Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey

Why Make This Recipe

This Thanksgiving turkey recipe is a true classic that brings family and friends together. The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and buttery goodness makes it irresistible. Not only is this turkey flavorful, but it also serves as a centerpiece that everyone will admire. It’s a recipe that creates great memories around the dinner table.

How to Make the Thanksgiving Turkey

Ingredients:

• 12 lb fresh turkey
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary
• 1 tbsp fresh sage
• 5 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 large sweet onions (chopped)
• 4 large carrots (sliced)
• 8 cups day-old bread cubes
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 stalks celery (chopped)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Carefully loosen the skin of the turkey.
3. Rub softened butter all over the turkey. Season generously with salt and pepper. Insert the minced garlic and fresh herbs under the skin for added flavor.
4. In a large bowl, mix the bread cubes, sautéed onions, chopped celery, sliced carrots, and chicken broth until the mixture is moist.
5. Stuff this mixture into the turkey cavity.
6. Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast it for about 13 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
7. Baste the turkey every hour to keep it moist and flavorful.
8. Once done, let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.

How to Serve the Thanksgiving Turkey

Carve the turkey into slices and serve it on a large platter. You can accompany it with traditional sides such as mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole. Don’t forget to offer some of the stuffing on the side for a complete meal!

How to Store the Thanksgiving Turkey

To store leftover turkey, first allow it to cool completely. Then, place the turkey in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze the turkey for up to three months. Just be sure to slice it or keep it whole for easier thawing.

Tips to Make the Thanksgiving Turkey

• Make sure the turkey is fully thawed before cooking for even roasting.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for safety.
• For extra flavor, consider brining the turkey overnight before cooking.
• Fresh herbs make a big difference, so use them if you can!

Variation

Feel free to customize the stuffing with your favorite ingredients! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or different spices for a unique twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use a frozen turkey for this recipe?
   Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking, which can take a few days depending on the size.

2. What should I do if the turkey skin is browning too quickly?
   If the skin is browning too much, cover it with aluminum foil during the last part of cooking to prevent burning.

3. How long can I keep leftovers?
   Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you freeze the turkey, it can last for up to three months.

Thanksgiving Turkey

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A classic Thanksgiving turkey recipe featuring fresh herbs and a savory stuffing, perfect for gatherings.

• Total Time: 186 minutes
• Yield: 10 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 lb fresh turkey
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary
• 1 tbsp fresh sage
• 5 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 large sweet onions (chopped)
• 4 large carrots (sliced)
• 8 cups day-old bread cubes
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 stalks celery (chopped)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Carefully loosen the skin of the turkey.
3. Rub softened butter all over the turkey, seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Insert the minced garlic and fresh herbs under the skin for added flavor.
4. In a large bowl, mix bread cubes, sautéed onions, chopped celery, sliced carrots, and chicken broth until the mixture is moist.
5. Stuff this mixture into the turkey cavity.
6. Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast it for about 13 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
7. Baste the turkey every hour to keep it moist and flavorful.
8. Once done, let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.

Notes

Ensure the turkey is fully thawed before cooking and consider brining overnight for extra flavor.

• Author: nevaeh-hall
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 156 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Omnivore

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 120mg