Seasonal & Festive Thanksgiving Herb Stuffed Turkey

Name: Seasonal & Festive Thanksgiving Herb Stuffed Turkey
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs); 2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; Salt and pepper to taste; 6 cups bread cubes (mix of white and whole-grain); 1 cup onion, chopped; 1 cup celery, chopped; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 eggs, beaten

Highlighted under: Seasonal Creations

Every Thanksgiving, I eagerly anticipate the moment when the rich aroma of herbs and spices fills my kitchen as I prepare this Herb Stuffed Turkey. This recipe is my go-to for holidays, blending classic flavors with fresh herbs that elevate the turkey’s taste. The stuffing, composed of toasted bread and savory herbs, complements the turkey, making every bite a celebration of seasonality. I love the way this dish brings family together around the table, creating a festive atmosphere that is both warm and inviting.

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:59:35.195Z

When I first made this Herb Stuffed Turkey, I was excited to explore the flavors of fresh ingredients. The combination of rosemary, sage, and thyme creates a fragrant stuffing that perfectly complements the turkey. I realized that letting the stuffing sit for a while before cooking allows the bread to soak up all the lovely flavors, enhancing the overall experience.

Each Thanksgiving, I continue to refine this recipe. Using a mix of white and whole-grain bread provides texture and a slight nuttiness to the stuffing. The secret is to balance seasoning; I always taste before stuffing the bird to ensure it’s just right!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy and tender turkey with a flavorful herb-infused stuffing
Aromatic blend of fresh herbs enhances every bite
A beautiful centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of bread cubes in the stuffing significantly influences texture and flavor. A mix of white and whole-grain bread offers a balance of softness and nuttiness, creating a delightful contrast. Bread that is slightly stale works best because it absorbs the broth and flavors better without becoming mushy. If you're short on time, you can also use pre-packaged stuffing mix, but consider adding fresh herbs for that homemade touch.

Fresh herbs like sage, rosemary, and thyme are the stars of this recipe, giving the stuffing its aromatic qualities. Each herb contributes its unique flavor profile—sage brings warmth, rosemary adds a piney note, and thyme introduces a subtle earthiness. It's essential to chop these herbs finely to maximize their infusion into the stuffing. If you can’t find fresh herbs, use one-third of the amount of dried herbs as a substitute, but adjust your seasoning accordingly.

Perfect Roasting Techniques

Roasting the turkey at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C) is critical for achieving juicy meat. The use of chicken broth in the roasting pan not only keeps the turkey moist but also infuses the meat with flavor. Be sure to check the internal temperature of the turkey using a meat thermometer, inserting it into the thickest part of the thigh. This should read 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption, ensuring that the turkey remains moist and tender.

Basting the turkey every 30 minutes with its own juices enhances the skin's crispness and adds flavor. If you want an exceptionally crispy skin, remove the foil for the last 30 minutes of roasting. Keep an eye on it during this final phase, as the skin can go from golden to burnt quickly. If the skin is browning too fast, loosely cover it with foil until the last moments.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this festive turkey:

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Stuffing

6 cups bread cubes (mix of white and whole-grain)
1 cup onion, chopped
1 cup celery, chopped
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 eggs, beaten

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare and roast your turkey:

Prepare the Stuffing

In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Sauté onions and celery until soft. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, herbs, salt, pepper, and beaten eggs. Mix well and set aside.

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Rinse the turkey under cold water, pat dry, and season with salt and pepper. Stuff the turkey cavity with the prepared stuffing.

Roasting the Turkey

Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large pan. Pour chicken broth into the pan and cover the turkey loosely with foil. Roast for about 2 hours, removing the foil in the last 30 minutes for a golden-brown skin.

Resting and Serving

Once the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), remove it from the oven. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Enjoy the fruits of your labor with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, brine your turkey overnight before preparing. This ensures moisture and enhances the flavor tremendously.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing the stuffing a day in advance can save you time on Thanksgiving day. After cooking the onions and celery, combine them with the bread cubes and herbs, and store the mixture in the refrigerator overnight. Just before you’re ready to stuff the turkey, add the beaten eggs to ensure the mixture stays moist. Remember, never stuff the turkey until you're ready to roast it to prevent bacterial growth.

If you have leftover turkey, it can be used to create delicious sandwiches or in soups. After carving, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, keep the meat covered with foil in the oven at 350°F (175°C), until warmed through, which helps retain moisture.

Serving Suggestions

This Herb Stuffed Turkey makes a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table. Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or cranberry sauce to create a well-rounded meal. A drizzle of homemade gravy made from the pan drippings can elevate your dining experience even more. I always recommend having a selection of fresh herbs on the table for guests to garnish their plates with for added flavor and appeal.

Consider incorporating seasonal vegetables into your menu, such as roasted Brussels sprouts or butternut squash, for added color and nutrition. These offerings complement the rich flavors of the turkey without overpowering them. Don't forget about the dessert; a classic pumpkin pie is the perfect sweet ending to your Thanksgiving feast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it.

→ What herbs work well for stuffing?

Aside from sage and rosemary, thyme and parsley add great flavor. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!

→ How can I ensure my turkey is juicy?

Brining and allowing the turkey to rest after cooking are key to keeping it moist.

→ What sides pair well with this turkey?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce are perfect companions for this turkey.