This complete holiday meal features bone-in, skin-on turkey thighs roasted with a fragrant herb butter until the skin is golden and crisp. The tender meat is served alongside a velvety cauliflower mash enriched with cream cheese and roasted garlic, all finished with a smooth gravy made from natural pan drippings. It is a hearty, multi-textured plate that captures the essence of a traditional roast dinner with its aromatic blend of rosemary, sage, and thyme.

About This Recipe

The kitchen fills with the scent of browning butter and fresh woody herbs as the turkey thighs roast in a high-heat oven. The herb butter, infused with garlic and sage, is applied both under and over the skin to keep the meat succulent while the exterior develops a savory, caramelized crunch. On the stovetop, the cauliflower is steamed and blended into a smooth, buttery consistency that mimics the weight and comfort of a traditional mash.

The flavor of the dish is centered on the savory depth of the turkey drippings, which form the base for a rich, cream-based gravy. Rosemary and thyme provide a continuous herbal note that bridges the gap between the roasted poultry and the sharp, garlicky undertones of the cauliflower. As the gravy is drizzled over the plate, it pools into the mash and coats the sliced turkey, creating a cohesive and satisfying profile.

This meal is typically served as a full feast, often plated with the turkey sliced to reveal its juicy interior against the pale, creamy mash. The vibrant green specks of fresh herbs on the golden skin make it a visually appealing centerpiece for a festive evening. The combination of a silky sauce, airy vegetable mash, and crisp roasted skin makes it well suited for a holiday-style dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfectly juicy turkey with crispy skin
Comforting garlic cauliflower mash
Creamy gravy made from real drippings
Completely keto-friendly and gluten-free
Ready in about 1 hour

What You’ll Need for This Keto Herb Butter Turkey Thighs

For the turkey:
2 bone-in, skin-on turkey thighs
3 tbsp butter, softened
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
½ tsp rosemary, minced
½ tsp sage, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the cauliflower mash:
1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp cream cheese
2 tbsp heavy cream
1 garlic clove, roasted or sautéed
Salt and pepper to taste
For the creamy gravy:
2 tbsp turkey drippings (or butter if none)
½ cup chicken or turkey broth
2 tbsp heavy cream
½ tsp xanthan gum or 1 tsp arrowroot powder (optional for thickening)
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preheat the oven: Set to 400°F. Pat turkey thighs dry and season with salt and pepper.
Make herb butter: In a bowl, mix softened butter, olive oil, garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, and sage.
Prep the turkey: Loosen the skin and rub half the butter mixture under it. Rub the rest on top of the skin.
Roast: Place on a baking sheet and roast 40–50 minutes, until golden and internal temperature hits 165°F.
Start the mash: While turkey cooks, steam or boil cauliflower until tender (about 10 minutes). Drain well.
Blend: Add cauliflower, butter, cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic, salt, and pepper to a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Make the gravy: Once the turkey is done, remove it and pour drippings into a pan. Add broth and cream, whisk over medium heat. Sprinkle xanthan gum if using and whisk until thickened. Season to taste.
Serve: Plate creamy cauliflower mash, top with sliced turkey, and drizzle generous amounts of gravy.

FAQ

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, chicken thighs work just as well if you can’t find turkey thighs. Adjust roasting time slightly.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. You can roast the turkey a day ahead and reheat it in the oven at 300°F for 10–15 minutes. Mash and gravy also reheat beautifully.
What if I don’t have turkey drippings?
Use butter or olive oil as a base and whisk in chicken broth and a touch of Worcestershire sauce for richness.
How do I make the gravy thicker?
Whisk in a small pinch of xanthan gum while it’s simmering, or let it reduce naturally until creamy.

Variations & Substitutions

Add mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms into the gravy for more depth.
Dairy-free: Use coconut cream and olive oil instead of butter and cream.
Extra flavor: Add a splash of dry white wine or Dijon mustard to the gravy.
Crispier skin: Finish turkey under the broiler for 2–3 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with roasted green beans, sautéed spinach, or keto stuffing to make it a full Thanksgiving spread. A small spoon of sugar-free cranberry sauce on the side adds a perfect tangy note.

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