ensure you always have some on hand. Here are a few ideas on how to change things up with this turkey seasoning.
- Make Ahead: To ensure it’s ready for Thanksgiving, I like to make this turkey rub a few weeks in advance. Making a large amount of seasoning means you’ll always have it on hand for any time you need to season meat, fish, or poultry.
- How Much Seasoning to Use: You can use about 1/3 cup of this recipe to season a 10- to 14-pound turkey.
- Use Dried Herbs Rather Than Fresh: Dried herbs keep much longer in your spice cabinet than fresh herbs. Because fresh herbs typically contain more moisture, they are more susceptible to deterioration and the early growth of mold.
- Less salt: Cut back on the salt gradually if you think it’s a little too salty. The best salt is Kosher salt because it allows you to better regulate the flavor than table salt.
- Make it Spicy: Use a small amount of cayenne pepper or chili powder to give your seasoning some kick.
- Try incorporating one tablespoon of brown sugar into the rub to make it a little sweeter. It adds a touch of sweetness and caramelizes a bit.
