As the first signs of autumn crispness fill the air and colorful leaves begin to carpet the ground, I can’t help but crave a meal that embodies the spirit of the season. Enter my Sheet Pan Herb Roasted Turkey and Cranberry Pecan Stuffing—a delightful dish that transforms your kitchen into a cozy haven. With a tantalizing blend of savory herbs and the sweet pop of cranberries, this recipe is an invitation to gather around the table with loved ones.
One chilly evening, I found myself yearning for a comforting meal that felt both hearty and festive without the fuss of a multi-course ordeal. With a boneless turkey breast resting atop a nest of seasoned bread and pecan stuffing, this dish promises ease and indulgence in every bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an intimate gathering, it brings together flavors that sing in harmony.
So let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this culinary adventure, where the aroma of garlic and thyme fills your home, ensuring that fast food is a distant memory!
Why is Sheet Pan Herb Roasted Turkey so special?
Simplicity: This recipe shines with an easy-to-follow method, perfect for home cooks seeking comfort without the complications.
Flavor Explosion: The aromatic herbs combined with the sweetness of cranberries and crunch of pecans create a taste sensation that will make your taste buds dance.
All-in-One Meal: With turkey and stuffing roasted together on a single sheet pan, clean-up is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends.
Versatility: Ideal for any occasion, this dish is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or festive holiday gatherings that call for delicious, homemade comfort food.
Crowd-Pleasing: Its delightful flavors and appealing presentation will impress everyone around your table, making it a go-to recipe for gatherings.
Sheet Pan Herb Roasted Turkey Ingredients
For the Stuffing
• French bread cubes – 5 cups for a sturdy base that soaks up all the flavors.
• Unsalted butter – 5 tablespoons, at room temperature, to add rich creaminess.
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced, for aromatic depth.
• Onion – 1 diced, for sweetness and texture.
• Celery – 2 ribs, diced, adding a delightful crunch.
• Dry white wine – ⅓ cup, to deglaze and enhance the flavors.
• Dried sweetened cranberries – ¼ cup for a burst of sweetness in each bite.
• Fresh parsley – ¼ cup, chopped, for freshness and color.
• Fresh sage – 1 tablespoon, chopped, to impart a warm, earthy flavor.
• Fresh thyme – 2 teaspoons, chopped, for an aromatic lift.
• Seasoned cornbread stuffing mix – 2 ½ cups, bringing a comforting southern twist.
• Pecans – ½ cup, chopped, to add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor.
• Chicken stock – 1 ½ cups, to moisten and bring everything together.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste, ensuring balance and seasoning.
For the Turkey
• Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons, at room temperature, for a flavorful base under the skin.
• Garlic – 1 clove, minced, to enhance the savory depth of the turkey.
• Fresh thyme – 1 teaspoon, chopped, for a fragrant touch.
• Lemon zest – 1 teaspoon, to brighten the overall flavor of the turkey.
• Boneless, skin-on turkey breast – 1 (2-pound), for a juicy and tender centerpiece.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper – for seasoning the turkey to perfection.
This Sheet Pan Herb Roasted Turkey recipe is a well-rounded masterpiece that makes your meal planning not just easy but truly joyous!
How to Make Sheet Pan Herb Roasted Turkey
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Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly oil a 9 x 13 baking dish or coat it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. This step ensures your turkey and stuffing will roast beautifully without any fuss.
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Toast the bread cubes by spreading them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake until crisp and golden, about 10-12 minutes. This adds great texture and flavor to the stuffing!
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Sauté the vegetables by melting butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add garlic, onion, and celery, cooking until tender, about 3-4 minutes. The aroma will make you feel right at home!
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Deglaze the pan with wine, stirring occasionally for about 2 minutes until reduced. Then, mix in cranberries, parsley, sage, and thyme; remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes to let those flavors meld.
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Combine the bread, cornbread stuffing mix, and pecans in the mixture. Season with salt and pepper, then pour in chicken stock until everything is well absorbed and mixed. The stuffing should feel moist but not soggy.
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Spread the stuffing mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a cozy nest for the turkey to rest upon.
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Make the butter mixture in a small bowl by combining butter, garlic, thyme, and lemon zest. This will add delicious flavor beneath the turkey skin.
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Loosen the turkey skin gently using your fingers, and spread the butter mixture underneath. Secure the skin with wooden picks and season the turkey with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
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Nestle the turkey breast on top of the stuffing in the baking dish. Bake in the oven until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, about 40-45 minutes—your kitchen will fill with an irresistible scent!
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Serve your beautiful turkey and stuffing immediately, inviting all to dig in!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for an added pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Sheet Pan Herb Roasted Turkey
Fridge: Place leftover turkey and stuffing in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure to seal tightly to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the turkey and stuffing in separate airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. This helps preserve the flavors and texture.
Reheating: Thaw frozen turkey and stuffing overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes for the stuffing and 30-35 minutes for the turkey. Enjoy again the delightful flavors of your Sheet Pan Herb Roasted Turkey!
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving leftovers at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent foodborne illness.
Expert Tips for Sheet Pan Herb Roasted Turkey
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Bread Quality: Use good quality French bread to ensure it absorbs flavors without becoming mushy. Stale bread works best for stuffing because it holds its texture.
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Moisture Balance: Avoid soggy stuffing by incorporating chicken stock gradually. The stuffing should be moist but not swimming; aim for a fluffy consistency.
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Herb Freshness: Use fresh herbs whenever possible, as they provide a vibrant flavor that dried herbs can’t match. Adjust quantities according to your taste preferences for the stuffing.
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Cooking Temperature: Always check the internal temperature of the turkey. It should reach 165°F for safe consumption. Use a reliable meat thermometer to avoid undercooking.
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Resting Period: Allow the turkey to rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing. This lets the juices redistribute, keeping your Sheet Pan Herb Roasted Turkey tender and juicy.
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Creative Leftovers: Use leftover turkey for sandwiches or salads. The stuffing can be reheated or transformed into a casserole for a new meal option!
What to Serve with Sheet Pan Herb Roasted Turkey?
Create a cozy feast around this savory turkey dish that will warm your heart and tantalize your palate.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasting the sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, making them the perfect companion to the turkey’s savory flavor. The crispy edges contrast wonderfully with the tender turkey.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes offer a classic comfort that pairs beautifully with the herb-infused turkey and stuffing. They create a smooth mouthfeel which balances the textures on your plate.
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Maple-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and slightly caramelized, these vibrant carrots add color and a lovely sweetness to your meal, enhancing the overall flavor experience without overwhelming the palate.
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Creamy Spinach Salad: A fresh spinach salad topped with creamy dressing provides a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of the roasted turkey and stuffing, making every bite enjoyable.
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Cranberry Sauce: A traditional accompaniment, the tartness of cranberry sauce complements the savory turkey, while echoing the delightful cranberries in the stuffing. This is a must for a complete Thanksgiving-style experience!
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Herb-Infused Rice: A fluffy rice blend with herbs mirrors the flavors in your turkey dish, adding a layer of texture and taste. It’s a perfect canvas that soaks up any delicious gravy or sauce you might choose to serve!
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Mulled Wine: This spiced, warm drink brings a festive touch to your meal and pairs beautifully with the earthy flavors of the turkey and stuffing, creating a cozy atmosphere for your gathering.
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Apple Crisp: Finish your meal with a warm, sweet apple crisp, brimming with cinnamon and nutty goodness. Its comforting sweetness will be the perfect cherry on top of your delightful home-cooked feast!
Variations and Substitutions for Sheet Pan Herb Roasted Turkey
Feel free to let your creativity shine and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!
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Gluten-Free: Swap out the French bread cubes for gluten-free bread or a gluten-free stuffing mix for a similar texture without the gluten.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace turkey with a stuffed portobello mushroom, using the stuffing to fill each cap for a hearty, plant-based option. It’s a flavorful alternative!
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Nut-Free: Omit the pecans and replace them with sunflower seeds or simply add extra dried fruit for a chewy texture without the nuts.
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Cranberry Boost: Add a splash of cranberry juice or fresh cranberries into the stuffing mix for a more pronounced tart flavor that brightens up each bite.
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Spicy Variation: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the stuffing to give it a spicy kick that will warm you from the inside out!
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Herb Swap: Experiment with other fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano, which can lend a fantastic flavor twist while still keeping the essence of the dish intact.
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Stuffed Turkey Surprise: For a gourmet approach, make a savory apple and sausage stuffing instead of the cranberry pecan mix, offering a delightful contrast with the turkey.
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Citrus Explosion: Enhance the lemon zest with orange or lime zest for a brighter, fresh flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory turkey.
With these variations, every meal becomes a new adventure—embark on this culinary journey and bring your personal touch to a beloved classic!
Make Ahead Options
These Sheet Pan Herb Roasted Turkey and Cranberry Pecan Stuffing are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the stuffing mixture (steps 2-5) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the steps, then store it tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and prevent drying out. The turkey can also be seasoned and assembled on top of the stuffing dish a whole day ahead. When you’re ready to enjoy, preheat your oven, and bake as directed (about 40-45 minutes) until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready without the last-minute stress!
Sheet Pan Herb Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Pecan Stuffing Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best bread for the stuffing?
Choosing the right bread is crucial! Look for a sturdy, flavorful French bread that’s slightly stale, as it holds up better during baking. Stale bread absorbs the moisture from the broth without becoming mushy. If your bread is fresh, simply toast it lightly in the oven before using.
How long can I store the leftover turkey and stuffing?
Great question! Leftover turkey and stuffing should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to seal it tightly to maintain freshness. If you find you have more than you can eat, consider freezing some for future meals!
Can I freeze the turkey and stuffing? How?
Absolutely! For freezing, place the turkey and stuffing in separate airtight containers or freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. I recommend labeling your containers with the date and contents so you’ll know what’s inside when you’re ready to use them!
What if my stuffing is too dry after baking?
If your stuffing comes out too dry, there’s an easy fix! Simply splash a bit of chicken stock over it before serving to moisten. If you notice this happening during the baking process, you can also cover the dish with foil to retain moisture and continue cooking until properly heated through.
Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes, but be cautious! Since this Sheet Pan Herb Roasted Turkey includes pecans, it’s best to replace the nuts with additional bread cubes or sautéed vegetables for added texture and flavor. Just be sure to inform guests of any potential allergens involved!
How do I know when my turkey is safely cooked?
To ensure your turkey is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the breast. After removing it from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing, as this helps keep it nice and juicy.
Savory Sheet Pan Herb Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Pecan Stuffing
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly oil a 9 x 13 baking dish or coat it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Toast the bread cubes by spreading them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake until crisp and golden, about 10-12 minutes.
- Sauté the vegetables by melting butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add garlic, onion, and celery, cooking until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Deglaze the pan with wine, stirring occasionally for about 2 minutes until reduced. Mix in cranberries, parsley, sage, and thyme; remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes.
- Combine the bread, cornbread stuffing mix, and pecans. Season with salt and pepper, then pour in chicken stock until everything is well absorbed.
- Spread the stuffing mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Make the butter mixture by combining butter, garlic, thyme, and lemon zest in a small bowl.
- Loosen the turkey skin gently using your fingers, and spread the butter mixture underneath. Season the turkey with salt and pepper.
- Nestle the turkey breast on top of the stuffing in the baking dish. Bake until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, about 40-45 minutes.
- Serve your beautiful turkey and stuffing immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.