Description
A golden, herb-buttered bird that’s juicy on the inside and crisp on the outside — this Easy Thanksgiving Turkey is your no-fail solution for an unforgettable holiday meal. Made with simple ingredients like fresh herbs, garlic, lemon, and butter, it’s a stress-free, flavorful showstopper perfect for any holiday gathering. Ideal for both first-time hosts and seasoned cooks, this recipe fits right into your best easy dinner plans, holiday food ideas, and classic Thanksgiving dinner recipes.
Ingredients
12–14 lb whole turkey
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 sprigs fresh rosemary
3 sprigs fresh thyme
3 sprigs fresh sage
4 cloves garlic, smashed
1 yellow onion, quartered
1 lemon, cut into wedges
2 tsp salt
1 tsp ground black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
1 tsp poultry seasoning (optional)
Instructions
1. Remove the turkey from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Pat the turkey dry thoroughly, including inside the cavity.
2. Season the cavity with salt and pepper. Add lemon wedges, onion, garlic, and herb sprigs inside the cavity for flavor.
3. Mix softened butter with chopped herbs, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. Gently loosen the skin over the breasts and rub some herb butter underneath; spread the rest all over the skin.
4. Tuck the wings under and tie the legs with kitchen twine. Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan.
5. Roast about 15 minutes per pound (about 3 to 3.5 hours for 12–14 lb), basting every 45 minutes with pan drippings. If it browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
6. Start checking temperature around 2.5 hours. Insert a thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching bone. Turkey is done at 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest the turkey at least 30 minutes before carving so the juices redistribute and the meat stays moist.
Notes
Let the turkey sit at room temperature before roasting so it cooks evenly.
Resting isn’t optional — it keeps the turkey juicy instead of dry.
Use a meat thermometer (thigh to 165°F / 74°C) for perfect doneness and food safety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 oz
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: Easy Thanksgiving Turkey, holiday recipe, Thanksgiving dinner, roast turkey, simple turkey recipe