Description
Get ready, foodies! It’s that time of year again when friends and family gather around the table to celebrate Thanksgiving. This year, make your holiday feast unforgettable with an irresistible Roast Turkey recipe. Juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor, this turkey will be the true star of your holiday gathering.
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 1 whole turkey (12–14 pounds)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 onion, quartered
- 1 lemon, halved
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 6 sprigs fresh thyme
Basting Sauce Ingredients
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Prepare the Turkey
Pat your turkey dry with paper towels. Gently loosen the skin over the breast.
3. Apply Butter and Seasoning
Rub the softened butter generously under the skin and all over the turkey. Season it with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff the Turkey Cavity
Fill the turkey cavity with the quartered onion, halved lemon, fresh rosemary, and fresh thyme.
5. Position the Turkey
Place the turkey on a roasting rack set inside a roasting pan, ensuring it is breast side up.
6. Make the Basting Sauce
Mix together the chicken broth and melted butter to create the basting sauce.
7. Baste the Turkey
Brush the basting sauce generously over the entire turkey.
8. Roast the Turkey
Roast the turkey in the preheated oven, basting every 30 minutes. Cook until the thickest part of the thigh reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), which should take about 3-4 hours.
9. Let it Rest
Once done, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for a while before carving and serving.
Notes
Cooking Time
The cooking time may vary based on the exact weight of the turkey. A general guideline is about 13-15 minutes per pound.
Basting Tips
Consistent basting helps keep the turkey moist and enhances flavor. Use a basting brush or spoon to apply the sauce thoroughly.
Resting Time
Allow the turkey to rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows juices to redistribute, making for a juicier turkey.
Storage
Leftover turkey should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours