Spatchcock Turkey with Herb Butter has become my go-to holiday showstopper! I still remember the first time I tried this method; I was so nervous about tackling a whole turkey, but the results were absolutely incredible. The kitchen filled with the most amazing aromas of roasting herbs and savory butter, and when I pulled it out of the oven, the skin was perfectly crispy, and the meat was unbelievably juicy. This easy spatchcock turkey herb butter recipe truly transforms a traditional bird into something extraordinary, providing a beautifully flattened turkey with savory butter that cooks evenly every time. You’ll love how tender and flavorful each bite is, and you won’t believe how much faster it cooks. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Spatchcock Turkey with Herb Butter

I genuinely believe this method will change your holiday cooking for the better. This isn’t just another turkey recipe; it’s a game-changer that delivers incredible flavor and convenience. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore making this:

It produces the most incredibly tender and juicy spatchcock turkey herb butter you’ve ever tasted, thanks to even cooking.
The prep time is surprisingly quick, and the faster cooking time means less stress on a busy holiday.
You’ll achieve perfectly crispy skin every single time, which is always a crowd-pleaser.
This roast spatchcock turkey with herb butter recipe is more efficient, making it a budget-friendly option since every part cooks beautifully.
It’s a fantastic main dish that’s family-friendly and impressive enough for any special occasion.
The aromatic herb butter infuses every bite with a savory, unforgettable flavor.

Ingredients for Spatchcock Turkey with Herb Butter

To create this incredibly flavorful and juicy turkey, I’ve carefully selected ingredients that work together to maximize taste and moisture. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious spatchcock turkey with herb butter:

1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey – This size is perfect for spatchcocking and feeds a crowd.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Essential for creating that amazing herb butter, and softening ensures easy mixing.
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped – Rosemary adds a robust, piney aroma that pairs beautifully with poultry.
2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped – Sage brings an earthy, slightly peppery note, classic for Thanksgiving.
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped – Thyme offers a delicate, subtly floral flavor that complements the other herbs.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Aromatic garlic infuses the butter with pungent goodness.
1 teaspoon salt – Crucial for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a touch of warmth and spice.
1 onion, quartered – These will go under the turkey, adding flavor to the drippings and helping lift the bird.
2 carrots, roughly chopped – Another aromatic vegetable for the roasting pan base.
2 celery stalks, roughly chopped – Completes the classic mirepoix base for extra flavor.

The combination of softened butter and fresh herbs forms a perfect compound butter for spatchcock turkey, ensuring every bite is rich and aromatic.

How to Make Spatchcock Turkey with Herb Butter

I’m so excited to walk you through the process of creating this incredible Spatchcock Turkey with Herb Butter. It might seem daunting at first, but I promise, these simple steps will guide you to a perfectly roasted, juicy bird every time. This method, along with the fragrant herb butter, is truly a game-changer for holiday meals.

Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to a robust 425°F (220°C). This high initial heat helps achieve that coveted crispy skin. While the oven heats, remove the neck and giblets from your turkey and pat the entire bird very dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures a wonderfully crisp exterior.
Step 2: Now, let’s learn how to spatchcock a turkey and use herb butter effectively. Place your turkey breast-side down on a large cutting board. Using sturdy kitchen shears, carefully cut along both sides of the backbone, from the tail to the neck. Once cut, remove the backbone completely.
Step 3: Flip the turkey breast-side up. Using the heel of your hand, press firmly down on the breastbone until you hear a crack and the turkey flattens out. This creates your butterflied turkey with herb butter, allowing it to cook more evenly and quickly.
Step 4: In a small bowl, combine your softened unsalted butter, chopped fresh rosemary, chopped fresh sage, chopped fresh thyme, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until you have a fragrant, well-combined herb butter. The aroma alone is divine!
Step 5: Gently slide your fingers under the turkey skin, starting from the neck opening, to create pockets over the breast and thigh meat. Be careful not to tear the skin. Spread about half of your aromatic herb butter mixture evenly under the skin, pushing it as far as you can. This is key for juicy meat.
Step 6: With the remaining herb butter, generously coat the entire exterior of the turkey skin. Don’t be shy; this creates a beautiful golden crust and infuses the skin with incredible flavor. These herb butter roasted flattened turkey instructions ensure maximum taste.
Step 7: Arrange the quartered onion, chopped carrots, and chopped celery directly on a large roasting pan. Place your prepared spatchcocked turkey with herb butter on top of these vegetables. They’ll lift the turkey slightly, allowing for better air circulation, and contribute to delicious pan drippings.
Step 8: Roast the turkey for 60-90 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (without touching bone) registers 165°F (74°C). Keep an eye on it; cooking time can vary based on your oven and the turkey’s exact size. The skin should be deeply golden and sizzling.
Step 9: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven. This is a very important step for a truly juicy spatchcock turkey with herb butter. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for a full 15-20 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is wonderfully moist and flavorful.

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Pro Tips for the Best Spatchcock Turkey with Herb Butter

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that truly elevate this Spatchcock Turkey with Herb Butter from great to absolutely unforgettable. Trust me, these small details make a huge difference in achieving that perfect, juicy, and flavorful bird.

Always start with a very dry turkey. Patting it thoroughly with paper towels before applying the herb butter ensures the crispiest skin imaginable.
Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there! Spreading the herb butter directly under the skin is key for infusing the meat with flavor and moisture.
Use fresh herbs whenever possible. They provide a much more vibrant and aromatic flavor profile compared to dried herbs, especially in this recipe.
Let your turkey rest! This is non-negotiable. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a much juicier turkey when carved.

What’s the secret to a perfectly crispy Spatchcock Turkey with Herb Butter?

The main secret lies in two key steps: thoroughly drying the turkey’s skin before applying the herb butter, and roasting it at a high temperature. These tips for spatchcock turkey with herb butter ensure that moisture evaporates quickly, leading to that coveted golden, crackling skin we all love.

Can I make the herb butter for this Spatchcock Turkey ahead of time?

Absolutely! I often prepare the herb butter a day or two in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients, form it into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic, and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let it soften slightly at room temperature before spreading.

How do I avoid common mistakes when preparing Spatchcock Turkey with Herb Butter?

One common mistake is not fully flattening the turkey, which leads to uneven cooking. Another is over-roasting; always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh, then let it rest. This prevents a dry spatchcock turkey with herb butter.

Best Ways to Serve Spatchcock Turkey with Herb Butter

Once you’ve mastered this incredible Spatchcock Turkey with Herb Butter, you’ll want to showcase it beautifully. I always think about how to make the entire meal special, and this turkey is definitely the star. Here are my favorite ways to serve it, making any occasion feel festive.

For a classic holiday spread, this Thanksgiving spatchcock turkey herb butter pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, and a vibrant green bean casserole. The rich flavors of the turkey complement these traditional sides wonderfully, creating a truly memorable feast. Don’t forget a homemade gravy made from the pan drippings!

If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, I love serving slices of this juicy bird alongside a fresh cranberry sauce and a crisp autumn salad featuring ingredients like apples, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the turkey without feeling too heavy, allowing its aromatic herb butter flavors to shine.

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Nutrition Facts for Spatchcock Turkey with Herb Butter

I know many of you are curious about the nutritional breakdown, especially when planning a holiday meal. Here’s an estimate for one serving of this delicious Spatchcock Turkey with Herb Butter, which typically yields 8-10 servings:

Serving Size: 4 oz cooked turkey
Calories: 350
Protein: 30g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 0g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 250mg
Cholesterol: 100mg

Please remember that these nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the exact lean-to-fat ratio of your turkey or the amount of butter absorbed. This flavorful spatchcock turkey with aromatic butter is a fantastic source of protein.

How to Store and Reheat Spatchcock Turkey with Herb Butter

I always make sure to cook enough to have leftovers, because this Spatchcock Turkey with Herb Butter is just as delicious the next day! Proper storage is key to enjoying your hard work for days to come. After your amazing meal, allow any leftover turkey to cool completely at room temperature, which usually takes about 30-60 minutes, before storing.

For refrigeration, carve the remaining turkey off the bone and store it in airtight containers. It will keep beautifully in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked turkey for up to 3 months. Just wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the turkey gently to maintain its moisture. I usually place slices in a baking dish with a splash of broth or water, cover it with foil, and warm it in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through. This careful holiday spatchcock turkey herb butter preparation ensures your leftovers are just as delightful as the first serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spatchcock Turkey with Herb Butter

What is spatchcock turkey herb butter?

A spatchcock turkey with herb butter refers to a whole turkey that has had its backbone removed, allowing it to be flattened before roasting. This method is then enhanced by rubbing a flavorful compound butter, typically made with fresh herbs, garlic, and seasoning, both under and over the skin. It’s a technique I swear by for a perfectly cooked bird!

Why spatchcock turkey with herb butter?

There are several compelling reasons why spatchcock turkey with herb butter is my preferred method! First, flattening the turkey ensures more even cooking, eliminating the common problem of dry breast meat and undercooked thighs. Second, it significantly reduces roasting time. Finally, the herb butter infuses every part of the meat with incredible flavor and helps create that irresistibly crisp, golden skin we all crave.

Can I use frozen turkey for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a frozen turkey, but ensure it’s completely thawed before you begin the spatchcocking process. A partially frozen turkey will be incredibly difficult to flatten and will not cook evenly. I recommend thawing it in the refrigerator for several days, allowing about 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds of turkey.

What if I don’t have kitchen shears strong enough to spatchcock?

If you don’t have heavy-duty kitchen shears, a sharp chef’s knife can be used, though it requires more caution. Alternatively, you can ask your butcher to spatchcock the turkey for you when you purchase it. Many butchers are happy to do this, saving you the effort and ensuring a perfectly flattened bird for your spatchcock turkey with herb butter.

Variations of Spatchcock Turkey You Can Try

While I adore the classic Spatchcock Turkey with Herb Butter, I also love experimenting with different flavors and approaches. This method is incredibly versatile, allowing for many delicious variations to suit your taste or dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

Smoky Spatchcock Turkey: For a delicious twist, try smoking your spatchcock turkey rather than roasting. The flattened bird cooks beautifully on a smoker, infusing it with a rich, smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with a slightly spicy compound butter.
Citrus-Herb Spatchcock Turkey: Instead of just savory herbs, incorporate fresh citrus zest – lemon, orange, or lime – into your butter. This brightens the flavor profile, creating a tangy and incredibly flavorful spatchcock turkey with aromatic butter that’s perfect for a lighter meal.
Spice-Rubbed Spatchcock Turkey: Skip the butter entirely for a dairy-free option. Create a dry rub with your favorite spices like paprika, cumin, cayenne, and garlic powder. Rub it generously all over the turkey for a bold, crispy skin.
Mediterranean Spatchcock Turkey: Infuse your butter with Mediterranean flavors like oregano, marjoram, and a touch of sun-dried tomato paste. Serve with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and olives for a complete meal.

Each variation brings its own unique character to the table, proving just how adaptable and delightful a spatchcocked turkey can be.

Spatchcock Turkey Herb Butter: A 60-Minute Wonder!

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Author: Margaret
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

Discover how to make a juicy Spatchcock Turkey with Herb Butter. This recipe provides a crispy skin and significantly reduces roasting time, perfect for a flavorful holiday meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 onion, quartered
2 carrots, roughly chopped
2 celery stalks, roughly chopped

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Prepare the turkey by removing the neck and giblets. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
Spatchcock the turkey: Place the turkey breast-side down. Using sturdy kitchen shears, cut along both sides of the backbone. Remove the backbone.
Flip the turkey breast-side up and press firmly on the breastbone until it flattens. This creates a butterflied turkey.
In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, chopped fresh rosemary, chopped fresh sage, chopped fresh thyme, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. This is your herb butter.
Gently separate the skin from the breast and thigh meat without detaching it. Spread half of the herb butter mixture evenly under the skin.
Spread the remaining herb butter over the entire surface of the turkey skin.
Arrange the quartered onion, chopped carrots, and chopped celery on a large roasting pan. Place the spatchcocked turkey on top of the vegetables.
Roast the turkey for 60-90 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F (74°C). The cooking time for this flattened turkey with savory butter will vary based on turkey size.
Let the roasted spatchcock turkey with herb butter rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This ensures a juicy spatchcock turkey.

Notes

For extra crispy skin on your spatchcock turkey, pat it very dry before applying the herb butter.
You can prepare the herb compound butter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
To prevent the turkey skin from browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil during the last part of roasting.
Save the backbone and giblets to make a flavorful stock or gravy for your Thanksgiving spatchcock turkey.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 90 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American