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Garlic Thanksgiving Turkey

Garlic Thanksgiving Turkey: Juicy, Flavorful, and Easy to Make

This Garlic Thanksgiving Turkey is a juicy centerpiece infused with aromatic garlic and herbs, promising unforgettable flavors for your holiday feast.
Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Turkey
  • 1 each Fresh or fully thawed frozen turkey (12 to 18 lbs)
  • 3 tbsp Kosher Salt Substitute with sea salt if needed
  • 2 tsp Black Pepper Freshly ground
For the Aromatics
  • 1 each Onion, quartered Can be swapped with shallots
  • 1 each Lemon, halved Swap for orange if desired
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Rosemary Dried can be used in a pinch
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Thyme Substitute with dried, using one-third of the fresh amount
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Sage Opt for poultry seasoning if fresh is unavailable
For the Butter Mix
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter, softened Consider using oil for a dairy-free alternative
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced Garlic powder can work as a substitute
For Roasting Vegetables
  • 2 each Celery, chopped Feel free to replace with your favorite root vegetables
  • 2 each Carrots, chopped

Equipment

  • Roasting pan
  • Meat thermometer
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Remove the turkey from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 1 hour. This helps to ensure even cooking. While the turkey warms up, remove the giblets from the cavity and pat the skin dry using paper towels for a crispy finish in the oven.
  2. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Ensure your oven rack is in the center position for optimal air circulation during roasting.
  3. Generously season the inside of the cavity with kosher salt and black pepper. Stuff it with quartered onion, lemon halves, and a combination of fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage.
  4. In a small bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, additional salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well until smooth and fragrant.
  5. Gently loosen the skin of the turkey and rub half of the prepared herb butter under the skin. Use the remaining butter to coat the exterior of the turkey.
  6. Place chopped celery, carrots, and any leftover onion in a large roasting pan. Position the prepared turkey on top of the vegetables.
  7. Roast your Garlic Thanksgiving Turkey in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes per pound. Check the internal temperature aiming for 158°-160°F.
  8. If the skin begins to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
  9. Once the turkey reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Allow it to rest for about 30 minutes before carving.
  10. Carve the turkey using a sharp knife, serving the succulent meat alongside your favorite sides. Reserve the pan juices for making gravy.

Nutrition

Serving: 4ouncesCalories: 300kcalProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 500mg

Notes

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat at 325°F (165°C).

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