I’m obsessed with making honey glazed turkey for holidays and special occasions! This recipe takes a classic roast turkey and transforms it with golden, sticky-sweet honey glaze and fragrant herbs. The result is a juicy, flavorful bird with a beautiful caramelized skin that wows every guest. Even if you’re new to roasting turkey, you’ll find this recipe easy and absolutely delicious.
Quick Facts
Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus optional marinating)
Cooking Time: 3–4 1/2 hours (standard 12–18 lb turkey)
Total Time: 4–5 hours
Servings: 12
Why You’ll Love This Turkey
What I love most about honey glazed turkey is the balance: the honey creates gorgeous color and a hint of sweetness, while fresh herbs and seasonings bring depth that never feels bland. Every slice is tender, flavorful, and memorable—perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a special Sunday dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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1 whole turkey (12–18 pounds), thawed and patted dry
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1 cup honey
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1/2 cup butter, melted
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1 lemon, halved
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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2 teaspoons salt
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1 teaspoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
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2 teaspoons dried sage leaves
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1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
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1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
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1–2 cups broth (for roasting pan)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the Turkey
I preheat my oven to 325°F. I remove the neck and giblets, then tuck the wings under the turkey and tie the legs together. I season the turkey all over (and inside the cavity) with salt, pepper, and herbs. I rub half the melted butter and squeeze lemon juice over the skin to help it crisp and brown.
Make the Honey Glaze
In a small bowl, I stir together the honey, remaining butter, Dijon mustard, salt, parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme until well blended.
Start Roasting
I set the turkey breast-side up on a rack in a shallow roasting pan, adding broth and lemon halves to the pan for steam. I loosely tent the bird with foil and roast at 325°F.
Baste with Glaze
After about 2 hours, I remove the foil and begin brushing the honey glaze over the turkey every 30–40 minutes. If any parts start to brown too fast, I tent them lightly with foil. I keep glazing until the skin is golden and the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F (this usually takes 3 to 4.5 hours for a standard bird).
Rest and Carve
I remove the turkey from the oven, gently tent with foil, and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This keeps the juices inside for the most succulent meat.
Serving Suggestions
I love serving honey glazed turkey with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, cranberry sauce, and soft dinner rolls. The glaze makes an incredible pan sauce or gravy! For something fresh, add a green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts.
Tips for Customization
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Use orange juice instead of lemon for a citrus twist.
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Add a pinch of chili flakes to the glaze for subtle heat.
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Substitute maple syrup for honey for a different sweet flavor.
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Try brining your turkey overnight for ultimate juiciness.
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For smaller gatherings, use just turkey breast or thighs and adjust cooking time.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 500
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Protein: 56g
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Carbohydrates: 23g
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Fat: 21g
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Sugar: 23g
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Sodium: 800mg
Values are approximate for a 1/12 portion of a 15 lb turkey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stuff the turkey?
For food safety, cook stuffing separately. You can fill the cavity with aromatics (lemon, onion, herbs) that add moisture and flavor.
Why does my turkey get dry?
Be sure to baste frequently and don’t overcook. A meat thermometer is essential—remove from oven at 165°F in the thickest part.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the glaze a day in advance and bring to room temperature before basting.
How do I get extra crispy skin?
Pat turkey dry before roasting, use butter under the skin, and start with high heat (425°F for 30 minutes) before lowering to 325°F for the remainder.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat covered in the oven at 300°F with a splash of broth until warmed through.
This honey glazed turkey is truly special—juicy, sweet, savory, and always a crowd-pleaser. The glossy glaze, infused with herbs, makes every holiday meal feel extra festive. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious results with your favorite side dishes!
