Thanksgiving is truly one of those magical times of the year, isn’t it? The air is filled with the rich aromas of roasted turkey, savory stuffing, and sweet pies, and it’s all about gathering with loved ones around the table. I can still remember my childhood Thanksgivings, bursting with laughter and the delightful chaos of family cooking together. That’s why I’m excited to share this incredible collection of *Pioneer Woman Thanksgiving recipes* that have become a staple in my family gatherings. Ree Drummond’s recipes bring a comforting, homey feel to the table, and they’re easy to whip up even for a crowd. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into a feast that will make your Thanksgiving unforgettable! Trust me, these dishes will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
Ingredients List
- 1 Turkey (12-14 lbs): A beautiful, plump turkey is the star of the show. Look for a fresh one if you can; it makes all the difference!
- 1 cup Butter: Unsalted butter is perfect for rubbing on the turkey, helping it to brown beautifully and adding richness to the flavor.
- 2 cups Chicken Broth: This is essential for moist stuffing and to baste the turkey throughout cooking. Homemade is best, but store-bought works just fine!
- 1 Onion, chopped: A sweet onion adds depth to the stuffing and a lovely aroma when sautéed.
- 2 Carrots, chopped: These bring a touch of sweetness and color to the vegetable mix that flavors the stuffing.
- 2 Celery Stalks, chopped: Celery adds a nice crunch and freshness to the stuffing, balancing out the richness of the butter and turkey.
- 4 cups Bread Cubes: Use day-old bread for the best texture. You can mix different types, like sourdough and white, for a unique flavor!
- 1 teaspoon Sage: Fresh or dried sage adds that classic Thanksgiving flavor that pairs perfectly with turkey.
- 1 teaspoon Thyme: Another herb that complements the stuffing, thyme brings a lovely earthy note to the dish.
- Salt and Pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season well! It’s essential for bringing out all those wonderful flavors.
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This is the perfect temperature for roasting that turkey to juicy perfection!
- Now, grab your turkey and remove the giblets from the cavity. Give it a good pat dry with paper towels; this helps the skin crisp up beautifully.
- Next, rub that glorious cup of unsalted butter all over the turkey. Don’t be shy! Get into every nook and cranny. Then, season generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial for flavor!
- In a large skillet, sauté your chopped onion, carrots, and celery over medium heat until they’re soft and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes. Wow, the smell will have everyone wandering into the kitchen!
- Once your veggies are ready, combine them with the bread cubes, chicken broth, sage, and thyme in a big bowl. Mix until everything is well-coated and moist. This stuffing is going to be amazing!
- Now, it’s time to stuff your turkey with this flavorful mixture. Don’t overstuff it; a snug fit is perfect!
- Place the turkey breast-side up in a roasting pan and cover it loosely with foil. This will help keep it juicy while it roasts.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 3 hours, basting it every 30 minutes with the pan juices. This is where the magic happens—your turkey will become golden brown and fragrant!
- In the last hour, remove the foil to let the skin crisp up and turn that beautiful golden color.
- To check if it’s done, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh; it should read 165°F (74°C). Once perfect, let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This will keep all those delicious juices inside!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly flavorful, packed with herbs and spices that elevate your Thanksgiving feast.
- Simple and straightforward instructions make it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- This recipe brings everyone together, filling your home with warmth and that classic holiday aroma.
- It’s a one-stop meal with the turkey and stuffing combined, making your prep a breeze!
- Perfect for leftovers—who doesn’t love turkey sandwiches the next day?
Tips for Success
To really elevate your turkey and make it the star of the show, consider brining it overnight! Brining adds moisture and flavor, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender. Just mix water, salt, and your favorite herbs, and let the turkey soak up all that goodness.
Using fresh herbs instead of dried can make a world of difference in flavor. If you can find fresh sage and thyme, definitely go for it! They’ll bring a vibrant taste that dried herbs can’t quite match.
Also, don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to suit your family’s taste. A little extra sage or a pinch of garlic powder can personalize the stuffing just the way you like it. Trust me, the little tweaks will make this recipe feel like your own!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this classic turkey recipe! For a twist on the stuffing, try adding cranberries or chopped apples for a sweet touch, or even some chopped nuts for extra crunch. You could also mix in sausage for a heartier flavor that everyone will love.
Want to change the cooking method? Consider spatchcocking the turkey for faster and more even cooking, or even trying a deep-fried version if you’re up for it! The possibilities are endless, and each variation can bring a new excitement to your Thanksgiving table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After that glorious Thanksgiving feast, you’ll likely have some delicious leftovers to savor! To keep your turkey and stuffing fresh, make sure to store them in airtight containers. I recommend slicing the turkey and separating the stuffing into another container to help them cool down quickly and evenly. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, so you can enjoy those tasty leftovers without worry!
When you’re ready to dig in again, the best way to reheat turkey is in the oven. Preheat it to 325°F (163°C), place the turkey slices in a baking dish, and cover with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. For the stuffing, just pop it in the oven alongside the turkey, and it’ll warm up beautifully. You’ll be amazed at how good those leftovers taste the second time around!
Nutritional Information
Please note that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so the numbers provided here are approximate. Always check your ingredient labels for the most accurate information. Enjoy every delicious bite of this Thanksgiving feast without worry!
FAQ Section
How long does it take to cook the turkey?
For a turkey that weighs between 12-14 lbs, you should plan on about 3 hours of roasting time at 325°F. Remember to baste it every 30 minutes for that extra juicy flavor!
What’s the best way to ensure the turkey is fully cooked?
The best method is to use a meat thermometer. You’ll want to check the thickest part of the thigh, and it should read 165°F (74°C) when done. This ensures your turkey is safe and perfectly juicy.
Can I use different ingredients for the stuffing?
Absolutely! You can get creative with your stuffing by adding ingredients like sausage, nuts, or even dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a sweet twist. Just make sure to keep the bread base!
What if I have leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just make sure to slice the turkey and keep everything in airtight containers. They reheat beautifully and make for fantastic sandwiches!
Can I prep the turkey the night before?
Yes, you can prep the turkey by seasoning and stuffing it the night before. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to roast it the next day. This helps the flavors to meld beautifully!
Pioneer Woman Thanksgiving Recipes for Unforgettable Joy
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A collection of Thanksgiving recipes from the Pioneer Woman.
Ingredients
- 1 Turkey (12-14 lbs)
- 1 cup Butter
- 2 cups Chicken Broth
- 1 Onion, chopped
- 2 Carrots, chopped
- 2 Celery Stalks, chopped
- 4 cups Bread Cubes
- 1 teaspoon Sage
- 1 teaspoon Thyme
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F.
- Prepare the turkey by removing giblets and patting dry.
- Rub the turkey with butter and season with salt and pepper.
- In a pan, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until soft.
- Mix sautéed vegetables with bread cubes, broth, sage, and thyme.
- Stuff the turkey with the bread mixture.
- Place the turkey in a roasting pan and cover with foil.
- Roast for about 3 hours, basting occasionally.
- Remove foil for the last hour to brown the skin.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
- Let the turkey rest before carving.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for better flavor.
- Brine the turkey overnight for moisture.
- Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice of turkey with stuffing
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: pioneer woman thanksgiving recipes, turkey, stuffing, holiday meals
