Are you in charge of the Thanksgiving turkey this year? Whether you’re a beginner to basting or you are a seasoning veteran, the main event of the Thanksgiving feast is a significant undertaking, but there’s more than one way to do it right. This year, don’t settle for a boring bird. Take a look at some of these poultry preparations that will knock the socks off your guests and put Aunt Edna’s turkey from last year to shame.

Embrace the Brine

Brining, or soaking in saltwater, takes a little more prep (24-48 hours), but it infuses the bird with flavor and increases the likelihood that your turkey will turn out moist and flavorful rather than dry and crumbly. Plus, if you’re looking for simplicity, this is one of the most simple recipe additions you can make.

Buzzed Bird

Sometimes the best tasting turkey comes from humbler beginnings. Ditch the fancy preparation, and grab a can of beer. Open beer. Insert into turkey. Grill turkey. 

Fearsome Fryer

This method was all the rage a few years back, and some turkey chefs still swear by it. If you decide you’d like an oil-crisped bird, it can be done, but proceed with caution and make sure you plan and prepare well before firing up the fryer.

The Bacon Turkey (not to be confused with turkey bacon)

This is a pretty standard rule for most any food: when in doubt, add bacon. When not in doubt, add bacon. Wrap your turkey in bacon and create this meat masterpiece that is sure to please any carnivorous family.

Three Birds in One

This recipe takes the traditional turkey up a notch. A few notches, actually, and it’s not for the faint of heart. Yes, it’s the Turducken. If poultry inception interests you and you want to cook a bird inside a bird inside a bird, this is the option for you

Choose your Own Adventure

If you just can’t decide on a recipe, but you still want to make a jaw-dropping bird, just wing it (pun intended). Mix and match to see what you can create—just make sure you're cooking for an open-minded crowd.

Of course, you could just go with a traditional turkey recipe this Thanksgiving, but if you’re feeling daring, give one of these alternative approaches a try and mix it up this holiday season.