Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s one of my favorite times of the year, filled with family, laughter, and of course, a mouthwatering feast. And let’s be honest, no Thanksgiving meal feels complete without a perfectly roasted turkey as the star of the show. This Thanksgiving recipe for roasted turkey is not just about the bird; it’s about the love, care, and traditions that come with it. Every year, I look forward to the aroma of herbs filling my kitchen and the joy of gathering around the table with loved ones. Trust me, once you master this turkey recipe, you’ll be the one everyone is raving about! So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking the turkey that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients for the Thanksgiving Recipe
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
How to Prepare the Thanksgiving Recipe
Prepping the Turkey
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 325°F (165°C). While that’s warming up, it’s time to give your turkey some love. Remove the giblets from inside the turkey (don’t forget to save those for another use!), and pat the bird dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving that crispy skin we all adore!
Now, let’s whip up a flavorful herb mixture. In a bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, salt, black pepper, thyme, rosemary, and sage. This mixture is going to be your secret weapon, so make sure it’s well blended. Rub this buttery goodness all over the turkey, getting into every nook and cranny. Trust me, your guests will thank you for it!
Next, stuff the cavity with the quartered onion, chopped carrots, and celery. Not only does this add flavor, but it also keeps your turkey moist while roasting. Once that’s done, place your turkey on a roasting pan and pour the chicken broth around it. This will create a beautiful base for gravy later!
Roasting the Turkey
Now for the best part—roasting! Pop that turkey into the preheated oven and let it work its magic for about 3 to 4 hours. I like to baste it every hour with the juices accumulating in the pan. This helps keep the turkey juicy and flavorful. When you’re about an hour away from finishing, be sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast. Once it’s done, don’t rush! Let it rest for about 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice deliciously tender. You’ll be amazed at the aroma filling your kitchen during this time—it’s pure Thanksgiving bliss!
Tips for Success
- Temperature matters: Always let your turkey sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your turkey is cooked just right. Trust me, it’s a game changer!
- Baste regularly: Don’t forget to baste your turkey every hour! It helps keep the skin crispy and the meat juicy.
- Save those drippings: The drippings can be transformed into an amazing gravy, so make sure to pour them into a separate bowl after cooking.
- Resting is key: Let your turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This keeps it juicy and flavorful.
- Don’t rush the carving: Take your time to carve it properly; it makes for a beautiful presentation!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for each slice of this delicious roasted turkey. Keep in mind that these are just averages and can vary based on preparation and portion size:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
This turkey is not only a centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table but also a great source of protein, making it a satisfying choice for your holiday feast!
FAQ Section
How long should I roast the turkey?
The roasting time for your turkey can vary depending on its weight. As a general rule, you’ll want to roast your turkey for about 13 to 15 minutes per pound at 325°F (165°C). For example, if you have a 12-pound turkey, you’re looking at around 2.5 to 3 hours of roasting time. Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast for safety and perfect doneness!
Can I prepare the turkey ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep your turkey a day in advance. Just season it with the herb mixture and store it covered in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to really infuse into the meat. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting to ensure even cooking. You can also save any leftover drippings for a delicious gravy!
What should I do with leftovers?
Leftover turkey is a great opportunity to get creative in the kitchen! You can slice it up for sandwiches, toss it in salads, or even make a hearty turkey soup. Some of my favorites are turkey pot pie or a savory turkey and stuffing casserole. The options are endless, so don’t let any go to waste!
Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Recipe
- Effortlessly Delicious: This roasted turkey recipe brings out incredible flavors with minimal fuss, making it perfect for any home cook.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Serving 10-12 people, it’s the ideal centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
- Flavorful Herb Infusion: The combination of herbs and butter creates a mouthwatering aroma that will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner.
- Simple Steps: With straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can master this recipe and impress their guests.
- Leftover Magic: Enjoy the benefits of delicious leftovers that can be transformed into creative meals for days after the feast.
This Thanksgiving recipe is not just about the turkey; it’s about creating cherished memories around the table with family and friends!
Serving Suggestions
Now that your turkey is the star of the show, let’s talk about some perfect side dishes that will complement it beautifully! I absolutely love pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes and rich homemade gravy—such a classic! You can’t go wrong with roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil and garlic for a bit of crunch. And don’t forget the sweet and tangy cranberry sauce to balance the savory flavors of the turkey. Oh, and a warm pumpkin pie for dessert? Yes, please! These sides together create a mouthwatering Thanksgiving spread that everyone will adore!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve savored your delicious roasted turkey, it’s important to store the leftovers properly to keep them fresh and tasty! First, let the turkey cool down to room temperature, but don’t leave it out for more than two hours to avoid any food safety issues. Then, carve the turkey into slices and place them in an airtight container. Cover tightly, or wrap the slices in plastic wrap before storing them in the refrigerator. Your leftover turkey will last about 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy those tasty leftovers, reheating is a breeze! Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C), and place the turkey slices in a baking dish. You can add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep them moist. Cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through. You’ll be surprised how delicious it tastes, just like the first day!
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Thanksgiving Recipe: 5 Tips for the Juiciest Turkey
- Total Time: 4 hours
- Yield: 10-12 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious Thanksgiving recipe for roasted turkey with herbs.
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (12–14 pounds)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Remove the turkey giblets and pat the turkey dry.
- In a bowl, mix butter, salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and sage.
- Rub the butter mixture all over the turkey.
- Place the onion, carrots, and celery inside the cavity.
- Place the turkey on a roasting pan and pour chicken broth around it.
- Roast for 3 to 4 hours, basting every hour.
- Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Let the turkey sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Save the drippings for gravy.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: thanksgiving recipe, roasted turkey, holiday meal
