This easy herb roasted turkey recipe will result in a delicious and juicy turkey that is perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion. The turkey is seasoned with a blend of herbs and roasted to golden perfection. With a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday feast. The herbs infuse the turkey with wonderful flavors, while the roasting process ensures a crispy and golden skin. Serve this tasty turkey with your favorite side dishes for a memorable meal.
Ingredients
- 12-14 pound turkey
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 onion, quartered
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Remove the turkey from its packaging, and remove the neck and giblets from the cavity. Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
- Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Use your hands to loosen the skin from the breast and drumsticks, being careful not to tear the skin.
- Rub half of the herb butter mixture under the skin, spreading it evenly over the breast and drumsticks. Rub the remaining herb butter over the outside of the turkey.
- Stuff the cavity of the turkey with the lemon halves, onion quarters, and any remaining herb sprigs.
- Tuck the wings under the turkey, and tie the legs together with kitchen twine.
- Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 3 to 3 ½ hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.
- Baste the turkey with the pan juices every 30 minutes.
- Once the turkey reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and tent loosely with foil. Let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy and tender turkey.
- Carve the turkey and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Interesting Facts
Roasting the turkey with a flavorful herb butter mixture ensures a moist and succulent result.
Letting the turkey rest before carving allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more tender meat.
Using fresh herbs adds a fragrant and delicious flavor to the turkey.