Inspired by the current ranch flavor renaissance (it’s on everything these days), we turned the popular seasoning into a rub for classic roasted turkey recipe. It’s a fun way to bring something different to the feast.

Types of Thanksgiving Turkeys

Allow us to help you navigate a few confusing marketing terms listed on turkey labels.

• Fresh or Frozen: A fresh turkey is butchered and chilled to a near-freezing temp closer to its sell time. Some believe the flavor is better, but you may pay more for it and will have to make a trip to the store 1 to 2 days before the meal. According to the USDA, frozen turkeys can last indefinitely, but for best quality we suggest cooking within a year. 
• Prebrined: If the turkey package lists more ingredients than “turkey,” you’re likely buying a prebrined bird. This means the turkey contains a saltwater solution (sometimes with spices or flavorings) to extend the shelf life. If you go this route, don’t brine the bird at home. Note: We found these take longer to thaw, so budget an extra day to be sure it’s ready.
• Organic: Specific criteria must be met for a certified organic label, including no added hormones, an organic diet, and access to the outdoors (aka pasture-raised).

Ranch Turkey Ingredients

The secret to the zesty flavor for this bird is a creamy rub made with mayo, chopped jalapeño, fresh dill, and a ranch seasoning blend.

• Mayo: A slather of mayonnaise is good for more than sandwiches. Subbing in for butter, the creamy dressing locks in moisture when roasting. Choose your favorite mayo (you can use full fat or low-fat options).
• Fresh Jalapeno: For less spice, remove the seeds and membranes before chopping the jalapeno.
• Fresh Dill: For the most flavor, choose fresh dill. You can find it alongside the cilantro and parsley in the produce aisle of your supermarket.
• Ranch Seasoning Blend: Look for packets of the powdered mix in the salad dressing aisle.
• Fresh Veggies and Fruits: Stuff the cavity of your bird with fresh lime wedges and onion to flavor this roast turkey recipe from the inside out.
  

How to Make Ranch Roasted Turkey

There are just a few simple steps to making this roast Thanksgiving turkey recipe, here's everything you need to know.

1. Prep the Turkey: Before roasting, be sure you’ve thawed the bird completely. (Allow 1 day in the fridge for every 3½ to 4 pounds of turkey.) Remove the neck and giblets from the cavity if present. 
2. Gently Lift the Skin: Getting the creamy rub under the skin is a must in order to get the most flavor into the meat. Carefully work your fingers under the skin to loosen at the neck and above the legs
3. Season the Bird: Gently work the mayo mixture under the skin. We found the easiest way to do this is with a small rubber spatula. Start with a large spoonful at the base and keep working it up and under the skin, getting into all the nooks and crannies.
4. Coat the Outside: Spread the remaining rub over the surface of the turkey. Use kitchen string to tie the legs together and tuck the wings behind the back. This keeps the turkey in a uniform shape and helps with even roasting.

Turkey Gravy Tip

If using drippings from this turkey to make gravy, taste the gravy before adding salt. The seasonings from the ranch packet may offer enough. The finished gravy will have a subtle ranch flavor.