Roasted Turkey Recipe
Nothing brings family and friends together quite like a beautifully roasted turkey. This guide will lead you through the process of preparing and cooking the perfect turkey in the oven, ensuring a delicious centerpiece for your next holiday feast.
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups of diced onions
- 1 cup of chopped celery
- 1 cup of chopped carrots
- 4 cups of bread cubes (preferably stale)
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Preparing the Turkey
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Remove the turkey giblets and neck from the cavity and rinse the turkey under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.
- Rub the softened butter all over the turkey, including under the skin. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Preparing the Stuffing
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the onions, celery, and carrots until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked vegetables, bread cubes, thyme, rosemary, and chicken broth. Mix well to moisten the bread.
- Stuff the turkey cavity with the prepared stuffing. Be sure not to overpack it.
Roasting the Turkey
- Place the turkey in a roasting pan, breast side up. Tuck the wing tips under the turkey.
- Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil, and roast in the preheated oven. A general rule of thumb is 13 minutes per pound.
- Remove the foil during the last hour of cooking to allow the skin to brown and crisp up.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
Serving
- Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven, cover it with foil, and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.
- Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
