Thanksgiving Turkey

Name: Thanksgiving Turkey
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 210 min
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs); 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 tablespoons salt; 1 tablespoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon onion powder; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 2 teaspoons dried sage; 1 cup chicken broth; Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme for stuffing); Optional: apple (onion, and celery for the cavity)

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, a beautifully roasted turkey. This Thanksgiving turkey recipe is designed to be flavorful, moist, and a centerpiece that everyone will rave about. With a blend of spices and a perfect cooking method, your turkey will be a highlight of the holiday feast. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create a memorable Thanksgiving experience.

Ingredients

– 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 2 teaspoons dried sage
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme) for stuffing
– Optional: apple, onion, and celery for the cavity

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 10-12 people. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 3-4 hours, depending on the size of the turkey.

Nutritional Value

Per serving (1/10 of turkey): Calories: 350, Protein: 35g, Fat: 20g, Carbohydrates: 0g, Sodium: 800mg. This is based on one serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Remove the turkey from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
3. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
4. In a bowl, mix the softened butter with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs.
5. Carefully loosen the skin of the turkey with your fingers, being careful not to tear it.
6. Rub the butter mixture under the skin and all over the turkey’s exterior.
7. Stuff the cavity with fresh herbs, apple, onion, and celery if desired.
8. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan.
9. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.
10. Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil and roast in the preheated oven.
11. Remove the foil for the last hour to allow the skin to brown.
12. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
13. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the unsalted butter with olive oil for a healthier option. Additionally, feel free to swap the dried herbs with fresh ones or use a spice blend of your choice for a unique flavor profile.

Serving and Pairings

This Thanksgiving turkey pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and roasted vegetables. Don’t forget a rich gravy to complete the meal!

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through. Turkey can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Cooking Mistakes

Not allowing the turkey to rest before carving.
Skipping the brining process for enhanced flavor.
Overcooking the turkey leading to dryness.
Not using a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.
Forgetting to remove giblets from the cavity.

Helpful Tips

Brine the turkey a day before for extra moisture.
Use kitchen twine to tie the legs for even cooking.
Keep the oven door closed as much as possible while cooking.
Make homemade gravy with the drippings for added flavor.

FAQs

How long should I cook a turkey per pound?

A general rule is to cook the turkey for about 13-15 minutes per pound at 325°F (165°C). For a 12-pound turkey, this means approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

Can I prepare the turkey the night before?

Yes, you can season and stuff the turkey the night before. Just make sure to refrigerate it overnight and bring it to room temperature before cooking.

What’s the best way to keep turkey moist?

Brining the turkey beforehand and cooking it at a lower temperature can help retain moisture. Additionally, basting it every 30 minutes is beneficial.

Can I use a frozen turkey?

Yes, but ensure it is completely thawed before cooking. A frozen turkey can take several days to thaw in the refrigerator.

How do I know when my turkey is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the turkey reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s safe to eat.

Conclusion

Preparing a Thanksgiving turkey is a rewarding experience that brings family and friends together. With this recipe, you’ll serve a delicious, moist turkey that is sure to be the highlight of your holiday feast. Enjoy the festivities and savor every bite!