Thanksgiving Recipes: Herb-Roasted Turkey

A Perfect Thanksgiving Feast Centerpiece

Thanksgiving Recipe is incomplete without a perfectly roasted turkey! This herb-infused turkey is juicy, tender, and packed with savory flavors that will impress your family and friends. Rich in protein and low in carbs, it’s a wholesome choice for the holiday table. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a big feast, this recipe will be the star of your meal. Check out more Thanksgiving Recipes here.

Thanksgiving Recipe Details

• Servings: 10-12
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Ingredients

For the Turkey:

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs), thawed
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

For_the Stuffing (Optional):

• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 lemon, halved
• 3 sprigs rosemary
• 3 sprigs thyme

For the Gravy:

• Pan drippings
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken or turkey stock

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Remove the giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Herb Butter

1. In a bowl, mix softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
2. Gently separate the turkey skin from the breast meat and rub the herb butter under and over the skin.

Step3: Stuff the Turkey

1. Stuff the cavity with onion, lemon halves, and herb sprigs.
2. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings under the turkey.

Step 4: Roast the Turkey

1. Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan.
2. Roast for approximately 3-4 hours, or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
3. Baste the turkey with pan drippings every 30 minutes for extra juiciness.

Step 5: Make the Gravy

1. Once the turkey is done, transfer it to a serving platter and let it rest for 20 minutes.
2. Skim fat from the pan drippings and pour the remaining liquid into a saucepan.
3. Whisk in flour over medium heat, then slowly add stock, whisking constantly until thickened.

Tips and Tricks

• Thawing the Turkey: Ensure your turkey is fully thawed (allow 24 hours of thawing per 4-5 lbs in the refrigerator).
• Crispy Skin: Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (218°C) for the last 20 minutes for a beautifully crisp skin.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with orange zest or smoked paprika for a unique flavor twist.
• Leftover Ideas: Use leftover turkey for sandwiches, soups, or casseroles.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 45g
• Carbs: 2g
• Fat: 15g

Closing Note

Feel free to add or remove ingredients according to your taste.

Let me know if you’d like any adjustments! 😊