Turkey Rub Recipe
Introduction
This flavorful turkey rub is a simple yet aromatic blend of herbs and spices that enhances the natural taste of your bird. Perfect for roasting, it adds a savory crust that locks in moisture and flavor.

Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Step 1: Place all the ingredients in a small bowl and stir until they are well combined.
- Step 2: Rub the spice mixture all over your turkey, making sure to get some under the skin for deeper flavor.
- Step 3: Cook the turkey as desired, whether roasting, smoking, or grilling.
Tips & Variations
- Make the spice rub up to 2 months in advance and store it in an airtight container for convenience.
- For a smoky twist, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika in place of regular paprika.
- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried if available, but reduce quantities by half since fresh herbs are more potent.
Storage
Store any leftover spice rub in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to two months. If applied to turkey, leftovers should be refrigerated and used within 3-4 days. Reheat cooked turkey gently to preserve moisture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use this rub on other meats?
Yes, this spice blend works well on chicken, pork, and even roasted vegetables, adding a savory herbaceous flavor.
Should I apply the rub to the inside of the turkey as well?
Applying some rub under the skin and inside the cavity can enhance the overall flavor, but avoid putting salt directly inside the cavity to prevent over-seasoning.
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Turkey Rub Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes prep + turkey cooking time
- Yield: Enough rub for one whole turkey (approximately 12-16 pounds)
Description
This flavorful turkey rub combines a blend of herbs and spices including kosher salt, brown sugar, paprika, black pepper, thyme, rosemary, sage, garlic, and onion powders. It enhances the natural taste of your turkey by penetrating under the skin and throughout the meat, making it perfect for roasting or baking your turkey to juicy, aromatic perfection. The rub can be prepared in advance and stored, making meal prep easier for holidays or special occasions.
Ingredients
Turkey Rub Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place all the ingredients into a small bowl and stir well until fully combined to create an even spice rub mixture.
- Apply Rub to Turkey: Thoroughly rub the spice mixture all over the entire turkey surface, ensuring to also work some of the rub underneath the skin for deeper flavor infusion.
- Cook the Turkey: Prepare your turkey using your preferred cooking method such as roasting or baking as desired, allowing the rub to flavor the meat during cooking.
- Store the Rub: The spice rub can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 months, preserving its freshness and convenience for future use.
Notes
- Ensure to apply the rub under the turkey skin for maximum flavor penetration.
- This rub is suitable for roasting or baking turkey but can be adapted for other poultry as well.
- Store any unused rub in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 2 months.
- Adjust salt quantity based on dietary preferences or restrictions.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: Varies depending on turkey size and cooking method (approximately 2 to 4 hours for roasting)
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: turkey rub, turkey seasoning, holiday turkey, spice rub, poultry seasoning, herb rub for turkey

