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Roast Turkey

A perfectly golden, juicy, flavorful roast turkey made with garlic herb butter and simple aromatics. Crispy skin, tender meat, and a foolproof roasting method perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special gathering.
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole turkey 12–14 lbs, fully thawed
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage chopped
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 onion quartered
  • 1 lemon halved
  • 6 garlic cloves smashed
  • 2 cups chicken broth for the bottom of the pan

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove giblets and pat turkey completely dry.
  2. In a bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
  3. Gently loosen the skin over the breast and spread some of the herb butter underneath.
  4. Rub the remaining butter all over the outside of the turkey.
  5. Stuff the cavity with onion, lemon, and smashed garlic cloves.
  6. Place turkey on a roasting rack inside a large roasting pan.
  7. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.
  8. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings under.
  9. Roast uncovered for 13–15 minutes per pound, basting occasionally.
  10. If browning too quickly, tent lightly with foil.
  11. Turkey is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  12. Let rest 20–30 minutes before carving.

Notes

• Ensure turkey is completely thawed for even cooking.
• Add carrots, celery, and onions to the bottom of the pan for more flavor.
• For crispier skin, pat turkey extra dry and chill uncovered in fridge 2–6 hours before roasting.
• Use pan drippings to make homemade turkey gravy.
• Letting the turkey rest helps keep the meat juicy.
• Adjust cooking time based on turkey size.
Approx nutrition per serving: Protein 55g – Fat 18g – Carbs 1g

🔸 Times & Servings

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3–4 hours
  • Rest Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Servings: 12 servings
  • Calories: 420 per serving