Description
The Unforgettable Roast Turkey recipe is a showstopping centerpiece perfect for your holiday table. This easy recipe combines savory herb butter, juicy meat, and crisp golden skin to deliver a turkey that everyone will talk about long after the meal ends. Whether you’re looking for quick Thanksgiving dinner ideas, easy dinner recipes, or classic comfort food ideas, this roast turkey fits the bill. It’s a must-try for anyone who wants to impress without stress—perfect for a cozy gathering or a festive celebration.
Ingredients
1 whole turkey (10–20 pounds)
1 cup salted butter, softened
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
1 onion, quartered
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 orange, quartered (plus zest for herb butter)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil (optional for basting)
2 cups chicken or turkey broth
3 cups stuffing (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove giblets and neck from turkey cavity. Pat turkey dry with paper towels.
2. In a bowl, mix butter with minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, and orange zest.
3. Loosen turkey skin gently and rub herb butter under and over the skin. Season generously with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff cavity loosely with stuffing or aromatics like onion and orange wedges if not using stuffing.
5. Place turkey breast-side up on a rack in a large roasting pan. Add chopped carrots, celery, and onion underneath the rack.
6. Roast turkey, basting every 45 minutes with pan juices or a mixture of butter and broth.
7. Cook for 13–15 minutes per pound, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C).
8. Remove from oven and tent with foil. Let rest for at least 30 minutes.
9. Carve turkey and arrange on a platter with fresh herbs, cranberries, and citrus slices for presentation.
Notes
Let the turkey sit uncovered in the fridge overnight for extra crispy skin.
Always use a thermometer to ensure perfect doneness—don’t rely on timing alone.
For extra flavor, baste the turkey with broth and butter throughout roasting.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 48g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: roast turkey, holiday dinner, thanksgiving turkey, turkey recipe, easy dinner