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 (14-16 pounds); 2 cups of chicken broth; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 cups day-old bread, cubed; 1 cup diced onions; 1 cup diced celery; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 cups chicken broth; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Festive Comfort Plates

I absolutely love the aroma that fills my kitchen when I prepare this Seasonal & Festive Thanksgiving Herb Stuffed Turkey. Every year, my family eagerly anticipates this dish, and I have to say, the combination of fresh herbs and savory stuffing creates an unforgettable flavor profile. The cooking process, while it may seem daunting, is actually quite simple. With a little time and care, you can transform your turkey into a show-stopping centerpiece that will leave your loved ones reminiscing about the meal long after the last bite.

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-01-26T22:51:34.451Z

When I first attempted to make this stuffed turkey, I was amazed by how easy it was to achieve that golden-brown perfection. I used a blend of fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage, which not only enhanced the flavor profile but also left my kitchen smelling heavenly. It was a game-changer, and I find that incorporating a variety of herbs can elevate the dish significantly.

Another tip I discovered is to let the turkey rest after roasting. This will ensure that the juices redistribute, making each slice tender and juicy. It's all about those little details, and with some patience, this turkey becomes the star of the show every Thanksgiving.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The perfect blend of fresh herbs for a fragrant, flavorful stuffing
Juicy turkey that stays moist thanks to careful roasting techniques
A beautiful centerpiece for any Thanksgiving table
Simple steps that yield impressive results, perfect for home cooks

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, and thyme is essential for elevating the flavor profile of your stuffing. Not only do they add vibrant flavor, but they also contribute a wonderful fragrance that sets the mood for a festive meal. I recommend picking herbs from your local market or using garden-fresh ones if you have them. Dried herbs can work in a pinch, but they lack the aromatic qualities that make the stuffing truly special.

Quality bread is another key player in this recipe, as it forms the base of your stuffing. Opt for a crusty, day-old bread rather than soft loaves to provide a better texture. The crust will help the stuffing hold its shape, while the stale bread absorbs the flavors from the herbs and broth beautifully. If you have an artisan loaf, that's perfect; just cube it a day or two in advance and let it dry out before use.

Mastering the Roasting Process

Roasting the turkey at a consistent temperature of 325°F (165°C) ensures that it cooks evenly while remaining juicy. Basting every 30 minutes not only keeps the turkey moist but also promotes an attractive golden-brown skin, giving it a beautiful appearance. If you notice that the skin is browning too quickly, you can tent the turkey with aluminum foil to prevent burning while it finishes cooking.

The key to ensuring your turkey is perfectly cooked lies in using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Allowing the turkey to rest for at least 20 minutes after roasting is crucial. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in slices that are juicy and full of flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare for your delicious turkey feast:

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (14-16 pounds)
2 cups of chicken broth
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Stuffing

8 cups day-old bread, cubed
1 cup diced onions
1 cup diced celery
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
2 cups chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to check that all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a stunning turkey:

Prepare the Turkey

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the inside and outside with salt and pepper. Rub the softened butter all over the turkey for added moisture and flavor.

Make the Stuffing

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and celery, cooking until softened. Stir in the garlic, and cook until fragrant. In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, cooked vegetables, herbs, and enough chicken broth to moisten the mixture.

Stuff the Turkey

Loosely fill the turkey cavity with the stuffing, using a spoon. Do not over pack the stuffing, as it will expand while cooking. Tie the turkey legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey breast side up on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. Roast for about 3 hours, basting every 30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Carve

Once done, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This helps to keep the meat juicy.

After carving, serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an even more flavorful turkey, brine it the night before cooking. This adds moisture and infuses the meat with additional flavor. Don't forget to save the drippings for a rich gravy.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

To save time on Thanksgiving Day, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Simply prepare it up until the 'Stuff the Turkey' step, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight, making the stuffing even more flavorful. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before using it to stuff the turkey.

If you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated for up to four days. Alternatively, you can freeze the stuffing for up to three months. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to use it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to customize the stuffing by incorporating other ingredients. Chopped apples, cranberries, or nuts can add an unexpected burst of flavor and texture. However, keep in mind that these additions should complement the herbal profile of the stuffing rather than overpower it. You might also consider swapping chicken broth for vegetable broth if you're looking for a vegetarian-friendly version.

When serving, consider pairing the turkey with traditional sides like creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A light, cranberry-based sauce can also complement the rich flavors of the turkey and stuffing, balancing the meal beautifully. I always recommend saving some stuffing on the side for guests who might want to enjoy it separately.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the stuffing a day in advance?

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

→ How can I tell if my turkey is cooked properly?

The best way to ensure your turkey is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

→ What should I do with leftovers?

Leftover turkey can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Use it for sandwiches, soups, or salads!

→ Can I use different herbs for the stuffing?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to customize the stuffing to your liking.