Description
A simple and flavorful roast turkey recipe perfect for Thanksgiving and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- Whole turkey (12–14 lbs)
- Unsalted butter
- Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage)
- Garlic
- Lemon
- Onion
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Thaw your turkey completely (if frozen) and remove the giblets.
- Pat it dry with paper towels and let it rest at room temperature for 30-60 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Mix softened butter with the fresh herbs, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the herb butter generously under the skin and over the entire turkey.
- Stuff the cavity with halved lemons, onion wedges, and any remaining herbs.
- Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan.
- Roast uncovered, basting every 45 minutes to keep it moist.
- Increase oven temperature to 425°F (218°C) for the last 30 minutes to crisp the skin.
- Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thigh.
- Let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.
Notes
Salt the turkey overnight for better flavor absorption. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. Basting with pan juices every 45 minutes adds extra moisture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 60g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: roast turkey, Thanksgiving, holiday meal, easy recipe, turkey recipe