A Classic Holiday Delight
This roasted turkey recipe is a staple for any Christmas dinner table. Packed with rich flavors and a crispy golden skin, it’s the perfect way to bring your family together during the holiday season. High in protein and rich in essential nutrients, this dish is both indulgent and wholesome. Pair it with seasonal sides for a festive feast that everyone will love. Explore more holiday recipes.
- Servings: 8-10
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 3 hours
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage (chopped)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon (quartered)
- 1 onion (quartered)
- 2 carrots (chopped)
- 2 celery stalks (chopped)
- 2 cups chicken broth
How to Make It
1. Prepare the Turkey
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Remove the neck and giblets from the turkey cavity, rinse the turkey inside and out, and pat it dry with paper towels.
2. Season the Turkey
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, and black pepper.
- Gently separate the turkey skin from the meat, and spread the butter mixture under the skin, over the breast and legs.
- Rub olive oil over the skin for extra crispiness.
3. Stuff the Turkey
- Stuff the turkey cavity with the lemon, onion, carrots, and celery. This will enhance the flavor of the meat as it roasts.
4. Roast the Turkey
- Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan to keep the turkey moist.
- Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil and roast for approximately 2.5 hours.
- Remove the foil for the last 30-40 minutes of cooking to allow the skin to become golden and crispy.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, ensuring it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
5. Rest and Serve
- Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute for a tender, flavorful result.
Pro Tips and Tricks
- For extra flavor, brine the turkey overnight with a salt and herb mixture.
- Use the drippings from the roasting pan to make a rich, flavorful gravy.
- Keep an eye on the turkey during roasting to avoid overcooking; baste it every 30 minutes with the juices from the pan.
“Feel free to add or remove ingredients according to your taste.”
This festive roasted turkey will make your Christmas dinner unforgettable. Serve it with mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, or roasted vegetables for a complete holiday meal. Learn more about turkey’s nutritional benefits. 😊
