The Best Turkey Recipe: A Thanksgiving Guide

Thanksgiving dinner wouldn’t be complete without the star of the table — a perfectly roasted turkey. Golden, juicy, and packed with flavor, this recipe will make your holiday meal unforgettable. With a few simple steps and the right tools, you can serve a turkey that’s tender on the inside and crispy on the outside.

Why You’ll Love It

• Juicy & Flavorful: Butter, herbs, and aromatics keep the turkey moist and delicious.
  

• Crispy Golden Skin: Roasting at the right temperature gives you that perfect holiday presentation.
  

• Easy to Follow: Simple steps that even first-time hosts can master.
  

• Perfect for Gatherings: Feeds a crowd and pairs beautifully with all your favorite sides.
  

The Best Turkey Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (12–14 lbs), thawed if frozen
  
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
  
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
  
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
  
• 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
  
• 1 lemon, halved
  
• 1 onion, quartered
  
• 2 carrots, chopped
  
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
  
• Salt & pepper, to taste
  
• 2 cups chicken broth
  

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
   
   
2. Pat turkey dry with paper towels. Loosen the skin gently with your hands and rub softened butter mixed with garlic and herbs under the skin and all over the outside.
   
   
3. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with lemon, onion, and a few sprigs of herbs.
   
   
4. Place carrots and celery in a roasting pan to create a bed for the turkey. Set the turkey on top and pour chicken broth into the pan.
   
   
5. Roast uncovered, basting occasionally with pan juices, until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (about 3–3.5 hours for a 12–14 lb turkey).
   
   
6. Let rest for 20–30 minutes before carving.
   
   

Pro Tip: For extra crispy skin, roast uncovered for the last 30 minutes.

Perfect Pairings

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy, buttery, and perfect with turkey gravy.
  
• Classic Stuffing – Bread, celery, onions, and herbs with a savory twist.
  
• Cranberry Sauce – Sweet, tangy, and refreshing alongside rich turkey.
  

Don’t Forget This Tool

Make Thanksgiving easier with our vast selection of Roasting Pans. A heavy-duty roasting pan ensures even cooking, while a sharp carving set helps you serve picture-perfect slices at the table. These tools are essentials for any holiday host.