Name: Spatchcock Turkey
Prep time: 24 h
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 25 h 30 min
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, optional; 1/4 tsp black pepper, optional

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With the aroma of roasted turkey filling the air and golden-brown skin crisping beautifully in the oven, there’s an infectious excitement around the dinner table as family and friends gather. The sight of a perfectly spatchcocked turkey, flattened for even cooking and enhanced flavor, is truly a feast for the eyes. Imagine carving into that juicy turkey, the skin crackling delicately under your knife, releasing a steam of savory aromas that tug at your heartstrings and spark cherished memories of holiday gatherings.

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

Back in my childhood, we celebrated Thanksgiving with all the classic dishes, but my favorite was always the turkey. I can still remember the warm hugs from my grandma in the kitchen, her laughter mingling with the smell of sage and butter. This Spatchcock Turkey Recipe not only serves a crowd of ten but also cuts the cooking time down significantly—it’s an easy and flavorful centerpiece that is perfect for celebrations or a cozy family dinner. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 2 hours, making it a stress-free choice for busy holidays.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of herbs like sage and thyme creates an aromatic, mouthwatering experience.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The spatchcock method lays the turkey flat, showcasing a golden, crispy exterior—so impressive!
Flexible Serving: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering, this turkey is versatile enough for sandwiches, leftovers, and more.
Diet-Friendly Options: Generally suitable for gluten-free diets; just be mindful of storing gluten-containing sides nearby.

Ingredients You’ll Need

12-14 lb turkey: A whole turkey, thawed properly, is essential for even cooking and maximum flavor.
1/3 cup avocado or olive oil: Chosen for its high smoke point and light flavor; use more if you’re prepping a larger bird.
1 1/2 tbsp kosher coarse salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the turkey; adjust according to your taste preferences.
1 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth; freshly cracked is best.
1 tbsp garlic powder: Provides depth; fresh garlic can be substituted for more intensity.
2 tsp onion powder: This complements the garlic; fresh onions also work if you prefer.
2 tsp dried rubbed sage: A classic herb choice for turkey, evoking holiday flavors; fresh can elevate the taste.
2 tsp dried thyme: Earthy and aromatic, it pairs beautifully with turkey.
1 tsp dried crushed rosemary: Offers a fragrant and slightly piney flavor; fresh rosemary is a lovely upgrade.
1 yellow onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and moisture; feel free to use shallots for a milder flavor.
2-3 carrots, chopped: Their natural sweetness balances the savory elements; any root vegetable could work.
2 celery ribs, chopped: Adds crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
4-5 garlic cloves: Whole garlic cloves roast beautifully, sweetening as they cook.
2 cups chicken stock or broth: Keep it homemade for a richer taste or store-bought for convenience.
4 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness to the pan drippings for gravy; ghee or a dairy-free alternative can be used.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the gravy; use cornstarch or gluten-free flour for alternatives.
2 cups pan drippings (+ turkey stock if needed): For a beautifully flavored gravy; use additional stock if lacking liquid.
salt, optional: For seasoning the gravy to taste.
1/4 tsp black pepper, optional: Final touch for your gravy; adjust to preferred taste.

How to Make Spatchcock Turkey Recipe

Prepare the Turkey: First, thaw the turkey in the fridge for at least 24 hours. Once thawed, pat it dry with paper towels, trimming any excess fat. Place the turkey breast-side down on a cutting board and, using kitchen shears, cut along each side of the backbone. Remove the backbone completely, then flip the turkey over and press down firmly on the breastbone to flatten it. This technique ensures even cooking and crispy skin.

Season Generously: In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, sage, thyme, and rosemary. Drizzle the turkey with avocado or olive oil and rub the herb mixture all over the surface and underneath the skin, massaging it in well. Flip the turkey back over, and tuck the wing tips under the body for uniform cooking. This step is crucial for maximizing flavor and ensuring every bite is delicious.

Set Up for Roasting: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). In a large roasting pan, scatter the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic cloves, creating a flavorful bed for the turkey. Pour the chicken stock into the bottom of the pan to keep the turkey moist while roasting and to collect drippings for a rich gravy.

Roast to Perfection: Place the spatchcocked turkey on top of the vegetable base in the roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reads 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the breast and thigh. Rotate the pan halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The aroma will be undeniable!

Rest and Prepare Gravy: Once cooked, carefully transfer the turkey to a cutting board and let it rest for at least 20 minutes. This resting period is essential for juicy meat, allowing the juices to redistribute. Meanwhile, strain the pan drippings, adding them to a saucepan over medium heat. Melt the unsalted butter and whisk in the flour, cooking for 2 minutes. Gradually add the strained drippings, whisking until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover spatchcock turkey, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap portions tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, reheat the turkey gently in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through, around 20-30 minutes. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly, but adding a splash of broth can help revive moisture.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid under-seasoning by being generous with the herbs and salt. Remember, seasoning enhances the turkey’s natural flavors!
Make sure to use a thermometer to guarantee your turkey is cooked through but not dried out. Aim for 165°F in the breast and 175°F in the thigh.
If you have time, brining your turkey overnight can add even more flavor and moisture.
Consider letting your turkey rest after seasoning for about an hour to allow the flavors to seep in.
If your gravy is too thick, simply whisk in a little additional chicken stock until you reach desired consistency.
Leftovers are great! Try turkey in sandwiches or salads for easy, delicious meals.

With this Spatchcock Turkey Recipe, you’ll have a show-stopping centerpiece that exceeds everyone’s expectations. It’s easy to prepare, filled with flavor, and brings a sense of warmth to any gathering. Enjoy experimenting with spices and sides that resonate with your palate. So gather your loved ones and savor every delicious bite!

Recipe FAQs

Can I spatchcock a frozen turkey?

Absolutely! However, it’s best to completely thaw the turkey beforehand to make the process easier and safer. A fully thawed turkey allows for more even cooking and prevents uneven textures. Give yourself at least 24-48 hours for thawing in the refrigerator.

What if I don’t have kitchen shears?

If kitchen shears aren’t available, a sharp knife can do the trick. Carefully cut along each side of the backbone with a chef’s knife, taking your time to avoid injury. Make sure your knife is sharp for a smoother cut!

Can I make the gravy in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat it gently on the stove, whisking regularly to maintain a smooth texture. Adding a splash of broth will help it come back to life!

What other herbs can I use for this recipe?

Feel free to experiment with other herbs that you enjoy! Oregano, marjoram, or even a bit of fresh parsley can bring different flavors to your spatchcock turkey. Just remember to keep the herbs balanced so that no single flavor overpowers the others.