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Thanksgiving is the perfect time to gather with family, share gratitude, and indulge in a feast centered around a beautifully roasted turkey. This Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey recipe promises a moist and flavorful bird, making it the star of your holiday table. Let’s dive into the magic of creating the perfect turkey that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 (12–14 pound) whole turkey, thawed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 onion, quartered
- 1 lemon, halved
- 4–5 cups stuffing (optional)
Serving Size
- Serves: 10–12
Prep Time
- 30 minutes
Cook Time
- 3–4 hours (depending on the size of the turkey)
Total Time
- 4–4.5 hours
Instructions
1. Prepare the Turkey
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Remove the turkey from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin!
2. Season the Turkey
In a bowl, mix the softened butter, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Carefully loosen the skin from the turkey breast and rub half of the butter mixture directly onto the meat. This will infuse flavor and keep the turkey juicy. Use the remaining mixture to coat the outside of the turkey.
3. Stuff the Turkey (Optional)
If you’re using stuffing, gently spoon it into the cavity of the turkey. Don’t overfill it, as the stuffing expands during cooking. Place the quartered onion and halved lemon inside the cavity for added flavor.
4. Roast the Turkey
Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan to keep the turkey moist. Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven, basting every 30 minutes with the pan juices.
5. Check for Doneness
The turkey is ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Remove the foil in the last hour of cooking to allow the skin to brown beautifully.
6. Rest and Carve
Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist turkey.
7. Serve and Celebrate
Carve the turkey and serve it with your favorite Thanksgiving sides. Watch as your family gathers around the table, filled with warmth, love, and gratitude.
Why This Turkey is a Must-Try
This Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey recipe is simple yet incredibly rewarding. The combination of fresh herbs and butter guarantees a flavorful, succulent turkey that will impress your guests. Plus, the savory aroma wafting through your home will have everyone eagerly anticipating the feast.
Pro Tip: For even more flavor, try brining the turkey the night before. A simple saltwater brine will enhance the juiciness and taste!
Thanksgiving is all about creating memories, and there’s no better centerpiece for your celebration than a perfectly roasted turkey. So gather your loved ones, embrace the joy of the season, and enjoy every delicious bite!
