The Best Roasted Turkey Recipe
The Best Roasted Turkey Recipe
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Description: Experience the joy of the holidays with the Best Roasted Turkey Recipe, perfect for creating unforgettable memories with family and friends. This succulent and flavorful turkey, with its golden-brown skin and tender meat, is sure to be the centerpiece of your festive table. Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this recipe will guide you to a perfectly roasted turkey every time.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 3 to 4 hours (depending on the size of the turkey)
Inactive Time: 15 minutes (for resting)
Servings: Depends on the size of the turkey (approximately 1 pound per person)
Ingredients:
• 1 whole turkey (10-15 pounds), thawed and giblets removed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 1 lemon, halved
• Fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and sage)
• 2 cups chicken or turkey broth (for the roasting pan)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Place it on a rack in a large roasting pan.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and minced garlic to create a paste.
4. Rub the paste both under the skin and on the outside of the turkey. Place onion quarters, lemon halves, and a bunch of fresh herbs inside the turkey cavity.
5. Tie the legs together with kitchen string and tuck the wing tips under the body.
6. Pour the chicken or turkey broth into the bottom of the roasting pan.
7. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven, basting occasionally with pan juices. The cooking time will depend on the size of your turkey, roughly 12-15 minutes per pound.
8. The turkey is done when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C).
9. Remove the turkey from the oven and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to be redistributed, making the meat moist and flavorful.
10. Carve the turkey and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Notes to Make it Better:
• For extra flavor, consider brining the turkey the night before roasting.
• You can add vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions to the roasting pan for added flavor.
• Use the pan drippings to make a delicious gravy.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
• Calories: 450-550
• Fat: 20-30g
• Sodium: 400-500mg
• Carbohydrates: 1-2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 60-70g
Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the size of the turkey and portion sizes.
