Description
Roast turkey is the ultimate centerpiece for festive gatherings, delivering succulent, flavorful meat enveloped in golden-brown skin. This foolproof recipe ensures a juicy turkey that will impress your guests at Thanksgiving or any special occasion. With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you’ll create a mouthwatering dish that brings family and friends together around the dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 whole turkey (12–14 pounds)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage)
- 10 garlic cloves
- 2 lemons (halved)
- 1 gallon water (for brining)
- 3/4 cup kosher salt
Instructions
- 1. Brine the turkey: Mix water and salt in a large container and submerge the turkey overnight in the refrigerator.
- 2. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- 3. Prepare the turkey: Remove from brine, pat dry, and rub butter all over the skin and inside the cavity.
- 4. Season: Stuff with fresh herbs, garlic, and lemons. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper.
- 5. Roast: Place in a roasting pan covered loosely with foil. Roast until internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C), about 13 minutes per pound.
- 6. Rest: Let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: approximately 165 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 oz
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 540 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg