The Best Roast Turkey Recipe for Thanksgiving
Golden skin, juicy meat - the foolproof centerpiece for your holiday table!
When it comes to Thanksgiving food ideas, nothing beats a perfectly roasted turkey as the centerpiece. This best roasted turkey recipe walks you through how to cook a turkey in the oven for beginners, ensuring moist meat and crispy skin every time. Whether you're planning Thanksgiving menu ideas or simply want to master oven roasted turkey, this guide covers everything from selecting the bird to carving techniques.
Why This is the Best Thanksgiving Turkey
After testing dozens of roast turkey recipes Thanksgiving favorites, we've perfected this classic roast method that delivers:
- Crispy golden-brown skin
- Juicy, flavorful meat (even the breast!)
- Simple preparation with minimal fuss
- Perfect pairing with all your Thanksgiving recipes side dishes
Ingredients for Perfect Oven Roasted Turkey
Main Ingredients:
- 12-14 lb whole turkey (thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp salt (plus more for cavity)
- 2 tsp black pepper
Herb Butter Mixture:
- 3 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 3 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon, zested
Aromatics for Cavity:
- 1 onion, quartered
- 1 apple, quartered
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
Step-by-Step: How to Cook Turkey in the Oven
1. Prep the Turkey (24 Hours Before)
- Brine (optional but recommended): For juicier meat, brine your turkey in a solution of 1 cup salt + 1/2 cup brown sugar dissolved in 2 gallons water for 12-24 hours.
- Pat dry: Remove from brine, rinse, and thoroughly dry skin with paper towels.
- Make herb butter: Mix softened butter with herbs, garlic, lemon zest, salt and pepper.
2. Season and Truss
- Gently separate skin from breast and rub half the herb butter underneath.
- Rub remaining butter over outside of turkey and season generously with salt.
- Stuff cavity with aromatics (not for eating - just flavor).
- Truss legs with kitchen twine for even cooking.
Pro Tip:
For easy Thanksgiving turkey, prep everything the night before. The herb butter can be made 2 days ahead!
3. Roast to Perfection
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Place turkey breast-side up on rack in roasting pan.
- Roast uncovered for 2.5-3.5 hours (see chart below), basting every 45 minutes.
- Increase heat to 425°F (220°C) for last 30 minutes for crispy skin.
- Turkey is done when thigh reaches 165°F (74°C) on meat thermometer.
| Weight | Unstuffed | Stuffed |
|---|---|---|
| 8-12 lbs | 2.5-3 hours | 3-3.5 hours |
| 12-14 lbs | 3-3.5 hours | 3.5-4 hours |
| 14-18 lbs | 3.5-4 hours | 4-4.5 hours |
Serving Your Best Roasted Turkey
Let turkey rest 30-45 minutes before carving to allow juices to redistribute. Serve with:
- Thanksgiving side dishes: Mashed potatoes, stuffing, roasted vegetables
- Thanksgiving appetizers: Cheese board, stuffed mushrooms
- Pan gravy made from drippings
Variations & Turkey Meals
Turkey Breast Recipe Option
For smaller gatherings, try this method with just a turkey breast (reduce time to 1.5-2 hours).
Roasted Turkey Legs
Love dark meat? Separate legs and roast alongside whole turkey recipes for extra crispy roasted turkey legs.
Thanksgiving Menu Ideas
Complete your feast with these easy turkey recipes and sides:
- Classic green bean casserole
- Homemade cranberry sauce
- Sweet potato casserole
- Pumpkin pie for dessert
Leftover Magic
Transform extra turkey into:
- Turkey pot pie
- Turkey tetrazzini
- Turkey salad sandwiches
- Turkey soup
FAQs: Turkey Recipes Oven
Should I cover turkey while roasting?
No - covering prevents skin from crisping. If browning too fast, tent loosely with foil.
How often should I baste?
Every 45 minutes for oven turkey recipes. Use pan juices or melted butter.
Can I stuff the turkey?
For food safety, we recommend cooking stuffing separately. If stuffing turkey, add 30 mins to cook time.
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