Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe – Juicy and Flavorful

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Thanksgiving is incomplete without a beautifully roasted turkey at the center of the table. This Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe ensures a juicy, flavorful bird that will be the highlight of your holiday feast. Follow this step-by-step guide to create the perfect turkey, complete with tips for brining, roasting, and carving.

Ingredients for Thanksgiving Turkey

To make the perfect Thanksgiving Turkey, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Brine:

  • 1 cup kosher salt
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 gallon water
  • 1 gallon ice water
  • 2 oranges, sliced
  • 2 lemons, sliced
  • 4 sprigs rosemary
  • 4 sprigs thyme
  • 4 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
  • 1 tablespoon whole cloves

For the Turkey:

  • 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds), thawed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large onion, quartered
  • 2 oranges, quartered
  • 2 lemons, quartered
  • 4 sprigs rosemary
  • 4 sprigs thyme
  • 4 sprigs sage
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

How to Make Thanksgiving Turkey

    1. Prepare the Brine
      • In a large pot, combine 1 gallon of water with the kosher salt and brown sugar. Heat until dissolved, then remove from heat.
      • Add the sliced oranges, lemons, rosemary, thyme, bay leaves, peppercorns, and cloves to the brine.
      • Pour in the gallon of ice water to cool the brine completely.
      • Place the turkey in a large brining bag or container and pour the cooled brine over the turkey. Refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
    2. Prep the Turkey for Roasting
      • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
      • Remove the turkey from the brine, rinse under cold water, and pat dry with paper towels.
      • Rub the softened butter all over the turkey, including under the skin.
      • Season the turkey with kosher salt and black pepper.
      • Stuff the cavity with the onion, oranges, lemons, rosemary, thyme, and sage.
    3. Roast the Turkey
      • Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan.
      • Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan.
      • Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil.
      • Roast the turkey for approximately 15 minutes per pound. For a 12-14 pound turkey, this will be about 3 to 4 hours.
      • Remove the foil during the last hour of cooking to allow the skin to brown.
    4. Check for Doneness
      • The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.
      • Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
    5. Carve and Serve
      • Carve the turkey and arrange the slices on a platter.
      • Serve with your favorite Thanksgiving sides and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Thanksgiving Turkey

  • Brine for Juiciness: Brining the turkey helps to keep it moist and flavorful. Don’t skip this step for the best results.
  • Butter for Crispy Skin: Rubbing butter under the skin helps to achieve a beautifully crispy and golden skin.
  • Rest Before Carving: Letting the turkey rest before carving allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and tender.

FAQ for Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe

  1. Can I use a frozen turkey?
    • Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before brining. This can take several days in the refrigerator.
  2. Do I have to brine the turkey?
    • While brining is highly recommended for a moist and flavorful turkey, you can skip this step if you’re short on time. Just be sure to season the turkey well.
  3. How do I store leftovers?
    • Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Turkey can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe

  • Full of Flavor: The brine infuses the turkey with a delightful mix of citrus and herbs.
  • Juicy and Tender: Brining and the use of butter ensure that the turkey stays juicy and tender.
  • Impressive Presentation: A beautifully roasted turkey is a stunning centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table.

Final Thoughts on Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe

This Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe is your key to a successful holiday feast. With its juicy, flavorful meat and crispy skin, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Follow this recipe and tips to create a turkey that will be remembered for years to come. Happy Thanksgiving!