Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Roast Turkey Recipe

Create a beautiful holiday turkey with rich herb butter, fresh aromatics, and foolproof instructions for perfectly cooked, juicy meat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 10–14 lb turkey, fresh or thawed.
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened.
  • 2 tsp lemon zest.
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves.
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary.
  • 1 medium yellow onion, quartered.
  • 8 garlic cloves, smashed.
  • 1/2 bunch fresh parsley.
  • Kosher salt.
  • Black pepper.

Instructions

  1. Allow turkey to rest at room temperature for one hour before beginning preparation process.
  2. Position oven rack just below center and preheat to 350°F near end of resting time.
  3. Remove giblets and neck, then thoroughly pat turkey dry inside and out with paper towels.
  4. Mix softened butter with lemon zest, thyme, and rosemary until well combined.
  5. Carefully separate skin from breast meat using wooden spoon handle, keeping skin intact.
  6. Spread one-third of herb butter under skin on each breast, smoothing from outside.
  7. Rub remaining butter all over turkey exterior, then season generously with salt and pepper.
  8. Fill cavity with quartered onion, smashed garlic, and fresh parsley sprigs.
  9. Place in roasting pan on rack and optionally tie legs with kitchen twine. Roast until thigh reaches 175°F and breast 165°F, about 14-15 minutes per pound.
  10. Tent with foil if browning too quickly during cooking process.
  11. Let rest 30-60 minutes before carving to retain juices.

Notes

Calculate 24hrs/5lbs for thawing.
Can prepare 2 days ahead.
Perfect holiday centerpiece.
Feeds large group.

  • Author: Chef Stella

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~
  • Protein: 42 g