Looking to impress your family and friends this holiday season? Look no further than this "Easy Roasted Turkey with Sage Butter"! With its golden-brown skin and succulent, flavorful meat, this turkey is bound to be the star of your feast. Infused with aromatic sage and zesty lemon, every bite will leave your guests craving more. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this foolproof recipe will guide you through the process of creating a mouthwatering centerpiece that everyone will rave about. Ready to elevate your holiday dining experience? Let’s dive into the details!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 onion, quartered
- 1 lemon, quartered
- 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Remove the turkey from the refrigerator 1 hour before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. This helps ensure even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Position the oven rack in the lowest position to accommodate the large turkey.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine softened butter, chopped fresh sage, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Remove giblets and neck from the turkey cavity. Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water, then pat completely dry with paper towels.
- Gently loosen the skin of the turkey breast and legs using your fingers, being careful not to tear the skin.
- Spread the sage butter mixture evenly under the loosened skin, massaging it into the meat to ensure full coverage.
- Stuff the turkey cavity with quartered onion and lemon, which will add moisture and aromatic flavor during roasting.
- Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack in a large roasting pan. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.
- Tie the turkey legs together with kitchen twine and tuck wing tips under the body to prevent burning.
- Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
- Roast the turkey in the preheated oven. Calculate approximately 15 minutes per pound, which is about 3 to
- 5 hours for a 12-14 lb turkey.
- Remove the foil during the last hour of cooking to allow the skin to brown and crisp.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The turkey is done when the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
- Carve the turkey and serve with pan drippings or gravy.
Tips
- Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the turkey from the refrigerator at least one hour before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and results in a juicier bird.
- Preheat Your Oven: Make sure your oven is preheated to 325°F (165°C) before placing the turkey inside. A properly heated oven ensures even cooking and browning.
- Butter Under the Skin: For maximum flavor, gently loosen the skin of the turkey and spread the sage butter mixture underneath. This technique not only infuses the meat with flavor but also keeps it moist.
- Use Aromatics: Stuff the cavity with quartered onion and lemon to enhance moisture and add a delightful aroma while roasting.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Calculate approximately 15 minutes per pound for roasting. For a 12-14 lb turkey, expect a cooking time of 3 to
- 5 hours, but always rely on a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Let It Rest: After roasting, allow the turkey to rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This step is crucial for juicy meat, as it allows the juices to redistribute.
- Baste for Crispiness: Remove the foil during the last hour of cooking to achieve a beautifully browned and crispy skin.By following these tips, your Easy Roasted Turkey with Sage Butter will be a showstopper at your next gathering!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 150mg
