14+ Fresh Turkey Thanksgiving Recipes

Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, an unforgettable feast. If you’re looking to impress your guests with something new this year, these turkey recipes are your ticket to culinary glory.

Herb-Infused Oven-Roasted Turkey

Roasted Turkey Injected with Garlic & Herb-Infused Butter

Roasted Turkey Injected with Garlic & Herb-Infused Butter from Craving Tasty

Rating: 5. Total Time: 4 h 5 min.

Rosemary Roasted Turkey

Rosemary Roasted Turkey from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.8. Total Time: 4 h 45 min.

Herb-Roasted Turkey

Herb-Roasted Turkey from EatingWell

Rating: 5. Total Time: 3 h 30 min.

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This turkey is all about the aroma. Imagine a golden-brown turkey infused with a medley of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage. It’s like bringing a fragrant garden to your Thanksgiving table.

The secret to this recipe’s popularity is its simplicity and the way it fills your home with an enticing scent. By using fresh herbs, you not only get an incredible flavor but also a beautiful presentation. The herbs create a natural, savory bouquet that contrasts wonderfully with the crispy, golden skin.

To make this dish truly stand out, use a blend of fresh, high-quality herbs and a hint of lemon zest. These elements elevate the turkey’s flavor, making every bite a burst of freshness. Pair it with a classic gravy, and you have a dish that’s both traditional and refreshingly new.

Maple-Glazed Spiced Turkey

Easy Thanksgiving Turkey (Best No-Fail Recipe)

Easy Thanksgiving Turkey (Best No-Fail Recipe) from Downshiftology

Rating: 4.9.

Easy, No Fuss Thanksgiving Turkey

Easy, No Fuss Thanksgiving Turkey from Tastes Better From Scratch

Rating: 5. Total Time: 3 h 50 min.

Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey

Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey from The Pioneer Woman

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 5 h 10 min.

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Sweet and spicy, this turkey takes center stage with its delicious maple glaze. If you’re a fan of something a little different, this recipe brings together the sweetness of maple syrup and a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg.

What makes this turkey shine is the sticky, caramelized glaze that coats the skin. The combination of maple syrup and warm spices creates a sweet, aromatic crust that locks in the juices. It’s like having dessert and dinner all in one!

Garlic Butter Turkey with Citrus

Garlic-Citrus Roast Turkey

Garlic-Citrus Roast Turkey from Food Network

Rating: 4.7. Total Time: 4 hr 30 min.

Citrus-and-Butter Turkey

Citrus-and-Butter Turkey from Food & Wine

Rating: 5. Total Time: 2 hr 30 min.

Citrus Turkey with Herbs (Video)

Citrus Turkey with Herbs (Video) from Peter's Food Adventures

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 3 hr 35 min.

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Garlic and butter are a match made in heaven, and when paired with turkey, they create a juicy, flavorful dish that’s hard to resist. Add a touch of citrus, and you’ve got a turkey that’s both savory and refreshing.

This recipe is a hit because of the way the butter keeps the turkey moist, while the garlic and citrus add layers of flavor that are both rich and bright. The zesty citrus cuts through the richness, leaving you with a perfectly balanced dish that is both comforting and vibrant.

For the best results, use fresh garlic cloves and the juice of real lemons and oranges. This combination will make sure your turkey is bursting with flavor, leaving your guests coming back for seconds—or thirds!

Smoky Barbecue Turkey

BBQ Smoked Turkey Recipe

BBQ Smoked Turkey Recipe from How to BBQ Right

Rating: 4.5.

Smoked Maple Barbecue Turkey

Smoked Maple Barbecue Turkey from Smoking-Meat.com

Rating: 4.7. Total Time: 6 hr 20 min.

Smoked Pulled Turkey

Smoked Pulled Turkey from Girls Can Grill

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 59 hr.

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If you love barbecue, you’ll fall head over heels for this smoky turkey. This recipe marries the best of Thanksgiving and summer barbecues, with a turkey that’s tender, smoky, and full of flavor.

The special twist here is the use of a smoky barbecue rub that penetrates the meat, giving it a deep, robust flavor. It’s like having a mini cookout right in your oven. The result is a turkey that’s juicy on the inside and perfectly smoky on the outside.

For an added kick, consider using a mix of smoked paprika, chili powder, and a touch of cayenne. This will ensure your turkey has a beautiful, smoky flavor that’s just spicy enough to keep things interesting.

Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Breast

Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe

Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe from Craving Tasty

Rating: 5. Total Time: 1 h 5 min.

Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast

Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast from Blue Jean Chef

Total Time: 1 h 35 min.

Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast

Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast from A Pretty Life In The Suburbs

Rating: 5.

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This dish offers a fresh take on the traditional turkey with a vibrant cranberry glaze. Perfect for those who want to try something different yet festive.

The cranberry glaze is what sets this turkey apart. It’s tart, sweet, and adds a beautiful color to the turkey breast, making it a stunning centerpiece. The glaze also keeps the turkey moist and adds a delightful burst of flavor with every bite.

To enhance the taste, use fresh cranberries and a hint of orange zest in the glaze. This will not only deepen the flavor but also add a touch of holiday spirit to your meal. Your guests will love the combination of the tender turkey and the tangy-sweet glaze.

Pro Tricks for Amazing Fresh Turkey Dishes

Roasted Bone-In Turkey Breast Recipe from The Real Food Dietitians

Rating: 5.

Easy High-Heat Roast Turkey With Gravy from Once Upon a Chef

Rating: 4.8.

The best fried turkey from Oh So Delicioso

Rating: 5. Total Time: 24 h 20 min.

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Prepping the Turkey

Make sure your turkey is completely thawed and dry before you start cooking. Patting it dry with paper towels ensures a crispy skin.

Using a Meat Thermometer

For perfectly cooked turkey, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 165°F in the thickest part of the breast.

Letting It Rest

Allow your turkey to rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.