Bacon-Wrapped Turkey with Honey Mustard: A Savory and Sweet Twist on the Classic Holiday Roast

Nothing says “special occasion” like a beautifully roasted turkey. But what if we take it a step further? Wrapping a turkey in crispy, smoky bacon and glazing it with honey mustard turns a classic dish into a culinary showstopper. If you’re looking to impress your guests this holiday season, this Bacon-Wrapped Turkey with Honey Mustard might just be the best recipe you’ve never tried. I decided to test out this recipe a few years ago after seeing it on a cooking show, and it quickly became a staple for our Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.

This guide will walk you through every detail of making this dish—from selecting the right turkey size to creating a honey mustard glaze with the perfect balance of tang and sweetness, and achieving that crispy bacon coating. I’ll also include helpful tips, side suggestions, and answers to common questions, so you’re fully prepared to make a memorable meal.

| Why You’ll Love Bacon-Wrapped Turkey with Honey Mustard

Bacon and turkey might seem like an unusual pairing, but the two complement each other perfectly. The rich, smoky flavor of bacon adds an irresistible savoriness, while the honey mustard glaze provides a sweet and tangy balance. The bacon not only tastes great but also locks in moisture, keeping the turkey juicy and tender. Plus, this recipe gives your table a stunning centerpiece that’s bound to spark conversation.

| Ingredients for Bacon-Wrapped Turkey with Honey Mustard

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious dish to life:

For the Turkey:

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds), thawed if frozen
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)

For the Honey Mustard Glaze:

1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup Dijon mustard (yellow mustard works too, but Dijon adds depth)
1/4 cup brown sugar (optional for added sweetness)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Bacon Layer:

1-2 pounds bacon strips (depending on turkey size)

| Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bacon-Wrapped Turkey with Honey Mustard

Step 1: Prep the Turkey

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse and pat the turkey dry with paper towels. This step is essential because the bacon and glaze will stick better to a dry surface.

Rub the turkey all over with olive oil or melted butter. This helps the skin stay moist under the bacon and allows the honey mustard glaze to adhere better.

Step 2: Season the Turkey

Sprinkle salt and pepper all over the turkey, including inside the cavity. Seasoning the cavity is important because it helps infuse flavor throughout the meat as it cooks.

Personal Insight: I like to add a few fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary inside the cavity as well. They add a subtle, aromatic flavor that pairs nicely with the smokiness of the bacon.

Step 3: Prepare the Honey Mustard Glaze

In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder. This glaze will serve as a flavorful base for the bacon layer, helping it adhere to the turkey while adding a sweet and tangy note.

Cooking Tip: The honey mustard glaze can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before using it on the turkey.

Step 4: Wrap the Turkey with Bacon

Here’s where the magic happens! Lay out your bacon strips on a cutting board, slightly overlapping them to create a large “bacon blanket.” Gently place this bacon blanket over the turkey, pressing it down to ensure it sticks. Tuck any loose ends underneath the turkey or secure them with toothpicks.

Brush a generous layer of the honey mustard glaze over the bacon. This helps caramelize the bacon as it cooks, creating a glossy, crispy finish.

Pro Insight: If your turkey is especially large, you may want to criss-cross additional bacon strips around the legs and wings to ensure every bite gets some bacon flavor.

Step 5: Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan and tent it loosely with foil. Roast in the preheated oven, basting every 45 minutes with additional honey mustard glaze. The turkey should roast for about 15 minutes per pound, but start checking the temperature around the 3-hour mark.

Remove the foil for the last hour of cooking to allow the bacon to crisp up. The turkey is done when the thickest part of the breast and thigh reaches 165°F.

| Tips for Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Turkey

Choose the Right Turkey Size: A 12-14 pound turkey works well for most holiday gatherings and allows the bacon to cook evenly. Smaller turkeys will cook faster, so adjust your timing as needed.
Use Thick-Cut Bacon: Thicker bacon strips hold up better during the long roasting process, creating a nice, crisp layer on top.
Baste with Care: When basting, be gentle to avoid dislodging the bacon layer. A brush or ladle works well here.
Let It Rest: Once the turkey is out of the oven, allow it to rest for 20-30 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside the meat, ensuring a moist, flavorful bite.

| Serving Suggestions for Bacon-Wrapped Turkey with Honey Mustard

A bacon-wrapped turkey pairs well with both classic and modern sides. Here are a few of my personal favorites:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and smooth, they balance the richness of the bacon and honey mustard glaze.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: The balsamic adds a tangy bite that complements the sweet glaze on the turkey.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping: Sweet and nutty, this dish brings out the honey notes in the glaze.
Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest: Adds a fruity, slightly tart flavor that enhances the turkey’s savory profile.

Engagement Prompt: What sides do you enjoy with your turkey? Share your favorite pairings in the comments!

FAQs About Bacon-Wrapped Turkey with Honey Mustard

1. Can I use turkey breast instead of a whole turkey?
Yes! Turkey breast is a great option if you’re cooking for a smaller group. Adjust cooking time accordingly since turkey breast cooks faster than a whole bird.

2. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely. The honey mustard glaze can be made up to two days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before using.

3. How can I get the bacon extra crispy?
If the bacon isn’t as crispy as you’d like, you can broil the turkey for a few minutes at the end of roasting. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning!

| Leftover Ideas for Bacon-Wrapped Turkey

One of the best things about holiday meals is the leftovers. Here are a few creative ways to enjoy them:

Bacon-Turkey Sandwiches: Layer turkey, a drizzle of honey mustard, and crispy lettuce between slices of your favorite bread.
Honey Mustard Turkey Salad: Toss shredded turkey with greens, a few bacon bits, and a light honey mustard dressing.
Turkey Bacon Pasta Bake: Combine leftover turkey with pasta, cheese, and a bit of leftover glaze for a hearty casserole.

| Why Bacon-Wrapped Turkey with Honey Mustard is a Must-Try Recipe

If you’re looking for a turkey recipe that’s anything but ordinary, this bacon-wrapped version with honey mustard glaze is a fantastic option. Not only does it make for a visually stunning centerpiece, but it also offers a depth of flavor that’s unmatched. The smoky bacon and sweet-tangy honey mustard glaze create an irresistible balance, and each bite is a delightful mix of textures.

So, go ahead and give it a try. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a special gathering, this turkey will be the highlight of your meal. Enjoy!