How long should I brine the turkey?

For the best flavor, brine the turkey overnight. If you're short on time, a minimum of 4 hours will still make a difference.

Can I use this glaze on a smaller turkey or turkey breast?

Yes! Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving. Let it rest before carving.

Can I add fresh herbs to the glaze?

Absolutely. Fresh herbs enhance the glaze beautifully. Consider rosemary, thyme, or sage.

How should I store leftover turkey?

Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying it out.

What if the turkey skin is browning too quickly?

If the skin starts to get too dark, tent the turkey with aluminum foil during the last hour of roasting.

Can the glaze be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before using.

This Maple Mustard Glazed Turkey is a Thanksgiving showstopper. The sweet and tangy glaze caramelizes beautifully during roasting, creating a flavorful and moist turkey that your family and friends will rave about. One year, I almost forgot the mustard and it was SO bland.

Imagine the aroma of maple syrup and Dijon mustard wafting through your kitchen as this turkey roasts to perfection. This recipe is surprisingly simple to follow, even for novice cooks. Don't be intimidated; just take it one step at a time, and you'll have a gorgeous and delicious turkey on your Thanksgiving table. It's a lot less difficult than my uncle makes it seem, anyway.

Ready to ditch the same old turkey recipe and try something new? This maple mustard glaze is a game-changer. The sweetness of the maple syrup perfectly complements the tanginess of the mustard, creating a complex flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds. This is sure to be a hit at any Thanksgiving feast. My family never expects me to make something this good!

Maple Mustard Glazed Turkey: A Recipe for Thanksgiving

Name: Maple Mustard Glazed Turkey: A Recipe for Thanksgiving
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h 36 min
Total time: 3 h 6 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Holiday
Ingredients: 1 Whole Turkey (12-14 lbs); 1 cup Maple Syrup; 1/2 cup Dijon Mustard; 1/4 cup Whole Grain Mustard; 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika; 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper; 2 tablespoons Olive Oil or Melted Butter; to taste Salt; to taste Pepper

Elevate your Thanksgiving with this Maple Mustard Glazed Turkey recipe. The sweet and tangy glaze creates a moist and flavorful turkey that’s sure to impress.

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 8 servings

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 156 minutes

Total Time: 186 minutes

📖 Instructions

Prepare the Brine (Optional): In a large pot, combine water, salt, sugar, and any desired aromatics (such as citrus peels, peppercorns, or bay leaves). Bring to a simmer until the salt and sugar dissolve. Let it cool completely. Place the turkey in the brine, ensuring it's fully submerged. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Don't skip this if you want super juicy meat! I didn't one year and I regretted it.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This lower temperature helps to ensure the turkey cooks evenly without drying out.
Prepare the Turkey: Remove the turkey from the brine (if using) and rinse it thoroughly. Pat it dry inside and out with paper towels. This helps the skin to crisp up nicely.
Make the Maple Mustard Glaze: In a small saucepan, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. The glaze should coat the back of a spoon.
Season the Turkey: Place the turkey in a roasting pan. Rub the turkey skin with olive oil or melted butter. Season the cavity with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. I like to stuff mine with an onion, some celery, and a lemon cut in half.
Baste the Turkey: Using a basting brush, generously brush the turkey with the maple mustard glaze. Make sure to coat the entire surface evenly. Reserve some of the glaze for basting later.
Roast the Turkey: Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven. Roast the turkey for approximately 13 minutes per pound (0.45 kg). So, for a 12-pound (5.4kg) turkey, roast for about 2 hours and 36 minutes. Baste the turkey with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful. Cover the turkey with foil during the last part if the skin gets to dark. It can burn very easily!
Check the Internal Temperature: About 30 minutes before the estimated cooking time is up, start checking the internal temperature of the turkey using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, making sure not to touch the bone. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let the Turkey Rest: Once the turkey reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.
Carve and Serve: Transfer the turkey to a cutting board and carve it according to your preference. Serve the maple mustard glazed turkey with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole. And don't forget the gravy!

📝 Notes

For extra flavor, brine the turkey overnight using a brine solution of your choice.
Adjust the amount of maple syrup and mustard to suit your taste preferences.
Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the glaze for an herbaceous twist.