Imagine the tantalizing aroma of a perfectly roasted turkey wafting through your home, beckoning friends and family to gather around the table. This isn't just any turkey; it's a succulent masterpiece infused with rich herb butter that elevates the traditional holiday dish to a whole new level. Whether you're hosting a festive feast or simply craving a comforting meal, our "Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter" recipe promises to impress. Get ready to create a juicy, flavor-packed turkey that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 3 hrs
Total Time: 3 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting a turkey evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the turkey by removing it from its packaging. Take out the giblets and neck from the cavity, and pat the turkey dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a crispy skin.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, fresh sage, fresh thyme, and fresh parsley. Mix well until the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the butter. Season the herb butter with salt and pepper to taste.
- Carefully loosen the skin of the turkey by sliding your fingers between the skin and the meat, starting at the neck end and working your way down. Be gentle to avoid tearing the skin.
- Take a portion of the herb butter and spread it under the skin, making sure to cover the breast and thighs evenly. Use the remaining butter to rub all over the outside of the turkey, ensuring it is well coated.
- Season the cavity of the turkey with salt and pepper. You can also add any additional herbs or aromatics, such as onion, garlic, or lemon, for extra flavor.
- Place the turkey breast side up on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. This allows for even cooking and air circulation.
- Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. This will help keep the turkey moist during cooking and can be used for basting.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, making sure it does not touch the bone. This will help you monitor the internal temperature.
- Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the turkey with the pan juices every 30-45 minutes to keep it moist and enhance the flavor.
- Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- After resting, carve the turkey and serve it with your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious roasted turkey with herb butter!
Tips
- Choose the Right Turkey: Opt for a fresh turkey if possible, as it tends to have better flavor and texture than frozen. If using a frozen turkey, make sure to allow ample time for it to thaw in the refrigerator.
- Dry the Turkey: After patting the turkey dry, let it sit uncovered in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. This helps to further dry out the skin for an extra crispy finish.
- Customize the Herb Butter: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or add garlic and lemon zest to the butter for a unique twist that suits your taste.
- Basting is Key: Basting the turkey with the pan juices every 30-45 minutes helps keep the meat moist and enhances the flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- Rest Before Carving: Allowing the turkey to rest for at least 30 minutes after roasting is crucial. This step ensures that the juices redistribute, making for a juicier and more flavorful turkey.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To guarantee perfectly cooked turkey, use a meat thermometer. The thickest part of the thigh should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Save the Drippings: Don’t forget to save the pan drippings! They can be transformed into a delicious gravy that will complement your turkey beautifully.With these tips in hand, you're well on your way to mastering the art of roasting a turkey that will leave everyone raving!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
