Here’s a step-by-step guide to make a Roast Turkey with Herb Butter, perfect for Thanksgiving!
Ingredients:
1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs, thawed)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
2 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
2 tbsp fresh sage, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and quartered
1 onion, quartered
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup chicken or turkey broth
Optional: 1 apple and 1 cinnamon stick for stuffing the cavity
Instructions:
- Prepare the Turkey:
Thaw the turkey: Ensure your turkey is completely thawed if using a frozen one (thaw in the refrigerator for 3-4 days depending on the size).
Remove giblets and neck: Take out the turkey’s giblets and neck from the cavity. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels, both inside and out, to ensure crispy skin.
- Prepare the Herb Butter:
In a bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Season the Turkey:
Loosen the skin: Gently run your hands between the turkey skin and breast meat to loosen the skin.
Apply the herb butter: Rub the herb butter mixture generously under the skin, over the turkey breast, and all over the outside of the bird.
Stuff the cavity: Place the lemon quarters, onion, optional apple, and cinnamon stick into the turkey cavity for extra flavor.
- Truss the Turkey (Optional):
Tie the turkey legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under the body to ensure even cooking.
- Roast the Turkey:
Preheat oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Place turkey in a roasting pan: Position it breast-side up on a roasting rack inside the pan. Pour about 1 cup of chicken or turkey broth into the bottom of the pan to keep the turkey moist during roasting.
Roast: Cook the turkey for about 13-15 minutes per pound, basting it every 45 minutes with the pan juices or additional melted butter.
Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh (without touching bone).
- Rest the Turkey:
Remove the turkey from the oven and tent it with foil. Allow it to rest for 20-30 minutes before carving to let the juices redistribute, ensuring a juicy bird.
- Serve:
Carve the turkey and serve it alongside your favorite Thanksgiving sides like stuffing, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce.
This herb butter-roasted turkey is aromatic, juicy, and bursting with flavor. The combination of fresh herbs and garlic gives it a delicious and festive touch! Would you like suggestions on how to make gravy from the turkey drippings?