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Gordon Ramsay’s Perfect Roast Turkey – A Citrus & Herb Holiday Masterpiece

Gordon Ramsay’s Perfect Roast Turkey

Infused with citrus, garlic, and herbs, Gordon Ramsay’s Perfect Roast Turkey is a juicy, golden centerpiece perfect for any holiday. This recipe blends a dry brine with herb butter and aromatic stuffing for unforgettable flavor.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: British
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Brine
  • 2 tbsp salt
  • 1 tbsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs such as thyme and rosemary
Herb Butter
  • 1/2 cup butter softened
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp rosemary chopped
  • 1 tbsp thyme chopped
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
Stuffing Ingredients
  • 1 orange sliced
  • 1 lemon sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic whole
  • 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 1 turkey about 12-14 lbs, cleaned and patted dry

Equipment

  • Roasting Pan
  • Rack
  • Basting Brush

Method
 

  1. Prepare the dry brine by mixing salt, pepper, citrus zests, and herbs. Rub all over the turkey and let sit for several hours or overnight.
  2. Mix softened butter with garlic, herbs, and orange zest to make herb butter.
  3. Carefully loosen the turkey skin and rub half the herb butter underneath. Rub remaining butter over the skin.
  4. Stuff the turkey cavity with orange slices, lemon slices, whole garlic cloves, and rosemary sprigs.
  5. Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 30 minutes, then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue roasting, basting every 30 minutes.
  6. Check doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F/74°C in thickest part). Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving.

Notes

Use fresh citrus for best results. Prepare the brine in advance for deeper flavor. Roasting on a rack helps heat circulate and keeps the bottom from getting soggy.