The Ultimate Roasted Turkey Recipe for Thanksgiving Day
Master roasted turkey for the magical holiday season. This step-by-step guide provides the ultimate recipe for turkey that is sure to overshadow everything at any gathering. Thanksgiving, or any of the holiday dinners, will benefit from simple instruction for a perfectly golden-brown bird.
Ingredients:
1 whole turkey (12-15 lbs)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp salt
1 tbsp black pepper
2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tbsp rosemary, chopped
1 tbsp sage, chopped
1 lemon, quartered
1 onion, quartered
4 garlic cloves, smashed
2 cups chicken or turkey broth
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1.Prepare the Turkey:
- Preheat the oven to 325 degrees f (163 degrees c, centigrade).
- Remove turkey giblets and rinse well inside its cavity and out. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Then place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan.
2.Season the Turkey:
- Combine the butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and sage in a small bowl.
- Gently loosen the skin of the turkey and rub the butter mixture under the skin and over the top.
- Stuff the cavity with lemon, onion, and garlic for added flavor.
3.Roasting the Turkey:
- Pour the broth into the bottom of the roasting pan to keep the turkey moist.
- Tent the turkey loosely with foil and roast about 13-15 minutes per pound.
- Remove the foil during the last 45 minutes to allow skin to crisp up.
4.Check for Doneness:
- Using a meat thermometer, check the thickest part of the thigh. Once it hits 165 degrees F (74 degrees C), it is done.
5.Rest and Serve:
- Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This helps to redistribute the juices so that they won’t run out when carving.
Tips for Best Roasted Turkey:
- Brining: Consider brining the turkey for 12-24 hours for added moisture and flavor.
- Herb Butter: Customize your herb butter with different spices like paprika or garlic powder.
- Basting: Baste the turkey every 30-40 minutes for a golden, crispy skin.
FAQs:
Q: How do I keep my turkey moist?
A: Frequently baste it and pour broth into the roasting pan before keeping it moist.
Q: Can I cook from frozen turkey?
A: Yes, however, ensure you thaw.
Q: What sides go best with roasted turkey?
A: Classic sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole complement roasted turkey perfectly.
Mastering this roasted turkey recipe will make your holiday meal unforgettable. With crispy skin, tender meat, and rich flavor, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Follow these tips for the perfect holiday centerpiece!
