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Thanksgiving Turkey

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A classic Thanksgiving Turkey recipe that’s juicy, flavorful, and perfect for holiday gatherings. Seasoned with herbs and roasted to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole turkey (1214 lbs), thawed if frozen
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp dried thyme
  • 1 tbsp dried rosemary
  • 1 tbsp dried sage
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
  • 2 cups chicken or turkey broth

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Remove giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
  3. In a bowl, mix the butter with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, and sage.
  4. Rub the butter mixture all over the turkey, including under the skin.
  5. Stuff the cavity with onion, lemon, garlic cloves, and fresh herbs.
  6. Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan and pour broth into the bottom of the pan.
  7. Cover the turkey loosely with foil and roast for 2.5 to 3 hours, basting every 45 minutes with pan juices.
  8. Remove foil in the last 30-45 minutes to brown the skin. Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving.

Notes

  • Letting the turkey rest ensures juicy, tender meat.
  • Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking or undercooking.
  • For extra flavor, brine the turkey overnight before roasting.

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