18 lb turkey recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best 18 lb turkey recipe

I’m so excited to share this 18 lb turkey recipe with you all! I’ve been making it for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. My family loves it when I serve this at our annual Thanksgiving dinner.

The aroma of the turkey roasting in the oven is just heavenly, and the flavors are so rich and savory. I’ve tried many different recipes over the years, but this one remains my go-to. It’s perfect for special occasions or just a regular Tuesday dinner.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, even for a novice cook like me. Just baste that bird with some melted butter and let the oven do its magic. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

My kids ask for this every year, and I’m happy to oblige. It’s just one of those comfort foods that never gets old. I’ve even served it at potlucks and everyone raves about it.

The health benefits are amazing too – all that protein and fiber from the turkey will keep you full and satisfied all day long. Plus, with all the veggies on the side, you can feel good about what you’re feeding your family. And let’s not forget the leftovers – oh boy, are they ever delicious!

You can make sandwiches, soups, or even freeze them for later. So don’t be afraid to give this recipe a try – your taste buds (and your belly) will thank you!

Herb Roasted 18 lb Turkey

4.8 from 1161 votes

A classic herb-roasted turkey recipe perfect for holidays, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its juicy and flavorful meat. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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

🥘Ingredients

For the Turkey

18 lb turkey
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika

For the Stuffing

1 loaf bread
1 onion
1 cup celery
1 cup mushrooms
1 cup chicken broth
1 tsp sage
1 tsp thyme

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 325°F.
2Remove giblets and neck from turkey cavity.
3Rinse turkey inside and out under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
4In a small bowl, mix olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder and paprika.
5Rub the mixture evenly over the entire turkey, including under the skin.
6Place turkey breast side up in a roasting pan.
7For the stuffing, cut bread into cubes and spread on a baking sheet.
8Bake at 300°F for 10 minutes until lightly toasted.
9In a large bowl, combine toasted bread, diced onion, celery and mushrooms.
10Pour chicken broth over the mixture and add sage and thyme.
11Mix well and stuff the turkey loosely with the stuffing mixture.
12Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for 3 hours.
13After 3 hours, baste the turkey with pan juices using a basting brush.
14Increase the oven temperature to 350°F and roast for an additional 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
15The juices should run clear when the thigh is cut and the skin should be golden brown.
16Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes before carving.
17This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy and flavorful turkey.
18Carve the turkey and serve with your favorite side dishes.

🔧Equipment

Roasting pan
Basting brush
Meat thermometer
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 500 kcal🧈Total Fat: 25g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 145mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 10g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 55g

📝Notes

Tips: For extra crispy skin, tent the turkey with foil during the first 2 hours of roasting, then remove the foil for the remaining cooking time. Brining the turkey overnight can also enhance its flavor and juiciness.

This 18 lb turkey recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and for good reason – it’s absolutely delicious! Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or just a regular weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

The best part is how easy it is to make – just baste that bird with some melted butter and let the oven do its magic. And don’t forget about all those leftovers – oh boy, are they ever versatile!

You can make sandwiches, soups, or even freeze them for later.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Herb Roasted 18 lb Turkey

Q: How long does it take to cook an 18 lb turkey?

It typically takes around 4-5 hours to cook an 18 lb turkey, depending on your oven and the temperature.

Q: What is the best way to store leftover turkey?

You can store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I use a meat thermometer to ensure food safety?

Yes, using a meat thermometer is always recommended when cooking large poultry items like turkeys.

Q: Are there any specific spices or herbs that pair well with this recipe?

Sage and thyme are classic pairings that complement the flavors of the turkey beautifully.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

No, this recipe requires a traditional oven due to its size and cooking time.

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