Introduction

The holiday season is a time for gathering, celebration, and of course, delectable food. A show-stopping dish that embodies these festive moments is Sheet Pan Herb Roasted Turkey paired with Cranberry Pecan Stuffing. This recipe brings together the rich flavors of turkey with the delightful crunch of pecans and the sweetness of cranberries, all roasted to perfection on a single sheet pan.

This method not only saves on cleanup time but also ensures that the turkey stays moist while infusing the stuffing with fabulous flavors. Whether you're preparing for a grand feast or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to impress your guests and become a cherished tradition in your home.

Ingredients

1 whole turkey (10-12 lbs)
The star of the dish, the turkey, serves as a blank canvas for flavors. A whole bird ensures an impressive presentation and allows for juicy, succulent meat when roasted properly.
2 tablespoons olive oil
Used to coat the turkey, olive oil helps achieve a golden brown skin, adding both flavor and moisture during roasting.
2 teaspoons salt
Salt enhances the natural flavors of the turkey and helps in tenderizing the meat, ensuring that every bite is flavorful.
1 teaspoon black pepper
Pepper adds a subtle heat that complements the herbs and balances the overall flavor profile.
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Rosemary adds a fragrant herbal note that pairs beautifully with turkey, enhancing its savory qualities.
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Thyme contributes earthiness and depth, often associated with traditional holiday flavors.
1 cup celery, diced
Celery adds crunch and a refreshing note to the stuffing, balancing out the richness of the pecans and cranberries.
1 cup onion, diced
Onions provide sweetness and aromatic flavor, complementing the other stuffing ingredients and enriching the overall taste.
4 cups bread cubes (stale or toasted)
Bread is the base of the stuffing, absorbing flavors and moisture, creating a comforting texture.
1 cup dried cranberries
These provide a sweet and tart burst in the stuffing, adding brightness and a contrast to the savory elements.
1 cup pecans, chopped
Pecans lend a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the stuffing's texture and richness.
2 cups chicken broth
Broth keeps the stuffing moist and flavorful, ensuring it doesn't dry out during baking.
1 tablespoon sage, chopped
Sage contributes a warm, earthy flavor that ties together the stuffing and the turkey, evoking traditional holiday tastes.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Preheating the oven ensures that the turkey starts cooking immediately when placed inside, promoting even cooking and helping to achieve a golden, crispy skin.

Step 2: Prepare the turkey by patting it dry with paper towels. Rub it with olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme.

Drying the turkey allows for better browning as moisture can cause steaming. The oil and seasoning blend enhances the turkey's flavor and ensures a crispy exterior.

Step 3: Place the turkey breast-side up on a large sheet pan.

Positioning the turkey on a sheet pan provides ample room for air circulation, leading to a more evenly cooked bird. This setup also keeps your oven clean.

Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the diced celery, onion, bread cubes, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and sage.

Mixing the vegetables and bread cubes creates a base for the stuffing. The cranberries and pecans will balance savory and sweet, while sage imparts that classic flavor.

Step 5: Pour the chicken broth over the stuffing mixture and toss well to combine.

Adding the broth hydrates the bread and ingredients, ensuring the stuffing is moist. This step is crucial to prevent dryness later.

Step 6: Spoon the stuffing mixture into the turkey cavity, packing it loosely.

Stuffing the turkey cavity allows the flavors to infuse into the meat while maintaining the stuffing’s texture as it cooks. Avoid packing too tightly to ensure even cooking.

Step 7: Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Roasting at a consistent temperature helps cook the turkey evenly. Use a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh to ensure doneness without overcooking.

Step 8: Baste the turkey with pan juices every 30 minutes for moisture.

Basting ensures that the turkey remains moist and enhances the flavor. It also helps achieve a rich color on the skin.

Step 9: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.

Letting the turkey rest allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, preventing dryness and ensuring tenderness when carving.

Step 10: Serve the turkey with the stuffing and enjoy!

Plating both the turkey and stuffing together showcases a beautiful presentation that encourages sharing and creates a standout dish for your gathering.

Sheet Pan Herb Roasted Turkey and Cranberry Pecan Stuffing step photo

Crafting Flavorful Stuffing

The stuffing serves as the perfect complement to the herb-roasted turkey. Combining bread with cranberries and pecans brings both texture and flavor that enhance the overall dish. Opt for a crusty bread for a delightful crunch and mix in fresh herbs to elevate the stuffing's profile. Don’t hesitate to experiment by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.

Getting the Turkey Just Right

Achieving a perfectly cooked turkey comes down to preparation and patience. Make sure to use a meat thermometer for accuracy, as cooking times can vary due to size and oven variations. Basting with pan juices not only keeps the turkey moist but also enriches the flavor. A well-cooked turkey should showcase golden skin and juicy, tender meat.

A Festive Presentation

Presentation can elevate your meal to the next level. Carving the turkey at the table impresses guests while inviting them to partake in the feast. Serve alongside vibrant vegetables or a colorful salad to create a festive atmosphere, making the meal not only delicious but visually appealing. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs for an inviting touch.

FAQs

What should I do if my turkey skin isn’t crispy?

If your turkey skin isn't crispy, try increasing the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 20-30 minutes of roasting. Also, ensure you pat your turkey dry before seasoning and consider basting with the pan juices.

Why is my stuffing too dry?

If your stuffing is dry, it may not have had enough moisture. Next time, make sure to thoroughly mix in the chicken broth until the mixture is moist but not soggy. It's essential to pack the stuffing loosely in the cavity for even absorption.

Can I use another type of nut in the stuffing?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they’re chopped similarly to help integrate into the stuffing.

What if my turkey is overcooked?

If your turkey is overcooked, slicing it thinly can help, and you can also serve it with plenty of gravy or sauce to add moisture back into the meat.

Can I add fruits other than cranberries?

Absolutely! Dried cherries or apricots would work wonderfully for a sweet contrast in the stuffing. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness level accordingly.

How can I adapt this for a smaller gathering?

You can reduce the turkey size for a smaller gathering, but you might also consider using turkey breast or thighs instead, adjusting cooking time as needed based on weight.

Conclusion

Sheet Pan Herb Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Pecan Stuffing is a delightful way to celebrate the joy of cooking and sharing meals. With its balance of bold flavors and easy clean-up, this dish invites both novice and experienced cooks to enjoy the festive spirit without overwhelm.

Don’t forget to capture the moments spent around the table with loved ones. Cooking is about bringing people together, and this recipe will not only satisfy your taste buds but also create lasting memories.

Recipe Card

Print Pin