Roast Cajun Turkey

Have you ever had that moment of shame when you roast a turkey for a big holiday celebration and it turns out dry or bland, or even worse: both?

You will never have to face that embarrassment again if you make this Cajun turkey your go-to! It’s anything but bland and boring thanks to a spicy butter infused with big Louisiana flavor. (For another turkey recipe with Cajun flavor but smaller in size, try my Cajun Blackened Turkey Breast.)

This turkey is guaranteed to be the star of your dinner and if the crispy, golden-brown skin doesn’t steal your heart, the tender, juicy meat that lies underneath sure will. The secret is all in the Cajun butter, which sneaks deep into the meat so every bite is juicy, spicy, and just the right amount of smoky. Don’t count on there being any leftovers!

Ingredients for Cajun Turkey

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need for this recipe. For the full measurements, scroll down to the recipe card.

Cajun Butter:

• Butter – The base that carries all those fabulous Cajun spices. Soften this so it’s easy to mix and spread.
• Smoked Paprika – Provides a smoky depth of flavor you just can’t match with regular paprika.
• Granulated Garlic – For savory flavor without the bite of fresh garlic.
• Dried Oregano – Adds an herby, earthy touch.
• Onion Powder – This, like the garlic, adds savoriness.
• Kosher Salt – The ultimate flavor enhancer!
• Chili Powder – Brings warmth and complexity, along with a little earthiness.
• Ground Cayenne – The spicy kick that makes Cajun seasoning Cajun.

Turkey:

• Turkey – Thaw the turkey if it’s frozen.
• Orange – Adds a citrusy aroma and flavor.
• Yellow Onion and Garlic – These provide a savory base flavor, infusing the meat as it roasts.
• Thyme and Rosemary Sprigs – Fresh herbs also infuse the meat with flavor. 

How to Make Cajun Turkey

Scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the page for full printable instructions.

1. Prepare. Preheat your oven to 500°F.
2. Make the Cajun butter. Whisk all of the spices in a bowl. Remove 2 tablespoons of this mixture, then stir the butter into the rest.
3. Prep the turkey. Remove the giblets from turkey and save them for gravy (optional). Pat the turkey dry, place the breast side up on a roasting rack in a large pan, and tuck the wing tips under. Slide your hand between the skin and meat, working down to the legs.
4. Season. Rub 1/4 of the Cajun butter under the loosened skin over the breast and legs. Repeat on the other side, then slather the rest of the butter over the entire turkey. Sprinkle the remaining seasoning over the breast, legs, and inside the cavity. 
5. Stuff the cavity. Add the orange, onion, garlic, and herbs to the cavity. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine.
6. Bake. Roast the turkey on the lowest oven rack for 30 minutes. Lower the temperature to 350°F and insert a probe thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, setting it to 161°F. 
7. Rest and serve. Remove the turkey from the oven, tent it with foil, and let it rest for 30 minutes before carving and serving.

Tips for Making Cajun Turkey

Here are some simple tips to ensure your Cajun turkey turns out perfectly flavorful and juicy!

• Know the turkey basics. You’ll find more tips on making roast turkey in my posts on Best Dry Brine Turkey, Roast Turkey Recipe, and How To Carve a Turkey.
• Consider wet brining your turkey beforehand. Brining helps to infuse flavor into the meat and also helps to keep it moist during cooking. 
• Let it rest before carving. Just like with any other type of meat, it’s important to let your Cajun turkey rest before slicing into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful turkey.
• Make it dairy-free. If you’re serving someone with a dairy allergy, you can swap in a plant-based butter for the dairy butter.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Transfer the leftover Cajun turkey to an airtight container or wrap it in foil. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. You can reheat in the microwave or place the turkey in a baking pan, add a splash of water or broth, cover with foil, and heat at 325ºF until warmed through.

Leftovers are also awesome for repurposing in other recipes. Try my Turkey Gobbler Sandwich or add the turkey to Creamy Cajun Pasta instead of shrimp. Or go with a classic: Turkey Noodle Soup!

What to Serve With Cajun Turkey

• Buttermilk Cornbread
• Mashed Sweet Potatoes
• Best Green Bean Casserole Recipe
• Easy Cheddar Bay Biscuits
• Roasted Fingerling Potatoes
• Southern Candied Yams

More Holiday Main Dishes

• Grilled Rack of Lamb
• Bourbon Honey Baked Ham
• Red Wine Braised Short Ribs
• Balsamic Fig Lamb Lollipops
• Mango-Ginger Glazed Ham
• Spatchcock Turkey