Irresistible Roast Turkey Recipe for Perfect Holidays

Roast turkey is the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. Its golden skin, crisped to perfection, promises to unleash a treasure trove of juicy flavors that dance on your palate. As you carve into its tender flesh, the mouthwatering aroma wafts through the air, making your stomach growl louder than a hungry bear.

Picture this: a bustling kitchen filled with laughter and the tantalizing scent of herbs mingling with rich butter. It’s Thanksgiving or Christmas, and family members gather around the table, eyes gleaming in anticipation of that glorious roast turkey. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a tradition that brings us together, sparkles our memories, and ensures we are well-fed for the holiday festivities.

I remember the first time I served this roast turkey recipe at Thanksgiving; my family was so impressed that they nearly staged a standing ovation right there in the dining room.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Whole Turkey: A fresh or thawed turkey weighing between 12-14 pounds works best for roasting.

• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to ensure a crispy skin with rich flavor.

• Fresh Herbs: Rosemary, thyme, and sage add vibrant flavor; use them generously for best results.

• Garlic: Fresh cloves infuse deep aromas; crush them to release their full potential in the seasoning blend.

• Onions: Quartered onions not only add moisture but also create a flavorful bed for roasting.

• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth helps baste your turkey without overwhelming its natural flavors.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning; don’t skimp on these to enhance all those lovely flavors!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Roast Turkey Recipe

Preparing Your Turkey: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove giblets from inside the turkey cavity and pat dry with paper towels. A dry turkey means better browning!

Seasoning: Rub olive oil all over the turkey’s skin and inside the cavity. Generously sprinkle salt and pepper everywhere; think of it as giving your turkey a fabulous spa treatment.

Add Aromatics: Stuff the cavity with quartered onions and crushed garlic cloves. Toss in fresh herbs for a flavor explosion that will make everyone swoon when they walk into your kitchen.

Roasting Time: Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a large pan. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan to keep things moist while baking. Roast for about 13 minutes per pound until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Basting: Every 30 minutes or so, baste your turkey with its own juices using a baster or spoon. This ensures that crispy skin we all dream about while keeping it juicy inside.

Resting Your Turkey: Once done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This step allows juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is perfectly moist.

Enjoy creating this roast turkey recipe! Your family will thank you—and you just might become their new favorite chef!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by seasoning your turkey overnight for maximum flavor, then roast at 325°F until golden brown.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding citrus fruits or herbs to the cavity for an aromatic twist that brightens flavors.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover turkey in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven.

The first time I made a roast turkey, my nephew declared it “the best bird ever,” which made my heart soar higher than the Thanksgiving balloons.

FAQ

How long should I cook a turkey?

Roast your turkey for approximately 13 minutes per pound at 325°F.

Can I brine my turkey?

Yes, brining adds moisture and flavor; try it for a juicier result.

What if my turkey is too dry?

Serve with homemade gravy; it adds moisture and elevates the dish wonderfully.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Roast Turkey

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves about 10 people 1x

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Description

Roast turkey is the star of holiday gatherings, offering a succulent centerpiece that delights family and friends. With its crispy skin and juicy meat infused with fresh herbs and garlic, this recipe is simple yet impressive, making it an essential dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas celebrations.

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Ingredients

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• 1 whole turkey (12–14 lbs)
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 3 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 3 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, crushed
• 2 large onions, quartered
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove giblets from the turkey cavity and pat dry.
2. Rub olive oil all over the turkey’s skin and inside the cavity. Generously season with salt and pepper.
3. Stuff the cavity with onions, garlic, and fresh herbs.
4. Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a large pan. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.
5. Roast for approximately 13 minutes per pound until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), basting every 30 minutes.
6. Once done, let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 oz (112g)
• Calories: 240
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 100mg