Maple-Butter Roast Turkey with Garlic-Herb Compound Butter

This Maple-Butter Roast Turkey with Garlic-Herb Compound Butter is the ultimate centerpiece for any fall or holiday dinner. Juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor, this turkey combines the sweet caramel notes of maple syrup with the savory depth of fresh herbs and garlic. Every bite is infused with buttery richness — perfect for cozy, romantic dinners or festive gatherings alike.

Why You’ll Love This Maple-Butter Roast Turkey
🍁 Sweet & Savory Perfection: Maple syrup adds a gorgeous glaze and subtle sweetness.
🧈 Buttery & Juicy: The garlic-herb compound butter keeps the turkey moist and flavorful.
🌿 Aromatic & Elegant: Fresh herbs like thyme, sage, and rosemary create a show-stopping aroma.
🍽️ Holiday-Ready: Ideal for Thanksgiving, fall dinner parties, or any special meal for two.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Garlic-Herb Compound Butter

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh sage, finely chopped
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Maple-Butter Glaze

• ¼ cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for a touch of tang)

For the Turkey

• 1 small turkey breast or half turkey (about 2–3 lbs) — perfect for two
• Salt and black pepper
• 1 lemon, halved
• Fresh herbs (extra thyme, sage, and rosemary) for roasting

How to Make Maple-Butter Roast Turkey

Step 1 – Prepare the Compound Butter:
In a small bowl, combine softened butter, garlic, chopped herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy.

Step 2 – Prep the Turkey:
Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Gently loosen the skin and spread half of the herb butter underneath. Rub the remaining butter all over the outside.

Step 3 – Roast:
Place the turkey in a roasting pan on a bed of herbs and lemon halves. Roast in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 60–90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 4 – Glaze with Maple Butter:
In the last 20 minutes of roasting, brush the turkey generously with the maple-butter glaze. Let it caramelize to a golden, glossy finish.

Step 5 – Rest & Serve:
Remove from the oven, tent with foil, and rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Drizzle any pan juices over the top for extra flavor.

Tips for Success

🧈 Use room-temperature butter so it spreads evenly under the skin.
🍋 Don’t skip the lemon — it adds brightness and balance.
🍁 Brush extra glaze just before serving for that beautiful sheen.
🔥 Use a thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked, juicy turkey.

Serving Ideas

This turkey pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes
• Green beans with almonds
• Cranberry-orange relish
• Buttery dinner rolls or rustic bread

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes! This recipe works wonderfully with a whole chicken or chicken breasts — just reduce the cooking time.

How do I make it ahead?
Prepare the compound butter and glaze up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before using.

What can I do with leftovers?
Slice leftover turkey for sandwiches, grain bowls, or toss into soups — it’s delicious in every form.

Conclusion

This Maple-Butter Roast Turkey with Garlic-Herb Compound Butter is a rich, aromatic, and heartwarming dish that embodies the best of fall. With its sweet maple glaze, buttery herbs, and golden crisp skin, it’s a meal that feels special yet simple enough for a cozy dinner for two. Serve it with a glass of wine and let the evening feel like a harvest celebration. 🍁🦃✨