Introduction
There’s something profoundly heartwarming about gathering around a beautifully roasted turkey during the festive season. Our “Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter” is a delightful blend of tenderness, golden crispiness, and fragrant herb essence, perfect for family celebrations. This recipe not only brings out the best in flavor but also fosters an atmosphere of togetherness and joy, making it an unforgettable centerpiece for your seasonal feast.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: | 30 minutes |
Cook Time: | 3 hours |
Total Time: | 3 hours 30 minutes |
Servings: | 8-10 servings |
Skill Level: | Intermediate |
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and quartered
- 1 onion, quartered
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the butter, rosemary, thyme, parsley, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Loosen the skin over the turkey breast and thighs carefully using your fingers.
- Spread half of the herb butter under the skin and the other half over the skin of the entire turkey.
- Stuff the turkey cavity with lemon quarters and onion.
- Truss the turkey legs and place it breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan.
- Roast the turkey in the preheated oven, basting occasionally with chicken broth, for about 3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the roasted turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.
Helpful Tips
- If you are new to roasting turkey, consider using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the proper internal temperature.
- For an added burst of flavor, try adding some additional herbs such as sage or tarragon to the herb butter mixture.
Storage Instructions and Substitutions
Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you are out of fresh herbs, dried herbs can be used but reduce the quantities by half.
Pairings
Complement this delightful Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter with creamy mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, and a side of tangy cranberry sauce. For an ideal drink pairing, serve a glass of chilled white wine or a festive cranberry punch.
Conclusion
We hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your family’s holiday tradition. Share your roasted turkey creations using #ZynahzRecipes or tag @Zynahz on Instagram. We’d love your feedback — leave a comment on our website, Zynahz.com.
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