Name: Spatchcock Turkey
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-22H29M20S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12-14 lb turkey; 1/3 cup avocado or olive oil; 1 1/2 tbsp kosher coarse salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp garlic powder; 2 tsp onion powder; 2 tsp dried rubbed sage; 2 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried crushed rosemary; 1 yellow onion (chopped); 2-3 carrots (chopped); 2 celery ribs (chopped); 4-5 garlic cloves; 2 cups chicken stock or broth; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups pan drippings (+ turkey stock if needed); Salt & pepper (optional)

Jump to Recipe · Leave a Review

The aroma of a perfectly roasted turkey is one of the most inviting smells that can fill your home, especially during the holidays. Imagine the golden-brown skin, glistening with a blend of savory herbs and spices, enticing everyone who walks through the door. As it cooks, the juices seep into the tender meat, creating a dish that not only nourishes but also brings family and friends together around the table. Nothing feels quite as cozy as gathering for a feast, and this Spatchcock Turkey Recipe will make your holiday season extra memorable.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Spatchcock Turkey Recipe
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Spatchcock Turkey

Growing up, Thanksgiving meant gathering at my grandmother’s house, where her turkey would steal the show every year. The way she prepared it was simple yet magical, and as kids, we always fought for the crispy edges. When I discovered the art of spatchcocking, I knew I had to share this streamlined cooking method that not only speeds up cooking time but also ensures that the turkey stays juicy and flavorful. Let’s get started on making this stunning centerpiece for your next celebration!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: This turkey can be ready in about 2.5 hours, making it an efficient option for holiday cooking.
Irresistible Flavor: The mix of herbs creates a mouthwatering aroma and taste that your whole family will adore.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Spatchcocking results in a beautifully flattened turkey that is sure to impress your guests.
Flexible Serving: Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family gathering—this turkey is perfect year-round.
Diet-Friendly Options: You can easily make this recipe gluten-free or adapt it according to dietary preferences with minor ingredient swaps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

12-14 lb turkey: A whole turkey is essential for this recipe. A fresh or thawed turkey gives the best flavor and texture.
1/3 cup avocado or olive oil: This adds moisture and helps the skin become crispy. If using a larger turkey, add more oil.
1 1/2 tbsp kosher coarse salt: Essential for seasoning the meat thoroughly. Adjust to taste for your preference.
1 tsp black pepper: Freshly cracked for the best flavor.
1 tbsp garlic powder: This adds a delicious depth; however, you can use fresh garlic for an even stronger punch.
2 tsp onion powder: This enhances the savory flavors.
2 tsp dried rubbed sage: A classic herb for turkey, but feel free to experiment with fresh sage.
2 tsp dried thyme: Adds a fragrant, earthy note; fresh thyme can also be used.
1 tsp dried crushed rosemary: This brings a wonderful aroma and matches beautifully with turkey.
1 yellow onion (chopped): It infuses sweetness and moisture into the dish.
2-3 carrots (chopped): They provide a slight sweetness and color in the pan.
2 celery ribs (chopped): Contributes to the mirepoix base for the gravy.
4-5 garlic cloves: For roasting under the turkey—sweet and mellow when cooked.
2 cups chicken stock or broth: For added flavor in the gravy, use low-sodium if desired.
4 tbsp unsalted butter: This enriches the gravy, making it creamy and delicious.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Used for thickening the gravy.
2 cups pan drippings (+ turkey stock if needed): Essential for a flavorful gravy base.
Salt & pepper (optional): To taste if needed at the end of prepping the gravy.

How to Make Spatchcock Turkey Recipe

Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). While that warms up, set your turkey breast-side down on a cutting board. Using sharp kitchen shears, cut along both sides of the backbone and remove it. Flip the turkey over, press down on the breastbone to flatten it slightly, and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps create crispier skin.

Season Generously: In a bowl, mix together avocado oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, sage, thyme, and rosemary. Rub this seasoning all over the turkey, making sure to get into the crevices for maximum flavor. Place it on a roasting pan lined with chopped onions, carrots, celery, and whole garlic cloves. The veggies will act as a delightful bed for your turkey.

Roast the Turkey: Pour chicken stock into the bottom of the pan until it just covers the vegetable layer. This keeps the turkey moist while it bakes. Roast the turkey for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer. Baste the turkey with its juices halfway through for an added layer of flavor.

Rest the Turkey: When the turkey is done, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest for at least 20 to 30 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is juicy and tender.

Create the Gravy: After resting, you can start making the gravy. Pour the pan drippings into a measuring cup, discarding the vegetables. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in the flour, cooking for about 1 minute until golden. Gradually pour in the drippings, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer until thickened. Taste, adjusting with extra salt and pepper as needed.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover turkey, allow it to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, warm the turkey gently in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 20-30 minutes, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist. Do note, while the flavor remains, the texture might slightly change after freezing.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Always let your turkey rest before carving to maintain its juiciness.
For a deeper flavor, lift the skin of the breast before rubbing the seasonings underneath.
Making sure your turkey is completely thawed will help it cook evenly.
If the skin starts to darken too much during roasting, tent it loosely with aluminum foil.
Feel free to replace the herbs based on your taste; fresh herbs will enhance the flavor.
This recipe can easily be made a few days in advance, prepping the turkey without seasoning and allowing it to soak in flavors in the fridge before roasting.

This Spatchcock Turkey Recipe is not just a great centerpiece; it’s also an invitation to gather, share, and create delicious memories. It streamlines the cooking process, allowing you more time to enjoy the company of your loved ones. Try it out, play with the flavors, and most importantly, relish in the joy of cooking.

Recipe FAQs

Can I spatchcock a frozen turkey?

No, a turkey must be fully thawed for spatchcocking, as you’ll need to cut through the bone. The safest way to thaw your turkey is in the refrigerator for several days before cooking.

What can I substitute for fresh herbs?

You can easily use dried herbs instead of fresh if that’s what you have on hand. A general rule is to use one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh, as dried herbs tend to have a more concentrated flavor.

How do I know when the turkey is done?

The best way to ensure the turkey is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh; it should read 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Can I make gravy with low-sodium broth?

Absolutely! Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the salt levels in your gravy better. Just remember to taste and adjust as needed.

More Dinner Recipes

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Spatchcock Turkey

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

Author: Jennifer
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1.5-2 hours
Total Time: 0 hours
Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Description

This spatchcock turkey recipe offers irresistible flavor and juicy meat. With simple preparation, fresh herbs, and room to adapt for any dietary needs, it’s perfect for all gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

12–14 lb turkey
1/3 cup avocado or olive oil
1 1/2 tbsp kosher coarse salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp garlic powder
2 tsp onion powder
2 tsp dried rubbed sage
2 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried crushed rosemary
1 yellow onion (chopped)
2–3 carrots (chopped)
2 celery ribs (chopped)
4–5 garlic cloves
2 cups chicken stock or broth
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups pan drippings (+ turkey stock if needed)
Salt & pepper (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
Spatchcock the turkey by removing the backbone with kitchen shears, then flatten it.
Mix avocado oil and spices; rub onto the turkey.
Place turkey on a vegetable bed in a roasting pan, pour chicken stock around it.
Roast for 1.5 to 2 hours until the thickest thigh reads 165°F (74°C).
Let turkey rest for 20-30 minutes after roasting.
Prepare gravy with pan drippings, flour, butter, and season to taste.

Notes

Always let the turkey rest before carving to keep it juicy.
Make sure the turkey is completely thawed for even cooking.
You can prepare the turkey a few days in advance without seasoning.