50+ Irresistible Fall Turkey Recipes for Your Holiday Tablefall turkey recipes​

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold and the air grows crisp, fall beckons us to gather around the table with loved ones to celebrate the season’s bounty.

One of the most iconic dishes gracing our tables during this time is turkey, a symbol of harvest and gratitude.

With its versatility and rich flavor, turkey can be prepared in countless delicious ways, making it the perfect centerpiece for any fall gathering.

In this blog post, we’ve curated an extensive collection of 50+ fall turkey recipes that will inspire you to elevate your Thanksgiving feast or any autumn meal.

From classic roasted turkey with savory herbs to innovative dishes that incorporate seasonal flavors like apple, cranberry, and pumpkin, there’s something here for every palate.

So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create a memorable culinary experience this fall!

50+ Irresistible Fall Turkey Recipes for Your Holiday Table

As we embrace the beauty of the fall season, let these 50+ fall turkey recipes inspire you to explore new flavors and techniques in the kitchen.

Whether you opt for traditional methods or experiment with bold, modern twists, turkey remains a timeless choice that brings people together.

Each recipe offers a unique way to celebrate the harvest, providing warmth and comfort on chilly evenings and creating lasting memories with family and friends.

So, gather your loved ones, set the table, and let the aroma of roasted turkey fill your home as you enjoy a delightful meal together.

Roasted Apple Cider Turkey

This Roasted Apple Cider Turkey is perfect for fall, as it combines the sweetness of apples with the savory goodness of a well-seasoned turkey. The apple cider brine ensures a juicy, flavorful bird that will impress guests with its moist texture and rich taste. Roasting with herbs like rosemary and thyme enhances the overall flavor, making it a cozy, autumn-inspired centerpiece for your meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
• 1 gallon apple cider
• 1 cup kosher salt
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 4 garlic cloves, smashed
• 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 onion, quartered
• 2 apples, quartered
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Brine: In a large pot, combine the apple cider, salt, and brown sugar. Stir until the salt and sugar are dissolved. Add garlic, rosemary, thyme, and the quartered onion and apples.
2. Brine the Turkey: Place the turkey in the brine, ensuring it’s fully submerged. Refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
3. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F.
4. Roast the Turkey: Remove the turkey from the brine and pat it dry. Rub it with olive oil, season with black pepper, and stuff with fresh herbs and extra apples if desired. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for 3-3.5 hours, or until a thermometer reads 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
5. Rest and Carve: Allow the turkey to rest for 20 minutes before carving.

This apple cider-brined turkey captures the essence of fall, infusing your meal with a blend of sweet and savory flavors that will leave your guests wanting more.

Maple Glazed Turkey Breast

Maple Glazed Turkey Breast is a sweet and savory dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for smaller gatherings. The glaze, made with pure maple syrup and Dijon mustard, creates a beautiful golden crust while keeping the turkey breast moist and flavorful. This recipe pairs well with roasted vegetables and autumn sides, creating a perfect fall meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 (4-6 lb) turkey breast
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Prepare the Turkey Breast: Rub the turkey breast with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place it in a roasting pan.
4. Apply the Glaze: Brush the turkey breast with the maple glaze, reserving some for basting.
5. Roast the Turkey: Roast the turkey for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the remaining glaze. The internal temperature should reach 165°F when done.
6. Rest and Serve: Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

This Maple Glazed Turkey Breast is a perfect way to bring out the flavors of fall in a simple, elegant dish. The maple glaze adds a rich sweetness that complements the tender meat, making it an ideal choice for a cozy autumn dinner.

Herb Butter Roasted Turkey

Herb Butter Roasted Turkey is a classic fall dish, with aromatic herbs and buttery flavors that enhance the natural taste of the turkey. The butter helps to keep the bird moist while giving the skin a deliciously crispy texture. This recipe is versatile enough for any holiday meal and pairs well with traditional sides like mashed potatoes and gravy.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, halved
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Prepare Herb Butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Prepare the Turkey: Gently loosen the skin of the turkey and rub the herb butter mixture under the skin and over the entire bird. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves and onion quarters.
4. Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey in a roasting pan, add chicken broth to the bottom of the pan, and roast for 3-4 hours, basting occasionally. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
5. Rest and Serve: Allow the turkey to rest for 20 minutes before carving.

This Herb Butter Roasted Turkey brings out all the traditional flavors of fall, combining the richness of butter with fragrant herbs. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that makes the perfect centerpiece for any autumn feast.

Cranberry Orange Turkey

This Cranberry Orange Turkey is a delightful way to add a bright, fruity twist to your Thanksgiving or fall meal. The combination of tangy cranberries and sweet oranges creates a flavorful glaze that perfectly complements the savory turkey. It’s a refreshing change from traditional turkey recipes, making your fall table even more special.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• Zest and juice of 2 oranges
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• 1 onion, quartered

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Make the Glaze: In a saucepan, combine cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, honey, balsamic vinegar, and thyme. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Turkey: Rub the turkey with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and stuff the cavity with onion and extra orange slices.
4. Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for 3-3.5 hours, brushing with the cranberry-orange glaze every 30 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
5. Rest and Serve: Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving.

The citrusy brightness of the oranges and the tartness of the cranberries blend beautifully with the turkey, creating a refreshing fall meal that will leave your guests raving.

Sage and Brown Butter Turkey

This Sage and Brown Butter Turkey is the ultimate fall comfort dish. The nutty aroma of browned butter paired with earthy sage creates a rich, flavorful base that elevates the taste of your turkey. It’s a dish that’s both elegant and hearty, perfect for autumn gatherings where you want to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lemon, halved
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Brown the Butter: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Stir in the sage and garlic. Remove from heat.
3. Prepare the Turkey: Rub the browned butter mixture under the skin and over the surface of the turkey. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, thyme, and onion.
4. Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey in a roasting pan, add chicken broth to the bottom, and roast for 3-4 hours, basting occasionally with the pan drippings. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
5. Rest and Carve: Allow the turkey to rest for 20 minutes before carving.

The nutty brown butter combined with the freshness of sage infuses the turkey with deep, comforting flavors, making it a memorable centerpiece for any fall feast.

Spiced Pumpkin Turkey

This Spiced Pumpkin Turkey takes full advantage of fall flavors, combining warm spices with a pumpkin glaze for a unique and delicious turkey. The pumpkin adds subtle sweetness and moisture to the bird, while the spices enhance its natural flavors, making it an exciting alternative to traditional roasted turkey.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Make the Pumpkin Glaze: In a small bowl, combine pumpkin puree, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and olive oil. Mix until smooth.
3. Prepare the Turkey: Rub the pumpkin glaze all over the turkey, both under the skin and on top. Season with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with onion quarters.
4. Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey in a roasting pan, add chicken broth to the bottom, and roast for 3-4 hours, basting with the pumpkin glaze every 30 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
5. Rest and Serve: Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving.

The pumpkin glaze adds a rich, autumnal flavor that complements the spices, making this turkey a standout dish for fall celebrations.

Pecan Crusted Turkey

This Pecan Crusted Turkey is a delightful way to incorporate the flavors of fall into your Thanksgiving meal. The pecan crust adds a crunchy, nutty texture that pairs beautifully with the tender turkey meat. The blend of herbs and butter enhances the natural richness of the turkey, making each bite flavorful and memorable. It’s a unique dish that brings a satisfying twist to traditional roasted turkey.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
• 2 cups pecans, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 lemon, halved

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Prepare Pecan Mixture: In a bowl, mix the chopped pecans, melted butter, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Prepare the Turkey: Rub the pecan mixture all over the turkey, ensuring an even coating. Stuff the cavity with onion and lemon.
4. Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for 3-3.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Cover loosely with foil if the pecans brown too quickly.
5. Rest and Carve: Allow the turkey to rest for 20 minutes before carving.

The nutty, herb-infused crust adds a wonderful crunch and flavor, making this pecan-crusted turkey an unforgettable dish that will become a fall favorite for years to come.

Cider and Sage Braised Turkey Legs

For those looking for something different from the classic whole turkey, these Cider and Sage Braised Turkey Legs are a fantastic fall dish. The turkey legs are slowly braised in apple cider, creating tender, flavorful meat infused with the earthy taste of sage and a touch of sweetness from the cider. This recipe is ideal for smaller gatherings or as a complement to other turkey dishes.

Ingredients:

• 4 turkey legs
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 4 sprigs fresh sage
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Brown the Turkey Legs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the turkey legs with salt and pepper and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Braise the Turkey Legs: Transfer the turkey legs to a roasting pan. Add the apple cider, chicken broth, cider vinegar, onion, garlic, and sage. Cover the pan with foil and braise in the oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and pulls away from the bone.
4. Serve: Remove the turkey legs from the braising liquid and serve with your favorite fall sides.

These cider-braised turkey legs offer deep, comforting flavors that bring out the best of autumn’s ingredients. The slow braising makes the meat tender, juicy, and rich with the essence of sage and apple cider.

Bourbon Glazed Turkey

This Bourbon Glazed Turkey offers a sophisticated and savory fall dish with a hint of sweetness and smokiness from the bourbon. The glaze, made with brown sugar, bourbon, and mustard, caramelizes beautifully on the turkey, creating a rich and complex flavor. This recipe is ideal for those who want to elevate their Thanksgiving dinner with bold, elegant flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, quartered

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Make the Bourbon Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the bourbon, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic. Simmer over low heat for 5-10 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Prepare the Turkey: Rub the turkey with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place it in a roasting pan and brush with the bourbon glaze.
4. Roast the Turkey: Roast the turkey for 3-3.5 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the remaining bourbon glaze. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
5. Rest and Carve: Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving.

This bourbon-glazed turkey is a showstopper that will impress your guests with its unique, rich flavors. The bourbon adds depth to the glaze, complementing the turkey’s natural juices for a perfect fall dish.

Herb Butter Turkey with Roasted Root Vegetables

This Herb Butter Turkey with Roasted Root Vegetables combines the comforting flavors of fall with a deliciously moist and flavorful turkey. The herb butter, made with fresh rosemary, thyme, and garlic, adds richness to the turkey, while the roasted root vegetables provide a perfect seasonal accompaniment. This dish is great for a wholesome, rustic fall dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 3 parsnips, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 red onion, quartered
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Prepare the Herb Butter: In a bowl, mix softened butter with rosemary, thyme, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Prepare the Turkey: Rub the herb butter generously under the skin and on the surface of the turkey. Place in a roasting pan.
4. Roast the Vegetables: Toss the carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange them around the turkey in the pan.
5. Roast the Turkey: Roast the turkey for 3-4 hours, basting occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Rest and Serve: Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted vegetables.

This herb butter turkey is packed with fresh, fragrant flavors, and the roasted root vegetables create a hearty, wholesome side that brings out the best of the season’s produce.

Maple Glazed Turkey with Apples

Maple Glazed Turkey with Apples brings a sweet, autumnal twist to your Thanksgiving meal. The rich maple syrup glaze complements the natural flavors of the turkey, while the baked apples add a fruity brightness. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that captures the essence of fall, perfect for gatherings with friends and family.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 apples, quartered
• 2 onions, quartered
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Make the Maple Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, melted butter, salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Prepare the Turkey: Rub the turkey with the maple glaze and place it in a roasting pan. Arrange the apples and onions around the turkey.
4. Roast the Turkey: Pour the chicken broth into the pan and roast the turkey for 3-3.5 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the maple glaze, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Rest and Serve: Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve with the baked apples and onions.

The sweet, tangy maple glaze combined with the warmth of baked apples makes this turkey a deliciously unique fall dish, perfect for a cozy and memorable holiday feast.

Garlic and Rosemary Smoked Turkey

This Garlic and Rosemary Smoked Turkey adds a bold and aromatic flavor to your fall celebrations. Smoking the turkey infuses it with a rich, smoky taste while the garlic and rosemary create a fragrant, savory rub. Perfect for those who love outdoor cooking, this recipe gives your turkey a rustic, earthy flavor that stands out on any autumn table.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, halved
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 cup applewood chips, soaked

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F, using applewood chips for a mild, fruity smoke flavor.
2. Prepare the Garlic Rosemary Rub: In a bowl, mix the minced garlic, rosemary, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Prepare the Turkey: Rub the garlic rosemary mixture all over the turkey, under the skin and on top. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves and onion.
4. Smoke the Turkey: Place the turkey in the smoker and smoke for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, adding applewood chips as needed.
5. Rest and Serve: Allow the turkey to rest for 30 minutes before carving.

This smoked turkey is full of deep, smoky flavors enhanced by the fresh garlic and rosemary. It’s a perfect centerpiece for any fall gathering, adding a unique and delicious twist to traditional turkey dinners.

Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey is a festive and flavorful dish that beautifully combines the sweet-tart taste of cranberries with the citrusy brightness of oranges. The glaze creates a stunning caramelized finish on the turkey, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing for your fall gathering. The fruit flavors are perfectly balanced, adding a refreshing contrast to the savory turkey.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• Zest of 2 oranges
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 orange, sliced

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Make the Glaze: In a saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the glaze thickens slightly. Set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the Turkey: Rub the turkey with melted butter, salt, and pepper. Place the orange slices inside the cavity and position it in a roasting pan.
4. Roast the Turkey: Roast the turkey for 3-3.5 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the cranberry orange glaze, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Rest and Serve: Allow the turkey to rest for 20 minutes before carving.

This turkey’s sweet and tangy glaze provides a refreshing twist on traditional roasted turkey, creating a balanced and bright flavor profile perfect for a fall feast.

Pumpkin Spiced Turkey Breast

Pumpkin Spiced Turkey Breast is a delightful way to incorporate the flavors of fall into a lighter turkey dish. This recipe infuses turkey breast with the warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, creating a subtle, savory sweetness reminiscent of the season’s beloved pumpkin spice. It’s a great option for smaller gatherings or for those looking for a seasonal twist without roasting a whole bird.

Ingredients:

• 2 turkey breasts (bone-in, skin-on)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tablespoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tablespoon ground cloves
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 garlic cloves, minced

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the Spice Rub: In a bowl, mix the olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and minced garlic to form a paste.
3. Season the Turkey: Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey breasts, under the skin, and on the surface.
4. Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey breasts in a roasting pan and roast for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Rest and Serve: Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

This turkey breast has the warmth and aromatic flavors of pumpkin spice, adding an unexpected yet delicious autumnal twist to your holiday table.

Apple Cider Brined Turkey

Apple Cider Brined Turkey is a wonderfully moist and flavorful dish that makes use of fall’s quintessential ingredient: apple cider. Brining the turkey in apple cider infuses the meat with subtle sweetness and ensures it stays juicy during roasting. This recipe is perfect for adding a touch of autumn charm to your Thanksgiving or fall celebration.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
• 4 cups apple cider
• 1/4 cup salt
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 sprigs rosemary
• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 orange, quartered
• 4 cups cold water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Brine: In a large pot, combine apple cider, salt, brown sugar, garlic, rosemary, and peppercorns. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
2. Brine the Turkey: Place the turkey in a large container or brining bag. Add the cooled cider brine and enough cold water to fully submerge the turkey. Refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
3. Prepare for Roasting: Preheat the oven to 325°F. Remove the turkey from the brine, pat it dry, and stuff it with the onion and orange. Place in a roasting pan.
4. Roast the Turkey: Roast for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, basting occasionally with pan juices.
5. Rest and Serve: Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving.

Brining the turkey in apple cider creates a juicy, flavorful bird with a hint of sweetness that highlights the best of fall’s flavors. It’s a sure way to impress your guests and make your holiday meal unforgettable.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!