Cajun Spiced Roast Turkey Recipe

This Cajun Spiced Roast Turkey Recipe brings a flavorful twist to your Thanksgiving table. With a blend of spices that deliver a kick of heat, this turkey is sure to impress your guests and elevate your holiday feast.

The preparation is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. This recipe ensures a juicy turkey with a crispy skin, perfect for your Thanksgiving celebration.

Flavorful Cajun Roast Turkey for Thanksgiving

This roast turkey is seasoned with a homemade Cajun spice blend, resulting in a deliciously aromatic dish. The recipe takes approximately 4 hours from start to finish and serves 10-12 people, making it ideal for family gatherings.

Ingredients

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 lemon, quartered
1 onion, quartered
Fresh herbs (such as thyme and rosemary) for stuffing

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the turkey giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
Make the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, mix together the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Add olive oil to create a paste.
Season the Turkey: Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey, including under the skin for maximum flavor. Stuff the cavity with lemon, onion, and fresh herbs.
Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 3 to 3.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
Baste Occasionally: Baste the turkey with its juices every 30-45 minutes to keep it moist and enhance the flavor.
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute for a moist turkey.