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Preparation of a raw turkey on a baking tray surrounded by fresh apples ready for cooking.
Dishydelight

Roast Turkey with Herb Butter

A juicy, golden roast turkey coated in rich herb butter, perfect for Christmas and special holiday gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American-Inspired
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Turkey
  • 1 whole turkey 10–12 lbs
  • Salt and black pepper
Herb Butter
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary
  • Zest of 1 lemon
Optional Stuffing Base
  • 1 onion quartered
  • 1 lemon halved
  • Fresh herbs rosemary, thyme

Equipment

  • Roasting pan
  • Oven
  • Basting brush
  • Meat thermometer
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

Instructions
    Preheat oven:
    1. Set oven to 325°F (165°C).
    Prepare turkey:
    1. Pat turkey dry and season inside and out with salt and pepper.
    Make herb butter:
    1. Mix butter, garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, and lemon zest.
    Apply butter:
    1. Gently loosen turkey skin and spread herb butter underneath and over the skin.
    Stuff cavity (optional):
    1. Add onion, lemon, and herbs inside the turkey.
    Roast:
    1. Place turkey in roasting pan and cook for about 13–15 minutes per pound.
    Baste occasionally:
    1. Spoon juices over turkey every 30–40 minutes.
    Check doneness:
    1. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
    Rest before carving:
    1. Let turkey rest for 20–30 minutes before slicing.

    Notes

    Recipe Notes
    • Always rest turkey before carving for juicy meat
    • Use a thermometer for accuracy
    • Cover with foil if browning too quickly