Imagine the tantalizing aroma of a perfectly roasted turkey wafting through your home, bringing family and friends together for a feast to remember! Our "Turkey with Stuffing and Gravy" recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and traditions that will leave your guests raving about your culinary skills. With a preparation time of just 30 minutes and a cooking time that allows you to relax while the oven works its magic, this dish is the star of any holiday gathering. Ready to impress? Dive into our simple yet delicious recipe that promises to elevate your dining experience!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 3 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
- 1 box stuffing mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups turkey gravy
Instructions
- Remove turkey from refrigerator 1 hour before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Remove giblets and neck from turkey cavity. Rinse turkey inside and out with cold water, then pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- In a large mixing bowl, prepare stuffing mix according to package instructions, using melted butter and chicken broth. Mix until ingredients are well combined and stuffing is moist.
- Generously season turkey cavity with salt and pepper. Carefully stuff the turkey with prepared stuffing, being careful not to pack too tightly, as stuffing will expand during cooking.
- Truss the turkey by tying legs together with kitchen twine and tucking wing tips under the body to prevent burning.
- Place turkey breast-side up on a rack in a large roasting pan. Brush entire turkey with melted butter and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Cover turkey loosely with aluminum foil and place in preheated oven. Roast for approximately 15 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when a meat thermometer is inserted into the thickest part of the thigh.
- Remove foil during the last hour of cooking to allow skin to brown and crisp.
- Once turkey is done, remove from oven and let rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- While turkey rests, prepare gravy by heating store-bought turkey gravy in a saucepan. If desired, add pan drippings for extra flavor.
- Carve turkey, remove stuffing, and serve hot with warm gravy on the side.
Tips
- Bring the Turkey to Room Temperature: Remove your turkey from the refrigerator at least one hour before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly and ensures a juicy outcome.
- Don’t Skip the Rinsing: Rinsing the turkey inside and out with cold water helps remove any residual blood and ensures a cleaner taste. Just remember to pat it dry thoroughly afterward!
- Moist Stuffing is Key: When preparing your stuffing, make sure it’s moist but not soggy. The right consistency will keep it flavorful and delicious once cooked inside the turkey.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Generously seasoning the cavity of the turkey and the skin will enhance the flavor beautifully.
- Trussing Matters: Tying the legs together and tucking the wings under prevents them from burning and helps the turkey cook evenly.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your turkey is perfectly cooked, invest in a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Rest Before Carving: Allowing the turkey to rest for 20-30 minutes after cooking is crucial. This step helps the juices redistribute, resulting in moist and tender meat.
- Enhance Your Gravy: For an extra boost of flavor, add a bit of the pan drippings to your store-bought gravy. It’s a simple trick that makes a world of difference!
- Serve Hot: Carve the turkey and serve it immediately with warm gravy on the side for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 302kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: mg
