Imagine cutting into a perfectly roasted turkey that's so juicy and flavorful, it makes your guests' jaws drop with amazement. Our Herb Butter Roasted Turkey isn't just another holiday recipe – it's a culinary masterpiece that transforms an ordinary bird into a show-stopping centerpiece. With a magical blend of fresh herbs infused into rich, creamy butter and a foolproof roasting technique, you'll create a turkey so delectable, it'll become the talk of your holiday gathering for years to come.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 3 hrs
Total Time: 3 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 12 lb whole turkey
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 4 cups turkey or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature will allow for a slow and even roast, ensuring that your turkey is juicy and flavorful.
- Remove the turkey from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps the turkey cook more evenly.
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, chopped rosemary, thyme, and sage. Mix well until the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the butter.
- Pat the turkey dry with paper towels, both inside and out. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
- Carefully loosen the skin of the turkey by sliding your fingers between the skin and the breast meat, being careful not to tear the skin.
- Take about half of the herb butter mixture and spread it under the skin of the turkey, making sure to cover the breast meat evenly. Use the remaining butter to rub all over the outside of the turkey, ensuring it is well coated.
- Season the turkey generously with salt and black pepper, both inside the cavity and on the skin. This will enhance the flavor of the meat.
- Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. This allows the heat to circulate around the turkey, promoting even cooking.
- Pour the turkey or chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. This will help keep the turkey moist during cooking and can be used for the gravy later.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, making sure it does not touch the bone. This will help you monitor the internal temperature of the turkey.
- Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for approximately 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the turkey every 30-45 minutes with the pan juices to keep it moist and enhance the flavor.
- Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- While the turkey is resting, prepare the gravy. In a saucepan, combine the remaining pan juices with the turkey broth from the roasting pan. If necessary, strain the mixture to remove any solids.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour with a little bit of water to create a slurry. This will help thicken the gravy.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the broth mixture to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the flour slurry, stirring continuously until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Carve the turkey and serve it alongside the homemade gravy. Enjoy your delicious Herb Butter Roasted Turkey!
Tips
- Room Temperature Magic: Always let your turkey sit out for 30 minutes before roasting to ensure even cooking.
- Butter Technique: When spreading herb butter under the skin, be gentle to avoid tearing the delicate turkey skin.
- Moisture is Key: Basting every 30-45 minutes prevents the turkey from drying out and adds incredible flavor.
- Thermometer is Your Best Friend: Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the perfect doneness at 165°F (74°C).
- Resting Time Matters: Let the turkey rest for at least 20-30 minutes after cooking to redistribute those delicious juices.
- Herb Freshness: Use fresh herbs whenever possible for the most vibrant flavor profile.
- Pan Drippings Are Gold: Save those pan juices for the most incredible homemade gravy you've ever tasted.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 55g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 180mg
