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Garlic Thanksgiving Turkey

Garlic Thanksgiving Turkey: Juicy Delight for Your Holiday Feast

Experience the deliciousness of Garlic Thanksgiving Turkey, a juicy centerpiece for your holiday feast that embodies tradition and simplicity.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 3 hours
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Turkey
  • 1 large bird (12-18 lbs) Turkey Ensure it is thoroughly thawed before use.
  • 2 tbsp Kosher Salt Essential for proper seasoning.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Ground Pepper Adds depth to the turkey's seasonings.
For the Stuffing
  • 1 whole Onion Adds depth of flavor.
  • 1 Lemon Brightens the dish.
  • 3 tbsp Fresh Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme, Sage) Imparts aroma; dried can be used in smaller amounts.
For the Herb Butter
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter Keeps the turkey moist.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Star ingredient for herb butter.
For Roasting
  • 2 Roasting Vegetables (Onion, Celery, Carrots) Creates a flavorful bed for the turkey.

Equipment

  • roasting pan
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Fork
  • spatula
  • Paper Towels

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Start by bringing your large turkey to room temperature for about 1 hour. Remove giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
  2. Season the inside of the turkey's cavity with kosher salt and fresh ground pepper. Stuff with quartered onion, lemon, and fresh herbs.
  3. Combine softened unsalted butter with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and remaining chopped herbs until well mixed.
  4. Loosen the turkey skin over the breast area and rub about a third of the herb butter mixture under the skin, using the remaining butter to coat the outside.
  5. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lay out quartered onion, celery, and carrots in a roasting pan.
  6. Position the turkey breast side up on top of the roasting vegetables and roast for approximately 15 minutes per pound, basting every 30 minutes.
  7. Once the turkey reaches 158°F-160°F, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 30 minutes under loosely covered foil.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalProtein: 50gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 450mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Thawing your turkey fully is essential for even cooking. Aim for 165°F for thighs and 160°F for breast meat for best results.

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