Classic Roasted Turkey

Learn how to make a classic roasted turkey with this easy recipe featuring fresh herbs, butter rub, and aromatic vegetables. Perfect for Thanksgiving or holiday dinners, this turkey recipe delivers crispy skin, juicy meat, and unforgettable flavor.

Ingredients:

1 quart chicken stock

1 whole turkey (neck and giblets removed)

4 garlic cloves, whole

1 onion, quartered

4 carrots, cut into chunks

2 celery stalks, cut into chunks

1 lemon, quartered

Fresh herbs (optional: rosemary, thyme, sage)

1 stick unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Prepare the Turkey:

Remove the turkey from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 1 hour to ensure even roasting.

Pat the turkey dry with paper towels, as dry skin ensures crispy results.

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

Prepare the Roasting Pan:

Pour 1 inch of chicken stock into a roasting pan.

Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pan for added flavor.

Stuff the Turkey:

Fill the turkey cavity with lemon quarters, onion, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. This will infuse the meat with irresistible aromas.

Butter and Season the Turkey:

Generously rub the turkey with softened butter, ensuring it coats every inch of the skin.

Season liberally with salt and pepper for an even layer of flavor.

Roast the Turkey:

Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack inside the prepared pan. Roast at 450°F for the first 30 minutes to achieve a golden brown exterior.

Loosely cover the breast with aluminum foil after 30 minutes to prevent over-browning.

Lower the Temperature:

Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue roasting. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the thigh; the turkey is done when it reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest the Turkey:

Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This step locks in the juices and ensures tender, flavorful meat.

Carve and Serve:

Slice the turkey and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.

Serving Tips:

Let the Turkey Rest:
After removing the turkey from the oven, let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.

Carve with Care:
Use a sharp carving knife or electric knife to slice the turkey. Start by removing the legs and thighs, then carve the breast into even slices. For a more elegant presentation, arrange the slices on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs or citrus slices.

Pair with Classic Sides:
Serve your roasted turkey with traditional holiday sides such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, green beans, cranberry sauce, and gravy made from the pan drippings. A glass of white wine or cider complements the flavors of the turkey.

Serve Immediately:
Roast turkey is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while it’s still warm. If you’re hosting a large gathering, consider using warming trays or chafing dishes to keep the turkey at an ideal temperature until it’s time to carve.

Storage Tips:

Cool Down the Turkey:
Allow the turkey to cool down to room temperature within 2 hours of cooking. This helps prevent bacteria growth. For best food safety, avoid leaving the turkey at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Store Leftovers Properly:

Whole Turkey: If you have leftover turkey, store the remaining meat in an airtight container. Wrap the carcass tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate or freeze it.

Shredded Turkey: You can shred leftover turkey for sandwiches, soups, or casseroles. Store the meat in separate containers for easier portioning.

Refrigerate or Freeze:

Refrigerate leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, freeze leftover turkey for up to 2-6 months. If freezing, portion it into smaller pieces to make reheating easier.

Reheat Safely:
To reheat, place the turkey in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but be sure to add a little broth or water to keep the meat moist.

Use Leftover Turkey:
Leftover turkey can be used in a variety of recipes such as turkey sandwiches, turkey soup, turkey pot pie, or turkey salad. Get creative and repurpose the leftovers into new meals!

Related Recipes:

• Easy Roast Turkey
• Turkey Chili
• Turkey Stuffing Balls

FAQs:

How do I know when my turkey is fully cooked?

To ensure your turkey is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the turkey’s thigh, avoiding the bone. The turkey is safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For even cooking, check the temperature in several spots, including the breast and stuffing (if applicable).

Should I baste the turkey while it cooks?

Basting isn’t strictly necessary, especially if you’ve rubbed the turkey with butter and placed stock in the roasting pan. Frequent basting can lower the oven temperature, lengthening the cooking time. For a crispy skin and juicy meat, consider skipping the basting and focusing on proper seasoning and temperature control.

How much turkey should I prepare per person?

A good rule of thumb is to plan for 1 to 1.5 pounds of turkey per person, depending on appetites and whether you want leftovers. For example, a 10-pound turkey is ideal for 8-10 people. If you’re hosting a large gathering, consider roasting two smaller turkeys rather than one large bird for easier handling and even cooking.

Can I prepare the turkey in advance?

Yes! You can prepare parts of the turkey ahead of time:

1-2 days before: Season the turkey, prepare the stuffing, and chop vegetables. Store them separately in the refrigerator.

Cooking day: Roast the turkey fresh for the best flavor and texture. If you need to reheat the turkey later, carve it first and reheat it in a covered dish with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Conclusion:

Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a Sunday feast, this Classic Roasted Turkey recipe delivers a show-stopping main course. With its golden skin and mouthwatering aroma, it’s guaranteed to become a family tradition.

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