Turkey Recipe Tips

Learn expert tips and tricks for preparing the perfect Thanksgiving turkey, ensuring a moist and flavorful centerpiece for your holiday feast.

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

12 lb Whole Turkey Fresh or thawed
1 cup Butter Softened
2 tbsp Poultry Seasoning
1 tsp Salt
0.5 tsp Black Pepper

Aromatics

1 medium Onion Quartered
2 Celery Stalks Chopped
2 Carrots Chopped
4 Garlic Cloves Crushed

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Remove giblets and neck from turkey cavity. Rinse turkey inside and out and pat dry with paper towels.
In a small bowl, combine softened butter, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Rub mixture all over the turkey skin.
Place quartered onion, chopped celery, carrots, and crushed garlic cloves inside the turkey cavity.
Place turkey in a roasting pan and cook for approximately 15 minutes per pound, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F (74°C).
Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider brining the turkey overnight before roasting. Basting the turkey with pan juices every 30 minutes during cooking can also help keep it moist.