Herb Butter Turkey is a succulent and flavorful way to prepare a show-stopping centerpiece for any holiday feast or special gathering. The key to this recipe is the rich herb-infused butter, which is rubbed generously under the skin and on the outside of the turkey, ensuring each bite is moist, juicy, and packed with flavor. With fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley, along with garlic and lemon, this turkey roasts to golden perfection with crispy skin and tender meat. It’s the perfect recipe to impress your guests with minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
- 12-14 lb whole turkey, thawed and patted dry
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 onion, quartered
- 1 lemon, quartered
- 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary and thyme (for inside the cavity)
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place a rack in a large roasting pan.
- Make the herb butter: In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the turkey: Gently loosen the skin from the turkey breast by sliding your fingers under the skin. Rub half of the herb butter mixture under the skin, spreading it evenly across the breast meat. Rub the remaining herb butter all over the outside of the turkey.
- Stuff the cavity: Place the onion, lemon quarters, and sprigs of rosemary and thyme inside the cavity of the turkey for added flavor.
- Roast the turkey: Place the turkey on the roasting rack and pour the chicken broth or water into the bottom of the pan. Roast the turkey uncovered in the preheated oven for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature in the thickest part of the breast reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste the turkey every 45 minutes with the pan juices for extra moisture and flavor.
- Rest and carve: Once the turkey is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
This Herb Butter Turkey is beautifully golden, infused with fresh herbs and garlic, and delivers juicy, tender meat that will be the star of your holiday table!
