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turkey recipes

This herb-roasted turkey recipe is a classic dish perfect for holidays or family gatherings. The turkey is marinated with a blend of fresh herbs, butter, and lemon, resulting in a juicy and flavorful centerpiece that your guests will love.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 People
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 roasting pan
  • 1 meat thermometer
  • 1 basting brush
  • 1 large mixing bowl
  • 1 cutting board
  • 1 sharp knife

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter Softened
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary Chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme Chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh sage Chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic Minced
  • 1 whole lemon Zested and juiced
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 whole onion Quartered
  • 2 whole carrots Cut into chunks
  • 2 whole celery stalks Cut into chunks

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
  • In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to form a herb paste.
  • Carefully loosen the skin on the turkey breast and legs using your fingers or a small spatula. Rub half of the herb paste under the skin, ensuring even coverage.
  • Rub the remaining herb paste all over the outside of the turkey.
  • Stuff the cavity of the turkey with the quartered onion, carrot chunks, and celery chunks for flavor.
  • Place the turkey breast side up on a roasting rack in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.
  • Roast the turkey in the preheated oven, basting every 30 minutes with the pan juices. Cook for about 13-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
  • Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.

Notes

You can substitute dried herbs if fresh are unavailable, but use about a third of the amount.
Serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and green beans for a complete holiday meal.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator, and they can be used for sandwiches, soups, or salads.