Moist and Flavorful Dry Brined Turkey

This dry brined turkey recipe will yield a moist and flavorful turkey with crispy golden skin. The dry brining process involves rubbing the turkey with a combination of salt, herbs, and spices, and letting it sit in the refrigerator overnight. The result is a deeply seasoned bird that will impress your guests and make your Thanksgiving feast truly memorable. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious holiday meal.

Ingredients

• 1 whole turkey, 12-14 pounds
• 1/4 cup kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
• 1 tablespoon dried sage
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Directions

1. Remove giblets and neck from the turkey cavity. Rinse the turkey inside and out under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried sage, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder to create the dry brine mixture.
3. Rub the dry brine mixture all over the turkey, including the cavity and under the skin. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.
4. Place the turkey in a large roasting pan or a brining bag. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours to allow the dry brine to work its magic.
5. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the turkey from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 1 hour.
6. Brush the melted butter all over the turkey, ensuring every part is coated.
7. Place the turkey on a rack inside a roasting pan. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.
8. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste the turkey with the pan drippings every 30 minutes.
9. Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for about 20 minutes before carving. This will help the juices redistribute and make the meat juicier.
10. Carve and serve the turkey with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious holiday meal!

Interesting Facts