Cajun Turkey
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
20 mins
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Cook Time
4 hrs
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Additional Time
1 d
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Total Time
1 d 4 hrs 20 mins
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Servings
15
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Calories
352 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Cajun Turkey
Description
Cajun Turkey combines a custom spice blend including sweet and smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper, giving the turkey a vibrant and spicy crust. The method involves optionally brining the bird to enhance moisture, then rubbing the softened butter mixed with Cajun seasoning under the skin and over the surface to impart flavor throughout. Aromatics of onion, celery, and green bell pepper placed inside the cavity slowly release savory notes during roasting. Roasting begins at 425°F to brown and crisp the skin, then continues at 350°F, with periodic basting to maintain moisture. The roasting time is approximately 3 1/2 hours for a 15-pound bird. This technique produces a turkey with a crisp exterior and a well-seasoned, juicy interior.
The turkey is suited to a main course centerpiece at holiday meals or special dinners, served alongside traditional sides. The Cajun seasoning offers a balance of warmth and subtle heat, enhancing without overpowering the natural turkey flavor.
For larger turkeys over 15 pounds, increase the roasting time by 15 minutes per additional pound. Using a rack for roasting helps prevent the bird from sitting in drippings, promoting even cooking and crisper skin. Store-bought Cajun seasoning can substitute the homemade blend for convenience, using about 1/4 cup.
Ingredients
For the Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon paprika sweet
- 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano dried
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme dried
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
For the turkey
- 1 recipe turkey brine optional but highly recommended
- 15 lb turkey
- 10 tablespoons butter softened
- 1 small onion quartered
- 1 talk celery cut into 2 inch pieces
- 1/2 green bell pepper seeded and cored
- herbs optional, fresh, for garnish
- Fruit optional, fresh, for garnish
Instructions
For the Cajun seasoning
- Place all the seasoning ingredients in a small bowl and stir to combine.
For the turkey
- Prepare the brine according to recipe directions. Brine the turkey for 18-24 hours before cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
- Remove the turkey from the brine; rinse and pat dry. Let the turkey stand at room temperature for 20 minutes. Tuck the turkey wings under the body.
- Place the onion, celery and bell pepper into the cavity of the turkey. Tie the turkey legs together with kitchen twine.
- Place the Cajun seasoning and butter in a bowl and stir until well combined.
- Rub the Cajun spice butter all over the outside of the turkey and under the skin of the breast.
- Place the turkey in a roasting pan and bake for 30 minutes.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees F and continue roasting, basting the turkey every 30 minutes with pan drippings, until the turkey is done.
- This process will take approximately 3 1/2 hours and you'll know that the turkey is done when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the turkey thigh or breast registers at least 165 degrees F.
- If the turkey seems like it's getting overly browned during the cooking process, cover it with foil.
- Remove the turkey from the oven and tent loosely with foil. Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes. Slice, then serve.
- Garnish with fruit and herbs if desired.
Notes
- Increase cooking time by 15 minutes per pound if your turkey weighs more than 15 pounds.
- Store-bought Cajun seasoning can be used instead of homemade; use about 1/4 cup.
- Roast the turkey on a rack to prevent it from sitting in drippings and to help crisp the skin evenly.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 15Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 352 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 352kcal | 18% |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | 0% |
| Protein | 66g | 132% |
| Fat | 16g | 25% |
| Saturated Fat | 8g | 40% |
| Cholesterol | 236mg | 79% |
| Sodium | 514mg | 21% |
| Potassium | 733mg | 16% |
| Vitamin A | 390IU | 8% |
| Vitamin C | 4.1mg | 5% |
| Calcium | 40mg | 4% |
| Iron | 2.7mg | 15% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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