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Best Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe (Moist, Easy & Foolproof)

Best Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe

This foolproof and flavorful turkey recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. With butter, herbs, citrus, and slow roasting, you get a tender, juicy turkey every time—ideal for stress-free holiday cooking.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Resting Time 1 hour
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 whole turkey 10–12 pounds, thawed if frozen
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lemon halved
  • 1 onion quartered
  • 2 stalks celery cut into large pieces
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 2 tbsp fresh herbs thyme, rosemary, sage, chopped

Equipment

  • Roasting Pan
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Basting Brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Pat turkey dry with paper towels.
  2. In a bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper.
  3. Carefully separate the skin from the breast meat and spread half the herb butter under the skin. Rub the remaining butter all over the outside of the turkey.
  4. Stuff the cavity with lemon, onion, and celery. Tie the legs together if desired.
  5. Place turkey breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast for about 15 minutes per pound, basting occasionally with pan juices.
  6. Roast until a meat thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
  7. Remove from oven and let rest for at least 30–60 minutes before carving.

Notes

This turkey recipe works for large gatherings or smaller meals—just adjust the turkey size accordingly. Don’t skip the resting period; it helps keep the meat juicy!