Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter

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There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a perfectly roasted turkey filling your home during the holidays. With golden, crispy skin and juicy, flavorful meat, Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter is a dish that never fails to impress. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or preparing a festive dinner, this recipe will help you achieve a turkey that’s both succulent and unforgettable.

Ingredients for Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter

To create a perfectly roasted turkey, you’ll need fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s everything you need for a 12–14 pound turkey:

For the Turkey:

  • 1 whole turkey (12–14 pounds), thawed

  • 2 teaspoons salt

  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for rubbing)

For the Herb Butter:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped

  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped

  • 2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Optional Aromatics for Stuffing the Turkey Cavity:

  • 1 onion, quartered

  • 1 lemon, halved

  • 1 head garlic, halved

  • A few sprigs of fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)

Kitchen Tools You Will Need

To ensure a smooth cooking process, gather the following kitchen tools:

  • Roasting pan with rack

  • Meat thermometer

  • Small bowl for mixing herb butter

  • Basting brush

  • Aluminum foil

  • Kitchen twine (for tying the turkey legs)

  • Sharp knife for carving

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter

Follow these steps carefully to achieve a golden-brown, juicy turkey:

1: Prepare the Turkey

  1. Remove the turkey from the packaging and discard the giblets and neck (or save for making stock).

  2. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Drying the skin ensures crispiness.

  3. Season the cavity with a pinch of salt and pepper. If using aromatics, place the onion, lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs inside the cavity.

2: Make the Herb Butter

  1. In a small bowl, combine softened butter with minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, parsley, and lemon zest.

  2. Mix thoroughly until the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the butter.

3: Apply the Herb Butter

  1. Gently loosen the turkey skin over the breasts by sliding your fingers between the skin and meat.

  2. Spread a generous amount of herb butter directly under the skin for maximum flavor.

  3. Rub the remaining herb butter all over the outside of the turkey.

  4. Drizzle the turkey lightly with olive oil or melted butter for extra crispiness.

4: Truss and Season

  1. Tie the turkey legs together with kitchen twine. This helps the bird cook evenly.

  2. Sprinkle the skin with additional salt and pepper for seasoning.

5: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

  2. Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack inside a roasting pan.

6: Roast the Turkey

  1. Roast the turkey for approximately 15 minutes per pound, basting occasionally with pan juices. For a 12-pound turkey, this will be about 3 hours.

  2. Halfway through cooking, tent the turkey loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.

7: Check for Doneness

  1. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh (without touching the bone).

  2. The turkey is done when the thermometer reads 165°F (74°C).

  3. Remove the foil during the last 30–45 minutes of roasting to ensure golden, crispy skin.

8: Rest the Turkey

  1. Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20–30 minutes before carving.

  2. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist meat.

9: Carve and Serve

  1. Carve the turkey using a sharp knife. Start with the legs and thighs, then move to the breast.

  2. Serve with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or cranberry sauce.

Tips for Perfect Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter

  • Choose the right turkey: Fresh or high-quality frozen turkeys yield the best flavor and texture.

  • Don’t skip the under-skin butter: This is the secret to juicy, flavorful meat.

  • Baste carefully: Basting every 30 minutes ensures the skin stays moist and golden.

  • Use a meat thermometer: Never rely on visual cues alone; this guarantees the turkey is cooked safely.

  • Rest the turkey: Allowing the turkey to rest is essential to prevent dry meat.

Approximate Nutritional Value

The nutritional content can vary depending on the size of the turkey and the amount of butter used, but for one serving (approximately 6 ounces of roasted turkey with herb butter):

  • Calories: 350 kcal

  • Protein: 30 g

  • Fat: 25 g

  • Saturated Fat: 10 g

  • Carbohydrates: 0–2 g

  • Sodium: 350 mg

Why Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter is the Ultimate Holiday Dish

Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter is more than just a meal—it’s a centerpiece that brings family and friends together. Its savory aroma, rich flavors, and tender texture make it perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering. Unlike store-bought options, roasting your own turkey allows you to control the seasoning, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

The combination of fresh herbs and butter creates an irresistible crust while keeping the meat juicy and tender. Whether you pair it with traditional sides or create your own signature dishes, this roasted turkey recipe guarantees a memorable dining experience.

Conclusion

Mastering Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter is simpler than it seems, and the reward is a succulent, golden turkey that will impress everyone at your table. With a few careful steps and fresh ingredients, you can elevate your holiday feast to gourmet levels. Don’t settle for ordinary—try this recipe and experience the ultimate comfort and flavor that only a homemade roasted turkey can provide.

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