16 lb turkey recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best 16 lb turkey recipe

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Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter

4.6 from 593 votes

A classic roasted 16 lb turkey recipe with herb butter, perfect for holiday gatherings. This recipe ensures a juicy, flavorful turkey with crispy skin.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time4 hours 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time5 hours
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 500 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Turkey

16 lb turkey
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1 tbsp garlic, minced
1 tbsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 large onion, quartered
1 lemon, quartered
1 head garlic, cut in half

For the Gravy

6 tbsp unsalted butter
6 tbsp all-purpose flour
4 cups turkey drippings
salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 325°F 163°C.
2Pat the turkey dry with paper towels, inside and out.
3This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
4In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5Rub the herb butter mixture all over the turkey, including under the skin.
6Place the onion, lemon, and garlic in the turkey cavity.
7Place the turkey, breast side up, on a rack in a roasting pan.
8Roast in the preheated oven for 3 hours.
9Every 45 minutes, baste the turkey with the pan drippings using a basting brush.
10This will help keep the turkey moist and flavorful.
11After 3 hours, increase the oven temperature to 425°F 220°C.
12Continue roasting until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F 74°C.
13Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the thigh and the breast.
14The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
15This will take approximately 30 to 60 minutes.
16Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes before carving.
17This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the turkey, ensuring it stays moist.
18Remove the turkey from the oven and place it on a large platter or cutting board.
19Cover it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest.
20While the turkey is resting, prepare the gravy.
21In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
22Add the flour and whisk to form a roux.
23Cook for 2-3 minutes, whisking constantly, until the mixture turns a light brown color.
24Gradually add the turkey drippings, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
25Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the gravy thickens.
26Season with salt and pepper to taste.
27Strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve if desired, to remove any lumps or solids.

🔧Equipment

Roasting pan
Meat thermometer
Basting brush
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 500 kcal🧈Total Fat: 35g💛Saturated Fat: 15g❤️Cholesterol: 180mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 2g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0.5g🍬Sugars: 0.5g🥩Protein: 45g

📝Notes

Tips: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature. For extra crispy skin, tent the turkey with aluminum foil during the initial roasting period and remove it for the last 30 minutes of cooking. Let the turkey rest before carving to retain its juices.

This 16 lb turkey recipe is always a great idea for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday celebrations. It is a versatile and delicious dish that can feed a crowd and provide plenty of leftovers for future meals. The best part about this recipe is that it is easy to follow and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy home cooks.

I am so happy to share this recipe with all of you. I know it will become a favorite in your home as well. It is a great way to feed a crowd and ensure that everyone is happy and satisfied.

I love serving this turkey with a variety of sides, and I know you will too. The leftovers are also fantastic, and you can use them to make delicious sandwiches, soups, and salads. This recipe is a classic for a reason, and it’s sure to become a staple in your home.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to me. I am always here to help. Happy cooking.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter

  1. Absolutely!  We guarantee an unbeatable result every single time!

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