How to Make a Delicious Cajun Turkey

Cajun turkey is the perfect way to spice up your holiday table! With its bold flavors and juicy meat, this Cajun turkey recipe will become your new favorite way to prepare turkey.

What Exactly is Cajun Turkey?

Cajun turkey starts with a fresh or thawed turkey that is seasoned inside and out with a mixture of spices and herbs typical of Louisiana-style cooking. This includes flavors like cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic, oregano, and thyme. The turkey is often basted or injected throughout the cooking process with a homemade Cajun butter mixture.

The end result is a zesty, delicious turkey bursting with the iconic flavors of Cajun cuisine. Every bite has a wonderful blend of heat and depth thanks to the bold seasoning blend.

Benefits of Making Your Own Cajun Turkey

There are several great reasons to try making Cajun turkey at home:

• Big savings – Store-bought Cajun turkeys can cost $40 or more. Make your own at a fraction of the price.

• Flavor control – With homemade, you control the spice level and can adjust it to your tastes

• Fresh flavors – Homemade Cajun butter has much fresher herb and spice flavors,

• Healthier – No preservatives like a store-bought Cajun turkey. You know exactly what’s in your turkey.

• Impressive meal – A beautiful, platter-worthy spiced turkey is sure to wow your holiday guests.

Step-By-Step Guide to Making Cajun Turkey

Follow these simple steps for foolproof Cajun turkey every time:

1. Dry Brine the Turkey

• Pat turkey dry and rub it all over with a mixture of 1 Tbsp kosher salt per 5 lbs turkey.

• Refrigerate uncovered at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.

• Do not rinse off the salt before cooking. Discard brine.

2. Prepare the Cajun Butter

• Soften 2 lbs butter and mix in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, sage, rosemary, and cayenne pepper to taste.

3. Season the Turkey

• Separate the skin from the meat and rub compound butter directly onto the meat under the skin.

• Coat the outside of the turkey with remaining Cajun butter. Make sure to thoroughly season the legs, wings, and back.

4. Stuff Aromatics in the Cavity

• Stuff the turkey cavity with lemons, onions, celery, and fresh herbs. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine.

5. Roast the Turkey

• Place turkey on a roasting rack in a pan. Surround with onions, carrots, celery, chicken broth and white wine.

• Roast at 400°F for 45 minutes. Reduce temperature to 325°F and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

6. Baste and Tent

• Every 45 minutes, baste turkey with melted Cajun butter.

• For the last 1-2 hours, tent turkey with a Cajun butter-soaked cheesecloth to seal in moisture.

7. Let Rest and Carve

• Allow turkey to rest about 30 minutes before carving. The juices will redistribute and it will carve more cleanly.

• Serve warm with your favorite side dishes!

Tips for Juicy, Flavorful Cajun Turkey

Follow these tips for the best, juiciest Cajun turkey every time:

• Inject it – Use a turkey injector to infuse Cajun butter deep into the meat. This amps up moisture and flavor. Inject into breast, thighs, and legs.

• No peeking! – Resist opening the oven door too frequently. This causes heat and moisture loss.

• Brine ahead – Dry brining up to 24 hours before seasons the meat fully.

• Air dry – Pat turkey very dry after brining. The drier the skin, the crispier it will get.

• Room temp is key – Let turkey come to room temperature before cooking for even roasting.

• Use a thermometer – Cook to 165°F in thickest part of breast and 175°F in the thickest part of thighs.

Common Questions About Cajun Turkey

What if I can’t find a fresh turkey?

A frozen turkey will work fine, just be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge 2-3 days before cooking. Avoid pre-brined frozen turkeys.

Can I stuff my Cajun turkey?

It’s safest to cook stuffing separately to prevent bacterial growth. Cook it in a baking dish alongside the turkey.

What if I’m short on time?

Skip the overnight brining and just season heavily with Cajun butter right before cooking. The flavor will still penetrate beautifully.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cook the turkey, let cool completely, and refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly when ready to serve.

Make This Year’s Feast Unforgettable with Cajun Turkey

This Thanksgiving, skip the basic roasted turkey and go bold with a flavorful Cajun turkey! With its incredible aroma, juicy meat, crisp skin, and outstanding Cajun flavor, this turkey is sure to be the star of your holiday table. Impress your guests and enjoy fabulous leftovers with this must-make recipe.