Name: Savory Mexican Christmas Turkey That Steals the Show
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 240 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds per person Turkey (Choose a bird size of 1 to 1½ pounds per person for a hearty meal.); 2 tablespoons Kosher Salt (Best for enhancing flavors.); 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper (Adds the right amount of heat.); 2 sticks Unsalted Butter (Opt for this to control the salt levels.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin (Provides warm, earthy notes.); 1 teaspoon Ground Oregano (Infuses savory aroma.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Rosemary (Can substitute with dried if necessary.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Dried parsley can work as an alternative.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Cilantro (Reduce if using dried.); 1 medium Onion (Adds sweetness and moisture.); 4 cloves Garlic (Use fresh for rich flavor infusion.)

As I prepared for the festivities, I stumbled upon my grandmother’s treasured recipe for Pavo Navideño, a traditional Mexican Christmas turkey that instantly transported me back to joyful family gatherings. This recipe is not just about cooking a turkey; it’s about creating memories. Bursting with lively flavors from aromatic herbs and a rich compound butter, this Mexican Christmas Turkey is sure to become the centerpiece of your holiday table. The beauty of this dish lies in its effortless preparation—perfectly juicy and crisp-skinned, it promises to impress your guests while freeing you from the stress of complicated recipes. Plus, it’s wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to adjust the size based on your gathering. Are you ready to dive into this festive culinary adventure?

Why choose this Christmas turkey recipe?

Tradition Meets Flavor: This Pavo Navideño recipe beautifully encapsulates the essence of Mexican holiday celebrations with its traditional spices and herbs.

Effortless Preparation: With minimal steps and a foolproof method, it allows you to enjoy the process without stress, making it perfect for busy festive days.

Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with classic sides like Mexican Street Corn or flavorful beans to enhance the festive feast.

Juicy and Flavorful: The compound butter method ensures each bite bursts with moisture and rich flavor, giving your turkey that melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Your guests will rave about this delicious turkey that not only looks stunning but tastes divine, creating unforgettable holiday memories.

Mexican Christmas Turkey Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create a mouthwatering Mexican Christmas turkey that will be the star of your holiday feast!

For the Turkey

Turkey – Choose a bird size of 1 to 1½ pounds per person for a hearty meal.
Salt – Kosher salt is best for enhancing the flavors beautifully.
Pepper – Freshly ground black pepper adds just the right amount of heat.

For the Compound Butter

Butter – Opt for unsalted butter to control the salt levels; herb-infused butter adds extra flavor.
Ground Cumin – Provides those warm, earthy notes that elevate the dish.
Ground Oregano – Infuses a lovely, savory aroma into the butter mixture.
Fresh Rosemary – Delivers a fragrant component; you can substitute with dried if necessary.
Fresh Parsley – Brings a bright touch of flavor; dried parsley can work as an alternative.
Fresh Cilantro – Enhances the flavor profile with a fresh kick; reduce the amount if using dried.

For the Stuffing

Onion – Adds sweetness and moisture as it cooks; shallots can work too for a milder taste.
Garlic – Fresh garlic is ideal for rich flavor infusion; you can use granulated garlic if fresh isn’t available.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Juicy Pavo Navideño (Mexican Christmas Turkey)

Step 1: Prepare Compound Butter
Begin by mixing two sticks of softened unsalted butter in a bowl with ground cumin, ground oregano, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Add finely chopped fresh rosemary, parsley, and cilantro to the mixture, blending well. This flavorful compound butter will enhance the juiciness of the Mexican Christmas turkey and evoke that holiday aroma as it roasts.

Step 2: Prep Turkey
Carefully remove the turkey from its packaging and take out the giblets from the cavity. Rinse the turkey thoroughly under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Gently lift the skin over the breasts and thighs, creating pockets while being careful not to tear the skin. This step will allow the compound butter to infuse the meat beautifully.

Step 3: Apply Butter
Spoon a generous amount of the prepared compound butter underneath the skin of the turkey and massage it into the meat for maximum flavor. Smear any remaining softened butter evenly over the outside of the turkey to ensure a golden and crispy skin during roasting. The butter will help create that desired festive appearance and taste of your Mexican Christmas turkey.

Step 4: Season & Stuff
Sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper generously over the exterior of the turkey for enhanced flavor. Stuff the cavity with quartered onion, halved garlic cloves, and any reserved fresh herbs from the compound butter. This aromatic stuffing will infuse additional moisture and flavor into the meat as it cooks, making the pavo navideño truly special.

Step 5: Roasting
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the seasoned turkey on a roasting rack inside a large roasting pan. If unstuffed, roast the turkey for approximately 13 minutes per pound, or about 15 minutes per pound if stuffed. Look for a golden-brown, crispy skin and a meat thermometer reading of 180°F (82°C) in the thigh and 170°F (77°C) in the breast to ensure your Mexican Christmas turkey is fully cooked.

Step 6: Rest & Serve
Once fully cooked, carefully remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes. This resting period is crucial for allowing the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and juicy final result. After resting, carve the turkey and serve it to your delighted guests, making your holiday gathering memorable with this juicy pavo navideño.

What to Serve with Juicy Pavo Navideño?

Complement your festive feast with delightful sides that elevate the flavors of this traditional Mexican Christmas turkey.

Fluffy Rice Pilaf: This aromatic dish absorbs the turkey’s juice beautifully, offering a light and fluffy companion that balances richness.
Sweet Plantains: Their caramelized sweetness contrasts wonderfully with savory turkey, creating a comforting and vibrant addition to the meal.
Spicy Black Beans: Packed with flavor, these hearty beans add a spicy kick, enhancing the festive spirit while providing a nutritious component.
Fresh Pico de Gallo: A zesty and bright salsa made with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, perfect for cutting through the richness of the turkey.
Corn Tortillas: Warm, soft tortillas are perfect for scooping up turkey and sides, inviting a delightful, hands-on dining experience for your guests.
Cranberry Salsa: This sweet and tangy twist brightens up each bite of turkey, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn slathered in creamy sauce and sprinkled with cheese adds a flavorful, textural element that complements the turkey perfectly.
Churros with Chocolate Sauce: For dessert, these crispy treats dusted with sugar create a sweet ending that pairs wonderfully with the festive meal.

Mexican Christmas Turkey Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this festive dish your own with these delightful twists!

Spicy Kick: Add chili powder to the compound butter or a Pavo Pibil marinade for a zesty flavor boost. Let the warmth of the spices take your holiday turkey to a whole new level.
Herb Substitutions: Swap out herb blends based on what you have; thyme or tarragon can offer a fresh spin while retaining that aromatic goodness. Each combination brings its unique essence to the turkey!
Fruit Infusion: Incorporate citrus slices like orange or lemon in the cavity for a hint of brightness and an aromatic twist that pairs beautifully with the savory flavors.
Nutty Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding toasted pecans or walnuts to the stuffing mix. This adds a delightful crunch that complements the juiciness of the turkey.
Sweet Touch: Include dried fruits like cranberries or apricots in the stuffing for a touch of sweetness. The contrast of flavors makes each bite more interesting and festive!
Decadent Bacon: Wrap the turkey in bacon strips before roasting. This not only contributes a smoky flavor but also keeps the meat juicy and adds an irresistible crunch to the skin.
Vegetarian Delight: Try a plant-based twist with a stuffed squash or mushrooms instead of turkey, flavored with the same rich spices for a festive dish that everyone can enjoy at the table.
Serve with Flavorful Sides: Enhance your meal with sides like vibrant Mexican Street Corn or beans for a colorful and festive experience that complements the star of the show!

How to Store and Freeze Mexican Christmas Turkey

Fridge: Store any leftover Mexican Christmas turkey in airtight containers for up to 4 days, ensuring the turkey is fully cooled before refrigerating.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and place in freezer bags for up to 4 months. Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. This preserves moisture and flavor.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving turkey out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.

Expert Tips for Juicy Pavo Navideño

Thawing Carefully: Thaw your turkey in the fridge at least 24 hours for every 5 pounds to ensure even cooking and safety.
Resting is Key: Don’t skip the resting time! Allowing your Mexican Christmas turkey to rest for 30 minutes helps retain juices for moist meat.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to verify doneness by inserting it into the thigh, ensuring it reaches 180°F (82°C) for safe and delectable meat.
Keep the Skin Crispy: Avoid covering the turkey with foil during roasting; this helps achieve that golden, crispy skin that everyone loves.
Maximize Flavor: Stuff the cavity with fresh herbs, onion, and garlic to further enhance the flavor of your Mexican Christmas turkey while it cooks.

Make Ahead Options

These Mexican Christmas Turkey make-ahead tips will save precious time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the compound butter up to two weeks in advance; simply mix the softened butter with your spices and herbs, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer. Additionally, you can season and apply the butter to the turkey up to 24 hours before cooking by refrigerating it in a covered dish to maintain its moisture and flavor. On the day of roasting, simply pop the turkey into a preheated oven and follow the roasting instructions, ensuring you have restaurant-quality results with minimal last-minute effort. This thoughtful prep will allow you to focus on spending more time with loved ones!

Pavo Navideño (Mexican Christmas Turkey) Recipe FAQs

How do I select the perfect turkey for my Pavo Navideño?
Absolutely! When choosing a turkey, aim for about 1 to 1½ pounds per person to ensure everyone has a hearty serving. Look for a turkey that feels heavy for its size, with a clean, unblemished exterior. Fresh turkeys are typically better for moisture and flavor, but frozen ones are just fine if thawed correctly.

What’s the best way to store leftovers after making my Mexican Christmas turkey?
Once your delicious turkey is served, let any leftovers cool completely. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge and enjoy them within 4 days. If you’re hoping to save some for later, you can freeze portions for up to 4 months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly and label with the date!

Can I freeze the Pavo Navideño?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Mexican Christmas turkey, first, allow it to cool completely. Then, slice it and wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Remember to label them with the date to keep track of freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes to maintain that juicy, flavorful goodness.

What should I do if my turkey isn’t cooking evenly?
Very good question! If you notice uneven cooking, it could be due to the size of your turkey or the placement in the oven. To ensure even cooking, I recommend rotating the turkey halfway through roasting. Additionally, if you find the legs are cooking faster than the breasts, you can loosely cover them with foil to slow down their cooking process and help everything finish at the same time.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind when cooking this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for guests with allergies, always double-check ingredients, especially for butter and seasonings. For those allergic to gluten, confirm that the seasonings are gluten-free. When it comes to pets, it’s best to avoid feeding your turkey leftovers to dogs, particularly if the turkey is seasoned with onions or garlic, as these can be harmful to them.

Can I make the compound butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the compound butter up to 2 weeks before your holiday feast. Just mix everything and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This not only frees up time on cooking day but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully for an even richer taste in your Pavo Navideño!