Description
Experience the essence of Thanksgiving with this perfectly roasted turkey recipe. Juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor, this dish is a festive centerpiece that will impress your family and friends. Brined for maximum moisture and flavor, it features a golden-brown skin that’s irresistibly crispy. Gather around the table and create cherished memories as you savor every delicious bite of this holiday favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 whole turkey (12–14 pounds)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
- 8 cloves garlic (whole or minced)
- 2 large onions (quartered)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 gallon water
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup kosher salt
Instructions
- Brining: In a large pot or cooler, dissolve salt and sugar in water. Submerge the turkey in the brine overnight.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 325°F (165°C). Remove turkey from brine and pat dry.
- Seasoning: Rub softened butter over the turkey's skin and inside its cavity. Generously season with salt, pepper, herbs, and garlic.
- Roasting: Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a large pan. Roast uncovered for 13-15 minutes per pound until golden brown.
- Basting: Baste every 30 minutes with pan juices for a moist texture.
- Resting: Once cooked (internal temperature at least 165°F), let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: Approximately 3 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 5 oz (140g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 120mg