Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients:
- 1 whole turkey (12–15 pounds)
- 1/2 cup softened butter or olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
- 4 garlic cloves (optional)
- 1 lemon or orange (quartered, optional)
- 1 onion (quartered, optional)
- 1 cup chicken broth or water (for basting)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 325°F or 350°F, depending on your chosen method. - Prepare the Turkey:
Remove the giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Rub the skin with softened butter or olive oil. Season generously with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Stuff the cavity with garlic, lemon, and onion if desired. - Truss the Turkey:
Tie the turkey’s legs together using kitchen twine. This helps it cook evenly. - Place in a Roasting Pan:
Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth or water into the bottom of the pan to keep the turkey moist during cooking. - Roast the Turkey:
Roast the turkey in the preheated oven:- For 325°F: Cook for about 15-17 minutes per pound.
- For 350°F: Cook for about 13-15 minutes per pound.
Tip: Cover the breast with foil for the first 2 hours to prevent over-browning. Remove the foil for the last 45 minutes to brown the skin.
- Check the Temperature:
The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the breast and thigh. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. - Rest and Carve:
Let the turkey rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours (depending on size and temperature)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
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