Garlic Herb Mayonnaise Roasted Turkey Recipe

If you’re looking to wow your guests with a show-stopping centerpiece, the Garlic Herb Mayonnaise Roasted Turkey is an absolute game changer. This recipe takes the traditional roasted turkey to a whole new level by using a luscious blend of mayonnaise, fresh herbs, and garlic to create a beautifully moist, tender, and flavorful bird with a golden, crispy skin that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a special family dinner, this dish effortlessly combines comfort and sophistication in a way that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Trust me, once you try this Garlic Herb Mayonnaise Roasted Turkey, it’s going to become your new favorite way to roast turkey!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Garlic Herb Mayonnaise Roasted Turkey recipe is thoughtfully chosen to enhance flavor, moisture, and aroma without overwhelming the natural turkey taste. These simple staples work harmoniously to add depth, a lovely herbaceous punch, and that secret richness the mayonnaise brings.

• 12-14 lb. whole turkey (thawed completely): The star of the dish, fresh or fully thawed for perfect cooking.
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage (chopped): Earthy and slightly peppery, sage adds warmth and aromatic depth.
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (chopped): Bright and subtle, thyme complements the turkey’s natural flavors beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons rosemary (chopped): Piney and fragrant, rosemary gives the turkey a fresh, woodsy note.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic brings that beloved pungency, enhancing every bite with savory goodness.
• Zest from 1/2 lemon: Adds a burst of citrus brightness that lifts the entire dish.
• 1½ cups mayonnaise: The secret to extra moist meat and a perfectly golden crust.
• 2 tablespoons coarse salt: Essential for seasoning, it helps the skin crisp up nicely.
• 1 tablespoon pepper: Freshly cracked adds just the right amount of heat and complexity.
• 1 apple (peeled, core removed, and diced): Adds subtle sweetness and moisture from the inside.
• 1 large onion (rough chopped): Gives savory depth and aromatic support during roasting.
• ½ cup (1 stick) butter: Enriches the turkey cavity with rich flavor and tender texture.

How to Make Garlic Herb Mayonnaise Roasted Turkey

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Turkey

Begin by preheating your oven to 450 degrees F — getting that intense initial heat is crucial for crisping the skin. While the oven warms, place your fully thawed turkey in a roasting pan, making sure it’s patted dry for the best crust.

Step 2: Stuff the Turkey

Fill the cavity with the diced apple, rough chopped onion, and the stick of butter. These aromatics release steam and flavor during roasting, keeping the meat juicy and introducing a subtle sweetness and richness that’s utterly delightful. Don’t forget to tie up the legs to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Mix the Herb Mayonnaise

In a medium bowl, combine the freshly chopped sage, thyme, rosemary, minced garlic, and lemon zest with the mayonnaise. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and fragrant. This herb mayo blend is your turkey’s flavor jacket, locking in moisture and delivering a savory punch with every bite.

Step 4: Coat the Turkey

Generously lather the outside and inside of the turkey with the garlic herb mayonnaise mixture. Don’t hold back — make sure every surface is completely covered. This layer is what creates the famous crispy, flavorful skin while keeping the meat incredibly tender.

Step 5: Season and Roast

Sprinkle the turkey all over with coarse sea salt and freshly cracked pepper — seasoning is key to bringing all those rich flavors forward. Place the turkey in your preheated oven and roast at 450 degrees F for 30 minutes to jumpstart the browning process. Then reduce the heat to 350 degrees F and continue to roast for an additional 1 ½ to 2 hours. Check the internal temperature carefully — you’re aiming for 165 degrees F in the breast and 175 degrees F in the thigh for perfectly juicy meat.

Step 6: Rest and Reserve Juices

Once out of the oven, tent the turkey loosely with foil and let it rest for about 20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is juicy and tender. Don’t toss that precious liquid in the pan! Reserve the pan drippings to make a luscious homemade gravy.

Step 7: Make the Gravy (Optional but Recommended)

In a small mason jar or bowl, combine ¼ cup flour with 1 cup water and shake or whisk until smooth. Place the turkey drippings in a saucepan over medium heat, then gradually whisk in the flour-water mixture. Stir constantly until the gravy thickens to your liking. Season with salt and pepper, and you have a rich, flavorful gravy that pairs perfectly with the garlic herb mayonnaise roasted turkey.

How to Serve Garlic Herb Mayonnaise Roasted Turkey

Garnishes

Fresh sprigs of rosemary, thyme, or sage make beautiful natural garnishes and elevate your presentation, adding an inviting earthy aroma that enhances the Garlic Herb Mayonnaise Roasted Turkey experience right from the first glance.

Side Dishes

This turkey deserves comforting, classic sides like buttery mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or a vibrant cranberry sauce to cut through the richness. A crisp, fresh green salad can also offer a delightful contrast that balances the hearty main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, arrange the turkey slices on a large wooden board surrounded by herb sprigs, roasted nuts, or even edible flowers. Serve alongside a bowl of the homemade gravy. This festive, rustic display is sure to impress at any gathering, making the Garlic Herb Mayonnaise Roasted Turkey the star of your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your feast, store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly refrigerated, your Garlic Herb Mayonnaise Roasted Turkey will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making for easy, flavorful lunches or second dinners.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze leftover turkey tightly wrapped or in sealed containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat turkey without drying it out, warm slices gently in the oven at 300 degrees F covered with foil, or in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth. The garlic herb mayonnaise glaze helps keep the meat moist during reheating, so every bite stays tender and flavorful.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought mayonnaise or do I need homemade?

Store-bought mayonnaise works wonderfully for this recipe and saves time. The key is the creamy texture and fat content, which helps retain moisture. If you prefer, homemade mayo can add an extra touch of freshness but is not necessary.

What if I don’t have all the fresh herbs? Can I use dried?

You can substitute dried herbs if needed. Use about one-third the quantity of fresh herbs since dried are more concentrated—just add them to the mayonnaise mixture so the flavors have time to meld before roasting.

Can this method be used on turkey parts instead of a whole bird?

Absolutely! This garlic herb mayonnaise rub is fantastic on turkey breasts, thighs, or drumsticks. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and keep an eye on the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.

Is it necessary to stuff the turkey with apple, onion, and butter?

While stuffing the cavity with apple, onion, and butter adds extra moisture and flavor, it’s optional. If you prefer, you can roast the turkey without stuffing, but the aromatics really enhance the overall taste and juiciness of the bird.

Can I prepare the herb mayonnaise mixture ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the garlic herb mayonnaise mixture up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. This actually helps deepen the flavors, making your Garlic Herb Mayonnaise Roasted Turkey even more flavorful when it’s time to roast.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Garlic Herb Mayonnaise Roasted Turkey that transforms your meal into an unforgettable celebration of flavor and comfort. This recipe is approachable yet impressive, combining the richness of mayo with fresh herbs and garlic for a juicy, aromatic turkey with a crispy golden crust. Give it a try next time you want to impress friends or family—you’ll be amazed at how easily this simple combination elevates your classic roast turkey into an extraordinary experience.

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