Description
This show-stopping Thanksgiving turkey recipe is everything a holiday centerpiece should be—golden, juicy, herby, and deeply flavorful. Perfect for a cozy gathering or festive feast, it uses a simple dry brine and garlic-herb butter to deliver succulent meat and crisp skin. Whether you’re hunting for an easy dinner, foolproof holiday ideas, or just hearty food ideas, this is your go-to easy recipe for big impact.
Ingredients
12 lb whole turkey
3 tablespoons kosher salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 lemon, quartered
1 onion, quartered
3 carrots, chopped
3 celery stalks, chopped
2 cups chicken broth
Instructions
1. Place your thawed turkey on a rack over a baking sheet. Pat dry and sprinkle kosher salt all over, including under the skin. Refrigerate uncovered overnight (at least 12 hours).
2. Mix softened butter with minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, and black pepper.
3. Bring the turkey to room temp for 1 hour. Rub half the herb butter under the breast skin. Rub the rest over the exterior. Stuff with lemon, onion, and herb sprigs.
4. Preheat oven to 325°F. Layer carrots and celery in roasting pan with chicken broth. Set a rack above the veggies and place the turkey on it.
5. Roast for 2.5 to 3.5 hours (15 mins per pound), basting every 30 minutes. Tent with foil if browning too fast. Turkey is done at 165°F in the thickest thigh part.
6. Let rest 30 minutes before carving to lock in juices.
Notes
Dry brining overnight is key to flavorful, juicy meat.
Use a meat thermometer for accuracy—don’t guess doneness.
Save pan drippings to make a rich turkey gravy.
- Prep Time: 12 hours
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Keywords: Thanksgiving turkey, roast turkey, holiday main dish