Description
The perfect juicy roast turkey with crispy skin, savory herb butter, and incredible flavor. Ideal for Thanksgiving or festive gatherings, this recipe delivers a tender and flavorful experience with simple ingredients and a classic roasting method.
Ingredients
Turkey and Butter
- 1 whole turkey (12–14 lbs)
- ½ cup softened butter
- 1 tbsp rosemary
- 1 tbsp thyme
- 1 tbsp sage
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Stuffing
- 1 onion, quartered
- 1 lemon, quartered
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Turkey: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Pat the turkey dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure the skin will crisp nicely during roasting.
- Make Herb Butter and Apply: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with rosemary, thyme, sage, and minced garlic. Gently loosen the skin of the turkey and spread the herb butter mixture evenly under the skin and all over the surface of the turkey.
- Stuff the Turkey: Stuff the cavity of the turkey with the quartered onion and lemon along with any remaining herbs. This will infuse the turkey from the inside with fragrant flavors while roasting.
- Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey breast side up on a roasting rack in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for 3 to 3½ hours, basting the turkey every 45 minutes with the pan drippings to keep the meat moist.
- Rest Before Carving: Remove the turkey from the oven once the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh, then let it rest for 20 to 30 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure the meat stays juicy when carved.
Notes
- If the skin browns too quickly during roasting, cover the turkey loosely with foil to prevent burning.
- Use the pan drippings after roasting to make a flavorful gravy to accompany the turkey.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 3 hrs 30 mins
- Category: Main Dish, Holiday
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
