Julia Walton
A beautifully golden-brown turkey is the crown jewel of any holiday table, and this Perfect Roast Turkey delivers on every level. Juicy, tender meat with a crispy, herbed skin makes this recipe a favorite for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering. It’s seasoned simply but effectively, allowing the natural flavors of the bird to shine while staying incredibly moist.
Whether it’s your first time roasting a whole turkey or you’re a seasoned cook, this guide will walk you through every step with confidence. From selecting the right bird to ensuring a flavorful, buttery finish, your holiday turkey will be nothing short of show-stopping.
What Kind of Turkey Should I Use?
When choosing a turkey for roasting, fresh or thawed frozen turkeys both work well, but the key is to choose one that’s not pre-brined or overly seasoned—this allows you to control the flavors. Aim for a bird that ranges from 12 to 16 pounds to ensure even cooking and manageable prep.
Ingredients for the Perfect Roast Turkey
- Whole Turkey (12-16 lbs) – The centerpiece of this recipe, perfect for feeding a crowd.
- Unsalted Butter – Softened butter rubbed under and over the skin adds richness and encourages browning.
- Fresh Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme, Sage) – Tucked inside the cavity and into the butter, these herbs infuse the turkey with classic aroma.
- Garlic – Whole cloves help deepen the savory profile.
- Onion – Adds moisture and an earthy-sweet depth to the cavity.
- Carrots & Celery – Layered underneath the bird for flavor and to lift it off the pan base.
- Chicken Broth – Keeps the pan moist and aids in creating flavorful drippings for gravy.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning both inside and out.
How To Make the Perfect Roast Turkey
Step 1: Prep the Turkey
Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey. Pat the bird dry with paper towels. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting to help with even cooking.
Step 2: Season and Stuff
In a bowl, mix softened butter with chopped fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Gently loosen the turkey skin over the breasts and rub the herbed butter underneath. Then rub the remaining butter over the outside of the bird. Stuff the cavity with onion, garlic, and additional herb sprigs.
Step 3: Arrange in Roasting Pan
Place carrots and celery in the bottom of a large roasting pan, then set the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack over the vegetables. Pour chicken broth into the pan base.
Step 4: Roast and Baste
Roast at 325°F uncovered. Baste with pan juices every 45 minutes. If the breast begins to brown too quickly, tent it loosely with foil. Cooking time is about 15 minutes per pound.
Step 5: Check Temperature
The turkey is done when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F. Allow it to rest for 20-30 minutes before carving so juices can redistribute.
Serving and Storing the Perfect Roast Turkey
Serve your turkey on a platter surrounded by herbs, citrus slices, or roasted vegetables for a beautiful presentation. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours, storing meat in airtight containers. Leftovers can be used in sandwiches, casseroles, or soups for up to 4 days.
To freeze, wrap portions tightly in foil and place in a zip-top freezer bag. Best enjoyed within 2 months.
What to Serve With Perfect Roast Turkey?
Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
Creamy, cheesy, and crispy on top – a comforting classic that complements the savory turkey.
Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes
These herbaceous roasted sweet potatoes add a lightly sweet and earthy balance.
Creamy Cranberry Salad
Cool and tangy, this dish brings color and zing to every bite of your meal.
Southern Deviled Eggs
A nostalgic, creamy starter that feels right at home on any holiday table.
Cranberry Orange Relish
Bright and bold, this relish is a fresh, zingy contrast to the rich turkey.
Want More Holiday Dinner Ideas?
If you loved this Perfect Roast Turkey, here are more festive meal ideas that complete your celebration:
- Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
- Creamy Cranberry Salad
- Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes
- Southern Deviled Eggs
- Cranberry Orange Relish
Save This Pin For Later
Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe a citrus brine or maple butter glaze? I’d love to hear how yours turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on Savor Queen on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there!
Perfect Roast Turkey
- Total Time: 4 hours
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Golden, juicy, and loaded with flavor, this Perfect Roast Turkey recipe is the ultimate showstopper for your holiday dinner. Whether you’re serving Thanksgiving dinner or planning a festive family meal, this turkey delivers tender meat, crispy skin, and comforting aroma in every slice. It’s ideal for both first-time cooks and seasoned pros looking for a reliable centerpiece. Add this to your list of easy dinner ideas, healthy holiday recipes, or even hearty meal prep options. It’s a classic recipe with straightforward steps, perfect for stress-free planning.
Ingredients
12–16 lbs whole turkey
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
6 cloves garlic, whole
1 large onion, quartered
3 carrots, cut into chunks
3 celery stalks, cut into chunks
2 cups chicken broth
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey. Pat the bird dry with paper towels. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting.
2. In a bowl, mix softened butter with chopped fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Loosen the skin over the turkey breasts and rub the butter underneath and over the outside of the turkey.
3. Stuff the cavity with the onion, garlic, and extra herb sprigs.
4. Arrange chopped carrots and celery in the bottom of a large roasting pan and place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack over the vegetables. Pour the chicken broth into the base of the pan.
5. Roast at 325°F uncovered, basting every 45 minutes with pan juices. Tent with foil if the breast browns too fast.
6. Roast for about 15 minutes per pound until the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F.
7. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
Let the turkey come to room temperature before roasting to promote even cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and keep the meat juicy.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 3.5 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 6 oz)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 52g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Keywords: roast turkey, holiday dinner, thanksgiving, turkey recipe, easy recipe