This apple cider roast turkey is a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday table. The turkey is marinated in a flavorful blend of apple cider, herbs, and spices, then roasted to perfection. The result is a juicy, tender, and flavorful bird with a beautifully crisp golden skin. Serve this delicious turkey with your favorite seasonal sides for a memorable feast.
Ingredients
- 1 turkey (12-14 pounds)
- 4 cups apple cider
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 apples, quartered
- 1 lemon, halved
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity. Rinse the turkey thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a large bowl, combine the apple cider, melted butter, minced garlic, chopped sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Place the turkey in a roasting pan, breast side up. Pour the apple cider mixture all over the turkey, making sure to coat the entire bird, including the cavity.
- Stuff the turkey cavity with the quartered onion, apples, and lemon.
- Tent the turkey loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Roast the turkey for about 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Remove the foil tent during the last hour of cooking to allow the skin to crisp up and turn golden brown.
- Once the turkey is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender turkey.
- Carve the turkey and serve with your favorite side dishes and gravy.