Description
Master the art of roasting a juicy turkey with golden, crispy skin, perfect for festive occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (12–14 lbs, thawed)
- 1/4 cup olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 lemon, halved
- 6 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 bunch fresh thyme
- 1 bunch fresh rosemary
- 1 bunch fresh sage
- 1 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1 cup white wine for basting (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1 apple or orange, quartered (optional)
- 1 stick unsalted butter, softened (optional)
Instructions
- Thaw the turkey in the refrigerator for at least three days.
- Remove giblets from the cavity.
- Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
- Rub kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper all over the turkey.
- Optionally, rub butter or olive oil under the skin.
- Stuff the cavity with aromatic vegetables and herbs.
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Prepare a roasting pan with chopped carrots, celery, and onions.
- Rub the turkey with olive oil or melted butter.
- Truss the turkey legs with kitchen twine, if desired.
- Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack in the roasting pan.
- Roast for about 15 minutes per pound (approximately 3 hours for a 12-pound turkey).
- Baste every 45 minutes.
- Check the internal temperature after 2.5 hours; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
Notes
Brining the turkey overnight can lead to extra moisture. Always use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: roasted turkey, festive meal, holiday feast, Thanksgiving, cooking tips