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Garlic Thanksgiving Turkey

Garlic Thanksgiving Turkey that Will Wow Your Guests

This Garlic Thanksgiving Turkey is a juicy, flavor-packed centerpiece perfect for your holiday gathering.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 5 hours
Servings: 8 people
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Turkey
  • 12 to 18 lb Turkey, fully thawed Choose a fresh turkey for the best flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Kosher Salt Essential for seasoning; substitute with sea salt if necessary.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Ground Black Pepper Adds a zesty kick; white pepper can be used as an alternative.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 Onion, quartered Adds sweetness and richness; shallots can be a milder substitute.
  • 1 Lemon, quartered Brightens the flavor; lime works wonderfully as a replacement.
  • 1 to 2 sprigs Fresh Rosemary Infuses an earthy aroma; dried rosemary can be effective if fresh isn’t available.
  • 1 to 2 sprigs Fresh Thyme Imparts a fragrant herbal note; oregano can be used in its place.
  • 1 to 2 sprigs Fresh Sage Offers that classic Thanksgiving flavor; fresh parsley can add a different twist.
For the Herb Butter
  • 3/4 cup Unsalted Butter, softened Enhances flavor and moisture; use olive oil for a dairy-free option.
  • 6 cloves Garlic, minced Provides robust flavor; roasted garlic can add a unique sweetness.
For the Roasting Bed
  • 1 Roasting Vegetables (additional onion, celery, carrots) Creates a flavorful base for the turkey.

Equipment

  • Roasting pan
  • Meat Thermometer
  • mixing bowl
  • Carving Knife

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by taking your fully thawed Garlic Thanksgiving Turkey out of the refrigerator and letting it sit at room temperature for about 1 hour. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Then, remove the giblets from the cavity and pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
  2. Generously season the cavity of the turkey with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper. Stuff the cavity with the quartered onion, lemon, and sprigs of rosemary, thyme, and sage.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, kosher salt, and fresh ground black pepper. Add the chopped rosemary and thyme, mixing thoroughly until smooth.
  4. Gently loosen the turkey skin from the breast and rub about one-third of your prepared herb butter onto the breast meat under the skin. Spread the remaining herb butter over the exterior of the turkey.
  5. In a large roasting pan, lay down additional quartered onions, celery, and carrots. Place the seasoned turkey breast side up on top of the vegetables.
  6. Transfer the turkey to your preheated oven and roast it for approximately 15 minutes per pound. Aim for an internal temperature of 158°F-160°F in the breast.
  7. When the turkey reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
  8. Finally, carve the turkey into portions and reserve the drippings for gravy. Serve with your favorite holiday sides.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalProtein: 50gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 500mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure your turkey is fully thawed for even cooking. Resting is crucial to retaining moisture.

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