Best Turkey Ever
A beautifully roasted turkey recipe that combines savory herbs and tender meat, perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
For the turkey
- 1 whole turkey, 12-14 pounds Select a high-quality bird for best flavor.
- 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped Can substitute with dried if necessary.
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped Can substitute with dried if necessary.
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped Can substitute with dried if necessary.
- 4 cups chicken broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Pat the turkey dry with paper towels to ensure a crisp skin.
- In a bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, and fresh herbs until blended.
- Carefully detach the skin from the turkey breast without tearing it.
- Spread the herbed butter mixture generously beneath the skin, then rub extra all over the outside.
- Place the turkey on a roasting rack inside a large roasting pan.
- Pour in the chicken broth to add moisture to the cooking environment.
Cooking
- Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about two hours, basting with drippings.
- Once cooked to 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part of the thigh, remove it from the oven.
- Cover the turkey loosely with foil and let it rest for thirty minutes before carving.
Notes
For crispy skin, make sure to pat the turkey dry before applying seasoning and use enough butter. Consider using an oven-safe thermometer.