This simple yet flavorful Thanksgiving turkey recipe ensures a perfectly moist and delicious centerpiece for your holiday feast. With the classic combination of fresh herbs, butter, and aromatic vegetables, the turkey is roasted to golden perfection. Whether you’re hosting a large family dinner or an intimate gathering, this recipe is a tried-and-true way to make your Thanksgiving table unforgettable.
Meat Thermometer To ensure the turkey reaches the safe internal temperature
Basting Brush For applying melted butter over the turkey
Cutting Board For prepping vegetables and carving the turkey
Carving Knife To slice the turkey after resting
Aluminum Foil To tent the turkey if it starts browning too quickly
Ingredients
For the Smoked Our Family Salmon Fillets:-
1wholeTurkey (12-14 lbs)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4cupButter (Melted)
Fresh rosemary, sage, and thyme (small bunch of each)
2onions, quartered
2carrots, peeled and chopped
2stalks celery, chopped
4cloves garlic
Instructions
Instructions:
a. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
b. Rinse the turkey inside and out, then pat it dry with paper towels.
c. Rub the turkey with butter, then season generously with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs.
d. Stuff the cavity with onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.
e. Roast the turkey in a roasting pan for about 3 to 3.5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
f. Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.
Notes
Cooking Time: Estimate about 13-15 minutes per pound of turkey at 350°F.
Resting Time: Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, which will keep the meat juicy when carved.
Basting: If desired, baste the turkey with additional melted butter or pan juices every 45 minutes for extra moisture and flavor.
Herb Variations: If fresh herbs aren’t available, use dried herbs (adjust to half the amount) for the same delicious flavor.
Stuffing: This recipe uses vegetables for aromatic stuffing inside the turkey, but feel free to prepare your favorite bread stuffing separately if desired.