Thanksgiving Butternaise (Butter + Mayo Magic for the Perfect Bird)

Thanksgiving Butternaise, your new Thanksgiving secret weapon. This butter-and-mayo spread creates the juiciest, crispiest chicken or turkey ever. Made with Duke’s mayo, salted butter, herbs, and Harlem Garlic Pepper, it’s the ultimate holiday flavor hack.

You’ll Love This Recipe Because…

• It gives your bird perfectly golden, crisp skin without drying it out.
• The combo of butter + mayo = unbeatable flavor and juiciness.
• It doubles as a spread for the best post-Thanksgiving sandwiches ever.
• You can make endless variations — from lemon-dill to smoky paprika!

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What Is Thanksgiving Butternaise?

This recipe was born while filming my “How to Roast a Chicken (or Turkey!)” video — and honestly, it might just change your Thanksgiving forever.

Think of Butternaise as the best parts of compound butter and mayonnaise merged together. Butter brings richness and flavor, while mayo locks in moisture and helps the skin get shatteringly crisp.

I stirred in Badia Harlem Garlic Pepper, a touch of Gourmet Garden Poultry Seasoning, and plenty of cracked black pepper for a fresh, herby flavor that tastes like Thanksgiving in a jar.

Now, I have to be honest: Tillamook started this. They released their jar of Butternaise, and I thought it was genius.

Ingredients

• 1 stick (½ cup) salted butter, softened
• ¼ cup Duke’s mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons Badia Harlem Garlic Pepper
• 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Gourmet Garden Poultry Seasoning (parsley, oregano, sage, thyme, rosemary)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine all ingredients until smooth and spreadable.
2. Pat your chicken or turkey dry with paper towels.
3. Gently lift the skin and rub Thanksgiving Butternaise under and all over the bird.
4. Roast as usual — the Butternaise will baste the bird as it cooks, creating crispy skin and juicy meat.
5. Save a little to slather on the outside of your sandwich bread the next day — it toasts up golden and flavorful!

Variations on Butternaise

Here are a few flavor ideas to include in the post for versatility year-round:

1. Lemon Herb Butternaise

Perfect for spring chicken or fish.
Add lemon zest, a squeeze of juice, and fresh dill or parsley.

2. Smoky Paprika Butternaise

Ideal for grilled meats or BBQ turkey.
Stir in smoked paprika, a dash of cayenne, and minced garlic.

3. Maple Dijon Butternaise

A cozy fall twist for pork or roasted veggies.
Mix in Dijon mustard, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a pinch of thyme.

4. Citrus Sage Butternaise

Great for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Add orange zest, a hint of rosemary, and chopped fresh sage.

5. Garlic Parmesan Butternaise

For an Italian flair.
Stir in grated Parmesan, extra black pepper, and roasted garlic paste.

Tips & Tricks

• Let the Butternaise sit at room temp before using so it spreads easily.
• Make extra and store it in the fridge up to 5 days (or freeze it!).
• Use it on roasted veggies, baked potatoes, or dinner rolls for instant flavor.
• Want a head start? Prep your Butternaise up to a week ahead of Thanksgiving.

Serving Ideas

Besides roasting your bird, this spread is magic on:

• Toasted turkey sandwiches
• Grilled cheese
• Corn on the cob
• Roasted sweet potatoes
• Warm rolls or biscuits

FAQ

Can I use unsalted butter?
Yes! Just add ¼ teaspoon of salt to balance the flavors.

Does it work on turkey breast or just whole birds?
Absolutely — it’s fantastic on any cut, from boneless breasts to thighs.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Try vegan butter and mayo; the method stays the same.

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