Every Thanksgiving table has a star, and in our home, it’s the turkey. Roasted to golden perfection, it’s the dish everyone waits for all year.

A Family Story

One year, our youngest insisted on “helping” carve the turkey, with a plastic knife in hand. The turkey may not have been perfectly carved that year, but the memory of his joy is what we all remember.

Our Family Tradition

Turkey has become the centerpiece of our family’s Thanksgiving table, as it has for many Americans. Yet in the earliest celebrations, venison was far more likely to be served, with turkey only rising to prominence in the 19th century. Today, while the bird remains a symbol of the holiday, Thanksgiving menus reflect the diverse traditions of many cultures. Alongside the classic roast turkey, families may enjoy tamales, macaroni and cheese, vegan roasts, and countless other dishes that showcase the richness of America’s shared and varied heritage.

Thanksgiving Turkey

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (12–14 lbs for a large family)
• 1 stick butter, softened
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 lemon, halved

Instructions:

1. Prep the turkey: Pat dry with paper towels. Rub butter under the skin and over the outside.
2. Season generously: Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stuff cavity with onion, lemon, and herbs.
3. Roasting the Turkey: Place in a roasting pan. Bake at 325°F for 15 minutes per pound, basting occasionally.
4. Check temperature: Turkey is done when the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F.
5. Rest: Let sit 20–30 minutes before carving to keep juices in.

Variations for Dietary Needs

• Dairy‑free: Use olive oil or dairy‑free margarine instead of butter.
• Low‑sodium: Reduce salt and boost flavor with extra herbs and garlic.
• Gluten‑free stuffing option: Stuff cavity with apples, onions, and herbs instead of bread.
• Citrus twist: Swap lemon for orange to add a sweeter aroma.

Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t skip resting: Cutting too soon makes juices run out.
• Avoid over‑basting: Too much liquid can wash off seasoning.
• Use a thermometer: Guessing leads to dry or undercooked turkey.
• Don’t overcrowd the oven: Give the turkey space for even heat circulation.

What’s the one side dish or tradition your family cannot skip at Thanksgiving? Share it in the comments — I’d love to hear how your table looks compared to ours!