Today, I’m thrilled to share this foolproof recipe with you, guaranteed to make your Thanksgiving unforgettable.
Ingredients
For the turkey:
- 1 (15-18 pound) whole turkey, thawed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the herb-butter:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Prepare the herb-butter: In a bowl, mix the softened butter with sage, thyme, rosemary, garlic, and lemon zest. Set aside.
- Prep the turkey: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove giblets from the turkey cavity and pat the bird dry with paper towels. Season the cavity generously with salt and pepper.
- Apply the herb-butter: Gently loosen the skin of the turkey breast and thighs. Spread about two-thirds of the herb-butter mixture under the skin, covering as much area as possible. Rub the remaining butter over the outside of the turkey.
- Roast to perfection: Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast for about 15 minutes per pound, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F (74°C). This should take approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours for a 15-18 pound turkey.
- Rest and serve: Once done, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful bird.
Tips for Turkey Perfection
- Baste regularly: Every 30 minutes, baste the turkey with its own juices to keep it moist and enhance browning.
- Tent with foil: If the skin browns too quickly, loosely cover the turkey with aluminum foil.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most reliable way to ensure your turkey is cooked to perfection.
Suggested Side Dishes
Complete your Thanksgiving feast with these delicious sides:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Whip up some buttery, smooth mashed potatoes to complement your herb-butter turkey.
- Tangy Cranberry Sauce: A homemade cranberry sauce adds a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Classic Green Bean Casserole: This creamy, crunchy side is a Thanksgiving staple.
- Savory Stuffing: Whether cooked inside the bird or separately, a flavorful stuffing is a must-have.
Share Your Experience!
We’d love to hear about your Thanksgiving turkey adventures! Did you try this recipe? How did it turn out? Share your stories and photos in the comments below or on our social media pages.
From my kitchen to yours, wishing you a delicious and memorable Thanksgiving!
