Description
A juicy and flavorful roast turkey perfect for Thanksgiving or holiday gatherings. Infused with butter, garlic, and herbs, it’s tender, golden, and festive.
Ingredients
1 whole turkey (12–14 lbs), thawed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Optional: 1 lemon, halved, and 1 onion, quartered for cavity
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, garlic, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pat turkey dry and rub the butter mixture all over, including under the skin.
4. Place lemon and onion inside the cavity, if using.
5. Place turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
6. Roast for 3–4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the breast and 175°F (79°C) in the thigh.
7. Let the turkey rest for 20–30 minutes before carving.
8. Serve with your favorite holiday sides.
Notes
Use a meat thermometer for accurate cooking.
Let the turkey rest to retain juiciness.
Adjust seasoning and herbs to taste.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 3–4 hours
- Category: Main Dish, Holiday
- Method: Roasted
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 6 oz)
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Roast Turkey, Thanksgiving Turkey, Holiday Turkey, Juicy Turkey