Best Turkey Recipes & Turkey Meal Ideas - The Recipe Critic https://therecipecritic.com/turkey-recipes/ Tried and True Recipes for Families | Food Blog Thu, 22 Aug 2024 03:57:54 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2 https://therecipecritic.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/cropped-favicon-32x32.png Best Turkey Recipes & Turkey Meal Ideas - The Recipe Critic https://therecipecritic.com/turkey-recipes/ 32 32 53477294 Baked Turkey Meatballs https://therecipecritic.com/baked-turkey-meatballs/ https://therecipecritic.com/baked-turkey-meatballs/#comments Wed, 21 Aug 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=124259 Baked Turkey Meatballs are tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. They’re made with simple ingredients but big on flavor! These homemade…]]>

Baked Turkey Meatballs are tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. They’re made with simple ingredients but big on flavor! These homemade meatballs are easy to make and healthy for the whole family!

We love meatballs at our house! There are so many tasty versions that it’s hard to pick just one! I have some family favorites that you need to try. Swedish Meatballs are always requested, and my kids always beg for these fun Porcupine Meatballs. But if you’re looking for the perfect appetizer to serve at your next party, these Grape Jelly Meatballs are a MUST!

Top view of baked turkey meatballs in a white baking dish with a wooden spoon.

Reasons to Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy Dinner: These baked turkey meatballs are a quick and easy weeknight dinner! They only take 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to bake. Dinner will be ready in 30 minutes! 
  • Versatile: Turkey meatballs can served in so many different ways. Switch up the seasonings any way you like, or smother them with any flavor of sauce. Enjoy them in a sandwich, or on top of rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes!
  • Healthy Alternative: Ground turkey is a healthy option for homemade meatballs. The result is fewer calories, lots of protein, and less fat than ground beef.

The Best Baked Turkey Meatballs

Everyone loves to eat meatballs, especially kids. These baked turkey meatballs are an easy winner for dinner and will be a new family favorite! The ground turkey bakes up so juicy and tender that you won’t believe it’s ground turkey. My recipe is perfectly seasoned with onion, garlic, and Italian breadcrumbs. The texture and moisture in these baked turkey meatballs will blow your mind! You’ll devour every bite and wish you had leftovers!

These baked meatballs are amazing all on their own. Place them on a mound of noodles and smothered in one of these incredible sauces and they will be divine. Try them with my Basil Pesto Sauce, this easy Marinara Sauce, or this delicious Homemade Alfredo Sauce. It’s the perfect meatball recipe for anything!

Ground Turkey vs Ground Beef

Which one is better for you? Both turkey and beef are great sources of protein with a variety of vitamins and minerals. Turkey is generally lower in saturated fat than beef and so is a better choice for heart health. All of the health benefits of depend on the cut and quality of turkey and beef, but ground turkey is generally a healthier option.

Ingredients for Turkey Meatballs

These baked turkey meatballs use simple ingredients that you may already have on hand. Ground turkey is easy to find at any store and is a healthy alternative to beef. Your family will love these meatballs so much that they won’t even miss the beef!

  • Ground Turkey: This can be found near the ground beef.
  • Italian Bread Crumbs: I love that these bread crumbs are already seasoned.
  • Onion: Dice one small onion.
  • Eggs: The eggs act as a binder.
  • Milk: Adds a bit of moisture and helps keep it all together.
  • Garlic: Minced or finely chopped.
  • Salt and Pepper: Season to taste
Ingredients labeled to make baked turkey meatballs.

How to Make Baked Turkey Meatballs

These turkey meatballs are super easy to throw together. Roll them up and bake them for juicy perfection. They are so good and a healthier alternative to beef meatballs. You’ll want to keep them in a regular rotation for weeknight dinners!

  1. Combine Ingredients: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a medium baking dish with non-stick spray and set aside. Combine all of the meatball ingredients into a medium bowl.
  2. Mix: Mix together until incorporated.
  3. Roll: Roll the mixture into 1 ½-2-inch balls and place in the prepared baking dish.
  4. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the tops are lightly browned.

Tips For Moist Baked Turkey Meatballs

I have lots of good tips to help you achieve perfectly moist and delicious turkey meatballs. It’s so easy to make homemade meatballs and this ground turkey version is the BEST!

  • Moisture: Turkey is leaner than beef so can dry out quickly. If you find your meatballs are too dry add a tablespoon of olive oil to the mixture. Overcooking the meatballs can also dry them out, so be sure to remove them from the oven once they reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. 
  • Chopping: I love to throw the onion and garlic into a small food processor and pulse it several times. This is a quick way to mince them up and make them easy to add to the meatball mixture.
  • Breadcrumbs: Instead of Italian breadcrumbs, you can substitute plain breadcrumbs and add 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning. Panko breadcrumbs can also be used!
  • Uniform Size: Keep the meatballs the same size as much as possible. This will ensure that they cook at the same rate and some won’t be underdone or overdone. You can use a cookie scoop or a kitchen scale to help keep them uniform.
  • Don’t Overmix: This can cause the meatball mixture to break down and become tough. It can also make the meatballs hard to form and turn them into meat patties instead of meatballs.
  • Flavor Variations: There are many ways to make these meatballs sing with even more flavor if you wish. Add a couple of teaspoons of finely chopped fresh herbs, ⅓-½ cup of parmesan or other grated cheese, or a dash or two of spices that will complement your dish. They are so easy to customize and make how you wish.
Close view of baked turkey meatballs in a baking dish with a wooden spoon lifting a meatball.

Storing Leftover Baked Turkey Meatballs

These baked turkey meatballs are so easy to store and freeze for a later time. I love to make a double batch and freeze the leftovers for busy weeknights.

  • In the Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container or sealable zip lock bag. Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
  • To Reheat: Reheat them in the microwave for a few minutes in the microwave until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the air fryer at 390 degrees Fahrenheit. 
  • In the Freezer: Allow the cooked meatballs to cool to room temperature. Place on a cookie tray and cover loosely with plastic wrap then freeze for 2 hours. Transfer the partially frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe gallon zip lock bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or warm them straight from the freezer in the microwave at 50% power till heated through.
Close view of the meatballs served in a bowl garnished with parsley and lemon.

More Meatball Recipes to Love

Print

Baked Turkey Meatballs

Baked Turkey Meatballs are tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. They're made with simple ingredients but big on flavor! These homemade meatballs are easy to make and healthy for the whole family!
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword baked turkey meatballs, easy homemade meatballs, healthy meatballs, turkey meatballs
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 5 People
Calories 238kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a medium baking dish with pan spray and set aside.
  • Mix all the ingredients in a medium bowl until everything is incorporated. Roll the mixture into 1 ½-2-inch balls and place in the prepared baking dish.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the tops are lightly browned.

Video

Notes

*Or you can use regular breadcrumbs with 1 Tablespoon of Italian seasoning
 
Updated on August 21, 2024
Originally Posted on January 3, 2021

Nutrition

Serving: 4meatballs | Calories: 238kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 117mg | Sodium: 630mg | Potassium: 406mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 185IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 2mg
]]> https://therecipecritic.com/baked-turkey-meatballs/feed/ 76 124259 Turkey Salad https://therecipecritic.com/turkey-salad/ https://therecipecritic.com/turkey-salad/#comments Thu, 23 Nov 2023 13:00:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=233316 This Turkey Salad is a fresh, satisfying dish loaded with fruit, veggies, and nuts. It comes together quickly and is…]]>

This Turkey Salad is a fresh, satisfying dish loaded with fruit, veggies, and nuts. It comes together quickly and is the perfect way to use up leftover turkey from Thanksgiving!

Looking for other delicious ways to turn holiday leftovers into a whole new meal? Try these turkey cranberry sliders, this comforting turkey noodle soup, or an easy turkey casserole next!

Turkey salad inside of a croissant.

Turkey Salad Recipe

The taste of turkey salad is incredibly delicious! Infused with the delicious flavors of your leftover Thanksgiving turkey, this twist on your classic chicken salad recipe is going to knock your socks off! This recipe is easy to mix together with cooked turkey, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, green onions, celery, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard and salt & pepper. It’s a wonderful satisfying lunch, and it’s great served at parties, potlucks and other special events. Enjoy it spooned on your favorite bread, lettuce wrap or a croissant roll (my favorite!).

A turkey salad sandwich is the perfect meal after you’ve enjoyed the big Thanksgiving feast. It’s great for lunch or a light dinner, and takes hardly any effort to mix together. Simply, chop up the turkey, mix in all the other ingredients, and let it chill until you’re ready to eat. It’s a great make-ahead dish and is delicious on buttery croissants or just served on sandwich bread or in a tortilla wrap. My family even loves to enjoy it with crackers!

What You Need for Turkey Salad

Aside from the turkey, this turkey salad recipe uses common ingredients that you probably have in your kitchen. If you don’t happen to have leftover turkey from Thanksgiving, you can use thick-sliced turkey deli meat, or even leftover cooked chicken.

  • Turkey Meat: Chopped leftover turkey meat is best, but you could sub with chicken or a thick-sliced deli meat.
  • Dried Cranberries: So there’s a pop of chewy sweetness in every bite!
  • Pecans: Chopped pecans add a nutty crunch to this otherwise creamy salad.
  • Green Onions: Adds dimension and a lovely kick.
  • Celery: Be sure the celery is finely diced so the salad has fresh, crisp texture.
  • Mayonnaise: The base that helps bind all of the ingredients together. Use real mayo for the best flavor.
  • Lemon Juice: For brightness, add fresh lemon juice.
  • Dijon Mustard: Adds the perfect amount of zippy flavor! 
  • Salt & Pepper: Brings all of the flavors together.

How to Make This Recipe

One of the best things about this recipe, is it’s great for using up leftover turkey! There’s no extra cooking or baking! It’s so simple to just mix everything together, and you have yourself a delicious meal!

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl combine the turkey, dried cranberries, pecans, green onions, and celery. 
  2. Make the Dressing: In another bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon, and Dijon mustard. 
  3. Combine Dressing with Turkey Mixture: Add the mayonnaise mixture to the turkey mixture. Stir to combine, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Serve: Enjoy with croissants, romaine, or with crackers.
3-photo collage of the chopped turkey, mayo mixture, and mix-ins being combined.

Tips and Variations

Crunchy, creamy, savory, and a little bit sweet, turkey salad is one of my favorite lunch recipes!

  • Chill Salad: For best results, allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least an hour, so all of the flavors meld together.
  • Meat: If you don’t have turkey, rotisserie chicken is a convenient, flavorful option.
  • Nuts: Pecans are a classic but you can use walnuts, almonds, or cashews. Roast them for a bit of extra flavor. 
  • Mayonnaise: If you are not a fan of mayo, you can use sour cream or non-fat Greek yogurt for your turkey salad. You can even use half mayo and half Greek yogurt to lower the calories.
  • Different Fruit: Want to change it up? Instead of dried cranberries, add about 1 cup quartered grapes or chopped apples.
Turkey salad served in a gray bowl.

Serving Suggestions

This turkey salad tastes amazing spread over a flaky croissant. You can also serve it with sandwich bread, crackers or in lettuce cups for a lighter option. Here are some tasty side options to make it a hearty meal!

Leftover Turkey Salad

Turkey salad tastes even better the next day! If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to about 4 days.

A croissant filled with turkey salad.

More Turkey Recipes

Looking for more delicious ways to use leftover turkey from Thanksgiving? I’ve got you covered with some tasty options!

Print

Turkey Salad

This Turkey Salad is a fresh, satisfying dish loaded with fruit, veggies, and nuts. It comes together quickly and is the perfect way to use up leftover turkey from Thanksgiving!
Course lunch
Cuisine American
Keyword leftover turkey salad, turkey salad sandwiches
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 6 people
Calories 472kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

Instructions

  • In a medium-sized bowl combine the turkey, dried cranberries, pecans, green onions, and celery.
  • In another bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon, and Dijon mustard.
  • Add the mayonnaise mixture to the turkey mixture. Stir to combine then season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Serve with croissants, romaine, or with crackers.

Notes

Turkey salad tastes even better the next day! If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to about 4 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 472kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 41g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 21g | Monounsaturated Fat: 13g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 55mg | Sodium: 342mg | Potassium: 277mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 172IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 35mg | Iron: 1mg
]]> https://therecipecritic.com/turkey-salad/feed/ 2 233316 Oven Baked Herb Turkey https://therecipecritic.com/best-oven-baked-turkey-recipe/ https://therecipecritic.com/best-oven-baked-turkey-recipe/#comments Tue, 14 Nov 2023 13:00:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=73190 Oven baked herb turkey is perfectly juicy and tender! It’s stuffed with slices of citrus, a crisp apple, and fresh…]]>

Oven baked herb turkey is perfectly juicy and tender! It’s stuffed with slices of citrus, a crisp apple, and fresh herbs then baked until it’s a toasty golden brown. It’s mouthwatering and delicious!

Thanksgiving turkey is not complete without all the side dishes! Try these sweet potatoes, my green bean casserole, carrots, or cauliflower au gratin. And definitely end the night with some pumpkin pie! 

Oven baked herb turkey roasted and plated on a platter before being sliced,

Oven Baked Herb Turkey

Thanksgiving would not be the same without a beautiful turkey on your dinner table. This turkey recipe is the BEST. Your guests will not be disappointed! It will have everyone raving about your beautiful, golden-brown turkey. Dinner for Thanksgiving does take time and needs a lot of care and preparation before baking. But this recipe is super straightforward and anyone can make it! You will have the perfect turkey to serve this Thanksgiving.

The turkey is the most important part of Thanksgiving and what everyone is looking forward to. These step-by-step instructions will help make your Thanksgiving the best it has ever been! And when you’re done with the turkey then these sides of Sweet Potatoes and Mashed Potatoes, brown butter carrots, and Green Bean Casserole go fantastic with any Thanksgiving dinner!

How to Thaw and Prep a Turkey

It is best to start off with a completely thawed turkey. This can take 3 to 7 days depending on how frozen and how large your turkey is so you definitely need to be thinking ahead. You thaw a turkey by placing it into the refrigerator in a large pan or baking sheet. And then you just leave it there until it’s no longer frozen! Once your turkey is thawed and you are ready to bake the turkey here are a few steps to prepare your turkey for the oven:

  1. Remove from fridge: Remove your turkey from the refrigerator for about 30 minutes prior to preparing. This will help it to bake more evenly.
  2. Dry: Pat turkey completely dry, soaking up any excess water with paper towels.
  3. Remove giblets: You will want to remove the neck and giblet bag in the turkey cavity.
  4. Tie it up: With kitchen twine or string, tie the legs together.
  5. Fold under the wings: Take the turkey wings and fold the end of them under your bird. This will prevent them from burning and drying out.
First photo of removing the giblets from the turkey. Second photo of tucking the legs under the bird. Third photo of stuffing the turkey with fruit and herbs. Fourth photo of rubbing the herb butter on the turkey.

Ingredients for Oven Baked Herb Turkey

Turkey is the most important part of a traditional Thanksgiving meal. Having just the right ingredients will tenderize, add flavor, and create a perfectly golden turkey for your Thanksgiving! See the recipe card below for a list of exact ingredient measurements.

  • Turkey: 12 to 20 pounds, thawed.

Stuffing

  • Onion: adds a bitter but sweet flavoring.
  • Garlic: has a mellow, sweet, and spicy taste.
  • Rosemary sprigs: a lemon-pine flavoring with a peppery ending.
  • Apple: crisp and cut into quarters.
  • Lemon: sweet and sour lemon quartered for more flavoring.
  • Thyme sprigs: a powerful herb that is pungent and slightly bitter.

Herb Butter

  • Butter: helps make everything tender and rich in flavor.
  • Garlic: minced and added into the mixture.
  • Thyme: fresh and finely chopped.
  • Oregano: finely chopped and adds a strong aromatic taste.
  • Rosemary: fresh and finely chopped.
  • Salt and pepper: just a pinch!

How to Make Oven Baked Herb Turkey

This oven-baked herb turkey is golden brown, tender, and juicy! It’s the absolute perfect turkey recipe that will make you wish that Thanksgiving came around more often!

  1. Prepare Turkey: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. To prepare the turkey, remove the neck and giblets. Tuck the wings underneath the turkey.
  2. Stuff the Turkey: Stuff the turkey with the onion, garlic, rosemary, apple, lemon, and thyme. Tie the feet together with twine.
  3. Combine the Herb Butter Mixture: In a small bowl combine the butter, garlic, thyme, oregano, rosemary, and salt and pepper. Rub evenly over the turkey and underneath the skin.
  4. Bake Turkey in Roasting Pan: Place the turkey in a roasting pan and cook for 15 minutes for each pound or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the juices run clear. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving.
  5. Make Turkey Gravy: Save the drippings for the turkey and make this Turkey Gravy if desired.

How Long to Cook Your Oven Baked Herb Turkey

The last thing that you want to do is to overcook (or undercook) a turkey! So it’s important that you know a few things about your bird first!

  • Turkey Size: Know how big your turkey is. You will cook it for about 13-15 minutes per pound!
  • Leave in Meat Thermometer: Use a meat thermometer! A leave-in oven-safe meat thermometer is a great way to check on the turkey continually. Place it in the thickest part of your turkey for the most accurate temperature reading. If you use a thermometer like this, then you don’t have to keep opening your oven door towards the end. This will help keep the heat in and your turkey cooking!
  • Cooking Temperature: Once your turkey has reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit, take it out and let it reset. This is when you don’t cut into it and just let the juices keep smoking into your meat! This part is SO important!
  • Brined Turkey: A brined turkey will cook faster so keep a close eye on your turkey.
  • Don’t Eat Pink: If your turkey is pink AT ALL, then it isn’t done.
Turkey sliced and plated up on a platter with herbs garnished around it.

Tips for Cooking a Turkey

This tried and true oven-baked herb turkey recipe is just what you need for this year’s Thanksgiving dinner. It roasts your turkey to a crisp, golden brown outside and tender, juicy meat on the inside.

  • Turkey Size: You don’t want to run out of turkey! A good rule of thumb is to plan for a pound of turkey per person.
  • Don’t Forget to Thaw the Turkey!: Thaw your turkey days ahead of time to make sure it is completely thawed.
  • Use Chicken Stock: Adding 1 to 2 cups of chicken stock to the bottom of the roasting pan will keep the turkey from drying out. It also helps when making your turkey gravy at the end. If you are planning to brine your turkey, then skip this tip.
  • Use Foil: If you notice your turkey is getting dark on top, but your meat is not cooked through, then simply add a piece of foil over top while it finishes roasting.

How to Carve a Turkey

Looking at the turkey and knowing where to carve it is sometimes overwhelming. Carving a turkey is just a large bird and will still taste delicious no matter how you slice it! Here are some tips on where to start! Make sure your knife is sharp and you have a fork to help hold your turkey and plate in place while carving.

  • Wings: Remove the turkey wings first.
  • Thighs: Thighs will go next, cutting through the joints.
  • Breast: Slice close to the rib cage, carving the breast meat into individual slices.
  • Excess Meat: Move your knife to the flat side and carve right up against the rib bones.
  • Separate: Now that the meat is off, separate the dark meat (thighs and drumsticks) from the white meat.
  • Plate: Plate everything all together for more option choices at the dinner table.
Close view of turkey sliced and plated.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover oven-baked herb turkey makes the BEST leftovers! There are so many things that you can do with it! I love to make Leftover Turkey Casserole to use up the rest of the Thanksgiving dinner. Here is how you can store extra turkey to save for later!

  • In the Refrigerator: Wait until your turkey has cooled. Then, place it in an airtight container and put it in your fridge. It can last there for 3 to 5 days.
  • In the Freezer: After your turkey has cooled down, place it in a freezer bag. Lay your turkey flat in the bag and then zip or suction out all the air in the bag. Label your bag with the date, and then you can keep it frozen for up to 1 month in the freezer. When ready to reheat, place in the refrigerator overnight to thaw.
  • To Reheat: To reheat in the oven, then place in a baking dish at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 to 15 minutes or until warm. When reheating in a microwave, heat for 1 to 2 minutes at a time until warm. Try not to overheat. This will leave your leftover turkey dry and hard.
Sliced turkey, mashed potatoes with turkey gravy, brussel sprouts and pilaf all plated together.

Pie Recipes for Dessert

Thanksgiving dinner is just not complete without some pies! And the greatest thing about pies is there are SO MANY flavors to choose from! I have rounded up a few of my favorite tried and true pie recipes that everyone loves. Pick one, or make them all! You can’t go wrong!

Print

Oven Baked Herb Turkey

Oven baked herb turkey is perfectly juicy and tender! It's stuffed with slices of citrus, a crisp apple and fresh herbs then baked until it's a toasty golden brown. It's mouthwatering and delicious! 
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword baked turkey, turkey
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings 15 people
Calories 517kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

  • 1 12-20 pound turkey thawed

Stuffing

Herb Butter

  • 1 cup butter softened
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 Tablespoon thyme finely chopped
  • 1 Tablespoon oregano finely chopped
  • 1 Tablespoon rosemary finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Fahrenheit. To prepare the turkey, remove the neck and giblets. Tuck the wings underneath the turkey. Stuff the turkey with onion, garlic, rosemary, apple, lemon, and thyme. Tie the feet together with twine.
  • In a small bowl combine the butter, garlic, thyme, oregano, rosemary, and salt and pepper. Rub evenly over the turkey and underneath the skin.
  • Place the turkey in a roasting pan and cook for 15 minutes for each pound or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees and the juices run clear. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving.
  • Save the drippings for the turkey and make this turkey gravy if desired.

Notes

Updated on November 14, 2023
Originally Posted on October 20, 2019

Nutrition

Calories: 517kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 61g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 233mg | Sodium: 577mg | Potassium: 674mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 579IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 50mg | Iron: 3mg
]]> https://therecipecritic.com/best-oven-baked-turkey-recipe/feed/ 22 73190 Turkey Cranberry Sliders https://therecipecritic.com/turkey-cranberry-sliders/ https://therecipecritic.com/turkey-cranberry-sliders/#comments Tue, 14 Nov 2023 01:00:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=233310 All the best things about Thanksgiving in slider form! These turkey cranberry sliders are warm and buttery, made with Hawaiian…]]>

All the best things about Thanksgiving in slider form! These turkey cranberry sliders are warm and buttery, made with Hawaiian rolls packed full of turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce for the perfect balance of sweet and savory. A must-make with holiday leftovers!

Side shot of a stack of turkey cranberry sliders.

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Thanksgiving: These sliders offer all the flavors of Thanksgiving wrapped up in a convenient, buttery roll. Enjoy them year-round or use up all your Thanksgiving leftovers!
  • Quick and Easy: With everything already prepared, you’ll be able to put these together in 30 minutes. Since all of the ingredients are ready-made, you’ll have dinner ready in no time!
  • Festive Flavor: The tangy cranberry pairs so well with the moist turkey and savory stuffing. These flavors are so nostalgic, one bite, and you’ll be right back at Grandma’s house!

What You’ll Need for Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Most of these items should be leftovers from your Thanksgiving feast. Making them will be super simple, and your family will love how delicious they are. Scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact measurements.

  • Hawaiian Sweet Rolls: The soft fluffy base base for the sliders.
  • Mayonnaise: Acts as a creamy spread under all those delicious toppings.
  • Turkey Meat: You can use leftovers from turkey dinner sliced to your desired thickness. Or deli turkey works great as well!
  • Stuffing: Adds the perfect savory flavor and texture to the sliders.
  • Cranberry Sauce: A little tangy and a little sweet, this is the perfect way to balance out the savory flavors.
  • Melted Butter: Brushed on top of the rolls for a buttery seasoned topping.
  • Garlic Powder: Gives the sliders a delicious savory flavor.
  • Dried Onion Flakes: Adds a sweet onion flavor that complements the turkey and cranberry.
  • Italian seasoning: Provides bold flavors mixed with butter to add extra savory goodness. You can use store-bought or make my homemade Italian seasoning
  • Turkey Gravy: (Optional) Gravy is perfect for dipping the sliders in!

Making the Sliders

These turkey cranberry sliders are super easy to make and take 30 minutes to complete. They’re great for busy weeknight dinners, and they’re the perfect way to enjoy all the delicious flavors of Thanksgiving, but with a fun twist.

  1. Prep: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit then spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Cut Rolls: Carefully remove the entire package of rolls from the bag. Keeping the buns intact, use a serrated knife to slice all 12 rolls in half so that you have a top and bottom piece.
  3. Add Mayo: Spread the mayonnaise on the top and bottom halves.
  4. Place in Pan: Place the bottom half of the rolls into the prepared baking dish.
  5. Add Toppings: First, layer with turkey, then cranberry sauce, followed by the stuffing. Next, place the top portion of the rolls on top of the stuffing and press slightly.
  6. Butter Mixture: Melt the butter in a microwavable dish. Once the butter is melted, then stir in the garlic powder, dried onion flakes, and Italian herbs.
  7. Brush on Top: Brush the tops of the buns with the butter mixture.
  8. Bake: Cover with foil and then bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes so the tops of the buns can be toasted.
  9. Serve: Garnish the warm sliders with fresh parsley. Then serve with a side of warm gravy for dipping!
6-photo collage of Hawaiian rolls being layered with sliced turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, topped with the other half of the roll and then brushed with butter.

Ways to Switch Things Up

Turkey cranberry sliders are really versatile! Here are a few ways you can make them your own:

  • Pick Your Protein: If you don’t like turkey, then you can swap it out with leftover ham, roast beef, or even shredded chicken.
  • Add Other Leftovers: If you have other leftover items, then you can add those in as well. For example, some mashed potatoes, green beans, or a scoop of sweet potato casserole.
  • Make Them Cheesy: For an extra touch, to elevate your sliders even further, melt a slice of Swiss cheese, provolone, or Havarti on top of the turkey for an added layer of ooey-gooey goodness!
Top-down view of turkey cranberry sliders in a baking dish. Two are turned on their side so the filling can be seen.

Storing Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

If these leftover turkey sliders don’t get devoured in a snap, here’s how you can store them for later.

  • In the Refrigerator: Place your turkey cranberry sliders in an airtight container then refrigerate. They are best served within two days.
  • In the Freezer: Transfer your turkey cranberry sliders to a freezer bag for longer storage. This way, they’ll stay good in the freezer for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the freezer before you reheat them to help them retain their texture.
  • To Reheat: To prevent the sliders from getting soggy, I recommend reheating them in the oven. Five minutes or so at 350 degrees Fahrenheit should do the trick!
Dipping a slider into gravy.

More Slider Recipes to Add to the Dinner Lineup:

Sliders are a fun way to enjoy big flavor in a small sandwich. Plus, you can easily customize them to suit your preferences. Your family will love them! In the meantime, here are a few more slider recipes for you to try.

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Turkey Cranberry Sliders

All the best things about Thanksgiving in slider form! These turkey cranberry sliders are warm and buttery, made with Hawaiian rolls packed full of turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce for the perfect balance of sweet and savory. A must-make with holiday leftovers!
Course lunch
Cuisine American
Keyword recipe for thanksgiving leftovers, thanksgiving sliders, turkey cranberry sliders
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 12 people
Calories 180kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

  • 1 package Hawaiian sweet rolls, 12 rolls
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 pound turkey meat, sliced
  • 1½ cups stuffing
  • ½ cup cranberry sauce
  • ¼ cup butter, melted
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried onion flakes
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • turkey gravy for serving

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
  • Carefully remove the entire package of rolls out of the bag. Keeping the buns intact, use a serrated knife to slice all 12 rolls in half so that you have a top and bottom piece.
  • Spread the mayonnaise on the top and bottom half of the rolls.
  • Place the bottom half of each roll into the prepared baking dish.
  • Layer with turkey, cranberry sauce, then stuffing. Place the top portion of the rolls on top of the stuffing and press slightly.
  • Melt the butter in a microwavable dish. Once the butter is melted, stir in the garlic powder, dried onion flakes, and Italian herbs.
  • Brush the tops of the buns with the butter mixture.
  • Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil the last 5 minutes to toast the tops of the buns.
  • Garnish the warm sliders with fresh parsley. Serve with a side of warm gravy for dipping!

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwich | Calories: 180kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 38mg | Sodium: 232mg | Potassium: 123mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 219IU | Vitamin C: 0.4mg | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 1mg
]]> https://therecipecritic.com/turkey-cranberry-sliders/feed/ 1 233310 Air Fryer Turkey Burgers https://therecipecritic.com/air-fryer-turkey-burgers/ https://therecipecritic.com/air-fryer-turkey-burgers/#comments Mon, 05 Jun 2023 11:30:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=124610 Air Fryer Turkey Burgers are the perfect answer when you want a juicy, flavorful burger that’s a bit healthier. With…]]>

Air Fryer Turkey Burgers are the perfect answer when you want a juicy, flavorful burger that’s a bit healthier. With a seared outside and moist tender inside it’s the ideal burger!

Air frying is quick, delicious, and usually a healthier way to cook and you must try it out! Start with some of my best classic air fryer recipes like this Air Fryer Grilled Cheese, this delicious tender and juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast or this Perfect Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Herb Butter.

Juicy and flavorful air fryer turkey burgers.

The Best Air Fryer Turkey Burgers

Air Frying burgers has rocked my world! The way the air fryer uses circulating air to create a heavenly crust while leaving the inside juicy and moist is heaven. So often, poultry in general, will dry out so quickly before the inside has a chance to get done. The air fryer changes that. The forced air browns and crisps, just like an oven would, but faster which allows the inside to cook and stay juicy. This is all accomplished with minimal oil or fat added!

These turkey burgers are perfect for the main meal. Top your burger these with tomatoes, lettuce, pickles, and all your favorites, and then place them on your favorite bun and enjoy! Serve them up with some Homemade Air Fryer French Fries or Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries. Add some Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts and you’ll have a complete air fryer meal!  Plus, using the air fryer means you don’t have to heat up the grill when it’s cold outside!

Turkey Burgers Ingredients

With only 4 ingredients, these burgers can’t get much easier. Feel free to add more spices to your turkey burgers to vary the flavor as desired. You can find ground turkey next to ground beef in your local grocery store. Check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact ingredient measurements.

  • Ground Turkey: Ground chicken or ground beef can also be used.
  • Garlic: The garlic should be minced finely to blend in nicely with the burgers.
  • Salt and Pepper: Use these to flavor your burger as desired.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Adds incredible umami flavor to the burgers
  • Toppings: Sprouts, butter lettuce, and sliced tomato.

Making Turkey Burgers in the Air Fryer

Using fresh ground turkey in your burgers will make them easier to shape than frozen ground turkey. Air frying them is going to give them that crusty outside and tender and juicy inside.

  1. Mix: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the turkey, garlic, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
  2. Shape: Shape into four patties, keeping them 1/2 inch thick because they will shrink.
  3. Fry: Add two patties to the basket and cook at 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 7 minutes. Then, flip the patties and continue to cook for about 5 minutes or until cooked throughout. The internal temperature should be 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a meat thermometer to make sure the burgers are done.
Ground turkey with pepper and garlic.

Tips for Amazing Air Fryer Turkey Burgers

There isn’t a whole lot that can go wrong with turkey burgers, but there are a few tips to remember to make sure you have incredible burgers.

  • Checking for Doneness: Because all air fryers are different, always remember to judge if your burger is done by the temperature, not the time. Check your user manual for your air fryer for best cooking times and adjust if needed. Turkey burgers are done when they reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Sticky: Sometimes your ground turkey is sticky and hard to form or shape. If this happens, use parchment paper to help form them.  You can also refrigerate or freeze the meat for a little bit to help firm it up.
  • Divot: To help the burgers keep from shrinking too much, push your thumb into the middle and create a divot.
  • Turkey: Any ground turkey will work for these burgers. I typically use lean turkey meat like 97/3 or 85/15.

Perfect Turkey Burger Variations

Another nice thing about turkey burgers is how easy they are to customize. And just like any burger you can make a bunch of them and freeze them for quick dinners on a busy night. Then you will be all ready to go with little preparation for dinner!

  • Add-Ins: Turkey burger meat is ideal for adding vegetables. Finely chopped mushrooms, peppers, onions, or shredded zucchini all give the turkey flavor and add moisture.
  • Seasonings: I love the flavor that the simple ingredients of garlic and Worcestershire sauce add to these burgers. But the possibilities for other seasonings are endless.  BBQ seasonings, taco seasoning, ranch seasoning, greek spices, and even Italian spices would all be amazing.
  • Toppings: Tomatoes, lettuce, bacon, BBQ Sauce, avocado, and sprouts, are all great additions to a turkey burger.
  • Cheese: Don’t forget the cheese! Because cheese is my favorite, I love switching it up with Swiss, cheddar, pepper jack, feta, blue cheese, and Monterey jack. They will all change up the flavor and no matter what, you can’t go wrong.
Perfectly juicy air fryer turkey burgers.

Can You Make Turkey Burgers Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can make a double or even a triple batch of these air fryer turkey burgers to freeze and then pull them out to cook when you need them.

  1. Form the turkey into a burger shape and place it on a cookie sheet lined with wax or parchment paper.
  2. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and freeze for 1-2 hours or till firm but not frozen solid.
  3. Using parchment paper to separate the patties, stack the burgers and place them in a freezer-safe ziplock bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
  4. When ready to use, you can cook the burgers in the air fryer from frozen, adding 3-5 more minutes to the cooking time. Or thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

More Delicious Burger Recipes to Try

Burgers! They’re juicy, full of flavor, a total comfort food and customizable. They’re amazing. I love burgers. In all forms. Truly you can’t go wrong with burgers! Perfectly proportioned, seasoned exquisitely and topped to your heart’s desire, they are just so fun to make and eat. Try these burger variations tonight!

Print

Air Fryer Turkey Burgers

Air Fryer Turkey Burgers are the perfect answer when you want a juicy, flavorful burger that's a bit healthier. With a seared outside and moist tender inside it's the ideal burger!
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword air fryer turkey burgers, turkey burger recipe, turkey burgers
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4 Patties
Calories 134kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

Toppings

Instructions

  • In a medium sized bowl combine the turkey, garlic, salt, pepper and worcestershire sauce. Shape into four patties keeping them 1/2 inch thick because they will shrink.
  • Add two patties to the air fryer basket and cook at 360 degrees for 7 minutes. Flip the patties and continue to cook for about 5 minutes or until cooked throughout.
  • Place the patties onto your hamburger bun and add desired toppings and serve.

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 134kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 62mg | Sodium: 100mg | Potassium: 378mg | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 28IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 12mg | Iron: 1mg
]]> https://therecipecritic.com/air-fryer-turkey-burgers/feed/ 6 124610 Turkey Noodle Soup https://therecipecritic.com/turkey-noodle-soup/ https://therecipecritic.com/turkey-noodle-soup/#comments Fri, 25 Nov 2022 01:00:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=153703 Making a big pot of turkey noodle soup is the best way to use up your Thanksgiving leftovers! It’s creamy,…]]>

Making a big pot of turkey noodle soup is the best way to use up your Thanksgiving leftovers! It’s creamy, savory, and filled with delicious herbs and veggies! Your family is going to love this easy, hearty meal.

Nothing compares to homemade soup. It’s just so flavorful, comforting, and delicious! I have too many favorite soup recipes to count. A few you’ve got to try, though, is this copycat zuppa toscana, pasta e fagioli, and Italian wedding soup!

Hero image of a ladle scooping up turkey noodle soup.

Turkey Noodle Soup (Great for Thanksgiving Leftovers!)

I don’t know about you, but after Thanksgiving I always have more turkey than I know what to do with. You can only have so many turkey steaks before you start to get burned out, so make this soup instead! I honestly think it rivals my homemade chicken noodle, and that’s saying something! Once you try this turkey noodle soup for yourself, you’ll see what I mean. It’s just too good.

This is one of my favorite things to make after Thanksgiving because it’s so comforting and delicious. The broth is extremely flavorful and creamy! Once you add fresh herbs, veggies, and thick egg noodles, it really comes together. Of course, we can’t forget the leftover Thanksgiving turkey you worked so hard on! Shred some up for juicy bits of goodness throughout this delicious homemade soup. From there, all you need to do is grab some saltine crackers and get ready for a cozy night in!

Ingredients for Turkey Noodle Soup

The great thing about this turkey noodle soup is all of the pantry staples it uses. Once Thanksgiving is over, the last thing I want to do is make a trip to the grocery store! See the recipe card below for exact measurements.

  • Butter: Used for cooking the diced veggies in.
  • Onion: For soups, I usually use sweeter onions. Go for white or yellow!
  • Carrots: You’ll want these to be peeled and diced.
  • Celery Stalks: I love diced celery in soup because it adds the best texture!
  • Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic is the best for adding in savory flavor.
  • Herbs: Time to break out your spice rack! To give your soup the best flavor, add dried thyme, dried parsley, and dried basil as well.
  • Flour: Add a little flour to thicken your broth.
  • Turkey Broth: This acts as the base of your soup. You can either use prepackaged broth or make your own! Chicken broth will also work.
  • Shredded Turkey: Another way to use up leftover turkey meat from Thanksgiving!
  • Canned Evaporated Milk: A must-add for creaminess.
  • Salt and Pepper: Add both to taste.
  • Noodles: I used dried homemade style egg noodles.
  • Frozen Peas: You’ll throw these in at the end to make your turkey soup a little more hearty.

Using Bouillon Cubes

For an extra pop of savory flavor, throw in a chicken bouillon cube! It gives this turkey noodle soup the perfect seasoned, umami flavor. I typically use 1 bouillon cube per 2 cups of water.

Let’s Make Some Homemade Soup!

This noodle soup is SO easy to make and the best for leftover turkey from Thanksgiving! Your family is going to love it. Once you start making soup from scratch, you won’t go back!

  1. Cook Vegetables: In a large pot over medium high heat, add the butter and melt. Then add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook and stir until vegetables are softened. Stir in garlic, thyme, parsley, and basil, and cook for 1 minute.
  2. Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables. Stir until a paste forms.
  3. Add Broth: Add the broth, thyme, parsley, and basil, and whisk for about 5 minutes or until the mixture starts to slightly thicken. 
  4. Mix in Remaining Ingredients, Simmer: Add the shredded turkey, evaporated milk, and noodles to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Stir in the frozen peas and cook an additional 5 minutes.
  5. Season to Taste: Before serving, adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper if needed. The seasoning will need to be adjusted depending on how seasoned the turkey is that you are using. Garnish with fresh parsley!
3-photo collage of soup ingredients being added to a large pot.

Making Homemade Turkey Stock

This turkey noodle soup is super easy to make from scratch thanks to all of the leftovers from Thanksgiving. If you want to make homemade turkey stock, save your turkey carcass and bones. Add it to a large stockpot with one gallon of water along with your favorite herbs and seasonings. Then, let it simmer for about 3 hours and strain once it’s done. You can use this in place of packaged chicken or turkey broth.

Turkey noodle soup served in a stoneware bowl.

Storing Leftovers

Is there anything better than leftover soup? It’s so easy to heat up for a hearty lunch. Now that you have a big pot of turkey noodle soup made, here’s how to keep it tasting fresh and delicious!

  • In the Refrigerator: Store turkey noodle soup in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
Can Turkey Noodle Soup Be Frozen?

Yes! Let your turkey noodle soup cool and then transfer it to a gallon-sized freezer bag. Freeze for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Closeup of turkey noodle soup.

More Ways to Use Leftover Turkey

Here are a few more unique ways to use up leftovers from Thanksgiving! These recipes are great for weeknight dinners. Your family is going to love them!

Print

Turkey Noodle Soup

Making a big pot of turkey noodle soup is the best way to use up your Thanksgiving leftovers! It’s creamy, savory, and filled with delicious herbs and veggies! Your family is going to love this easy, hearty meal.
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Keyword thanksgiving, turkey noodle soup recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 410kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 3 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 tsp garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • 1/3 cup flour
  • 8 cups turkey broth (or chicken)
  • 4 cups turkey (shredded)
  • 12 oz canned evaporated milk
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt or more to taste
  • 1/2 tsp pepper or more to taste
  • 12 oz dried homemade style egg noodles
  • 1 cup frozen peas (added last)

Instructions

  • In a large pot over medium high heat, add the butter and melt. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook and stir until vegetables are softened. Stir in garlic, thyme, parsley, and basil, and cook for 1 minute.
  • Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables. Stir until a paste forms.
  • Add the broth, thyme, parsley, and basil, and whisk for about 5 minutes or until the mixture starts to slightly thicken.
  • Add the shredded turkey, evaporated milk, and noodles to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Stir in the frozen peas and cook an additional 5 minutes.
  • Before serving, adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper if needed. The seasoning will need to be adjusted depending on how seasoned the turkey is that you are using. Garnish with fresh parsley!

Nutrition

Calories: 410kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 122mg | Sodium: 1429mg | Potassium: 690mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 5766IU | Vitamin C: 14mg | Calcium: 212mg | Iron: 3mg
]]> https://therecipecritic.com/turkey-noodle-soup/feed/ 5 153703 Spatchcock Turkey https://therecipecritic.com/spatchcock-turkey/ https://therecipecritic.com/spatchcock-turkey/#respond Wed, 23 Nov 2022 13:00:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=194578 A Spatchcock Turkey cooks faster and more evenly, and will be the most tender and juicy turkey you’ve ever cooked!…]]>

A Spatchcock Turkey cooks faster and more evenly, and will be the most tender and juicy turkey you’ve ever cooked! Roasted or smoked, this turkey will wow your guests come Thanksgiving day.

I love Thanksgiving leftovers! The big meal is fun, but sometimes it can be stressful. I love waking up the next morning and having a fridge full of food to make fun meals out of. If you have leftover turkey, you’ve got to try this Leftover Turkey Casserole or this delicious Turkey Pot Pie. I made Sausage Stuffing Balls last year with leftover stuffing, they were a total hit!

A spatchcock turkey roasted on a pan with oranges, cranberries, and fresh herbs.

Spatchcock Turkey Recipe

Why should you spatchcock your turkey? Lots of reasons! Spatchcocking is when you butterfly it, or remove the backbone so that the bird will lay flat on the pan. It makes it so that the whole turkey is more evenly distributed on the roasting pan so it cooks faster and more evenly. This means less time in the oven and a more moist bird! It really is one of the best ways to cook turkey on Thanksgiving day!

I have made turkey in a lot of different ways for the holidays. I really love the method of cooking a turkey in a bag, and I’ve even used my air fryer to cook a whole juicy and delicious air fryer turkey! Spatchcocking works for the oven, smoker, air fryer, or whatever you end up cooking your turkey in. It’s easy to do and I’ve got lots of tips to help you become a spatchcocking pro. Especially when you use this brine, you will have the most delicious flavor and a yummy moist turkey for your holiday dinner!

Ingredients

There is not much needed to make an incredible turkey dinner. You can choose the size of turkey that your family will need, but in this recipe, the cook time and amount of ingredients is for a 12-14 pound chicken. See the recipe card below for exact measurements.

  • Turkey: This recipe is for a 12-14 pound turkey. You will spatchcock the turkey, which means you will bring the legs out from under the bird by cutting the belly and flattening the backbone. It’s actually really simple! Make sure to remove the neck and giblet bag
  • Turkey Seasoning: About 1/3 C of seasoning will season a 10-14 lb turkey. If you have a bigger turkey you will want to use more seasoning than that. This seasoning blend has the perfect spices for a holiday turkey like rosemary, thyme, sage, parsley, garlic powder, and of course salt and pepper. It has a few other things but that’s just naming the main ones!
  • Rosemary, Parsley, Orange Slices, and Cranberries: These are optional garnishes. You can use them if you like, they do make the plate look really pretty, and the smell of the fresh herbs and fruit is incredible! But this is your Thanksgiving turkey, make it exactly the way you like it!

How to Spatchcock a Turkey

If you have ever spatchcocked a chicken, this is the same process! A spatchcocked turkey is the way to go in my opinion, it cooks in less time and more evenly. It’s just as pretty on the plate and stays so juicy and delicious!

  1. Dry: Pat dry the turkey with a paper towel.
  2. Cut: Then set the turkey breast side down on a baking sheet with a wire rack. Using very sharp kitchen shears, cut along the backbone from the tail to the neck. Cut along each side until it is removed. Discard the backbone or save it to make a stock.
  3. Press: Flip the turkey over and then use your hands to press firmly to flatten the ribs and break the breast bone. Make sure the turkey is completely flat and put the thighs out on the baking sheet.
  4. Rub: Rub the turkey generously with the turkey seasoning.
Images showing the process of how to spatchcock a turkey.

Spatchcock Roasted Turkey

  1. Bake: Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Bake the turkey for 20 minutes. Then reduce oven temperature and cook at 400 degrees for about 1 1/2 hours or until the thickest part reaches 165 degrees on your meat thermometer.
  2. Rest: Remove turkey from the oven and tent with foil. Let rest for 10-20 minutes. Then carve and serve.

Spatchcock Smoked Turkey

  1. Preheat: Preheat your smoker to 240 degrees F.
  2. Smoke: Place the spatchcocked turkey in the smoker skin side up. Smoke for 4 hours or until the thickest part reaches 165 degrees.

Tips for Spatchcocking a Turkey

If you are not familiar with breaking down a bird and have never spatchcocked anything before, here are some tips to help you feel confident come Thanksgiving day!

  • Watch a Video: If you have read these instructions and still feel nervous, watch a video! There are lots of videos on the internet showing professional chefs spatchcocking a chicken, and this is no different. Watch a few to get familiar with the process.
  • Practice: If you are nervous about messing up on your turkey, buy a whole chicken and practice ahead of time! It is smaller and less expensive, so there is less pressure to get it perfect the first time!
  • How to Carve a Spatchcock Turkey: You will have to carve it a little differently, but it’s not harder! First, remove the legs and wings. You will remove the entire leg including the thigh at the joint. Next, separate the drumstick from the thigh. Then you will remove the breast from the bone and slice it. Finally, arrange it on a platter and you’re done!
Turkey cut up and presented on a platter with oranges, cranberries, and fresh herbs.

Saving Leftovers

I love Thanksgiving leftovers, and this turkey makes great meals for a few days! Follow these tips for storing your leftovers to get the most out of this recipe.

  • In the Refrigerator: Store your turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Use it in other dishes to get the most out of your turkey!

Make it a Meal!

Thanksgiving dinner is one of my favorite parts of the holiday season. I love planning out all of my family’s favorite dishes and preparing a feast for us all to enjoy together and to think about things we are thankful for. I like to switch it up every year and make something new, so I’ve got lots of great Thanksgiving recipes for you to try!

Print

Spatchcock Turkey

A Spatchcock Turkey cooks faster and more evenly, and will be the most tender and juicy turkey you've ever cooked! Roasted or smoked, this turkey will wow your guests come Thanksgiving day.
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Keyword spatchcock turkey, turkey
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings 8
Calories 681kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

  • 12-14 pound turkey, neck and giblet bag removed
  • 1 recipe Turkey Seasoning (1/3 Cup)
  • Optional Garnishes: Rosemary, Parsley, Orange Slices, Cranberries

Instructions

To spatchcock the turkey:

  • Pat dry the turkey with a paper towel.
  • Set the turkey breast side down on a baking sheet with a wire rack. Using very sharp kitchen shears, cut along the backbone from the tail to the neck. Cut along each side until it is removed. Discard the backbone or save it to make a stock.
  • Flip the turkey over and use your hands to press firmly to flatten the ribs. Make sure the turkey is completely flat and put the thighs out on the baking sheet.
  • Rub the turkey generously with the turkey seasoning.

To Roast the Turkey:

  • Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Bake the turkey for 20 minutes. Reduce oven temperature and cook at 400 degrees for about 1 1/2 hours or until the thickest part reaches 165 degrees.
  • Remove turkey from the oven and tent with foil. Let rest for 10-20 minutes. Carve and serve.

To Smoke the Turkey:

  • Preheat your smoker to 240 degrees F.
  • Place the spatchcocked turkey in the smoker skin side up. Smoke for 4 hours or until the thickest part reaches 165 degrees.

Nutrition

Calories: 681kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.1g | Protein: 105g | Fat: 27g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 348mg | Sodium: 541mg | Potassium: 1084mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 273IU | Vitamin C: 0.003mg | Calcium: 55mg | Iron: 4mg
]]> https://therecipecritic.com/spatchcock-turkey/feed/ 0 194578 Turkey Seasoning https://therecipecritic.com/turkey-seasoning/ https://therecipecritic.com/turkey-seasoning/#comments Sun, 20 Nov 2022 01:00:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=194537 Look no further for the BEST turkey seasoning recipe you will ever make! The combination of herbs and spices in…]]>

Look no further for the BEST turkey seasoning recipe you will ever make! The combination of herbs and spices in this rub will flavor your turkey to perfection and it will be your go-to turkey rub.

All the classic herbs and spices of Thanksgiving dinner are packed into one perfect blend for your bird! Your turkey will take on the most amazing flavors. I love adding flavorful seasonings to make any meat or poultry taste incredible. Try this baked chicken, this delicious chicken recipe, or my favorite air fryer pork chops for tasty seasoned meat.

Top view of turkey seasoning in a small white bowl with a wooden spoon inside and tan kitchen towel next to the bowl.

Turkey Rub

This turkey rub is a combination of aromatic dried herbs and savory spices. I love the blend of thyme, rosemary, and sage because they are all meant to be together on a turkey. There is just something about their complementary flavors that make Thanksgiving turkey magic!

Rubbing these flavors into your turkey will guarantee the tastiest bird your guests will ever have. I guarantee that you will always be asked to be in charge of the turkey after everyone tastes this dry rub. And if you’re asked to be in charge of the turkey, you can make the meal complete with my Grandma’s stuffing, my Dad’s potatoes, and these easy 1-hour rolls!

Turkey Seasoning Ingredients

The best part about this turkey seasoning rub is that you most likely have all the herbs in your cupboard! These delicious herbs and spices are the perfect combination to enhance the flavors of your turkey. You will LOVE the taste of your turkey and this will be your go-to rub recipe for every turkey you cook.

  • Dried Thyme: The distinct flavor of thyme is perfect for turkey.
  • Dried Rosemary: Aromatic and delicious on poultry.
  • Dried Sage: Sage is a wonderful compliment to the rub.
  • Dried Parsley: Parsley is a perfect herb for the turkey.
  • Paprika: I love the subtle smokiness the paprika adds!
  • Kosher Salt: Kosher salt is my favorite for enhancing seasoning flavors.
  • Cracked Black Pepper: Always cracked black pepper!
  • Garlic Powder: Everything tastes better with the flavor of garlic.
  • Onion Powder: Onion powder is a perfect spice in this seasoning.

How to Make the Best Seasoning For Turkey

Making this turkey seasoning is the easiest part of your Thanksgiving dinner! It only takes 5 minutes to put it together, and you will love how fast it is. The best part is that you can make this dry rub ahead of time because it will be ready to go when you need it. Anything that you can make before Thanksgiving day is a win in my book!

  1. Combine Ingredients: Place all of the ingredients into a bowl and whisk to combine.
  2. Rub: Rub the entire seasoning mix all over a 10-13 pound turkey making sure to get the top and bottom. Then cook your seasoned turkey according to your recipe.
  3. Store: If you aren’t using it right away, store it in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
First process photo is the dried herbs and seasonings on a plate. Second photo is the ingredients in a bowl being whisked together. Third photo is a close up view of a spoon lifting out a spoonful of seasoning.

Tips and Variations

Homemade seasonings are my very favorite because you have complete control over your end result! You can change up the heat level, add additional flavor, or even double the recipe so that you always have some on hand. Here are a few ideas on how to change things up with this turkey seasoning. 

  • Make Ahead: I like to make this turkey rub a couple of weeks before Thanksgiving so that it’s ready to go! It’s great to make a big batch of seasoning because you have it on hand anytime you need to season poultry, meat, or fish.
  • How Much Seasoning To Use: This recipe makes about 1/3 cup and is good to rub over an entire 10-14 pound turkey.
  • Use Dried Herbs, Not Fresh: Dried herbs in your spice rack have a much longer shelf life than using fresh herbs. Fresh herbs tend to have a higher moisture content and can lead to spoiling and growing mold early on.
  • Less salt: If you find it a tad too salty, then reduce the salt a little bit at a time. Kosher salt is best because you can control the salt flavor better than table salt.
  • Make it Spicy:  Add some spice to your seasoning with a little cayenne pepper or chili powder.
  • Make it a Little Sweet: Try adding 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to the rub. It adds a touch of sweetness and caramelizes a bit.
Top view of turkey seasoning in a small white bowl with a wooden spoon and tan kitchen towel next to the bowl.

How To Store Turkey Seasoning

This homemade turkey rub is a custom blend of seasonings for your Thanksgiving turkey. Once you make this at home and see how delicious it is, you will never buy turkey seasoning at the store again! Homemade seasonings are the best because the herbs are fresher and you can customize the flavors.

  • In a Sealed Container: Once you have mixed your ingredients together then store the seasoning in an airtight container. Keep in a cool, dark place then store for up to 2 months.
Close up view of a wooden spoon lifting out a spoonful of seasoning. A tan kitchen towel is next to the bowl.

Butter or Oil the Turkey First

Turkey is always better with the addition of butter or oil because it makes the skin golden and crisp! Although it’s not necessary, feel free to rub butter or olive oil all over your turkey before adding the turkey seasoning. The extra fat from the butter or oil helps make the turkey tender and rich in flavor. Then generously rub your turkey seasoning all over the turkey and you’re set!

  • Unsalted Butter: I like to use unsalted butter so that I can control the sodium.
  • Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil has the best flavor but you can use any oil you would like.

More Of My Favorite Seasonings To Try

Seasonings are so versatile and I always have them on hand to make my dishes taste amazing!  I love that you can add seasoning to meat, fish, vegetables, dips, and so much more. Here are some of my favorite homemade seasonings that I can’t wait for you to try!

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Turkey Seasoning Rub

Look no further for the BEST turkey seasoning recipe you will ever make! The combination of herbs and spices in this rub will flavor your turkey to perfection and it will be your go-to turkey rub.
Course Seasoning
Cuisine American
Keyword thanksgiving, turkey seasoning
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 1
Calories 38kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place all of the ingredients into a bowl and whisk to combine.
  • Rub the seasoning all over the turkey making sure to get the top and bottom. Then cook your seasoned turkey according to your recipe.
  • If you aren't using it right away, store it in a sealed container for up to 2 months.

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 38kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 6982mg | Potassium: 174mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 0.4g | Vitamin A: 1209IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 73mg | Iron: 2mg
]]> https://therecipecritic.com/turkey-seasoning/feed/ 9 194537 Turkey In a Bag https://therecipecritic.com/turkey-in-a-bag/ https://therecipecritic.com/turkey-in-a-bag/#comments Tue, 15 Nov 2022 01:00:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=192880 Thanksgiving dinner is made easy with this incredibly moist and perfectly cooked turkey in a bag. The oven-safe roasting bag…]]>

Thanksgiving dinner is made easy with this incredibly moist and perfectly cooked turkey in a bag. The oven-safe roasting bag creates a tender and golden turkey with just a few simple steps making this the BEST way to cook a turkey.

Turkey in a bag is Thanksgiving day’s best-kept secret! I promise that when you give this method a try you will never want to make it any other way. It is the easiest and fastest way to cook a turkey. You will love the extra time you have to make the sides and desserts. You have to make my green bean casserole, this sweet potato dish, and of course this perfect pie crust for all your pies!

Top view photo of Golden roasted turkey sitting in the roasting pan.

What Is Turkey in a Bag?

Turkey in a bag is definitely the way to cook a turkey! The turkey turns out so juicy on the inside and golden and flavorful on the outside. The oven bag locks in the steam and keeps the turkey so moist as it cooks. Everyone will be surprised at how perfectly cooked your turkey is and how little work you put into it. Of all the many methods to cook a turkey, the bag method is the way to go.

I like to use the Reynolds turkey oven bags because they are heat-resistant and BPA-free. If you have never roasted a turkey this way, I am telling you, it will change your life! I am fully converted, and I can’t tell you enough how simple and foolproof it is. If you love easy recipes like this for Thanksgiving day then you need to make this easy corn casserole, my 1-hour rolls, and this easy no-bake key lime pie.

Ingredients For Cooking Turkey In a Bag

Turkey is the most important part of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. Having just the right ingredients will add flavor and create a perfectly golden turkey for your Thanksgiving! See the recipe card below for a list of exact ingredient measurements.

  • Turkey: Your turkey can be any size between 12-18 lbs. Be sure to safely thaw it according to the package instructions.
  • Dried Italian Seasoning: Turkey is delicious when seasoned with dried herbs!
  • Kosher Salt: Salt is important in giving the turkey flavor!
  • Black Pepper: Black pepper adds flavor and
  • Butter: Softened butter is best for rubbing on and inside of the turkey. Butter gives the turkey a great flavor and golden coloer.
  • Flour: Flour is used to keep the oven bag from bursting while it bakes.
  • Oven-Safe Bag: Make sure it is one of those large turkey-sized oven bags.

Let’s Cook the Best Turkey EVER

This oven-baked turkey in a bag is golden brown, tender and juicy! It’s the absolute perfect turkey recipe that will make you wish that Thanksgiving came around more often! I can’t wait for you to make it and wow your Thanksgiving guests.

Prepare the Turkey

  1. Preheat Oven: Adjust the rack of your oven to be on the second position from the bottom and remove any racks above. Preheat the oven to 350° Farhenheit.
  2. Prepare Roasting Pan: Ensure the pan is at least 2 inches larger than the turkey. Also, make sure your oven-safe turkey bag is larger than your turkey so it can wrap all the way around it.
  3. Coat Bag With Flour: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour into the turkey bag. Shake well making sure to coat the inside of the bag with flour. Place the bag in the pan then prepare the turkey.
  4. Prepare Turkey: Remove the neck and the bag of giblets from the turkey’s cavities. Rinse the turkey well (inside and outside) then pat dry with paper towels. Be sure to throw away the paper towels and wash your hands well.
  5. Tie Legs and Wings: Using string or twine, tie up the turkey legs and the wings together. 

Butter, Season, and Place Turkey in Bag

  1. Combine Seasonings: Mix together the dried Italian seasonings, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. 
  2. Butter and Season Turkey: Rub the outside and inside of the turkey generously with the softened butter. Season well with the mixture of seasonings.
  3. Place Turkey in Bag: Add the turkey to the bag, breast side up. 
  4. Seal Bag: Close the bag and seal it with the enclosed nylon tie. You can also twist it tightly and tie it in a knot.
  5. Place Bagged Turkey Into Pan: Tuck the bag into the pan to keep it from touching the element in the oven.
  6. Cut Slits: To allow steam to release, cut 5 slits in the top of the bag.

Cook and Rest the Turkey

  1. Cook Turkey: Place the turkey in the oven and bake for about 2 1/2-3 hours. Cooking time will depend on the size of your turkey. My turkey was 14 pounds and it took 2 1/2 hours to reach the right temperature.
  2. Check Temperature: Refer to the cooking chart enclosed with the baking bag. Check the temperature by placing a thermometer in the thickest part of the turkey thigh. When the internal temperature reaches 165° Farhenheit, it’s ready!
  3. Rest Turkey: Allow the turkey to rest for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Remove Turkey From Bag: Open the bag and carefully remove the turkey to a serving platter.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish around the turkey with sliced fresh parsley or herbs, oranges, lemons, and cranberries. It will make it festive and beautiful!
First photo of adding flour to the bag. Second photo of rubbing butter. Third photo of adding seasoning. Fourth photo of placing the bird in the bag. Fifth photo is tying the bag. Sixth photo of cutting slits.

How to Thaw and Prep a Turkey

It is best to start your turkey in a bag with a completely thawed turkey. This can take 3 to 7 days depending on how frozen and how large your turkey is. Definitely, be planning and thinking ahead! You thaw a turkey by placing it into the refrigerator in a large pan or baking sheet. And then you just leave it there until it’s no longer frozen! Once your turkey is thawed and you are ready to bake your turkey, here are a few steps to prepare your turkey for the oven.

  • Remove From the Fridge: Remove your turkey from the refrigerator for about 30 minutes prior to preparing. This will help it to bake more evenly.
  • Dry: Pat turkey completely dry, soaking up any excess water with paper towels.
  • Remove Giblets: In the turkey cavity, you will want to remove the neck and giblet bag.
  • Tie it Up: With kitchen twine or string, tie the legs together.
  • Fold Under the Wings: Take the turkey wings and fold the end of them under your bird. This will prevent them from burning and drying out.
Top view of the roasted turkey sitting in the pan.

How to Carve a Turkey

Looking at the turkey and knowing where to carve the turkey is sometimes overwhelming. Once you remove your turkey from the bag, don’t be intimidated. Here are some tips on where to start! Make sure your knife is sharp and you have a fork to help hold your turkey and plate in place while carving.

  • Wings: Remove the turkey wings first.
  • Thighs: Thighs will go next, cutting through the joints.
  • Breast: Slice close to the rib cage carving the breast meat into individual slices.
  • Excess meat: Move your knife to the flat side, and carve right up against the rib bones.
  • Separate: Now that the meat is off, separate the dark meat (thighs and drumsticks) from the white meat. 
  • Plate: Plate everything all together for more option choices at the dinner table.
Close up view of turkey on a platter with herbs, citrus, and cranberries.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover turkey in a bag makes the BEST leftovers! There are so many things that you can do with it! Check out my recipes at the end of the post to help you use up the rest of the Thanksgiving turkey. Here is how you can store extra turkey to save for later! 

  • In the Refrigerate: Wait until your turkey has cooled. Then, place it in an airtight container and put it in your fridge, It can last there for 3 to 5 days.
  • In the Freezer: After your turkey has cooled down then place it in a freezer bag. Lay your turkey flat in the bag and then zip or suction out all the air in the bag. Label your bag with the date and then you can keep it frozen for up to 1 month in the freezer. When ready to reheat, place in the refrigerator overnight to thaw.
  • To Reheat: To reheat in the oven then place in a baking dish at 350° Farhenheit for 12 to 15 minutes or until warm. When reheating in a microwave, heat for 1 to 2 minutes at a time until warm. Try not to overheat. This will leave your leftover turkey dry and hard.
Sliced meat styled on a platter with herbs, citrus, and cranberries.

Recipes Using Leftover Turkey

I love getting use out of the leftover Thanksgiving turkey!  It’s fun to make a recipe using the ready to go turkey from the fridge. Don’t let your turkey go to waste and make some of these yummy recipes for your family.  They’re going to love them!

Print

Turkey In a Bag

Thanksgiving dinner is made easy with this incredibly moist and perfectly cooked turkey in a bag. The oven-safe roasting bag creates a tender and golden turkey with just a few simple steps making this the BEST way to cook a turkey.
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Keyword thanksgiving, turkey in a bag
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 341kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey

  • Adjust the rack of your oven to be on the second position from the bottom and remove any racks above. Preheat the oven to 350° Farhenheit.
  • Ensure the pan is at least 2 inches larger than the turkey. Also, make sure your oven-safe turkey bag is larger than your turkey so it can wrap all the way around it.
  • Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour into the turkey bag. Shake well making sure to coat the inside of the bag with flour. Place the bag in the pan and prepare the turkey.
  • Remove the neck and the bag of giblets from the turkey's cavities. Rinse the turkey well (inside and outside) and pat dry with paper towels. Be sure to throw away the paper towels and wash your hands well.
  • Using string or twine, tie up the turkey legs and the wings together.

Butter, Season, and Place Turkey in Bag

  • Mix together the dried Italian seasonings, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Rub the outside and inside of the turkey generously with the softened butter. Season well with the mixture of seasonings.
  • Add the turkey to the bag, breast side up.
  • Close the bag and seal it with the enclosed nylon tie. You can also twist it tightly and tie it in a knot.
  • Tuck the bag into the pan to keep it from touching the element in the oven.
  • To allow steam to release, cut 5 slits in the top of the bag.

Cook and Rest the Turkey

  • Place the turkey in the oven and bake for about 2 1/2-3 hours. Cooking time will depend on the size of your turkey. My turkey was 14 pounds and it took 2 1/2 hours to reach the right temperature.
  • Refer to the cooking chart enclosed with the baking bag. Check the temperature by placing a thermometer in the thickest part of the turkey thigh. When the internal temperature reaches 165° Farhenheit, it's ready!
  • Allow the turkey to rest for 10-15 minutes.
  • Open the bag and carefully remove the turkey to a serving platter.
  • Garnish around the turkey with sliced fresh parsley or herbs, oranges, lemons, and cranberries. It will make it festive and beautiful!

Nutrition

Serving: 3oz | Calories: 341kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 47g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 165mg | Sodium: 465mg | Potassium: 493mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 0.2g | Vitamin A: 245IU | Vitamin C: 0.01mg | Calcium: 33mg | Iron: 2mg
]]> https://therecipecritic.com/turkey-in-a-bag/feed/ 9 192880 Ciabatta Sandwich https://therecipecritic.com/ciabatta-sandwich/ https://therecipecritic.com/ciabatta-sandwich/#respond Fri, 11 Nov 2022 13:00:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=191888 This Ciabatta Sandwich is a flavor packed and quick meal that is sure to satisfy! Fluffy and soft ciabatta bread…]]>

This Ciabatta Sandwich is a flavor packed and quick meal that is sure to satisfy! Fluffy and soft ciabatta bread is layered with quality deli turkey and salami on top of a bed of mozzarella and pesto for the perfect bite every time.

Sandwiches don’t have to be ham and cheese every time. There are so many combinations that make sandwiches a fun way to get a variety of flavors in a fast and easy way. You can also switch up the type of bread you make it with for even more options. If you love making bread, this Homemade Bread recipe is so much better than store bought and makes your home smell fantastic! Sourdough bread is also one of my favorites for a sandwich, and if you don’t have a starter yet, don’t worry! I have a recipe here for that too.

Ciabatta sandwich on a white plate with potato chips and basil next to it.

Ciabatta Bread Sandwich

Let’s talk about ciabatta! If you haven’t had it before, you are in for a treat. It is SUCH a tasty bread and it makes the ultimate sandwich. Ciabatta bread is a yeast dough that is full of air which is what makes the holes. It is also full of delicious savory flavor, and a nice crispy crust. You could compare it to a French baguette but it’s much wider. It is different than focaccia because it has a hard crust and a different flavor, but it looks similar in size and shape.

This ciabatta bread sandwich is so easy to whip up and is the perfect meal to feed a group of 6. The bread can be evenly sliced into 6 big servings that will leave everyone satisfied and wanting another piece at the same time. My kids definitely love this sandwich. They either ask for a Monte Cristo, or this ciabatta sandwich! You’ll want to save this recipe for later.

Ingredients

A sandwich is literally whatever you want it to be! You can assemble this sandwich however you like, but this is my favorite way to make it. I love each one of these ingredients that go in this ciabatta sandwich because they are fresh and so full of flavor. Check the recipe card below for exact measurements.

  • Ciabatta Bread: Ciabatta is a delicious and savory bread. It usually has a harder crust and lots of holes on the inside. It’s soft and chewy texture and makes a great sandwich bread!
  • Pesto Sauce: Pesto is a basil based sauce that is so yummy and full of flavor. The one I make at home has pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil as well which is what is in most store-bought pestos. It’s really easy to make at home and I always feel like it has better flavor when it’s homemade!
  • Deli Turkey: Any sliced turkey will do, I like to have them slice it for me fresh at the deli.
  • Italian Dry Salami: Salami is such a unique flavor and really makes this sandwich stand out. It is a cured meat so it has a great salty and savory flavor.
  • Tomato: Fresh tomato adds moisture and lots of flavor to this sandwich.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: You can buy mozzarella cheese in a log in the cheese section at the grocery store. It is a soft cheese with the perfect flavor to go with the turkey and pesto.
  • Fresh Basil Leaves: I like to add additional fresh basil on top to really bring all of the flavors together. You could leave this out if you wanted to, or add other herbs or veggies like spinach!
Process photos showing pesto on two pieces of ciabatta, then mozzarella added, then turkey and salami, lastly the basil and tomato.

Ciabatta Sandwich Recipe

I know everyone knows how to put a sandwich together! But there actually is a science to the way a sandwich is assembled. They’ve totally done research on it! Your tongue will taste different flavor combinations depending on how the sandwich is put together. I love this flavor combo because you taste pesto and cheese, then the yummy meats, finishing it off with fresh tomato. You can put it together however you like, this is just my favorite way.

  1. Slice: Slice the ciabatta loaf horizontally to assemble the sandwich open-faced.
  2. Add Pesto: Spread the pesto sauce on both sides of the loaf.
  3. Layer: Layer the sliced mozzarella cheese on the bottom half of the loaf.
  4. Add Meat: Next, layer on the turkey and salami.
  5. Add Toppings: Add the sliced tomatoes and fresh basil leaves.
  6. Enjoy: Carefully close the sandwich and slice it into smaller pieces to enjoy!
Ciabatta sandwich on a counter top with pesto in the background.

Additions and Substitutions

If you don’t like tomatoes, you don’t have to put them on your ciabatta sandwich! This sandwich can be whatever you want it to be, so get creative and don’t worry about making it the right way. It will taste great when you put what you love in it!

  • Salt and Pepper: You could add some freshly ground pepper and a pinch of salt on the top of this sandwich before closing it if you wanted to. I didn’t because I feel like the salami adds enough of those flavors already.
  • Leafy Greens: Some of you might want leafy greens on your sandwich like lettuce, spinach, or arugula. All of those would be great additions! You could also add any vegetable you wanted to this sandwich, there are no rules.
  • Different Cheeses: If you aren’t a fan of mozzarella, you are in luck because there are so many cheeses that would go great in this sandwich. I might choose provolone or swiss, but you could do white cheddar or gouda. If you like goat cheese, that would be perfection! Just choose whatever cheese you like best and I bet it will be delicious!
Sandwich on a plate with potato chips and basil next to it.

Storing Leftovers

Like most sandwiches, this ciabatta sandwich is best when eaten fresh. You can store this sandwich assembled for a few days in the fridge, but I suggest leaving it unassembled until you are ready to eat it.

In the Refrigerator: You can wrap your sandwich leftovers in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The bread will start to get soggy because of the pesto and tomato, so I recommend eating it pretty quickly after making it.

What to Eat with Your Sandwich

I love a salty companion to a nice sandwich. I feel like taking a bite of something different in between makes my sandwich taste better. If you think I’m crazy, than you’ll just have to give these delicious sandwich sides a try!

Print

Ciabatta Sandwich

This Ciabatta Sandwich is a flavor packed and quick meal that is sure to satisfy! Chewy and soft ciabatta bread is layered with quality deli turkey and salami on top of a bed of mozzarella and pesto for the perfect bite every time.
Course lunch
Cuisine American
Keyword 10 minute, ciabatta sandwich
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 447kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf ciabatta bread, cut horizontally to assemble
  • 1/4 cup pesto sauce
  • 10 ounces deli turkey
  • 4 ounces Italian dry salami
  • 1 large tomato, sliced
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • fresh basil leaves

Instructions

  • Slice the ciabatta loaf horizontally to assemble the sandwich open-faced.
  • Spread the pesto sauce on both sides of the loaf.
  • Layer the sliced mozzarella cheese on the bottom half of the loaf.
  • Next, layer on the turkey and salami.
  • Add the sliced tomatoes and fresh basil leaves.
  • Carefully close the sandwich and slice it into smaller pieces to enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1slice | Calories: 447kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 61mg | Sodium: 1693mg | Potassium: 269mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 717IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 218mg | Iron: 1mg
]]> https://therecipecritic.com/ciabatta-sandwich/feed/ 0 191888