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 (12–14 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
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Prepare the Turkey: Remove giblets and neck, pat turkey dry, and place breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan.
- 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.
- Stuff the Turkey: Fill the cavity with onion, lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs.
- Add Broth: Pour chicken broth into the pan.
- Roast the Turkey: Cover loosely with foil, roast for 3-3.5 hours, removing foil for the last 45 minutes.
- Check Doneness: Ensure the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thigh.
- 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.