Turkey Rub

This flavorful Turkey Rub is the perfect seasoning blend for all your turkey recipes, regardless of how you cook your bird. So tasty!

Today, I’m sharing something that will elevate your turkey game—my homemade Turkey Rub! Imagine your turkey with a crispy, golden-brown skin infused with a blend of savory spices.

I’m talking paprika, thyme, rosemary, and more, all coming together to create the most flavorful turkey you’ve ever had. A good turkey rub is the secret to the most flavorful turkeys out there.

I’ve made some of my best turkeys with this recipe. Whether you’re deep frying or using an oven or roaster, this recipe works. Trust me; you won’t be able to resist sneaking a bite before it even hits the table!

I’m telling you, this Turkey Rub is a game-changer for your turkey recipes. Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or a special occasion, your turkey will be the best part of the meal.

So go ahead, try this out, and let me know how it turns out. I promise, once you’ve tried this homemade spice rub, you won’t go back to store-bought ever again! 

Common Questions About Turkey Rub

What is Turkey Rub?

A Turkey Rub is a mix of herbs and spices that you coat the outside of the turkey with. This rub adds amazing flavor and helps get that crispy, golden skin we all love.

Use it on an entire turkey or if you’re just making drumsticks. Whatever part of the bird you’re making, this recipe will be the best seasoning you’ve tried!

Can I Use Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried Ones?

Totally! Fresh herbs bring a different depth of flavor. Just remember, fresh herbs will have a different potency than the dried ones.

Typically a good ratio to go by is 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs to 1 teaspoon of dried herbs. Even then, you may want to adjust to taste. Sometimes the fresh stuff can be more potent!

How Long Does The Rub Need to Sit on the Turkey?

For the best results, let your seasoned turkey sit for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This lets all the great flavor sink deep into the turkey meat. One great trick I’ve found is to actually get under the skin of the turkey.

Yep! Get your hands in there and peel up that turkey skin just enough to get that spice mix inside there. You’ll be amazed at how much flavor you add to the meat that way!

Storage

I like to keep this in a good spice jar. Whether that’s just a mason jar with the lid or something more fancy like a jar with a hinge lid. This way is better than something like Tupperware, in my humble opinion. 

Refrigerator

You can store the prepared rub in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. Just make sure it’s really well sealed.

Freezer

Got a big batch? You can also freeze this turkey rub in an airtight container for up to 3 months!

Tips

This is the best turkey rub recipe I’ve come across. It’s super simple and brings the best bang for your buck, so to speak. The perfect blend of spices doesn’t have to be complicated!

• For a deep golden color, don’t skip the paprika.
• Apply the rub under the turkey skin for extra flavor.
• Use paper towels to dry the turkey before applying the rub.
• Feel free to make small batches or big batch for later use.

Ingredients

This is a list full of great things! The paprika adds a wonderful color. I really love the punch of the garlic and onion powder. In the end, all these spices come together to make something great!

• Paprika
• Coarse salt
• Black pepper
• Dried thyme
• Dried rosemary
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder

How to Make Turkey Rub

Doesn’t get any more simple than this. I love dry brining my turkey. Actually, I love any ‘ole way of making turkey. Don’t you?

1. Combine all ingredients in a small-medium mixing bowl and whisk until fully combined.
2. Store in a sealed jar or container in a cool, dry area for up to 3 months. 

Kitchen Supplies You’ll Need for Turkey Rub

Add this spice mix to your thanksgiving recipes! Come to think of it, you don’t need to wait till then. Turkey is just plain good any time of the year!

• Small bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Airtight container for storage

What to Serve With Turkey Rub

Obviously, we’re not eating the rub by itself, haha! As I said before, this rub is great for whatever part of the turkey you’re going to enjoy. It’s also great if you plan on smoking the meat. It’s just plain great!

• Green bean casserole: A classic side that complements the spiced turkey well.
• Roast potatoes: Perfect for soaking up those flavorful turkey juices.
• Rolls: You’ve got to have rolls with turkey. It’s just a simple fact!
• Mashed potatoes: I love to scoop them up with a good hunk of turkey.
• Sparkling water: Everything just tastes better when you wash it down with some Perrier. Try it and you’ll see!

Why You Should Make Turkey Rub

It’s great to make a bunch of this and keep it on hand for later. And heck, why just stick to turkey? Try it on a good pork tenderloin or chicken breast. You’ll love it on whatever meat is on the table!

• Easy to Make: Just simple ingredients you probably already have in your spice cupboard.
• Versatile: Works on whole turkeys, turkey breasts, and even turkey legs.
• Make Ahead: Prepare in advance and store for the perfect turkey dinner or holiday meal.

Variations and Add-Ins for Turkey Rub

If you like, you can think of this as a great base to add things into. There is no rule saying this recipe must stay exactly as it is. Here are a few ideas to get your brain working!

• Add brown sugar for a little sweetness.
• Cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Orange or lemon zest for a citrusy kick.
• Chili powder for some extra savory flavor.
• Extra garlic for all you garlic lovers out there!

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If you love this easy spice mix recipe, you’re going to love these turkey recipes to use it on too. Please click each link below to find the easy, printable recipe!

More Great Seasoning Recipes to Try

Taco Seasoning

Fajita Seasoning

Chili Seasoning

Best Pork Marinade

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If you love this recipe for seasoning recipe as much as I do, please write a five-star review, and be sure to help me share on Facebook and Pinterest!

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