juicy turkey thanksgiving recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best juicy turkey thanksgiving recipe

I’ve been making this juicy turkey recipe for Thanksgiving for years, and it’s become a staple in our household. My family loves it, and I love how easy it is to make.

The recipe originated from my grandmother, who learned it from her mother. It’s a traditional American dish with a rich history.

The key to making a juicy turkey is to brine it before roasting. I like to use a combination of salt, sugar, and herbs to create the brine.

This process helps to lock in the moisture and flavor of the turkey. I also like to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

The result is a tender, juicy bird that’s perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. My kids always ask for seconds, and my husband never complains about having leftovers.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a delicious and stress-free main course.

Juicy Turkey Thanksgiving Recipe

4.7 from 754 votes

This recipe ensures a juicy turkey with a crispy skin. It is perfect for a classic Thanksgiving meal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time3 hr 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time3 hr 50 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 tbsp salt
1 tbsp black pepper
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp thyme leaves
1 tsp rosemary leaves

For the Brine

1 gallon water
1 cup salt
1 cup brown sugar
1 orange, sliced
1 lemon, sliced
5 cloves garlic, smashed
1 bunch fresh thyme
1 bunch fresh rosemary

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large stockpot, combine water, salt, brown sugar, orange slices, lemon slices, smashed garlic, thyme, and rosemary.
2Bring to a boil over high heat.
3Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes to dissolve the salt and sugar.
4Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
5Add 1 gallon of cold water and let it cool to room temperature.
6Place the turkey in the brine, making sure it is fully submerged.
7Cover and refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight.
8Remove the turkey from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels.
9Let it sit at room temperature for 1 hour.
10Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
11Mix softened butter, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary in a small bowl.
12Rub the butter mixture evenly over the entire turkey, including under the skin.
13Place the turkey breast-side up in a roasting pan.
14Tuck the wing tips under the turkey.
15Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for 3 hours and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh.
16The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
17If the turkey starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
18Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes before carving.
19This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the turkey.
20In a small bowl, mix softened butter, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary.
21Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
22Remove the turkey from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels.
23Let it sit at room temperature for 1 hour.
24Rub the butter mixture evenly over the entire turkey, including under the skin.
25Place the turkey breast-side up in a roasting pan.
26Tuck the wing tips under the turkey.
27Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for 3 hours and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh.
28The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
29If the turkey starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
30Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes before carving.
31This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the turkey.

🔧Equipment

Large stockpot
Basting brush
Meat thermometer
Roasting pan
Aluminum foil

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: Brining the turkey helps to keep it juicy and flavorful. You can adjust the seasoning to your taste. For a crispier skin, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 30 minutes of cooking. Make sure to baste the turkey every 30 minutes during roasting to keep it moist and flavorful.

I highly recommend this juicy turkey recipe for any family gathering or holiday celebration. It is a classic dish that is sure to impress, and it is a great way to celebrate any occasion.

The combination of taste, texture, and health benefits makes this juicy turkey recipe a must-have for any family. This juicy turkey recipe is a classic dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

It is a great way to celebrate any occasion, whether it be Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a family gathering. Plus, the health benefits of turkey make it a great option for any meal.

Turkey is a great source of protein, and it is low in fat, making it a healthy option for any meal. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins, selenium, and zinc, which are essential for a healthy immune system.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Juicy Turkey Thanksgiving

Q: How do I know if my turkey is cooked through?

You can check if your turkey is cooked through by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast or thigh.

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