6 Creative Ways to Cook Turkey

There are practically countless methods for cooking turkey. The traditional roast whole bird is great for a large group. But this year, I'm focused on methods that are perfect for smaller gatherings. The recipes below are mostly for turkey breast, and all of them are simple and delicious.

Smoked & Honey Glazed

When you love those irresistible smoky-sweet flavors that you can't stop nibbling on. Pop a nice brined, bone-in breast in the smoker for a few hours. Then step in and apply a delicious honey-bourbon glaze that is as beautiful as it is tasty.

Roulade

To roll, or not to roll, that is the question. And it might be time to roll instead of stuff your turkey this year. A butterflied breast is brined then rolled up with an apple-sausage stuffing, tied and roasted to perfection. The only time that turkey really deserves to be stuffed, and oh is it delicious.

Sous Vide

Maybe not your traditional method for cooking turkey, but it just might be your new favorite. It's difficult to reproduce these amazing results with any other way.

Roasted

You've probably roasted a whole turkey dozens of times, but pairing down to just the breast has some great benefits, including faster cook times and it can be perfectly cooked throughout without having to worry about the dark meat.

Smoked

If you are looking for a magazine cover showpiece, with flavor to match, turn to the smoker for cooking your whole turkey. With a beautiful mahogany color and a hint of smoke that is distinct, this is a candidate for your new tradition.

And Don't Forget the Sides:

• Kale Salad with Roasted Sweet Potatoes and an Apple Cider Vinaigrette
• Sausage and Sourdough Stuffing
• The Creamiest Mashed Potatoes
• Perfect Green Beans
• Crispy Smashed Fingerling Potatoes
• Roasted Sweet Potato Bites
• Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts
• Pumpkin-Pecan Bread Pudding
• Apple-Rhubarb Crumble
• Whiskey Sour Cocktail or a Mezcal Margarita

And for the Leftovers...

• Turkey Eggs Benedict