Description

Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey is the star of your holiday feast, boasting a golden-brown exterior and succulent meat infused with fresh herbs and savory flavors. This simple yet impressive recipe ensures that everyone gathers around the table for seconds. With careful preparation and cooking, you can create a tender and flavorful turkey that will leave lasting memories of joy and gratitude during this special time.

Ingredients

Scale

1 whole turkey (12–14 pounds)
1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1/4 cup fresh rosemary (chopped)
1/4 cup fresh thyme (chopped)
1/4 cup fresh sage (chopped)
8 garlic cloves (whole)
1 lemon (halved)
2 onions (quartered)
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Thaw the turkey in the refrigerator for 1-3 days if frozen. Remove giblets once thawed.
If desired, brine the turkey overnight in a mixture of water, salt, sugar, and herbs.
Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Rub softened butter all over and under the skin; season generously with salt and pepper.
Stuff the cavity with quartered onions, halved lemon, and remaining herbs.
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Place turkey on a rack in a roasting pan; baste with chicken broth every 30 minutes.
Roast until an internal thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast (approximately 13-15 minutes per pound).
Allow turkey to rest before carving for maximum juiciness.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: Approximately 3 hours
Category: Main
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 oz
Calories: 320
Sugar: 0 g
Sodium: 560 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 0 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 36 g
Cholesterol: 130 mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider infusing your brine with citrus slices or additional herbs. Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days; reheat gently at 300°F.