Go Back
The Best Turkey Brine for Thanksgiving
5 from 2 votes
Print

How to Brine a Turkey for Thanksgiving

Ingredients

  • 1 turkey thawed
  • 2 gallons water divided
  • 1 1/2 cup salt
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp peppercorns
  • 1 tbsp oregano dried
  • 1 tbsp thyme dried or fresh
  • 1 tbsp sage dried
  • 1 tbsp rosmary dried or fresh

Instructions

  1. Pour one gallon (16 cups) of water into a large pot. Stir in the remaining ingredients and bring to a boil.

  2. Once the water is boiling, remove from heat and let cool for 15-20 minutes.

  3. Place a brining bag in a 5-gallon bucket or cooler. Pour one gallon of ice water into the bucket, then the brining solution, then place your turkey in the bag. Zip closed.

  4. Place the turkey in the fridge for 24 hours or one hour per pound of turkey.

  5. After 24 hours, remove the turkey from the brining solution, place on a rimmed baking sheet and pat the skin dry with paper towel. Be sure to get the skin as dry as possible.

  6. Prepare and cook the turkey as desired.