Homemade Turkey Seasoning
Homemade Turkey Seasoning — The Secret to a Juicy, Flavorful Bird Every Time
Every Thanksgiving and holiday dinner has one true star—the turkey. But the secret to a truly unforgettable turkey isn’t complicated—it’s all in the seasoning.
This Homemade Turkey Seasoning blend is bold, fragrant, and perfectly balanced to bring out the natural flavor of your turkey while giving it that golden, crispy, herb-infused skin that everyone fights over.
Forget those little store-bought seasoning packets—this mix is made from simple pantry spices that you probably already have on hand, and it’s so much better.
With hints of garlic, onion, paprika, rosemary, thyme, and sage, this blend gives your turkey that classic holiday flavor that tastes like it came straight from a gourmet kitchen.
Whether you’re roasting, smoking, or air frying, this seasoning will make your turkey tender, aromatic, and full of rich flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika (smoked paprika adds a beautiful depth)
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon rubbed sage
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a little kick)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional, helps caramelize the skin)
Instructions
1. Mix the Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients and stir well until evenly blended. You can use a whisk or even pulse it in a food processor for a finer texture.
2. Store for Later
Pour the seasoning into an airtight container or a small glass jar with a lid. Label it and store it in a cool, dark cabinet for up to 6 months.
3. Use It on Your Turkey
Before roasting, pat the turkey dry with paper towels and rub the seasoning all over the skin and inside the cavity. For extra flavor, mix the seasoning with melted butter or olive oil and brush it onto the turkey before baking.
Jennie’s Thoughts
This seasoning is truly a game changer. It’s that perfect blend of savory, herby, and aromatic—everything you want your Thanksgiving turkey to taste like. I love that I can control the ingredients and adjust it exactly to my liking—sometimes I add extra sage for that cozy holiday flavor, or smoked paprika when I want a little more depth.
The brown sugar is my secret touch—it helps give the turkey that gorgeous, golden-brown finish that looks picture-perfect on the holiday table.
Every time I make this, my family says, “What did you do to the turkey this year?!” And the answer is always this homemade blend.
This seasoning also works beautifully on chicken, pork, roasted veggies, and even stuffing. It’s one of those versatile blends you’ll end up reaching for all year long.
Tips & Notes
- Butter it up: Mix 2 tablespoons of the seasoning with ½ cup softened butter and spread under the skin before roasting.
- For brined turkeys: Reduce salt in the mix or skip it entirely.
- Use as a dry rub: Massage directly into turkey skin with a little oil before baking or air frying.
- Make it smoky: Swap in smoked paprika or add a touch of cumin.
Perfect Pairings for Your Holiday Table
Brown Sugar Maple Sweet Potato Rounds – buttery, caramelized, and the perfect sweet side.
Cheesy Crockpot Kielbasa and Potatoes – creamy and comforting.
Homemade Garlic Knots – soft, buttery, and a crowd-pleaser.
Christmas Jam – sweet, festive, and perfect for biscuits or leftover turkey sandwiches.
A Little Note from Jennie
There’s something magical about a perfectly seasoned turkey—it brings everyone together and fills your home with that warm, cozy holiday aroma.
This Homemade Turkey Seasoning is my go-to blend every single year, and it’s the reason my turkey always turns out juicy, flavorful, and absolutely beautiful. Once you make it from scratch, you’ll never buy store-bought again.
