Roast Turkey – Moist & Delicious Meal

Nothing says holiday tradition quite like a golden, juicy Roast Turkey. Whether it’s the centerpiece of your lunch table, a special dinner, or a memorable family gathering, this recipe will help you prepare the perfect bird every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Golden brown skin with a crispy texture.
• Juicy, tender meat that stays moist.
• Simple step-by-step instructions for stress-free cooking.
• Leftovers make incredible sandwiches, soups, and casseroles.

Ingredients

• 1 whole turkey (12–14 pounds), thawed if frozen
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons salt, plus more to taste
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 2 carrots, cut into chunks
• 2 celery stalks, cut into chunks
• 4 cups chicken or turkey broth

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove giblets and pat turkey dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Gently loosen the skin over the turkey breast and spread half the herb butter underneath. Rub the remaining butter all over the outside.
4. Stuff the cavity with onion, carrots, and celery. Tie the legs with kitchen twine and tuck wings under the body.
5. Place turkey breast-side up on a rack in a large roasting pan. Pour broth into the bottom of the pan.
6. Roast uncovered, basting every 45 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh (about 3 to 3½ hours for a 12–14 lb turkey).
7. Tent with foil if the skin browns too quickly.
8. Remove from oven, cover loosely with foil, and let rest 20–30 minutes before carving.

Tips & Variations

• Always thaw your turkey in the refrigerator (24 hours for every 4 pounds).
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked perfectly.
• Let the turkey rest before carving so the juices redistribute.
• Add aromatics like apple, lemon, or garlic cloves to the cavity for extra flavor.
• Save pan drippings for homemade gravy.

Variations:

• Garlic Butter: Add roasted garlic to the butter mixture.
• Citrus: Include orange and lemon zest in the butter for bright flavor.
• Spiced: Rub paprika or cayenne powder for warmth.
• Dry Brine: Salt and herb rub the day before for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftover turkey in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Place carved turkey in freezer bags for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F with a splash of broth to keep moist.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

Roast Turkey shines when paired with classic sides such as:

• Mashed potatoes with gravy
• Buttery herb stuffing
• Green bean casserole
• Cranberry sauce
• Dinner rolls

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I roast a turkey?

The general rule is 15 minutes per pound at 325°F. Always check with a thermometer for accuracy.

Should I brine my turkey?

Brining helps keep the meat juicy, but it’s optional. A good herb butter rub is often enough.

Do I need to baste the turkey?

Basting every 45 minutes helps crisp the skin and keeps it flavorful, but don’t open the oven too often or it may dry out.

What if my turkey is browning too quickly?

Simply tent it with foil during roasting to prevent over-browning while allowing the meat to cook through.

Ready to Make It?

This Roast Turkey recipe proves that even a large holiday bird can be simple, flavorful, and stress-free. By following the steps for seasoning, roasting, and resting, you’ll achieve tender, juicy meat with golden, crispy skin every time. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends, and the leftovers make incredible meals for days afterward.

You Might Also Like

• Buttery Herb Stuffing – A golden, buttery stuffing baked with herbs and bread cubes.
• Classic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy, fluffy potatoes perfect with turkey and gravy.
• Cranberry Brie Bites – A festive appetizer that’s rich, sweet, and tangy.
• Pumpkin Roll – A soft pumpkin cake rolled with sweet cream cheese filling.

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