Turkey Seasoning Recipe

Overhead view of a bowl of turkey seasoning with a spoon on the side and some paprika and dried herbs.

This easy Turkey Seasoning recipe makes flavorful and juicy turkey in just a few simple steps. Use it on its own or after a brine for a roast turkey everyone will love!

Course condiment

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Servings serving (7 tablespoons)

Calories 48kcal

Author John Kanell

Equipment

mixing bowl

Ingredients

3 tablespoons kosher salt
2 teaspoons dried thyme
2 teaspoons dried rosemary
2 teaspoons dried sage
2 teaspoons ground black pepper
1½ teaspoons garlic powder
1½ teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

In a small bowl, combine the salt, dried thyme, rosemary and sage, black pepper, garlic and onion powders and paprika.
To season a turkey, brush a 12- to 15-pound turkey with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle the seasoning all over. Let it rest at room temperature for 1 hour before roasting.

Notes

Use fresh seasonings. For the best flavor, use dried herbs and ground spices within their expiration date. Past this point, the seasonings can lose their flavor and potency.
Swap fresh herbs. You can make this turkey seasoning recipe with fresh thyme, rosemary, and sage instead of dried. But, it will not be pantry-safe for storage, so I recommend only using fresh herbs if you plan to use all of the seasoning mix immediately. If you do use fresh herbs, use double the amount called for in the recipe, as dried herbs are more potent than fresh.
Prep the turkey according to your recipe. If you are following a recipe for roasted turkey, prep the meat as directed and simply swap in this blend to season it. If you aren’t following a recipe, be sure to brush the meat generously with olive oil, melted butter, or another fat. Not only does the fat add flavor and help achieve browned and crispy skin, but it also helps the seasoning blend adhere. You will need 4-6 tablespoons of olive oil or melted butter to coat a 12-15 pound turkey.
Prep it ahead. Reduce holiday meal stress by making the spice mixture in advance. Prepare it up to 3 months ahead and store it in an airtight container at room temperature until needed.
Optional variations. Add sweet, caramelized flavor to the homemade turkey rub by stirring in 1-2 tablespoons of packed light brown sugar. Grind red and white peppercorns instead of black for light and floral peppery notes.

Nutrition