Finding the Perfect Rub for Your Thanksgiving Turkey

As Thanksgiving approaches, thoughts turn to the star of the holiday meal – the turkey. A beautifully roasted turkey can be the crowning achievement of your Thanksgiving feast. However, plain roast turkey can sometimes end up dry and flavourless. This year, make sure your turkey is as impressive on the inside as it is on the outside by seasoning it to perfection with a tasty rub.

A good turkey rub can take your bird from bland to beautiful But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one? We tested out some of the most popular turkey rub recipes to find the very best ones for a mouthwateringly moist and flavourful Thanksgiving turkey

What Makes a Good Turkey Rub?

Before getting into the recipes let’s look at what makes an effective turkey rub

• Aromatic herbs and spices: Classic turkey seasoning ingredients like rosemary, thyme, sage impart a wonderful aroma and flavor. Spices like paprika and cumin add warmth.

• A touch of sweetness A small amount of brown sugar or honey balances the spices nicely

• Salt and pepper: These basics bring all the flavors together. Go easy on the salt if you are brining the turkey.

• Zesty citrus: Lemon, lime, orange add brightness.

• Savory umami: Ingredients like garlic, onion, mustard enhance the meaty flavor of the turkey.

• A little heat: A pinch of cayenne or chipotle pepper flakes (use sparingly for kids).

9 Best Turkey Rub Recipes

After extensive testing, we narrowed down the options to these 9 exceptional turkey rubs that will bring your Thanksgiving turkey to the next level.

1. Classic Herb Turkey Rub

This rub puts the traditional flavours of Thanksgiving centre stage.

• 1 tbsp dried sage
• 1 tbsp dried thyme
• 1 tbsp dried rosemary
• zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tbsp pepper

With aromatic herbs, bright citrus, and peppery undertones, this timeless turkey rub never disappoints. It perfuses the turkey with nostalgic holiday flavours.

2. Brown Sugar and Bourbon Turkey Rub

This sweet and savoury rub adds a touch of smoky decadence.

• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tbsp salt
• 2 tbsp bourbon
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1⁄2 tsp cinnamon

The brown sugar caramelizes beautifully on the turkey skin. The bourbon, garlic, and spices infuse it with rich depth.

3. Coffee Chili Turkey Rub

This rub wakes up your taste buds with its robust fusion of flavors.

• 2 tbsp coffee grounds
• 1 tbsp ancho chili powder
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1⁄2 tsp cloves
• 1 tsp pepper

The coffee grounds provide a wonderful smokiness. Chili powder and warm spices like cumin and cinnamon add vibrancy.

4. Lemon Pepper Turkey Rub

Brilliantly simple, this zesty rub adds bright flavor with little effort.

• Zest of 2 lemons
• 1⁄4 cup cracked black peppercorns
• 2 tbsp salt

There’s nothing better than the tangy, peppery combo of lemon zest and cracked pepper. Sprinkle this on up to 24 hours before roasting.

5. Cajun Turkey Rub

This specialty rub infuses Creole and Cajun vibes into your Thanksgiving.

• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp white pepper

The blend of paprika, peppers, and Louisiana-style seasoning makes this rub incredibly flavourful with a touch of heat.

6. Jerk Turkey Rub

Add the flavors of the Caribbean to your Thanksgiving with this spicy, herby rub.

• 1 tbsp allspice berries
• 1 tbsp dried thyme
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp nutmeg
• 1-2 tsp cayenne pepper

The allspice, thyme, and cayenne pepper give this rub its distinctly Jamaican jerk profile. Use judiciously if you want lower heat.

7. Rosemary Maple Turkey Rub

This sweet and savory rub is perfect for fall.

• 2 tbsp dried rosemary
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp sage
• 1 tsp marjoram
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1⁄2 tsp cloves

The maple syrup provides gentle sweetness to complement the woodsy herbs and mustard’s bite.

8. Lemon Herb Turkey Rub

Bursting with sunny citrus and garden-fresh herbs, this Mediterranean-inspired rub is full of zest.

• Zest of 2 lemons
• 2 tbsp dried oregano
• 2 tbsp dried basil
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tbsp pepper

Lemon and herbs are a match made in heaven. This rapidly infuses the turkey with their vibrant essence.

9. Garlic Lovers Turkey Rub

With an unapologetic amount of garlic, this rub is for the garlic obsessed.

• 8 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp chopped rosemary
• 1 tbsp chopped thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

The copious minced garlic is mellowed out by the lemon zest and herbs.

How to Apply Your Turkey Rub

To get the most out of your turkey rub, make sure to apply it correctly:

• Pat the turkey dry so the rub adheres properly.
• Get under the skin: Loosening the skin and rubbing seasoning directly onto the meat infuses more flavor.
• Don’t forget the underside! Season the cavity and backside of the turkey as well.
• Let it penetrate overnight: Rub on your seasoning the day before roasting.
• Add more just before roasting: Apply a second coating of rub right before putting the turkey in the oven.

The Perfect Turkey Starts with the Perfect Rub

A thoughtfully crafted turkey rub takes your Thanksgiving centrepiece to the next level. With the right blend of spices, herbs, and other seasonings, it infuses the turkey with festive flavors and juicy tenderness.

We hope these rub recipes inspire you to take your turkey up a notch this Thanksgiving with mouthwatering flavors your guests will rave about. Let us know which one you try! With the perfect turkey rub, you’ll have a new signature dish to make your Thanksgiving meal truly memorable.