Thanksgiving or any festive occasion calls for the star of the meal—a perfectly roasted turkey. But let’s face it: roasting a turkey can feel like a daunting task. With this straightforward recipe, you’ll have a beautifully golden, juicy turkey without the stress. Let’s dive right in!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours (depending on the size of your turkey)
- Total Time: 3-4 hours
- Servings: 8-12 people
This recipe is beginner-friendly and uses simple ingredients to let the natural flavors of the turkey shine.
Ingredients
For the Turkey
- 1 whole turkey (10-12 pounds)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
For the Gravy (optional)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups turkey drippings or chicken stock
Special Equipment
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- A large roasting pan with a rack
- Meat thermometer
- Aluminum foil
- Basting brush
Preparation
Step 1: Prep Your Turkey
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Remove the turkey from its packaging. Take out the giblets and neck (usually found in the cavity). Save these for gravy or stock if desired.
- Rinse the turkey thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Season the Turkey
- Mix the softened butter with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme to create a flavorful butter spread.
- Gently loosen the skin of the turkey breast by sliding your fingers underneath it. Be careful not to tear it.
- Rub half of the seasoned butter under the skin and the other half over the entire turkey, including the legs and wings.
Step 3: Stuff the Turkey
- Stuff the turkey cavity with the lemon halves, onion quarters, and fresh herbs (rosemary and thyme).
- Tie the legs together with kitchen twine to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Roast the Turkey
- Place the turkey breast side up on the roasting rack in the pan.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone.
- Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the skin from over-browning.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 2-3 hours. A general rule of thumb is 13-15 minutes per pound.
Step 5: Baste and Finish
- Every 30 minutes, baste the turkey with the drippings from the pan using a basting brush.
- Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to achieve a golden, crispy skin.
- The turkey is done when the thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
Rest and Serve
- Once cooked, transfer the turkey to a cutting board and let it rest for 20-30 minutes. This allows the juices to be redistributed, ensuring a moist turkey.
- Carve and serve with your favorite sides.
Optional Gravy Recipe
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- Strain the turkey drippings from the pan and pour them into a saucepan.
- Heat over medium heat and whisk in the flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add the chicken stock, whisking constantly until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Conclusion
With this simple roast turkey recipe, you’ll impress your guests with minimal effort. The tender, flavorful meat, and crispy skin make this recipe a showstopper for any festive meal. Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and green beans for an unforgettable feast!
FAQs
Can I use a frozen turkey?
- Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before cooking. This can take 3-4 days for a 10-12 pound turkey.
How do I prevent a dry turkey?
- Basting regularly and letting the turkey rest before carving helps retain moisture.
Can I stuff the turkey with traditional stuffing?
- Absolutely! Just ensure the stuffing reaches 165°F to be safe to eat.
What can I do with leftovers?
- Use leftovers in sandwiches, soups, or casseroles for a delicious post-holiday treat.
Do I need to bring the turkey?
- While optional, bringing adds extra flavor and moisture. For simplicity, this recipe skips brining but still delivers fantastic results.
👉 Breakfast recipe.>> 👉 Dessert recipe.>> 👉 Side Dishes recipe.>>