15+ Turkey Recipes for Delicious Family Dinners

Turkey recipes are a staple for many gatherings, especially during the holidays. With a variety of cooking methods, you can create a meal that suits your taste and impresses your guests. From juicy roasts to flavorful dishes, these recipes will help you make the perfect turkey that everyone will enjoy.

No matter if you prefer traditional or creative takes on turkey, there’s something here for you. You can choose from roasted turkey, turkey sandwiches, or even a tasty turkey soup. Each recipe offers a way to celebrate and enjoy this versatile bird.

1) Herb-Roasted Turkey with Lemon

For a flavorful turkey, try roasting it with herbs and lemon. This dish is perfect for holidays or family gatherings. The lemon adds brightness, while the herbs enhance the taste.

To start, season your turkey with salt and pepper. Inside the cavity, place fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary along with lemon halves. This will infuse the meat with great flavor.

Roast the turkey in an oven preheated to 325°F (165°C) until it’s golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.

Make sure to baste the turkey occasionally. This will help keep it juicy.

Ingredients

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
• 2 lemons, halved
• Fresh thyme and rosemary
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil or butter

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the turkey inside and out with salt and pepper.
3. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves and herbs.
4. Rub olive oil or butter on the skin.
5. Roast until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 2 to 3 hours.
6. Allow the turkey to rest before carving.

2) Cajun-Style Turkey Rub

Creating a Cajun-style turkey rub brings excitement to your turkey. This rub combines spices to give your turkey a flavorful kick. It’s perfect for roasting and adds a crispy skin.

Start with a base of kosher salt. Add garlic powder for depth, smoked paprika for a nice color, and ground oregano to enhance the flavor. Adjust the heat with cayenne pepper if you like it spicier.

Mix the ingredients together in a bowl. Rub it all over the turkey, making sure to get under the skin for the best flavor.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon ground oregano
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Combine all the rub ingredients in a bowl.
3. Apply the rub to the turkey.
4. Roast the turkey according to your recipe.

3) Maple-Glazed Turkey Breast

Making a maple-glazed turkey breast is a great way to impress your family and friends. This dish is both sweet and savory, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Start by rubbing the turkey breast with butter. Mix pure maple syrup, honey, and some spices for extra flavor.

Roast the turkey in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The glaze will create a deliciously sticky coating on the outside.

You will love how juicy and flavorful the turkey turns out!

Ingredients

• 1 (3 pound) boneless turkey breast
• ½ cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons butter

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Rub the turkey breast with butter.
3. In a bowl, mix maple syrup, honey, mustard, and paprika.
4. Apply the glaze over the turkey breast.
5. Roast for about 1.5 hours until fully cooked.

4) Roasted Garlic and Herb Butter Turkey

This Roasted Garlic and Herb Butter Turkey is a great choice for your next holiday feast. The buttery garlic flavor seeps into the meat, making it juicy and delicious.

Start by mixing softened butter with minced garlic, herbs like rosemary and thyme, salt, and pepper. Gently lift the turkey skin and rub some of the herb butter underneath. This adds flavor directly to the meat.

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Roast the turkey until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Basting it with the remaining herb butter every 30 minutes gives a golden, crispy skin.

Ingredients

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the softened butter, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Lift the skin of the turkey and spread some of the herb butter under it.
4. Rub the remaining butter on the outside of the turkey.
5. Roast in the preheated oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), basting every 30 minutes.

5) Spicy Chipotle Turkey Chili

Spicy Chipotle Turkey Chili is a delightful dish that warms you up on a chilly day. The smoky flavor from chipotle peppers gives this chili its unique kick. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Start by cooking ground turkey until it’s browned. Then, add chopped onions and garlic for added flavor. Incorporate your favorite beans, tomatoes, and spices, including chili powder for extra heat.

Let it simmer for about 30 minutes to meld all the flavors together. This dish is satisfying and packed with protein.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) beans (black or kidney)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pot, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until browned.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in beans, diced tomatoes, chipotle pepper, and chili powder.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Let the chili simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6) Smoked Applewood Turkey

Smoked applewood turkey is a delicious option for your next gathering. The smokiness from the applewood adds a unique flavor that elevates the taste of the turkey. You can easily prepare it on your pellet grill or smoker.

To make it, start by brining the turkey in a mixture of maple syrup and apple cider. This helps keep the meat juicy and flavorful. After brining, you will slowly smoke the turkey until it reaches a perfect internal temperature.

This method ensures your turkey is tender and packed with flavor. The addition of applewood gives it a subtle sweetness, making it a hit for everyone at your table.

Ingredients

• 1 whole turkey
• 1 cup maple syrup
• 2 cups apple cider
• Salt and pepper
• Applewood chips

Cooking Instructions

1. Combine maple syrup and apple cider to brine the turkey.
2. Brine the turkey for at least 12 hours in the fridge.
3. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
4. Remove the turkey from the brine, pat it dry, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place applewood chips in the smoker.
6. Smoke the turkey until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

7) Bacon-Wrapped Turkey Breast

Bacon-wrapped turkey breast is a delicious and fun way to enjoy turkey. The crispy bacon adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners.

To make this dish, start with a fresh turkey breast. Season it well to enhance the taste. Then, wrap strips of bacon around the breast tightly. This will create a tasty crust as it cooks.

For cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the wrapped turkey in a baking dish and roast until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The bacon should be crispy and golden brown.

Ingredients

• 1 turkey breast
• 8-10 strips of bacon
• Salt and pepper
• Your choice of herbs (like rosemary or thyme)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, and herbs.
3. Wrap the bacon around the turkey breast securely.
4. Place in a baking dish.
5. Roast until the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C).

8) Classic Thanksgiving Roasted Turkey

A classic roasted turkey is the star of any Thanksgiving table. This recipe brings out wonderful flavors and creates tender meat with crispy skin.

Start by preheating your oven to 500°F (260°C). Prepare the turkey by placing it on a rack in a roasting pan, with the breast facing up. Season it well to enhance the taste.

Roast the turkey until the skin is golden brown. Remember to check the internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked, aiming for 165°F (74°C).

Let the turkey rest for a bit before carving. This helps keep the meat juicy and flavorful.

Ingredients

• 1 whole turkey (about 20 pounds)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (like rosemary and thyme)
• 1 whole orange, quartered

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C).
2. Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan.
3. Rub the turkey with butter, salt, and pepper.
4. Add orange and herbs inside the cavity.
5. Roast until the skin is golden brown and the meat reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey rest before carving.

9) Orange-Bourbon Glazed Turkey

Cooking an Orange-Bourbon Glazed Turkey adds a delicious twist to your holiday meal. The mix of orange juice and bourbon creates a sweet and tangy glaze that enhances the turkey’s flavor. It’s a great way to impress your guests with something unique.

For this recipe, you will need a thawed turkey weighing around 12 pounds. The key ingredients include fresh orange juice, bourbon, molasses, and water.

Ingredients

• 1 whole turkey (12 pounds)
• 2 cups fresh orange juice
• 1 cup water
• 3/4 cup bourbon
• 1/3 cup molasses

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the orange juice, bourbon, water, and molasses.
3. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and brush the glaze all over it.
4. Roast the turkey for about 3 to 4 hours, basting occasionally with the glaze.
5. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

10) Turkey with Cranberry and Apples

This turkey recipe is perfect for a festive meal. The combination of cranberry and apple adds a delightful sweetness to your turkey. You’ll enjoy the rich flavors and juicy meat.

Start by preparing a glaze with cranberry sauce, apple jelly, and a hint of lemon juice. This will give your turkey a tasty, shiny coating.

You can also add chopped apples and cranberries directly into the stuffing for extra flavor. Bake your turkey until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serve this dish with your favorite sides to complete your meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• ½ cup apple jelly
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 cup chopped apples
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Mix cranberry sauce, apple jelly, and lemon juice in a small saucepan.
3. Rub the mixture over the turkey.
4. Stuff the turkey with chopped apples and cranberries.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Roast in the oven for several hours until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

11) Parmesan-Crusted Turkey Cutlets

Parmesan-crusted turkey cutlets are a tasty and simple dish you can make any night of the week. They are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

To start, you will need turkey cutlets and a few key ingredients. The Parmesan cheese gives a rich flavor, while spices add a nice touch. Cooking can be done by pan-frying or baking, depending on your preference.

These cutlets pair well with a fresh salad or pasta. They are a family favorite and can quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4 turkey cutlets
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste
• Olive oil for frying

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking.
2. In a bowl, mix almond flour, Parmesan, parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Dip each turkey cutlet in beaten egg, then coat with the crumb mixture.
4. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook cutlets for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
5. If baking, place cutlets on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

12) Hawaiian Teriyaki Turkey Skewers

Hawaiian Teriyaki Turkey Skewers are a delicious twist on classic kabobs. You can enjoy a tasty blend of turkey, pineapple, and veggies.

Start by cutting turkey breasts into cubes. Mix pineapple juice and teriyaki sauce for a flavorful marinade. Add garlic powder for an extra kick. Soak bamboo skewers in water to prevent burning.

Next, thread turkey, cubed pineapple, and bell peppers onto the skewers. Grill these skewers for about 10-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C), turning occasionally.

Enjoy them hot off the grill. They make for a fun dinner or a great snack at a barbecue!

Ingredients

• 2 turkey breasts, cut into cubes
• 1/2 fresh pineapple, cut into cubes
• 1/2 red onion, cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Bamboo skewers (soaked in water)

Cooking Instructions

1. Combine turkey, pineapple juice, and teriyaki sauce in a bowl or bag.
2. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread turkey and pineapple onto skewers.
4. Grill at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

13) Slow-Cooker Turkey Tetrazzini

Slow-cooker turkey tetrazzini is a warm and comforting dish. It combines tender turkey with pasta, mushrooms, and creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover turkey.

Start by adding cooked turkey, mushrooms, and vegetables to your slow cooker. Then mix in some creamy soup and broth. This mix makes a delicious sauce to coat the pasta.

You can let it cook on low for several hours. When it’s done, you’ll have a hearty meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1-2 pounds turkey breast, cooked and shredded
• 5 ounces sliced mushrooms
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 8 ounces pasta (like spaghetti or egg noodles)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Cooking Instructions

1. Place turkey, mushrooms, onion, and peas in the slow cooker.
2. Add cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and evaporated milk.
3. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. In the last 30 minutes, add uncooked pasta.
6. Stir and cover until pasta is tender.
7. Serve hot and top with Parmesan cheese.

14) Mediterranean Turkey Meatballs

Mediterranean turkey meatballs are a delicious and healthy option for dinner. You can make them with lean ground turkey mixed with various spices and herbs. They are full of flavor and easy to prepare.

Start by combining ground turkey with ingredients like minced garlic, grated onion, and breadcrumbs. Adding feta cheese and spices like cumin and oregano will enhance the taste.

Bake them at 400°F (200°C) until they are cooked through. Serve these meatballs with a side of orzo or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They are perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 grated onion
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix ground turkey, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, garlic, and onion.
3. Add cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Shape the mixture into meatballs.
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

15) Thai Basil Turkey Stir-Fry

Thai Basil Turkey Stir-Fry is a quick and tasty dish. It combines ground turkey with fresh herbs and spices for a delicious meal. You can whip it up in about 15 minutes!

Start by cooking the turkey in a hot pan with a bit of oil. Add garlic and ginger for flavor. Then mix in soy sauce and fresh Thai basil for that signature taste.

You can serve this stir-fry over rice or noodles. It’s a perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) ground turkey
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 cup fresh Thai basil

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat (350°F/175°C).
2. Add the garlic and ginger; then, sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the ground turkey; cook until it is no longer pink.
4. Stir in the soy sauce and basil. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve over rice or noodles. Enjoy!