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Get ready to impress your friends and family with this mouthwatering Roasted Turkey recipe. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, a perfectly roasted turkey is a culinary masterpiece that takes center stage. This delicious recipe is not only easy to follow but also yields a tender and flavorful turkey that will leave your guests craving for more.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE ROASTED TURKEY

Easy and Delicious: This recipe is perfect for all levels of home cooks, making it ideal for beginners and experienced chefs alike. You’ll end up with a scrumptious turkey that’s juicy and flavorful.
A Showstopper for Any Occasion: Roasted turkey is a classic dish that’s not just reserved for Thanksgiving. It’s perfect for any celebration, and nothing says “festive” like a beautifully roasted turkey on the table.
A Versatile Star: A roasted turkey can be paired with various sides and gravies, making it a versatile main course for any meal. You can adapt it to your taste and the occasion.
Great for Recipes: Leftover roasted turkey is incredibly versatile. You can use it in sandwiches, salads, soups, and casseroles, making it a valuable addition to your recipes.
Creates Fond Memories: The aroma of a roasting turkey and the anticipation of that first slice create lasting memories. It’s a dish that brings people together and adds a special touch to your gatherings.

INGREDIENTS YOU NEED TO MAKE ROASTED TURKEY

Turkey (10-12 pounds)
Turkey seasoning (if it doesn’t contain salt, add 1 tablespoon kosher salt)
Butter
Lemon

WHAT YOU NEED TO MAKE ROASTED TURKEY

Oven
Mixing bowls
Instant read thermometer
Knife
Roasting pan

HOW TO THAW A TURKEY

Refrigerator Method: Place the turkey, still in its original packaging, on a tray in the refrigerator. Allow 24 hours of thawing time for every 4-5 pounds of turkey. This method is the safest and most recommended.
Cold Water Method: Submerge the turkey in its original packaging in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes to ensure it stays cold. Allow 30 minutes of thawing time for every pound of turkey. This method is quicker but requires more attention.
Microwave Method: Follow the microwave’s instructions for thawing a turkey. Be cautious to avoid partial cooking in the microwave and cook the turkey immediately after thawing.

Cooking Temperatures for Different Size Birds

The USDA recommends cooking poultry to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (73.9°C) as measured with a food thermometer. Here are some temperatures for cooking different size birds:

Small Turkey (10-12 pounds): Roast at 325°F (163°C) for approximately 3 to 3.5 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (73.9°C).
Medium Turkey (14-16 pounds): Roast at 325°F (163°C) for approximately 3.75 to 4.25 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (73.9°C).
Large Turkey (18-20 pounds): Roast at 325°F (163°C) for approximately 4.25 to 4.75 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (73.9°C).

HOW TO MAKE ROASTED TURKEY

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
If your turkey seasoning doesn’t contain salt, mix 1 tablespoon of kosher salt into it.
Pat the turkey dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
In a bowl, mix the turkey seasoning and the room-temperature butter together until well combined.
Rub the entire turkey, including the inside cavity, with the butter and seasoning mixture.
Slice the lemon in half and place it inside the turkey’s cavity.
Place the seasoned turkey on a roasting pan.
Roast the turkey for approximately 2 1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Check the center of the turkey breast for doneness.
Remove the turkey from the oven, place aluminum foil loosely on top, and let it sit for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the turkey moist.
After resting, slice into the turkey and enjoy.

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What’s the recommended internal temperature for a perfectly roasted turkey?

The USDA recommends cooking poultry to an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I roast a larger turkey using this recipe?

Absolutely! You can adapt this recipe for a larger turkey. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is there a recommended way to store leftover roasted turkey?

Store leftover cooked turkey in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. It can be kept in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in aluminum foil. For longer storage, you can freeze cooked turkey for 2-6 months.

What can I do with leftover turkey?

There are so many things to do with leftover turkey! Here are some of our favorite suggestions:

Turkey and Dumplings

Transform your leftover turkey into a comforting bowl of turkey and dumplings. Simmer turkey pieces in a savory broth, add fluffy dumplings, and garnish with fresh herbs. It’s a warm and hearty dish perfect for chilly evenings.

Turkey Leftover Sliders

If you find yourself wondering what to do with that extra turkey, cranberry sauce, and stuffing, look no further. These sliders are not only a breeze to make but also a delicious way to reinvent your holiday leftovers.

Gluten Free Cherry Turkey Salad with Fennel

Craft a delightful gluten-free salad by tossing together leftover turkey, sweet dried cherries, crisp fennel slices, and a zesty vinaigrette. The contrasting flavors and textures make for a refreshing and healthy dish.

Roasted Turkey

This roasted turkey recipe is the best way to make a delicious juicy turkey for the holidays!

Print Pin Rate

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Roasted Turkey

Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 2 30

Resting Time: 30

Total Time: 3 15

Servings: people

Calories: 226kcal

Equipment

Oven
mixing bowls
instant read thermometer
Knife
roasting pan

Ingredients

1 10-12 lb turkey
½ cup turkey seasoning if it doesn’t contain salt, add 1 tbsp kosher salt
8 tbsp butter room temperature
1 lemon

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
If your turkey seasoning doesn’t contain salt, mix 1 tablespoon of kosher salt into it.
Pat the turkey dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
In a bowl, mix the turkey seasoning and the room-temperature butter together until well combined.
Rub the entire turkey, including the inside cavity, with the butter and seasoning mixture.
Slice the lemon in half and place it inside the turkey’s cavity.
Place the seasoned turkey on a roasting pan.
Roast the turkey for approximately 2 1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Check the center of the turkey breast for doneness.
Remove the turkey from the oven, place aluminum foil loosely on top, and let it sit for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the turkey moist.
After resting, slice into the turkey and enjoy.

Video

Nutrition

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Roasted Turkey is a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed on various occasions, not just on Thanksgiving. It’s easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for both beginners and seasoned home chefs. With its versatile nature, you can pair it with different sides and gravies, making it a star at any meal. Additionally, the leftovers are a treasure trove of ingredients for various recipes, ensuring no turkey goes to waste. The aroma of a roasting turkey and the moment you carve that first slice create cherished memories and add warmth to your gatherings.