Roast turkey is a classic dish that’s perfect for gatherings. It’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making it a family favorite during special occasions, especially Thanksgiving!
There’s something so comforting about the aroma filling your kitchen while the turkey cooks. I can already picture everyone gathered around the table, ready to dig in! 🦃✨
Preparing roast turkey is easier than you might think! Just season it well, pop it in the oven, and let it do its thing. It always brings smiles and full bellies at my house!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey: A 12-14 pound turkey is ideal, but if it’s too large, feel free to use a smaller bird. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. For a twist, try a heritage or free-range turkey for a richer flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter keeps control of the salt content in your recipe. If you’re dairy-free, try using olive oil or vegan butter. The flavor won’t be exactly the same, but it will work well!
Fresh herbs: Rosemary, sage, and thyme add fantastic flavor. If you don’t have these, dried herbs can substitute, just use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Oranges: Fresh oranges give a lively flavor. Since you need the zest from the orange for added aroma, if you don’t have oranges, lemons or apples also work in a pinch.
Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is great for moisture. If you prefer a veggie option, vegetable broth works well too!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Moist and Flavorful Turkey?
The key to a juicy turkey is all about preparation and cooking techniques. Here are some essential tips:
- Brining: If time allows, consider brining your turkey in salt water overnight to enhance moisture and flavor.
- Room Temperature: Bring the turkey to room temperature before roasting. It helps in cooking evenly.
- Butter Under Skin: The herb butter should be gently slid between the skin and the meat. This not only flavors the meat but also keeps it moist during cooking.
- Basting: Baste the turkey every 30 minutes. This keeps the skin crisp and adds moisture.
- Resting Time: After roasting, let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy.
Following these tips should help you create a delicious and impressive roast turkey that everyone will love! Happy cooking!
How to Roast a Perfect Turkey
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds), thawed if frozen
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 oranges, halved (one for stuffing and one for garnish/slices)
- 1 onion, quartered
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or turkey broth
- Fresh herbs for garnish (rosemary, sage, thyme)
- Fresh cranberries for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This roast turkey recipe takes about 30 minutes of preparation time and roughly 3 to 3.5 hours of roasting time. Make sure to add an extra 20 minutes for resting after cooking. So, in total, set aside about 4 hours to make this delicious feast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Turkey:
Start by removing the turkey giblets (the little bag usually inside the cavity). Pat the turkey dry inside and out with paper towels. This helps get crispy skin! Let the turkey sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before roasting to ensure even cooking.
2. Make Herb Butter:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix them well to create a flavorful herb butter.
3. Season the Turkey:
Gently loosen the skin over the turkey’s breast and thighs by slipping your hand between the skin and the meat without tearing it. Spread about two-thirds of the herb butter mixture under the skin, coating the meat. Rub the rest of the herb butter on the outside of the turkey, ensuring it’s well-covered for a tasty skin!
4. Stuff the Cavity:
Stuff the turkey cavity with the halved orange (save the other half for garnishing later), onion quarters, and a few sprigs of fresh herbs. This will add delightful flavor to the meat as it cooks.
5. Truss and Prepare for Roasting:
Using kitchen twine, tie the turkey legs together and tuck the wing tips under the body to keep everything together while it roasts. Place the turkey breast side up on a rack in a large roasting pan for even cooking.
6. Add Broth and Orange Slices:
Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan to keep the turkey moist as it cooks. Slice the second orange and arrange the slices around the turkey in the pan for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.
7. Roast the Turkey:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Roast the turkey, basting it occasionally with the pan juices, for about 3 to 3.5 hours. It’s important to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh—just avoid touching the bone!
8. Optional Finishing Step:
If you love crispy skin, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 15-20 minutes of roasting. This will give the turkey a gorgeous, golden finish.
9. Rest the Turkey:
Once the turkey is cooked, take it out of the oven and loosely tent it with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute within the turkey, giving you a juicy feast!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Place the turkey on a beautiful serving platter. Surround it with fresh sprigs of rosemary, sage, and thyme, as well as the roasted orange slices and optional cranberries to add a festive touch.
This roast turkey will wow everyone at your table with its golden skin, delicious herb flavors, and juicy meat — a delightful centerpiece for your holidays!
Can I Use a Frozen Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use a frozen turkey, but it’s essential to fully thaw it before cooking. The safest way to thaw is in the refrigerator, allowing about 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds of turkey. This ensures an even cook and avoids any food safety issues!
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
If fresh herbs aren’t available, you can use dried ones instead. Generally, use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs, as they are more concentrated in flavor. For example, use 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary instead of 1 tablespoon of fresh.
How Do I Store Leftover Roast Turkey?
Store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the fridge. It will be safe to eat for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the turkey in the microwave or oven wrapped in foil to retain moisture, adding a little broth if needed.
Can I Cook a Smaller Turkey Using This Recipe?
Absolutely! If your turkey is smaller than 12 pounds, adjust the cooking time accordingly. A general guideline is to roast the turkey for about 13-15 minutes per pound at 325°F (165°C) until it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
