Thanksgiving is all about gathering around a table filled with love, laughter, and, of course, delicious food. One of my absolute favorite ways to celebrate this special holiday is by whipping up some classic dishes from Martha Stewart’s Thanksgiving recipes. There’s something so comforting about the traditional flavors of a perfectly roasted turkey, the aroma of herbs filling the kitchen, and the joy of sharing these moments with family. Growing up, I remember the excitement of helping my mom in the kitchen, and now, I cherish passing those traditions down to my own family. Trust me, following these cherished recipes will make your Thanksgiving unforgettable!
Ingredients List
- 1 turkey (12-14 lbs)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 2 cups stuffing (your choice)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage)
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 onion, quartered
Make sure you have everything on hand before you start! The key to a fantastic Thanksgiving turkey is using fresh ingredients, especially those lovely herbs that will infuse the bird with flavor. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This will ensure your turkey cooks evenly and gets that beautiful golden brown color.
- While the oven is heating up, get your turkey ready. Pat it dry with paper towels—this helps the skin get crispy. Now, rub that softened butter all over the turkey, both inside and out. It’s messy but oh-so-worth it!
- Next, season the turkey generously with salt and black pepper. Don’t skimp here; it really enhances the flavor!
- Now it’s time to stuff the turkey. Fill it with your choice of stuffing, along with the fresh herbs, halved lemon, and quartered onion. This will add amazing flavor from the inside out!
- Place your stuffed turkey in a roasting pan and pour the chicken broth around it. This helps keep the turkey moist while roasting.
- Roast the turkey for about 3 to 4 hours, basting it every 30 minutes with the juices from the pan. This is where the magic happens—basting keeps the meat juicy and adds flavor!
- Keep an eye on the internal temperature—when it reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh, it’s done!
- Once it’s out of the oven, let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice tender and flavorful.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have a Thanksgiving turkey that’s not only impressive but also incredibly delicious! Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to take a moment to savor the aroma wafting through your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic flavors that bring back warm memories of family gatherings.
- Simple, straightforward steps that make cooking stress-free.
- A show-stopping turkey that will impress your guests and family alike.
- Perfectly juicy and tender meat, thanks to the basting and fresh herbs.
- Great for leftovers, whether in sandwiches or soups!
- This recipe is a timeless favorite that’s easy to customize with your own stuffing choices.
Trust me, following these Martha Stewart Thanksgiving recipes will make your holiday table truly unforgettable!
Tips for Success
To ensure your turkey turns out perfectly, here are my top tips! First, don’t rush the prep—let the turkey sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking; it helps with even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, as this guarantees a juicy turkey without any guesswork. Also, make sure to baste regularly, but try not to open the oven too often; it can lower the temperature. If the skin starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil to prevent burning. And remember, patience is key—let that turkey rest before carving for the best results!
Nutritional Information
For a serving size of one slice of turkey, you can expect approximately 350 calories, 20g of fat (with 6g of saturated fat), and a hearty 30g of protein. It also contains about 10g of carbohydrates and 800mg of sodium. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. But hey, it’s Thanksgiving—enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ Section
Can I cook the turkey faster at a higher temperature? While it might seem tempting, cooking the turkey at a higher temperature can lead to uneven cooking and dry meat. Stick to 325°F for the best results.
What type of stuffing is best? You can use any stuffing you love! Traditional bread stuffing works great, but feel free to experiment with cornbread, sausage, or even wild rice for a twist.
How do I store leftover turkey? Let the turkey cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should be consumed within 3-4 days for the best flavor.
Can I freeze leftover turkey? Absolutely! Just make sure to shred or slice it before freezing, and store it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
How can I tell when the turkey is done? The best way is to use a meat thermometer. When the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (75°C), you’re good to go!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftover turkey properly is key to enjoying those delicious flavors for days to come! First, let the turkey cool completely before slicing it into portions. Place the turkey in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it; just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat turkey is in the oven. Preheat to 325°F (165°C), cover the turkey with foil, and heat until warmed through. This will keep it juicy and tender—just like when it was freshly roasted!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got a stunning turkey, let’s talk sides! Nothing says Thanksgiving like creamy mashed potatoes, whipped to perfection and drizzled with rich gravy. For a burst of flavor, serve roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with bacon or a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce that complements the turkey beautifully. Don’t forget classic stuffing—it’s a must-have! And if you’re looking to add a pop of color to your table, a vibrant green bean almondine or a refreshing salad with autumn fruits will do the trick. Trust me, these sides will make your holiday feast complete!
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Martha Stewart Thanksgiving Recipes for Unforgettable Feasts
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A collection of traditional Thanksgiving recipes from Martha Stewart.
Ingredients
- 1 turkey (12-14 lbs)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 2 cups stuffing (your choice)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage)
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 onion, quartered
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Prepare the turkey by patting it dry and rubbing it with butter.
- Season the turkey inside and out with salt and pepper.
- Stuff the turkey with stuffing, herbs, lemon, and onion.
- Place the turkey in a roasting pan and pour chicken broth around it.
- Roast the turkey for about 3-4 hours, basting occasionally.
- Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer for accurate cooking.
- Allow leftovers to cool before refrigerating.
- Consider making gravy from the drippings.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice of turkey
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: martha stewart thanksgiving recipes
