Thanksgiving Roast Turkey is a classic holiday centerpiece made with a whole turkey seasoned with butter, fresh herbs, garlic, and simple spices. Roasting the turkey at the right temperature helps create beautifully golden, crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy and tender.
This traditional American Thanksgiving recipe is perfect for a family holiday dinner. Serve it with mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, gravy, and roasted vegetables for a comforting Thanksgiving meal everyone will enjoy.
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Rest Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 10 people
Difficulty: Intermediate
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Remove the turkey from its packaging and take out the neck and giblets. Pat the turkey completely dry with paper towels.
Place the turkey breast-side up in a large roasting pan.
Rub softened butter evenly over the skin. Season generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, and sage.
Place the onion, garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs inside the turkey cavity.
Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan.
Roast the turkey uncovered at 350°F (175°C).
Baste occasionally with the pan juices to help keep the skin flavorful and golden.
Continue roasting until the thickest part of the breast and thigh reaches 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer.
If the skin becomes too dark before the turkey is finished, loosely cover the breast with aluminum foil.
Remove the turkey from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board.
Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for about 30 minutes before carving.
Strain the pan drippings and use them to prepare a simple turkey gravy if desired.
Carve the turkey into breast slices, thighs, and drumsticks.
Arrange on a serving platter and serve with your favorite Thanksgiving side dishes.
Add extra minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and parsley to the butter mixture.
Add orange and lemon zest to the butter and place extra citrus slices inside the cavity.
Add Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika for a bold, slightly spicy flavor.
Mix a small amount of pure maple syrup into the butter mixture for a lightly sweet glaze.
Spatchcock the turkey before roasting for faster cooking and evenly browned skin.
Allow leftover turkey to cool before storing.
Place sliced turkey in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently in the oven or microwave with a little broth or gravy to help keep the meat moist.
Yes, cooked turkey can be frozen.
Remove the meat from the bones and place it in airtight freezer-safe containers or bags.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat until hot throughout.