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Easy Roast Turkey Recipe

Easy Roast Turkey Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 12 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

This easy roast turkey recipe yields a beautifully tender and flavorful bird perfect for holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving. With a herb-infused butter rub and aromatic stuffing, this classic recipe will be a hit at your dinner table.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 whole turkey (1214 lbs), thawed if frozen
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 1 head garlic, halved crosswise
  • 4 fresh rosemary sprigs
  • 6 fresh thyme sprigs
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (for roasting pan)


Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Prepare the Turkey: Remove giblets and neck, pat turkey dry, and place breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan.
  3. Season the Turkey: Mix softened butter with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and paprika. Rub seasoned butter over and under the turkey skin.
  4. Stuff the Turkey: Fill the cavity with onion, lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs.
  5. Add Broth: Pour chicken broth into the pan.
  6. Roast the Turkey: Cover loosely with foil, roast for 3-3.5 hours, removing foil for the last 45 minutes.
  7. Check Doneness: Ensure the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thigh.
  8. Rest and Carve: Let the turkey rest for 20–30 minutes before carving.

Notes

  • If you prefer crispier skin, uncover the turkey earlier during the last hour of roasting.
  • For a richer flavor, baste the turkey every 30–45 minutes with the pan juices.