Classic Thanksgiving Roast Turkey

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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

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Remove the neck and giblets from the turkey, and rinse the turkey inside and out. Pat it dry with paper towels.
3. Season the turkey cavity with salt and pepper. If desired, stuff the turkey with your favorite stuffing.
4. Rub the turkey with softened butter, ensuring even coverage.
5. Season the outside of the turkey generously with salt and pepper.
6. Place the onion, lemon halves, garlic, and fresh herbs inside the turkey cavity.
7. Tie the turkey legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wingtips under the bird.
8. Place the turkey in a roasting pan, breast-side up.
9. Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil.
10. Roast in the preheated oven, calculating the cooking time (usually around 13-15 minutes per pound).
11. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil to allow the turkey to brown.
12. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
13. Once done, remove the turkey from the oven, cover it with foil, and let it rest for about 20-30 minutes before carving.