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Irresistible Best Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe: 1 Ultimate Guide

Best Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe

This Best Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe is a holiday tradition that combines ultra-juicy meat with crispy golden skin. Passed down through family memories, it's designed to be foolproof for beginners and flavorful enough to impress every guest. A full Holiday Turkey Cooking Guide included!
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Resting Time 1 hour
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Turkey
  • 1 whole turkey 10–16 lbs
  • 1 stick unsalted butter softened
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh sage chopped
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 lemon halved
  • 1 onion quartered
  • 2 carrots cut into chunks
  • 2 celery sticks cut into chunks

Equipment

  • Roasting Pan
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Basting Brush

Method
 

  1. Remove turkey from the fridge 1 hour before cooking. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  2. Mix softened butter with garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Gently loosen the turkey skin and spread the mixture under the skin.
  3. Stuff the turkey cavity with lemon, onion, carrots, and celery.
  4. Place turkey breast-side up in a roasting pan. Roast at 325°F (165°C), about 13 minutes per pound.
  5. Baste every 30 minutes. Cover loosely with foil halfway through cooking.
  6. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temp reaches 165°F. Remove from oven and let rest for 20–30 minutes before carving.

Notes

Letting the turkey rest before carving ensures juiciness. Save pan drippings to make a rich gravy. Always carve against the grain for best results.