Are you tired of serving the same old turkey at every holiday gathering? Look no further! We’ve gathered 18 exquisite and unique turkey recipes that will impress even the most adventurous cooks. From classic twists to international inspirations, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to become new family favorites.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring flavors and techniques from cuisines near and far. You’ll discover how to brine your turkey in apple cider, smoke it to perfection with maple bourbon glaze, or stuff it with wild mushrooms and chestnuts. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping main course or a delicious leftover solution, we’ve got you covered.
So go ahead, get creative, and give one of these 18 extraordinary turkey recipes a try!
Cider-Brined Turkey with Herb Butter Glaze
Elevate your turkey game with this show-stopping recipe, featuring a tangy cider brine and a rich herb butter glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a large pot, combine cider, water, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove turkey from packaging and submerge in brine solution. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F. Remove turkey from brine and pat dry with paper towels.
5. Mix softened butter with thyme, sage, and garlic.
6. Place turkey in a roasting pan and brush with herb butter glaze. Roast for about 2-1/2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Cooking Time: approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
Smoked Turkey with Maple Bourbon Glaze
Smoked Turkey with Maple Bourbon Glaze Recipe
Get ready to impress your guests with this mouth-watering smoked turkey dish, infused with the rich flavors of maple bourbon glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, bourbon whiskey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring the glaze mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally.
4. Remove the turkey from the brine (if using) and pat dry with paper towels.
5. Place the turkey in the smoker, breast side up.
6. Smoke the turkey for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Brush the maple bourbon glaze over the turkey during the last 30 minutes of smoking.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Turkey Roulade Stuffed with Wild Mushrooms and Chestnuts
A show-stopping main course that combines the tender flavors of turkey with the earthy richness of wild mushrooms and chestnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-5 pound) whole turkey breast, boned and flattened
– 1 cup mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 1/2 cup cooked and chopped chestnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the mushrooms, onion, and garlic in olive oil until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Add the chopped chestnuts, thyme, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Place the turkey breast on a flat surface and spread the mushroom-chestnut mixture evenly over the top, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Roll the turkey tightly, starting from one of the long sides, and secure with kitchen twine at 2-inch intervals.
6. Place the roulade in a roasting pan, seam-side down, and brush the melted butter over the top.
7. Roast for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Spiced Turkey Leg Confit with Orange Zest
Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic confit, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in. This recipe yields tender, flavorful meat infused with the warmth of spices and the brightness of orange zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-5 lb) turkey leg
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 oranges, zested (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, cinnamon, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey leg, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the turkey leg in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid.
5. Add the orange zest and chicken broth to the pot.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
7. Confit for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Turkish Coffee-Rubbed Turkey with Pomegranate Molasses
Experience the bold flavors of Turkish coffee and pomegranate molasses in this unique and aromatic turkey dish. Perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons Turkish coffee grounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon pomegranate molasses
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Turkish coffee grounds, olive oil, garlic, pomegranate molasses, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
5. Roast for about 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Turkey Thighs Braised in Coconut Curry Sauce
Transform tender turkey thighs into a rich and flavorful dish with the warmth of coconut curry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on turkey thighs
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat coconut oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown turkey thighs on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Remove turkey from pot and set aside. Reduce heat to medium; add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in coconut milk and Greek yogurt. Bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Return turkey thighs to the pot, cover with lid, and transfer to preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or until turkey is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Jerk-Spiced Turkey with Mango Habanero Glaze
Elevate your holiday meal with the bold flavors of the Caribbean! This Jerk-Spiced Turkey pairs perfectly with a sweet and spicy Mango Habanero Glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup mango habanero glaze (see below)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Mango Habanero Glaze:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1-2 habanero peppers, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil; rub all over the turkey.
4. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for about 4-5 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the Mango Habanero Glaze all over the turkey.
6. Let the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: About 4-5 hours
Turkey and Fig Sausage with Sage and Walnuts
Turkey and Fig Sausage with Sage and Walnuts Recipe
Savor the flavors of autumn with this unique sausage recipe, combining tender turkey, sweet figs, earthy sage, and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– 1/2 cup dried figs, chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the turkey sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through.
4. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the chopped sage and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
6. Add the chopped figs and walnuts to the skillet, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the flavors meld together.
7. Serve the turkey sausage with the sage and walnut mixture spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Turducken: A Turkey, Duck, and Chicken Layered Delight
Elevate your holiday feast with this show-stopping Turducken recipe, featuring a turkey stuffed with a duck, which is then stuffed with a chicken. This majestic dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 (5-pound) whole duck
– 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Season the turkey inside and out with salt and pepper.
3. Stuff the duck cavity with the chicken, then truss the duck’s legs together.
4. Stuff the turkey cavity with the duck, making sure it is snugly fit.
5. Drizzle the outside of the turkey with olive oil, then sprinkle with breadcrumbs and parsley.
6. Place the Turducken in a roasting pan and roast for 3-1/2 to 4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Let it rest for 20 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-1/2 to 4 hours
Turkey Pho with Star Anise and Ginger Broth
A flavorful and aromatic Vietnamese-inspired noodle soup that combines the richness of turkey broth with the warmth of star anise and ginger. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 2 whole star anise pods
– 8 oz rice noodles
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine turkey breast, chicken broth, onion, garlic, ginger, and star anise pods.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through.
3. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding solids.
4. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Slice the cooked turkey into thin strips.
6. Serve hot with cooked noodles and garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Turkey Pastrami with Black Pepper and Coriander Crust
Elevate your pastrami game with this flavorful recipe that combines the savory taste of turkey with the warm, aromatic spices of black pepper and coriander.
Ingredients:
• 1 (2-3 pound) boneless turkey breast or thigh
• 1/4 cup kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons black peppercorns, toasted and ground
• 1 tablespoon coriander seeds, toasted and ground
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together salt, sugar, black pepper, coriander, and garlic.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the turkey on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or tray, and let it cure in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
5. Remove the turkey from the refrigerator and rinse off the cure under cold running water. Pat dry with paper towels.
6. In a small saucepan, combine vinegar and enough water to cover the turkey. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Place the turkey in the braising liquid and cook at 300°F (150°C) for 2-3 hours, or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Turkey Shawarma with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
Experience the flavors of the Middle East with this delicious and easy-to-make Turkey Shawarma recipe, served with a tangy and creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into thin strips
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– 4 pita breads
– Garlic Yogurt Sauce (see below)
Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using).
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the turkey strips.
4. Grill the turkey for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm the pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating them on the grill for 1-2 minutes.
6. Assemble the shawarma by slicing the grilled turkey into thin strips and serving it in the warmed pita bread with a dollop of Garlic Yogurt Sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey Mole Poblano with Dark Chocolate and Chilies
Experience the rich flavors of Oaxaca, Mexico with this innovative twist on traditional turkey mole. This bold and savory dish combines tender turkey, spicy chilies, and deep dark chocolate for a truly unforgettable meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup ancho chili paste
– 2 dried arbol chilies, stemmed and seeded
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine chicken broth, chocolate chips, ancho chili paste, arbol chilies, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. Pour the mole sauce over the turkey and toss to coat.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey and Kimchi Dumplings with Gochujang Dipping Sauce
Elevate your dumpling game with this unique fusion of Korean and American flavors. Spicy kimchi and savory turkey come together in a harmonious union, perfect for adventurous eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers
– 1/2 cup cooked, diced turkey breast
– 1/4 cup kimchi, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Gochujang Dipping Sauce (recipe below)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together turkey, kimchi, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place 1 tablespoon of the turkey-kimchi mixture in the center.
3. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press edges together to seal.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Cook dumplings according to package instructions or pan-fry until golden brown.
Gochujang Dipping Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons gochujang
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
Mix all ingredients together in a small bowl. Serve with cooked dumplings and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (pan-frying) or according to package instructions (boiling)
Turkey Saltimbocca with Prosciutto and Sage
This Italian-inspired dish is a creative twist on the classic saltimbocca recipe, featuring tender turkey breast wrapped in prosciutto and sage. The result is a flavorful and elegant main course perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) boneless turkey breast
– 4 slices of prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons of butter, softened
– 2 sprigs of fresh sage leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the turkey breast with salt and pepper.
3. Wrap 2 slices of prosciutto around the turkey breast, leaving a small border at one end.
4. Place the sage leaves on top of the prosciutto, slightly overlapping.
5. Dot the top of the turkey with butter.
6. Roll the turkey tightly and secure with kitchen twine.
7. Place the rolled turkey seam-side down in a baking dish.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
9. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey Carnitas Tacos with Pickled Red Onions
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this twist on traditional carnitas tacos, featuring tender turkey and tangy pickled red onions. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Pickled Red Onions (recipe below)
– Sliced radishes, cilantro, and lime wedges, for garnish
Pickled Red Onions:
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven, combine turkey, lard or oil, orange juice, lime juice, garlic, and oregano. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and cook for 2-3 hours, or until turkey is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by placing shredded turkey onto a warmed tortilla, topping with pickled red onions, radishes, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (turkey cooking time), plus 10 minutes to assemble tacos.
Turkey Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs and Nori
This hearty and flavorful ramen recipe combines tender turkey, soft-boiled eggs, and crispy nori for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast or thighs, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 8 ounces ramen noodles
– 2 soft-boiled eggs, peeled and halved
– 10 nori sheets, toasted and torn into pieces
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, water, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced turkey to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
4. Divide the noodles among bowls. Ladle the hot broth and turkey mixture over the noodles.
5. Top each bowl with a soft-boiled egg and torn nori sheets.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Black Truffle Risotto with Parmesan
A rich and creamy risotto dish that combines the savory flavors of turkey, black truffle, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/4 cup black truffle butter, softened
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add the warmed chicken broth to the rice, one cup at a time, stirring continuously until absorbed. Repeat this process for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
4. Stir in the diced turkey breast, black truffle butter, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your turkey game! This collection of 18 unique recipes offers something for every adventurous cook. From classic glazes and rubs to international inspirations, these dishes will impress family and friends alike. Try a cider-brined turkey with herb butter glaze, or go bold with a smoked turkey glazed with maple bourbon. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and spicy or savory and rich, this article has got you covered.