Description
Ready to serve the juiciest, most flavorful turkey your table has ever seen? This *Unforgettable Roast Turkey* recipe is the ultimate showstopper for holidays or any special dinner. A golden, crispy skin wraps around tender, herb-buttered meat, infused with citrus and aromatic vegetables. This easy recipe is perfect whether you’re prepping for a festive feast or exploring new dinner ideas. It’s packed with flavor, crowd-approved, and makes amazing leftovers. Whether you’re after a quick dinner idea or a traditional Thanksgiving turkey, this recipe delivers comfort and classic flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
12–16 lb whole turkey
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 large onion, quartered
2 carrots, cut into large pieces
2 celery stalks, cut into large pieces
1 orange, halved
1 lemon, halved
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups chicken broth
Instructions
1. Remove the turkey from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 1 hour. Pat it dry and remove giblets.
2. Mix softened butter with garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper. Gently spread under and over the skin.
3. Stuff the turkey cavity with onion, carrot, celery, citrus, and herbs.
4. Tie the legs and tuck the wings. Place on a roasting rack in a pan. Add chicken broth to the bottom.
5. Roast at 325°F (165°C), basting every 45 minutes. Tent with foil if browning too quickly. Roast 15 minutes per pound.
6. Remove when internal temp hits 165°F in the thigh. Let rest for 30 minutes before carving.
Notes
Use a meat thermometer to ensure your turkey reaches 165°F for safe doneness.
Letting the turkey rest before carving helps lock in moisture and makes slicing easier.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 3.5 - 4.5 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 6 oz)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 49g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: roast turkey, Thanksgiving dinner, holiday turkey, easy dinner, turkey recipe