Easy Thanksgiving turkey cooked to perfection and beautifully presented.

Why Make This Recipe

Thanksgiving is a special time for family and friends to gather around the table. The centerpiece of this feast is often the turkey. Making an Easy Thanksgiving Turkey allows you to enjoy a delicious meal without too much fuss. This recipe is simple and doesn’t require fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. You can impress your guests and create lasting memories with a beautiful, flavorful turkey.

How to Make Easy Thanksgiving Turkey

Ingredients:

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
Salt and pepper
Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage)
Garlic cloves, minced
Onion, quartered
Carrots, chopped
Celery, chopped

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Remove the turkey giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
Rub the turkey all over with olive oil or melted butter, and season generously with salt and pepper.
Stuff the cavity with fresh herbs, garlic, onion, carrots, and celery.
Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
Roast the turkey for about 13-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. Serve and enjoy your flavorful turkey!

How to Serve Easy Thanksgiving Turkey

Once your turkey is roasted and rested, it’s time to serve! Carve the turkey and place the slices on a beautiful platter. You can also serve it with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and green beans. Don’t forget the gravy!

How to Store Easy Thanksgiving Turkey

If you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator. Make sure the turkey is cooled down before you put it in an airtight container. It should be eaten within 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze leftover turkey for longer storage. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer.

Tips to Make Easy Thanksgiving Turkey

Let the turkey sit at room temperature for about an hour before roasting. This helps it cook evenly.
Basting the turkey with its own juices every hour can help keep it moist, but it’s optional.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and ensure it’s cooked perfectly.

Variation

You can add different flavors by using different herbs or spices. Try adding lemon slices inside the cavity for a citrus flavor. You can also try stuffing the turkey with different vegetables or fruits like apples or cranberries.

FAQs

Can I make the turkey the day before Thanksgiving?
Yes, you can roast the turkey a day ahead and then reheat it. Make sure it’s covered and kept in the fridge.

What should I do if my turkey is still frozen?
Make sure to thaw it in the fridge for several days before cooking, or you can use the cold water method. This usually takes about 30 minutes per pound.

How can I tell if the turkey is done?
Use a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the breast. When it reaches 165°F (75°C), it’s done!