Getting ready for the holidays? Look no further than a deliciously moist and flavorful turkey! A good turkey brine can make all the difference in achieving that perfect balance of juicy meat and crispy skin. But why settle for just any old brine when you can try something new and exciting? In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 savory turkey brine recipes to spice up your holiday gatherings.
From classic herb and garlic to bold flavors like smoky chipotle and spicy Cajun, there’s a turkey brine recipe on this list for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a sweet and tangy flavor or something more savory and umami, we’ve got you covered. So why wait? Dive in and discover the perfect turkey brine recipe for your next holiday feast.
Classic Herb and Garlic Turkey Brine
Elevate your turkey game with this simple yet flavorful brine recipe. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, this classic combination of herbs and garlic will leave your bird juicy and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 gallon water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine kosher salt, brown sugar, and 1 gallon of water. Heat until the salt and sugar dissolve.
2. Remove from heat and add thyme, rosemary, garlic, and lemon slices. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Place turkey in a large container or brining bag, and pour the cooled brine over it. Ensure the turkey is fully submerged.
4. Refrigerate for 8-12 hours or overnight (up to 24 hours).
5. Remove turkey from brine, pat dry with paper towels, and cook as desired.
Cooking Time: Not applicable (brining time varies)
Apple Cider and Brown Sugar Turkey Brine
Transform your turkey with the sweet and tangy flavors of apple cider and brown sugar. This brine is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy holiday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 2 tbsp black peppercorns
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, kosher salt, and brown sugar. Heat until the salt and sugar dissolve.
2. Remove from heat and stir in apple cider, black peppercorns, garlic, and thyme.
3. Let the brine cool to room temperature.
4. Place turkey in a large container or zip-top bag. Pour the cooled brine over the turkey, making sure it’s completely covered.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
6. Before roasting, remove the turkey from the brine and pat dry with paper towels.
Cooking Time:
The brining time will depend on your schedule. If you’re short on time, try to brine for at least 2 hours. Longer is better!
Citrus and Rosemary Turkey Brine
Citrus and Rosemary Turkey Brine: A flavorful and aromatic brine that combines the brightness of citrus with the earthy undertones of rosemary, perfect for a stress-free holiday turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 gallon water
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine kosher salt, brown sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve.
2. Remove from heat and add sliced orange and lemon, sprigs of rosemary, and minced garlic. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the brine mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large container or bucket. Discard the solids.
4. Submerge turkey in the brine, making sure it’s fully covered. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a pre-cooking step. Your turkey will be tender and flavorful when cooked according to your preferred method (roasted, grilled, etc.).
Spicy Cajun Turkey Brine
Elevate your turkey game with this spicy Cajun-inspired brine, perfect for a flavorful and aromatic holiday centerpiece.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 gallon water
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning blend (containing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine salt, sugar, water, apple cider vinegar, and Cajun seasoning blend. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
3. Add parsley and garlic to the brine. Stir well.
4. Submerge turkey in the cooled brine, making sure it’s fully covered.
5. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
Cooking Time:
– Recommended cooking time is based on the turkey’s size and method of cooking (roasting, grilling, etc.). Follow package instructions or consult a trusted cookbook for guidance.
Maple Bourbon Turkey Brine
This sweet and savory brine elevates your turkey game with the rich flavors of maple syrup, bourbon, and herbs. Perfect for a special occasion or holiday feast!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 tbsp black peppercorns
– 2 tbsp coriander seeds
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– 1 gallon water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine salt, sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, black peppercorns, and coriander seeds.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Add thyme and rosemary sprigs to the brine.
5. Submerge turkey in the brine, cover with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate for at least 2 days (or up to 4 days).
6. Before cooking, remove turkey from brine and pat dry with paper towels.
Cooking Time:
– Turkey should be fully cooked after roasting at 325°F (165°C) for about 4-4 1/2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Honey Mustard Turkey Brine
Give your turkey a flavor boost with this sweet and tangy honey mustard brine. Perfect for the holidays or any special occasion, this easy-to-make brine will add a depth of flavor to your roasted turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1/2 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 sprig fresh thyme
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, salt, brown sugar, and honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and honey dissolve.
2. Remove from heat and add Dijon mustard, garlic, and thyme. Stir to combine.
3. Allow the brine to cool to room temperature.
4. Place your turkey in a large container or bag, making sure it’s fully submerged in the cooled brine.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
6. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the turkey from the brine and pat dry with paper towels.
7. Roast the turkey according to your recipe.
Cooking Time: Varies depending on turkey size and cooking method.
Smoky Chipotle Turkey Brine
Elevate your turkey game with this bold and smoky brine, infused with the deep flavors of chipotle peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine water, salt, and sugar. Stir until dissolved.
2. Add chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, black pepper, and garlic to the brine. Whisk well to combine.
3. Submerge turkey (thawed) in the brine, making sure it’s fully covered.
4. Refrigerate for 12-24 hours or overnight.
5. Remove turkey from brine and pat dry with paper towels before cooking.
Cooking Time:
– For a whole turkey, cook according to your preferred method, such as roasting or grilling, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Ginger Soy Turkey Brine
Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic brine infused with the warmth of ginger and the savory depth of soy sauce, perfect for a stress-free holiday feast or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, salt, and sugar. Heat until the sugar and salt dissolve.
2. Add ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and black peppercorns to the pot. Stir well.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Place turkey (thawed) in a large container or zip-top plastic bag. Pour brine over the turkey, making sure it’s fully submerged.
5. Refrigerate for 8-12 hours or overnight.
6. After brining, pat dry with paper towels before roasting or grilling as desired.
Cooking Time: None, this is a prep step!
Pineapple and Jalapeño Turkey Brine
Elevate your turkey game with this unique blend of pineapple, jalapeño, and herbs. This brine adds a tangy, slightly spicy flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 jalapeños, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, kosher salt, and brown sugar. Heat until the sugar and salt dissolve.
2. Add pineapple juice, cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, and thyme to the brine mixture.
3. Bring the brine to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Place turkey in a large container or brining bag. Pour the cooled brine over the turkey, making sure it’s fully submerged.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
7. Before cooking, remove turkey from brine and pat dry with paper towels.
Cooking Time: Not included in this recipe, as cooking time will depend on the desired level of doneness and your preferred cooking method.
Beer and Brown Sugar Turkey Brine
Elevate your turkey game with this sweet and savory brine, perfect for a holiday feast or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 gallon beer (any style)
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tbsp black peppercorns
– 2 tbsp coriander seeds
– 2 tbsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine brown sugar, beer, salt, black peppercorns, coriander seeds, garlic powder, and thyme.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Place turkey in a large container or brining bag; pour the cooled brine over the turkey.
5. Seal the container or bag, ensuring the turkey is fully submerged in the brine.
6. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight (up to 24 hours).
Cooking Time:
– Turkey will be ready to roast after brining.
Lemon Pepper Turkey Brine
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your turkey with this refreshing lemon pepper brine. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, this simple recipe yields a deliciously moist and aromatic bird.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp black peppercorns
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– 1 turkey (3-4 lbs)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, salt, brown sugar, lemon juice, peppercorns, and thyme.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Place the turkey in a large container or brining bag, and pour the cooled brine over it.
5. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight (up to 24 hours).
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove turkey from brine, pat dry with paper towels, and roast as desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours, depending on the size of your turkey.
Cranberry and Orange Turkey Brine
Elevate your turkey game with this unique brine recipe that combines the tartness of cranberries with the brightness of orange. Perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tbsp grated orange zest
– 2 tsp black peppercorns
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine salt, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
2. Remove from heat and add cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and black peppercorns. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Chill the brine in the refrigerator before using. To use, submerge turkey (thawed) in the brine for 8-12 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove turkey from brine and pat dry with paper towels. Cook turkey according to your preferred method.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours, depending on turkey size
Garlic Butter Turkey Brine
Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic brine infused with garlic and butter, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1/2 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
Instructions:
1. In a large container or bucket, combine water, kosher salt, and brown sugar. Stir until dissolved.
2. Add melted butter, garlic, and thyme to the brine mixture. Stir well to combine.
3. Submerge turkey (thawed) in the brine solution, making sure it’s fully covered.
4. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours for maximum flavor absorption.
5. After brining, pat dry with paper towels and cook the turkey as desired.
Cooking Time:
– Brining time: 24-48 hours
– Cooking time (roasting/baking): approximately 2-3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F
Herbes de Provence Turkey Brine
Elevate your holiday turkey game with this aromatic and savory Herbes de Provence-inspired brine. This French herbal blend adds a depth of flavor to the traditional turkey, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Herbes de Provence (thyme, rosemary, oregano, lavender)
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, salt, and brown sugar. Heat until the salt and sugar dissolve.
2. Add Herbes de Provence, lemon slices, and garlic to the brine mixture. Stir well.
3. Submerge the turkey in the brine, making sure it’s fully covered.
4. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight (up to 24 hours).
5. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the turkey from the brine and pat dry with paper towels before roasting.
Cooking Time: approximately 3-4 hours, depending on the turkey’s size and desired level of doneness.
Sweet Tea Turkey Brine
Elevate your turkey game with this sweet tea-infused brine, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. This recipe combines the classic flavors of Thanksgiving with the warmth and comfort of sweet tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 quart sweet tea (brewed strong)
– 2 tbsp black peppercorns
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, kosher salt, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Heat until the sugars dissolve.
2. Add sweet tea, black peppercorns, thyme, and garlic powder to the pot. Stir well.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Submerge turkey in the brine, making sure it’s fully covered. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
5. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove turkey from brine, pat dry with paper towels. Roast as desired.
Cooking Time: At least 2-3 hours, depending on the size of your turkey.
Smoked Paprika and Sage Turkey Brine
Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic brine featuring smoky paprika and earthy sage.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh sage
– 2 tbsp black peppercorns
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine water, kosher salt, and brown sugar. Stir until dissolved.
2. Add smoked paprika, chopped sage, and black peppercorns to the brine mixture. Stir well.
3. Place the turkey in a large container or zip-top bag that can fit in your refrigerator. Pour the brine mixture over the turkey, making sure it’s fully submerged.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 days or up to 5 days. Every day, massage the turkey and flip the bag.
5. Remove the turkey from the brine, pat dry with paper towels, and cook according to your preferred method (roasting, grilling, etc.).
Cooking Time:
– Cooking time will depend on the cooking method you choose.
White Wine and Thyme Turkey Brine
This flavorful brine combines the subtle nuances of white wine with the aromatic essence of thyme to create a truly memorable turkey dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 cups white wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio work well)
– 2 cups water
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 lemon, quartered
– 1 turkey (thawed), about 12-14 pounds
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine salt, sugar, and 2 cups of the white wine. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
2. Add the water, thyme, lemon quarters, and remaining white wine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Submerge the turkey in the cooled brine, making sure it’s fully covered.
5. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight (up to 24 hours).
6. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove turkey from brine, pat dry with paper towels, and roast as desired.
Cooking Time: Allow 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Pomegranate and Rosemary Turkey Brine
Elevate your holiday turkey game with this flavorful brine recipe that combines the tartness of pomegranate juice, the earthiness of rosemary, and the richness of brown sugar. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup pomegranate juice (100% juice)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, kosher salt, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
2. Remove from heat and add pomegranate juice, rosemary leaves, and black peppercorns. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Submerge a turkey (thawed) in the brine solution, making sure it’s fully covered. Refrigerate for 12-24 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the turkey from the brine, pat dry with paper towels, and cook as desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours at 325°F (165°C)
Five-Spice Turkey Brine
This aromatic brine infuses your turkey with the warm, spicy flavors of five essential spices, creating a deliciously moist and flavorful bird perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons five-spice powder (Chinese-style)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, salt, brown sugar, five-spice powder, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring until sugar and salt dissolve.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
4. Place turkey in the brine, breast-side down. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
5. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Remove turkey from brine and pat dry with paper towels.
6. Roast turkey as desired, or cook according to your preferred method.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Vanilla and Cinnamon Turkey Brine
A flavorful brine that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of vanilla, perfect for a moist and aromatic turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground vanilla powder (or 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine kosher salt, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring until sugars dissolve.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Add milk, melted butter, cinnamon, and vanilla powder (or extract). Whisk until combined.
4. Place turkey in a large container or brining bag. Pour the brine over the turkey, making sure it’s fully submerged.
5. Refrigerate for 12-14 hours or overnight.
6. Before roasting, remove turkey from brine and pat dry with paper towels.
Cooking Time: Not applicable (brining only). Roast turkey according to your preferred method and timing.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your holiday turkey game with these 20 savory brine recipes! From classic herb and garlic to sweet tea and smoky chipotle, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a bold flavor boost or a subtle hint of spice, these turkey brines will make your bird the star of the show. Try out unique combinations like apple cider and brown sugar or pineapple and jalapeño for a taste of something new. Whichever one you choose, be sure to impress your guests with a deliciously moist and flavorful turkey this holiday season!
