Description
A holiday classic, this Juicy Herb-Roasted Turkey delivers golden, crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat infused with fresh herbs and butter.
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (12–14 lbs), thawed
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 onion, quartered
- 1 lemon or orange, halved
- 2 celery stalks
- 2 carrots
- Extra fresh herbs for cavity
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- If desired, brine turkey overnight (wet or dry brine).
- Pat turkey dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- Mix softened butter with garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.
- Loosen turkey skin over breasts and thighs, spread herb butter under skin and over entire bird.
- Stuff cavity with onion, citrus halves, celery, carrots, and herbs.
- Place turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack inside a large pan.
- Roast 15 minutes per pound (about 3 ½ hours for 14 lbs).
- Baste with pan juices every 45 minutes if desired.
- If skin browns too quickly, tent with foil.
- Check doneness: breast at 160°F, thigh at 175°F.
- Rest turkey 30 minutes before carving.
Notes
Resting is essential for juicy slices. Save pan drippings for homemade gravy.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American