Last Updated on October 16, 2024
This Cajun-spiced turkey is sure to bring bold flavors to your holiday table! With a blend of herbs, smoked paprika, and a touch of cayenne, this recipe turns a classic ButcherBox turkey into a mouthwatering centerpiece. Roasted on a bed of mirepoix, the turkey stays juicy while creating the base for a delicious homemade gravy. Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just want a flavorful twist, this Cajun turkey will be a hit!
Jason’s Spectacular Cajun Butter Turkey Roast
Ingredients
- 1 whole ButcherBox turkey 10-12 lbs, thawed
- ¼ cup kosher salt
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large onion
- 2 carrots
- 2 celery stalks
- 4 garlic cloves
- 3 cups chicken stock or turkey stock
Instructions
Homework: 48 Hours Before Cooking
- Refer to “How to Dry-Brine Turkey”
On the Day of Thanksgiving
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a bowl, mix together the softened butter, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
- Roughly chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Place them in the bottom of your roasting pan to form a bed for the turkey.
How to Cook
- Take the turkey out of the fridge. Rub the Cajun herb butter all over the turkey, including under the skin (especially over the breast).
- Fold the wings back under the turkey to prevent them from burning, but do not truss the legs.
- Place the turkey on top of the mirepoix in the roasting pan.
- Pour 2-3 cups of stock into the bottom of the pan.
- Transfer to the oven and roast for approximately 2 ½ to 3 ½ hours, or until the thickest part of the breast registers 155°F to 160°F on a meat thermometer.
- Every 30-45 minutes, baste the turkey with the juices and melted butter in the bottom of the pan. If needed, add more stock to the pan.
- Once it reaches the desired temperature, remove the turkey from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
- You can use the pan drippings along with the mirepoix to create a flavorful gravy. Strain the liquid and simmer it in a pot, adjusting seasonings as necessary.
Notes
Jason’s Cajun Butter Turkey Roast
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