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Best Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe - Image 2

Best Thanksgiving Turkey

This Best Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe ensures a juicy, flavorful bird with a perfect golden crust. Simple steps and professional techniques make it easy to achieve holiday perfection.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole turkey 12-14 lbs, thawed if frozen
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 tbsp fresh rosemary finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh sage finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lemon zest and juice
  • 1 tbsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 large onion quartered
  • 2 large carrots cut into chunks
  • 2 stalks celery cut into chunks
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Equipment

  • Roasting pan with rack
  • Meat thermometer
  • Kitchen twine
  • Basting brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Remove the turkey from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about an hour before roasting.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to create a herb butter. Gently loosen the skin over the turkey breast and spread half of the herb butter under the skin. Rub the remaining herb butter all over the outside of the turkey.
  3. Stuff the turkey cavity with the quartered onion, carrot chunks, and celery stalks. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under the body.
  4. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. Cover the turkey loosely with foil and roast for about 2 hours.
  5. Remove the foil and continue roasting for another 30-60 minutes, basting every 20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
  6. Let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful bird.

Notes

Chef's Tips:
• For an extra moist turkey, consider brining it overnight before roasting.
• Avoid overcooking the turkey; use a thermometer to check doneness.
• Serve with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce for a complete Thanksgiving meal.
Food Safety:
• Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking and consume within 3-4 days.