The aroma of roasted turkey wafts through the air, dancing with hints of sweetness and spice, making your mouth water in anticipation. The first bite offers a delightful crunch, followed by the tender juiciness of the turkey, perfectly balanced with a sweet and spicy glaze that will make your taste buds sing. pumpkin pie cupcakes
Thanksgiving dinners, holiday gatherings, or just a cozy Sunday dinner—there’s something magical about serving up a bird that not only looks stunning but tastes even better. I remember the first time I tried this Sweet And Spicy Roasted Turkey; it was an absolute hit at our family feast and left everyone asking for seconds (and maybe thirds).
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Sweet And Spicy Roasted Turkey is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion
- The flavor profile provides a perfect balance of sweetness and heat that everyone loves
- Its golden-brown exterior is visually stunning and will impress your guests
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served as leftovers in sandwiches or salads
I still chuckle when I think about how my cousin mistook the spices for dessert seasoning during our last Thanksgiving. Let’s just say it was an unforgettable meal!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this sausage alfredo pasta dish recipe.
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Whole Turkey: Select a fresh or thawed turkey weighing between 12-15 pounds for optimal roasting.
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Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and caramelization; using light brown sugar works best.
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Chili Powder: Choose your preferred heat level; it brings that sweet and spicy kick.
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Garlic Powder: A must-have for flavor depth; fresh garlic can also work well if you prefer. creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes. creamy potato soup.
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Olive Oil: Helps achieve crispy skin while keeping the meat moist.
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Soy Sauce: A secret ingredient for umami richness; low-sodium options are great for flavor control.
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Fresh Herbs (Thyme & Rosemary): Fresh herbs elevate flavors; they add freshness and aromatic notes.
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Lemon Juice: Brightens up the dish with acidity; use freshly squeezed juice for the best flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this slow cooker pulled beef recipe recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Preparation Phase: Getting Ready for Roasting: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). While it warms up, rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
The Flavorful Rub: Mixing It Up: In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, thyme, and rosemary until you have a thick paste. This mixture will be your secret weapon!
Coating the Turkey: Spice It Up!: Gently lift the skin of the turkey around the breast area and rub some of your spice mixture underneath. Cover every nook and cranny on top; don’t forget those legs!
The Roast: Into the Oven!: Place your turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a large pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 13 minutes per pound until its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Basting Time: Keep It Juicy!: Every 30 minutes or so, baste the turkey with pan juices for extra moisture. You’ll know it’s close when that golden-brown skin beckons!
The Final Touch: Resting Before Serving: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This step ensures juicy slices that won’t dry out.
And there you have it! Your Sweet And Spicy Roasted Turkey is ready to impress at any gathering. Just don’t forget to take pictures before everyone dives in—those golden hues deserve their moment!
You Must Know
- Mastering the Sweet And Spicy Roasted Turkey will elevate your holiday gatherings
- The balance of sweetness and spice creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen, leaving everyone asking for seconds
- This dish is perfect for celebrations, making it a true crowd-pleaser
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the turkey overnight to soak in flavors. Roast at 325°F, basting every 30 minutes for even cooking.
Add Your Touch
Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or add citrus zest for a fresh twist. Honey can also be swapped for maple syrup if you’re feeling adventurous.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat at 350°F until warmed through, keeping it moist with a bit of broth.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For juicy meat, let the turkey rest after roasting
- Always check internal temperature; it should reach 165°F
- Use fresh herbs to enhance flavor and aroma significantly
Creating my first Sweet And Spicy Roasted Turkey was a game changer; my family couldn’t stop raving about it during Thanksgiving dinner.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, chicken or pork can be used for this sweet and spicy flavor profile.
How long should I marinate the turkey?
Marinate the turkey overnight for optimal flavor absorption and tenderness.
What sides pair well with roasted turkey?
Roasted vegetables and cranberry sauce complement the sweet and spicy roasted turkey beautifully. zesty cranberry sauce.
Sweet And Spicy Roasted Turkey
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 1x
Description
Indulge in the mouthwatering delight of Sweet And Spicy Roasted Turkey, perfect for any festive occasion. This recipe combines the savory richness of turkey with a tantalizing blend of sweet and spicy flavors, resulting in a dish that will have your guests asking for seconds. With a golden-brown exterior and juicy meat inside, this turkey is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a stunning centerpiece for your dining table.
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (12–15 lbs)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tsp fresh thyme (chopped)
- 2 tsp fresh rosemary (chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Rinse the turkey thoroughly inside and out with cold water, then pat dry.
- In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, thyme, and rosemary to form a thick paste.
- Gently lift the turkey skin at the breast area and rub some spice mixture underneath; cover all surfaces with the remaining rub.
- Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a large pan and roast for approximately 13 minutes per pound until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Baste every 30 minutes to maintain moisture. Once cooked, let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 110mg





