This roast turkey is golden brown and juicy, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner. It is seasoned just right, making it flavorful and moist!
There’s something special about a whole turkey in the oven that makes me feel all warm and festive. I love serving it with cozy sides like mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce! 🦃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey: A 12-14 pound turkey is ideal for a gathering. If you can’t find a turkey this size, you can use two smaller ones. Just adjust roasting time based on weight.
Butter or Olive Oil: I love using melted butter for a rich flavor, but olive oil is a healthier alternative. If you’re dairy-free, stick with olive oil or avocado oil.
Herbs: Fresh herbs always bring vibrant flavors. If you can’t find fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage, dried versions work fine. Use about a third of the amount when substituting dried herbs.
Oranges: Oranges add a lovely citrusy aroma. If you need a substitute, lemon or even a few apple slices can work well too!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure a Juicy Roast Turkey?
To achieve a juicy turkey, proper preparation and cooking techniques are key. Here are some tips:
- Let the turkey sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
- Ensure to rub the seasoning both on the skin and under it. This infuses the meat with flavor.
- Basting is crucial! Baste the turkey with pan juices every 45 minutes to keep it moist.
- Using a meat thermometer is your best friend. Check the thickest part of the thigh for doneness (165°F or 74°C).
- Rest the turkey for 20-30 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute within the meat.
These methods will help you serve up a flavorful and moist roast turkey that everyone will enjoy! Happy cooking!
How to Make Roast Turkey
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds), thawed if frozen
- 4 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme or 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary or 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon dried sage or 2 tablespoons fresh sage leaves
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 2 oranges, quartered
- 1 head garlic, halved horizontally
- Fresh herb sprigs (rosemary, sage, thyme) for stuffing and garnish
- Fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish)
- Additional orange slices for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time and 3 to 3.5 hours of cooking, depending on the weight of your turkey. Remember to allow at least 20-30 minutes for resting after cooking before carving. The total time from start to delicious feast is around 4 hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Take the turkey out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before you’re ready to roast so it can get closer to room temperature. This helps it cook evenly.
2. Clean the Turkey
Remove the giblets and neck from the inside of the turkey cavity. Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water and pat it dry using paper towels. This step is important for crispy skin!
3. Make the Seasoning Mix
In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, and sage. This blend will add so much flavor to your turkey.
4. Season the Turkey
Rub the turkey all over with olive oil or melted butter. Then generously sprinkle the seasoning mix all over the turkey, making sure to get under the skin wherever possible – this adds extra flavor where it counts!
5. Stuff the Turkey
Stuff the cavity of the turkey with the quartered onion, halved garlic head, orange quarters, and fresh herbs. This stuffing adds aromatic goodness while the turkey roasts.
6. Place in the Roasting Pan
Put the turkey breast side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Tuck the wing tips under the body so they don’t burn.
7. Roast the Turkey
Roast the turkey in the preheated oven. A good rule of thumb is to allow 13-15 minutes per pound. For a turkey in the 12-14 pound range, you’re looking at about 3 to 3.5 hours total roasting time.
8. Baste for Extra Moisture
Every 45 minutes, open the oven and carefully baste the turkey with the pan juices. This keeps it moist and helps develop a lovely golden skin.
9. Increase the Temperature
About 30 minutes before the turkey is supposed to be done, crank the oven temperature up to 400°F (200°C) for that perfect crispy, browned skin.
10. Check for Doneness
Your turkey is done when an instant-read thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. If it’s not there yet, give it some more time and keep checking.
11. Let it Rest
Once the turkey is done, carefully remove it from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute so every bite is juicy!
12. Garnish and Serve
Finally, garnish your roasted turkey with fresh orange slices, herbs, and optional cranberries for a festive touch. Carve the turkey and serve warm, making sure to enjoy it with your favorite sides!
This roast turkey features a beautifully browned, crispy skin and aromatic herbs and citrus inside, creating a tender and flavorful centerpiece for any feast. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use a Frozen Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the turkey before roasting. It’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator for about 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds. If you’re in a pinch, you can use the cold water method: submerge the sealed turkey in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. This should take about 30 minutes per pound.
Can I Prepare the Turkey a Day Ahead?
Absolutely! You can season the turkey the night before and keep it in the refrigerator. Just cover it loosely with plastic wrap. This allows the flavors to develop even more, making your turkey extra delicious! Remember to bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting.
How Should I Store Leftover Turkey?
Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them within two hours of serving the turkey. Properly stored, they’ll last about 3-4 days. You can also freeze turkey leftovers for up to 2-6 months. Just make sure to separate them into meal-sized portions for easy thawing later!
Can I Use Different Herbs or Seasonings?
Definitely! Feel free to mix it up by using your favorite herbs. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can be lovely alternatives. If you prefer different flavors, consider adding spices like cumin or lemon zest to customize it to your taste.