This classic roasted turkey recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful bird with crispy skin, perfect for any holiday or special occasion. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can prepare a delicious turkey that will be the centerpiece of your meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole turkey (10-12 pounds)
- 1/4 cup olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage) for stuffing
- 1-2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (for roasting pan)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Prepare the turkey: Remove the giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings under the bird.
- Season the turkey: Rub the turkey all over with olive oil or melted butter. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, and paprika. Squeeze the lemon halves over the turkey and place the lemon halves, onion quarters, and garlic cloves inside the turkey cavity. Add fresh herbs for extra flavor.
- Roast the turkey: Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. Roast the turkey, basting occasionally with the pan juices, until the skin is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh (about 3 to 3.5 hours for a 10-12 pound turkey).
- Rest before carving: Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist turkey.
Serve the turkey with your favorite sides and enjoy!