The Easiest Roasted Turkey

The Easiest Roasted Turkey

This recipe is perfect for beginners or anyone who wants a delicious and hassle-free roasted turkey.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs), thawed
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 lemon, quartered
• 2-3 sprigs fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
• Olive oil
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper

Cooking Guide:

1. Prep the turkey:

   • Remove the giblets and neck from the cavity (usually tucked inside). Discard or save for gravy if desired.
   • Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. This helps ensure crispy skin.
   • Season the cavity generously with salt and pepper.

2. Flavor the bird:

   • Stuff the cavity with the quartered onion, lemon, and herbs. These add moisture and fragrance while the turkey roasts.

3. Truss or not to truss?

   • Trussing is optional. It helps the turkey cook evenly, but it’s not necessary for this easy recipe.
   • If you don’t want to truss, simply tuck the wings underneath the body and tie the legs together with kitchen twine for a neater presentation.

4. Roast time:

   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
   • Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
   • Drizzle the turkey with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper on the outside.
   • Roast for about 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is essential for checking doneness.

5. Rest and carve:

   • Once the turkey is cooked through, remove it from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist turkey.
   • Carve your turkey according to your preference and enjoy!

Tips:

• Thaw properly: For safe and even cooking, thaw your turkey in the refrigerator for 24 hours for every 4-5 lbs.
• Browning the skin: If you prefer crispier skin, you can increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 30 minutes of roasting. Be sure to monitor the turkey closely to prevent burning.
• Make gravy: After removing the turkey, use the pan drippings to make delicious gravy.
• Leftovers: Leftover roasted turkey is perfect for sandwiches, salads, or pot pie. Let the turkey cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

With this easy recipe and a few simple tips, you can roast a delicious and juicy turkey that will be the star of your next meal.