Name: Halal Roast Turkey with Stuffing
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-484750H21M24S
Total time: PT-484750H21M24S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Turkey:; 1 whole halal-certified turkey (12–14 lbs), thawed; 1/2 cup butter or olive oil; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon paprika; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 onion, quartered; 1 lemon, halved; Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, parsley) for cavity; For the Stuffing:; 6 cups cubed day-old bread (white or whole grain); 1/4 cup olive oil or melted butter; 1 onion, finely diced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon ground sage; 1/2 teaspoon thyme; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Salt, to taste; 1 1/2 cups vegetable or halal chicken broth; Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, cranberries, or cooked halal sausage

Halal Roast Turkey with Stuffing is a showstopping centerpiece perfect for festive occasions like Eid, Thanksgiving, or family gatherings. This recipe ensures the bird is moist and flavorful, with a savory halal stuffing that’s aromatic and satisfying. It’s a wholesome, delicious meal that brings people together around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This roast turkey is halal-certified, meaning it’s prepared in accordance with Islamic dietary laws, without compromising on taste or tradition. The turkey is seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices for a golden, crisp skin and tender meat, while the stuffing is hearty, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. It’s ideal for large gatherings and special celebrations, with leftovers that taste just as good the next day.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Whole halal-certified turkey (10–14 pounds)
Olive oil or melted butter (halal)
Garlic, minced
Onion, chopped
Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage)
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Lemon, halved
Carrots and celery (for roasting bed)
Chicken or turkey broth (halal-certified)

For the stuffing:

Day-old bread, cubed
Onion, chopped
Celery, diced
Garlic, minced
Olive oil or butter
Fresh parsley
Dried thyme and sage
Halal chicken broth
Salt and pepper

directions

Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
Prepare the turkey: Remove giblets, pat turkey dry with paper towels, and place on a rack in a large roasting pan.
Season: Rub turkey all over with olive oil or melted butter, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and chopped herbs. Place lemon halves, onion pieces, and a few herb sprigs inside the cavity.
Prepare the stuffing: In a large skillet, sauté onion, celery, and garlic in olive oil or butter until soft. Add bread cubes, herbs, salt, and pepper. Pour in broth slowly until bread is moist but not soggy. Let cool before stuffing the bird or bake separately in a dish.
Stuff the turkey (optional): Loosely fill the turkey cavity with cooled stuffing. Do not overpack. Any extra can be baked in a separate dish.
Roast: Place carrots and celery in the roasting pan as a bed for the turkey. Pour in some broth. Roast turkey uncovered, basting every 30–45 minutes.
Cooking time: Roast for 13–15 minutes per pound, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C).
Rest: Remove turkey from the oven, tent with foil, and let rest for 20–30 minutes before carving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10–12
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 3–4 hours (depending on turkey size)
Total time: 4–5 hours (including resting)

Variations

Spiced rub: Add sumac, cumin, or coriander for a Middle Eastern twist.
Fruit stuffing: Add chopped apples, raisins, or dried cranberries for sweetness in the stuffing.
Rice stuffing: Replace bread cubes with a halal rice pilaf for a different texture and flavor.
Glazed turkey: Brush the turkey with pomegranate molasses or honey in the last 30 minutes for a glossy finish.
Herb butter: Mix minced herbs into softened butter and rub it under the skin for added flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place slices in a baking dish with a splash of broth, cover with foil, and heat at 325°F (165°C) for 20–30 minutes. Stuffing can be stored separately and reheated in the oven or microwave. Freeze leftover turkey meat for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I use a frozen halal turkey?

Yes, just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator (allow about 24 hours per 4–5 pounds).

How do I keep the turkey from drying out?

Baste regularly during roasting and allow it to rest before carving to retain juices.

Is it safe to stuff the turkey?

Yes, but the stuffing must reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, bake it separately.

What can I use instead of butter for a dairy-free version?

Olive oil or a plant-based halal butter substitute works well.

Can I make the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, the stuffing can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What sides go well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, green beans, cranberry sauce, and gravy are classic accompaniments.

Can I cook the stuffing outside the bird?

Absolutely. Bake it in a greased dish at 350°F (175°C) for 30–40 minutes.

How do I know when the turkey is done?

Use a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh, away from bone. It should read 165°F (74°C).

What size turkey should I get?

Plan for about 1 to 1.5 pounds per person, accounting for bones and leftovers.

Can I brine a halal turkey?

Yes, dry or wet brining enhances flavor and moisture. Just ensure the brine ingredients are halal-friendly.

Conclusion

Halal Roast Turkey with Stuffing is a flavorful, festive dish that honors tradition while adhering to halal dietary standards. It’s a delicious centerpiece that brings warmth, comfort, and a sense of celebration to any gathering. With its golden skin, tender meat, and savory stuffing, this recipe is a reliable favorite for holidays and special meals.

Halal Roast Turkey with Stuffing