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Simple Roasted Turkey

Simple Roasted Turkey for a Stress-Free Thanksgiving Feast

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Enjoy a simple roasted turkey that boasts a beautifully crisp skin and tender meat, perfect for a stress-free Thanksgiving.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Turkey
  • 12-14 pounds Whole Turkey Ensure it’s completely thawed
  • 8 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Can use olive oil for lighter alternative
  • 2 tablespoons Kosher Salt Divided
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
For the Aromatics
  • 1 Medium Yellow Onion Quartered, optional
  • 2 sprigs Fresh Rosemary Can be swapped with sage
  • 4-5 sprigs Fresh Thyme Optional
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Poultry Seasoning Can substitute with thyme, sage, or rosemary

Equipment

  • Roasting Pan
  • Roasting Rack
  • meat thermometer
  • Aluminum Foil

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the oven rack in the lower third.
  2. Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
  3. Season the inside of the turkey cavity with 1 tablespoon of kosher salt and add quartered onion and fresh herbs if desired.
  4. Tie the turkey legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips underneath.
  5. Brush the melted unsalted butter over the turkey, then sprinkle with remaining kosher salt, black pepper, and poultry seasoning.
  6. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for 2½ to 3 hours, checking for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  7. Once done, cover with aluminum foil and let the turkey rest for 30 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 5mg

Notes

This recipe is make-ahead friendly and perfect for serving family and guests during the holidays.

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