Description
The Best Thanksgiving Turkey is a showstopper that elevates your holiday feast with its succulent flavors and perfectly crispy skin. This foolproof recipe combines simple ingredients and essential techniques to create a juicy, tender turkey that will impress even the most discerning palates. With aromatic herbs, a savory brine, and easy preparation steps, you’re set to carve out unforgettable moments with family and friends this Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12–15 lb whole turkey
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 head garlic, halved
- 1 lemon, quartered
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 gallon cold water
- 1 cup salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Brine: In a large pot, dissolve salt and sugar in cold water over medium heat. Cool completely before use.
- Brine the Turkey: Submerge the thawed turkey in the cooled brine; refrigerate overnight.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove turkey from the brine and pat dry.
- Season: Rub olive oil over the turkey's skin; season inside and out with salt, pepper, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and lemon.
- Roast: Place turkey breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast for approximately 13-15 minutes per pound. Baste hourly for enhanced flavor.
- Rest: Once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: Approximately 3 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz (113g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 560 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg