We use affiliate links. If you purchase something using one of these links, we may receive compensation or commission.
Prep Time:
30 minutes
Cook Time:
Varies based on turkey size (around 13-15 minutes per pound)
Serves:
Varies based on the turkey size
About the Recipe
Create cherished Thanksgiving memories with this Classic Thanksgiving Roast Turkey. Its perfectly crispy skin and juicy, flavorful meat, combined with a well-seasoned stuffing, will make your holiday meal truly special.
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds), thawed if frozen
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large onion, peeled and quartered
- 1 lemon, cut in half
- 4-5 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
- Optional: stuffing of your choice
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Remove the neck and giblets from the turkey, and rinse the turkey inside and out. Pat it dry with paper towels.
- Season the turkey cavity with salt and pepper. If desired, stuff the turkey with your favorite stuffing.
- Rub the turkey with softened butter, ensuring even coverage.
- Season the outside of the turkey generously with salt and pepper.
- Place the onion, lemon halves, garlic, and fresh herbs inside the turkey cavity.
- Tie the turkey legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wingtips under the bird.
- Place the turkey in a roasting pan, breast-side up.
- Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil.
- Roast in the preheated oven, calculating the cooking time (usually around 13-15 minutes per pound).
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil to allow the turkey to brown.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Once done, remove the turkey from the oven, cover it with foil, and let it rest for about 20-30 minutes before carving.