why make this recipe
Making an Easy Thanksgiving Turkey is a wonderful way to bring family and friends together. This recipe simplifies the roasting process, allowing anyone to enjoy a juicy and flavorful turkey without stress. It captures the essence of Thanksgiving, offering a delicious centerpiece that can feed a crowd. Plus, the use of fresh herbs and basic spices enhances the turkey’s natural flavor, making it a holiday favorite.
how to make Easy Thanksgiving Turkey
Ingredients :
- 1 whole turkey (about 12-14 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme and rosemary)
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Remove the turkey from the packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Rub olive oil all over the turkey.
- Season generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Place fresh herbs inside the cavity of the turkey.
- Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
- Roast the turkey in the preheated oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), usually about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the size.
- Let the turkey rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. Enjoy your perfectly roasted turkey!
how to serve Easy Thanksgiving Turkey
Serve the Easy Thanksgiving Turkey with classic sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole. Carve the turkey at the table for a festive touch. Don’t forget to serve gravy made from the turkey drippings for extra flavor!
how to store Easy Thanksgiving Turkey
If you have leftovers, store the turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Leftover turkey can last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it, where it can last for several months.
tips to make Easy Thanksgiving Turkey
- Make sure to let the turkey come to room temperature before roasting for a more even cook.
- Basting the turkey occasionally with its own juices will keep it moist.
- If the skin is browning too quickly, tent the turkey with aluminum foil.
- Using a meat thermometer is key to ensuring your turkey is perfectly cooked.
variation
For a twist, consider adding citrus fruits like lemon or orange to the cavity along with the herbs. This can add a refreshing flavor to the turkey.
FAQs
Can I use a frozen turkey?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. It usually takes about 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds.
What can I do if my turkey is dry?
If your turkey turns out dry, serve it with plenty of gravy or make a turkey salad with mayonnaise to moisten it.
How can I tell if my turkey is done?
The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Easy Thanksgiving Turkey
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 whole whole turkey (about 12-14 pounds) Make sure the turkey is thawed if using frozen.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For rubbing on the turkey.
- to taste Salt Generously season for flavor.
- to taste Black pepper Generously season for flavor.
- to taste Garlic powder For seasoning.
- to taste Onion powder For seasoning.
- a handful Fresh herbs (such as thyme and rosemary) To place inside the turkey cavity.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Remove the turkey from the packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Rub olive oil all over the turkey.
- Season generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Place fresh herbs inside the cavity of the turkey.
- Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
Cooking
- Roast the turkey in the preheated oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), usually about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the size.
- Let the turkey rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving.
