The Best Spices and Herbs for Seasoning Turkey

Turkey can be a blank canvas when it comes to flavor. With its mild taste and texture, it benefits hugely from a flavor boost. This is where spices and herbs can really make the difference between a bland bird and a fantastically flavored feast!

When considering what spices to use on turkey, think about complementing and enhancing the natural flavor, rather than overpowering it Here are the top spices and herbs to use, why they work so well, and how to use them to make your turkey seasoned to perfection

The Essential Turkey Spices

These spices should form the base of any turkey seasoning blend

Salt – Enhances flavor and helps crisp up the skin. Kosher salt is ideal as its texture helps it adhere to the meat.

Black pepper – Freshly cracked pepper adds warmth.

Garlic powder – Provides a punch of flavor.

Onion powder – Adds savoriness.

Smoked paprika – Subtle smokiness complements turkey.

Brown sugar – A touch of sweetness to balance the savory.

Herbs for Turkey Seasoning

Fresh herbs are fantastic for seasoning turkey as they add vibrant flavor without being overpowering. Here are some of the best herbs to use:

Rosemary – Rosemary’s piney flavor is a perfect match for turkey. Use whole sprigs in the cavity or finely chop and add to seasoning rubs or herb butter.

Thyme – Thyme’s woodsy, delicate minty notes pair so well with poultry. Use sprigs in the cavity or chopped in rubs. Lemon thyme also works beautifully.

Sage – Sage’s peppery, slightly lemony flavor cuts through the richness of the turkey meat. Rubbed sage is best for seasoning.

Parsley – Fresh parsley brightens up the flavor profile. Flat leaf parsley has the most robust flavor.

Marjoram – Similar to oregano with a sweet pine and citrus flavor. Use at the end of cooking.

Savory – Savory has a peppery flavor that enhances the natural taste of turkey.

Tarragon – Tarragon’s licorice notes pair well with turkey.

How to Use Spices and Herbs on Turkey

There are several ways to use spices and herbs to add flavor to your turkey:

Dry Brine – A day or two before cooking, sprinkle the turkey all over with a salt-heavy spice rub. This seasons the meat and helps crisp the skin.

Herb Butter – Blend chopped herbs into soft butter with salt and pepper then rub under the skin and over the surface.

Cavity Stuffing – Stuff the cavity with herb sprigs, lemon, onion etc to infuse the interior.

Seasoning Mix – Make a blend using the essential spices, herbs, salt and pepper to rub on the outside.

Compound Butter – Whip herbs into room temperature butter to place slices under the skin.

Oil or Fat – Rub turkey with olive oil or butter before applying dry rub or herb butter to help them stick.

Helpful Tips for Seasoning Turkey

• Make seasoning blends ahead of time so they’re ready when you need them. Store in an airtight container for 1-2 months.

• For the most flavor impact, coat the turkey a day or two in advance.

• Use dried herbs not fresh for longer shelf life. Dried thyme, rosemary and sage work great.

• Reduce salt if using a salty brine or if you generally prefer less sodium.

• For extra flavor, add spices like cayenne, nutmeg, cinnamon, chili powder or cumin.

• Stuff the neck cavity too for even more interior flavor.

• Truss the turkey to keep seasoning nicely adhered to the meat and ensure even cooking.

• Roast your seasoned turkey low and slow for deliciously tender and juicy meat.

Sample Turkey Spice Blends

Everyday Turkey Rub

2 tsp dried thyme
2 tsp dried rosemary
2 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp kosher salt
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cracked black pepper

Herby Turkey Seasoning

2 tsp dried sage
2 tsp dried marjoram
1 tbsp dried parsley
1 tsp dried lemon peel
1⁄2 tsp celery seed
1 tbsp kosher salt
2 tsp cracked black pepper

Citrus Turkey Spice Mix

Zest of 1 orange
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp onion powder
1 tbsp brown sugar
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp kosher salt
1 tsp cracked black pepper

Spicy Turkey Rub

1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tbsp light brown sugar
1 tbsp kosher salt
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1⁄2 tsp dry mustard

Herb Turkey Butter

1⁄2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tbsp chopped fresh sage
1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
1 clove garlic, minced
1⁄2 tsp kosher salt
1⁄4 tsp cracked black pepper

Using the right blend of spices and herbs can take your turkey from forgettable to fantastic. Stick with aromatics like garlic, onion and pepper then build on these with classic herb flavours like rosemary, thyme and sage. Finally, tailor your seasoning to your own taste with extras like citrus, spice or sweetness. Taking the time to perfectly season your turkey will ensure a flavorful feast.