Herb-Butter Rubbed Turkey

For best results, use my Ultimate Turkey Brine two days ahead (after thawing).

Thanksgiving smells are magical: the buttery aroma of turkey wafting through the house, mingled with fresh herbs and the promise of crispy skin. That moment when the golden-brown bird comes out of the oven is pure holiday bliss. This recipe takes your turkey to the next level with a simple, flavorful garlic herb butter rubbed generously under and over the turkey skin. Every bite is juicy, tender, and bursting with the essence of fresh herbs.

Growing up with great cooks in the family gave me a head start in the kitchen. My mom and grandma were both culinary wizards in their own right, and from the time I was tall enough to peek over the counter, I was helping them in their kitchens.

Whether it was rolling out pie dough with grandma or seasoning the Sunday roast with mom, I was always in the mix, learning their tips, tricks, and cherished recipes.

Cooking wasn’t just about food—it was about family, love, and the joy of creating something special to bring everyone together.

Thanksgiving mornings were especially magical. The house would fill with the mouthwatering aroma of roasting turkey, cinnamon-spiced pies, and buttery rolls baking in the oven.

My mom, an expert at multitasking, always let me help with the turkey—a task she considered the crowning glory of the holiday feast. She taught me her favorite way to cook it: with an oven bag. It keeps the turkey moist while still allowing the skin to turn a gorgeous golden brown, and the cleanup is a breeze. For her, it was a no-fail method, and I couldn’t agree more.

As I grew older and started hosting Thanksgiving dinners of my own, I naturally carried on the family tradition of using an oven bag. Over time, though, I started experimenting and putting my own spin on our classic recipes.

Thanks to my ever-expanding herb garden, I developed this delicious herb butter recipe to take our turkey to the next level. The idea of stuffing the butter under the skin came from a chef I once watched on TV. It sounded fancy but turned out to be incredibly easy and completely transformative. The butter melts into the meat as the turkey roasts, keeping it unbelievably juicy and infusing it with the earthy flavors of fresh rosemary, sage, and thyme.

But what makes this recipe truly special is that it combines the best of my family’s traditions with a little culinary creativity of my own. Every time I make it, I think of those mornings in my mom’s kitchen—me sneaking tastes of dressing while she lovingly showed me how to tuck the wings and seal the oven bag.

Her patience and passion taught me more than just cooking; they instilled in me the value of feeding people with care and intention.

Now, as I prep the turkey with my kids by my side, I see the tradition passing on. When my kids were little. they would get just as excited to help mix the herb butter or sprinkle flour into the oven bag as I did. I'd tell them stories about their grandma and great-grandma, the women who inspired my love for the kitchen, and how a perfectly roasted turkey was always their way of showing love.

This recipe is a reflection of that legacy—simple, delicious, and filled with heart. It’s a tradition I hope they’ll carry on with the same joy and pride that I do.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for the holiday season. Here's why:

• Juicy and Flavorful: The garlic herb butter locks in moisture and infuses the meat with incredible flavor.
• Easy Preparation: Using a Reynolds oven bag takes the guesswork out of roasting.
• Perfect for First-Timers: Even if it’s your first time roasting a turkey, this method ensures tender breast meat and crispy skin.
• Minimal Cleanup: The oven bag prevents drippings from sticking to the pan, making clean-up a breeze.

Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner or preparing a holiday meal for your family, this is the best way to roast a turkey that everyone will rave about.

---

The Story and Culture Behind the Dish

Roasting a turkey is an iconic tradition in many American households, especially during Thanksgiving. While each family has its secret for the perfect bird, the use of compound butter with fresh herbs has become a hallmark of modern holiday cooking. Herbs like rosemary, sage, and thyme are rooted in classic European traditions, often used to enhance roasted meats. Adding them to butter not only amplifies their flavor but also creates a crispier skin and a moist interior.

The oven bag, though a more recent innovation, has earned its place in many kitchens. Popularized in the 1950s, it’s a foolproof way to maintain moisture and reduce cooking times. This recipe combines the best of tradition and innovation for a turkey that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Equipment List

Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

• Reynolds Turkey Size Oven Bag: Keeps the turkey moist and simplifies cleanup.
• Large Roasting Pan: Ensures even cooking and catches the drippings for gravy.
• Mixing Bowl: For preparing the garlic herb butter.
• Meat Thermometer: Essential for checking the internal temperature of the breast and thighs.
• Paper Towels: For drying the turkey and ensuring crispy skin.

---

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Recipe

• Turkey: A whole turkey, thawed and ready for roasting. Fresh or frozen turkey works.
• Butter: Softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
• Garlic: Minced to add a bold, savory flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme, and chives for an aromatic compound butter.
• Lemon Zest: Adds brightness and complements the herbs.
• Krazy Salt: A flavorful salt blend to season the butter.
• All-Purpose Flour: To coat the oven bag and prevent sticking.

---

How to Make Easy Herb-Butter Rubbed Turkey

Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, garlic, fresh herbs, lemon zest, and Krazy Salt. Mix until smooth and fragrant.

Prepare the Turkey

Remove the turkey from its packaging, discarding the neck and giblets (or save them for stock-make sure to save them for my amazing turkey gravy recipe). Rinse the bird under cold water, then pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels. Drying is key to achieving crispier skin.

Loosen the Skin and Apply Butter

Carefully slide your fingers under the turkey skin to loosen it, starting at the breast and working your way to the thighs and drumsticks. Spread half of the herb butter under the skin, then rub the remaining butter all over the outside of the turkey.

Tuck the Wings and Prepare the Bag

Fold each wing back and tuck it securely under the turkey to prevent burning. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour inside the Reynolds oven bag, then shake it to coat. Place the turkey inside the bag, breast side up, and secure the bag with the provided tie.

Roast the Turkey

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut six small slits in the top of the oven bag to allow steam to escape. Place the bagged turkey in a large roasting pan and roast for 2 ½ to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the breast and 175°F in the thighs.

Rest, Carve, and Serve

Let the turkey rest in the oven bag for 15 minutes after removing it from the oven. Carefully cut open the bag, avoiding the hot steam, and transfer the turkey to a cutting board. Use a sharp carving knife to carve and serve with your favorite sides.

*Save the pan drippings from the roasting pan to use in my turkey gravy recipe!

This post may contain affiliate links. I may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

Visit my Amazon Store for everything you need to cook up a storm, bake delicious treats, and whip up your favorite beverages!

Chef Secrets & Tips

• Brine for Extra Flavor: For the juiciest turkey, consider brining it 1–2 days ahead. Try my Ultimate Easy Turkey Brine for delicious results!
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the turkey to rest ensures the juices redistribute for tender meat.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your turkey is fully cooked without overcooking.
• Add Aromatics to the Cavity: Stuff the cavity with onions, lemons, or herbs for extra flavor.

---

Serving Suggestions

Pair this herb-butter turkey with these perfect sides: 

• Southern Cornbread Dressing
• No-Mess Oven Cranberry Sauce
• Sweet Potato Casserole
• Green Bean Bundles

---

Commonly Asked Questions

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
Yes, but reduce the amount by half since dried herbs are more concentrated.

What if I don’t have Krazy Salt?
You can substitute with a mix of kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, celery salt, and a pinch of paprika. You can also buy a version I love, Jane's Krazy Mixed-up Original Salt, or you can substitute it for your favorite seasoned salt.

How do I know when my turkey is done?
Use an instant-read thermometer. The breast should be 165°F, and the thickest part of the thigh should be 175°F.

---

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven at 300°F, covered with foil, to prevent drying out.
• Freezing: Freeze turkey meat for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

---

This Easy Herb-Butter Rubbed Turkey guarantees a tender, flavorful bird that will wow your holiday guests. It’s the perfect centerpiece for any Thanksgiving meal!

Complete Your Holiday Feast!

Sides

• Easy Jiffy Corn Casserole: A classic, crowd-pleasing side dish that’s fluffy, slightly sweet, and incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for balancing savory Thanksgiving flavors.
• Homestyle Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes made just like grandma used to. They’re a comforting staple for any holiday spread.
• Sweet Potato and Apple Bake: A sweet and tangy side that combines tender sweet potatoes and apples with a hint of cinnamon. A holiday favorite that pairs beautifully with turkey.
• Sautéed Garlic Butter Green Beans: Vibrant green beans sautéed in garlic butter, offering a fresh, flavorful contrast to heavier dishes.
• Crispy Duck Fat Oven Roasted Potatoes: These golden, crispy potatoes are rich in flavor and texture, thanks to the indulgent addition of duck fat.
• Homemade Southern Creamed Corn: A rich, velvety dish bursting with fresh corn flavor, making it an irresistible holiday side.
• Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon: Smoky bacon and tender cabbage come together in this flavorful Southern classic.
• Southern-Style Collard Greens: Slow-cooked greens with smoked ham hocks or smoked turkey wings, seasoned to perfection, add a hearty, savory touch to any holiday menu.
• Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: A cheesy, indulgent side that’s guaranteed to be a hit with guests of all ages.
• Creamed Spinach: Lush and creamy, this dish is a fantastic way to add a rich, earthy green to your holiday table.

Salads

• Creamy Broccoli Salad with Crispy Bacon: A refreshing, crunchy salad with a creamy dressing and crispy bacon bits, providing a fresh counterpoint to hearty Thanksgiving dishes.
• Apple-Snickers Salad: A fun, sweet twist on salad with crisp apples, whipped topping, and chunks of Snickers—a dessert in disguise.
• Creamy Dill Pickle Pasta Salad: A tangy, creamy pasta salad with the zesty kick of dill pickles, adding a unique flair to your holiday sides.

Desserts

• Easy Pumpkin Bars with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting: Soft, spiced pumpkin bars topped with luscious maple cream cheese frosting—ideal for pumpkin lovers.
• Pineapple Upsidedown Sheet Cake: A retro favorite with caramelized pineapple and cherries baked into a tender cake. A beautiful and delicious holiday dessert.
• French Silk Chocolate Pie: A decadent, silky chocolate pie with a flaky crust and whipped cream topping—perfect for chocolate enthusiasts.
• Buttermilk Pie: A Southern tradition, this creamy, custard-like pie has a subtle tang from buttermilk and a sweet, flaky crust.
• Pecan Pie: The ultimate holiday classic, with a gooey, nutty filling and a buttery crust that’s synonymous with Thanksgiving.
• Pumpkin Dump Cake: An effortless dessert that layers spiced pumpkin with a buttery cake topping for a warm, comforting treat.
• Spiced Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: Moist, spiced carrot caketopped with rich cream cheese frosting, a holiday favorite for any occasion.
• Texas Sheet Cake: A rich, chocolatey sheet cake with a fudge-like frosting, perfect for feeding a crowd during the holidays.