Description

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, this Perfect Roast Turkey is the centerpiece your holiday table deserves. Infused with fresh herbs, garlic, and citrus, and roasted to golden perfection, it’s everything you want from a classic turkey recipe. This easy recipe walks you through the process, making it ideal whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, impressive holiday meals, or simply a foolproof roast turkey. With rich flavor and stunning presentation, it’s perfect for everything from Thanksgiving feasts to elegant Sunday dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

1 whole turkey (12–14 pounds)

To taste kosher salt

To taste freshly ground black pepper

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 tablespoon paprika

2 teaspoons dried thyme

2 teaspoons dried rosemary

1 teaspoon dried sage

1 large onion, quartered

1 head of garlic, halved crosswise

1 orange, quartered

1 lemon, quartered

Fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, sage) for cavity and garnish

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (plus more as needed for basting)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Let turkey sit at room temperature for 1 hour. Remove giblets and pat dry.

2. Mix butter, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, and sage into a paste.

3. Gently loosen the skin and rub some of the paste under it. Rub the rest all over the turkey. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Stuff cavity with onion, garlic, orange, lemon, and herbs.

5. Truss legs with twine and tuck wings under. Place turkey on a rack in roasting pan. Pour broth into the bottom.

6. Roast turkey for 13–15 minutes per pound, basting every 30–40 minutes. Tent with foil if browning too fast.

7. Check internal temperature in thigh—it should read 165°F. Remove from oven and rest for 30 minutes.

8. Carve and arrange slices on a platter. Garnish with herbs and citrus slices.

Notes

Always let the turkey rest before carving to lock in moisture and avoid dry meat.

Seasoning under the skin makes a big difference in flavor.

Use a meat thermometer—it’s the best way to ensure perfect doneness every time.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6 oz
Calories: 320
Sugar: 0
Sodium: 300
Fat: 16
Saturated Fat: 6
Unsaturated Fat: 9
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 0
Fiber: 0
Protein: 40
Cholesterol: 120