Herb-Roasted Turkey

Prep: 30 mins

Cook: 3 hrs 30 mins

Servings: 12

Category: Dinner

Ingredients

  • 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs), thawed if frozen
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 2 celery stalks, cut into large pieces
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 2 cups chicken broth or water

Nutrition (per serving, 6 oz meat)

Calories: 450
Total Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 180mg
Carbohydrates: 1g
Sugars: 0g
Protein: 60g

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity, then pat the turkey dry with paper towels inside and out.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  3. Gently loosen the skin over the turkey breast and thighs by sliding your hand underneath. Spread half of the herb butter mixture under the skin, then rub the remaining butter over the outside of the turkey.
  4. Stuff the turkey cavity with the quartered onion, celery pieces, and halved lemon. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under the body.
  5. Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack in a large roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth or water into the bottom of the pan. Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil.
  6. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 3 to 3.5 hours, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the foil for the last 45 minutes to allow the skin to crisp and turn golden brown, basting occasionally with pan juices.
  7. Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. Serve warm with your favorite sides and enjoy your herb-roasted turkey!