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Herb Butter Turkey Recipe That Elevates Your Thanksgiving Dinner

Herb Butter Turkey with Carrot Side

This Herb Butter Turkey recipe is a holiday staple that's simple, flavorful, and ideal for busy hosts. Paired with sweet roasted carrots, it's a festive feast made easy.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 620
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Herb Butter Turkey
  • 1 whole turkey 10–12 pounds
  • 1 cup unsalted butter room temperature
  • 2 tbsp fresh rosemary chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh sage chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 large onion quartered
  • 2 carrots washed and peeled
  • 2 celery stalks chopped
  • 2 cups chicken broth or water
Roasted Carrot Side
  • 4–5 large carrots peeled and cut into sticks
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey optional
  • salt, pepper, cinnamon or nutmeg optional

Equipment

  • Roasting Pan
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Mix softened butter with rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic, salt, and pepper to create herb butter.
  3. Pat turkey dry. Rub half the herb butter under the skin over the breast and thighs. Spread the rest over the outside. Season again with salt and pepper.
  4. In a roasting pan, layer onion, chopped carrots, and celery. Pour in chicken broth or water.
  5. Place turkey on top of the vegetables, breast side up. Tent loosely with foil and roast for 2 to 2.5 hours. Baste halfway through. Remove foil for last 30–45 minutes to brown the skin.
  6. Turkey is done when internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 20 minutes before carving.
  7. While turkey rests, toss carrot sticks with oil or butter, salt, pepper, optional maple syrup or honey, and cinnamon or nutmeg. Roast or sauté until tender and caramelized.
  8. Carve turkey and serve with roasted carrots. Pour pan juices into a gravy boat for extra flavor.

Notes

Prepare herb butter a day ahead for convenience. Add bacon strips on top of the turkey for extra flavor. Always check internal temperature for doneness. Roasted carrots bring a sweet and savory balance to the herb turkey.