roast turkey and gravy recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
roast turkey and gravy recipe
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The Best roast turkey and gravy recipe

I’ve been making this roast turkey and gravy recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish is simple yet flavorful, and it’s perfect for special occasions or just a weeknight dinner.

I love how the turkey comes out moist and tender, with a beautiful golden-brown skin. The gravy is rich and savory, made with the pan drippings from the roasted turkey.

My kids always ask for seconds, and I’m happy to oblige. This recipe is a staple in our household, and I’m excited to share it with you.

Roasting a turkey is an art form that requires some finesse, but don’t worry if you’re new to it – this recipe will walk you through every step of the way. With this recipe, you’ll learn how to achieve that perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy meat.

Plus, the health benefits of eating turkey are well-documented – it’s a lean protein source that’s packed with nutrients. My family loves this dish so much that we even make it for our weekly family gatherings.

It’s easy to scale up or down depending on the number of guests you’re hosting, and the leftovers are always delicious. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just feeding your immediate family, this roast turkey and gravy recipe is sure to impress.

Classic Roast Turkey and Gravy

Classic Roast Turkey and Gravy

4.8 from 1068 votes

This recipe features a juicy roast turkey with a rich, flavorful gravy. Perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time3 hours 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 10 mins
Servings: 10Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 500 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (about 12 lbs)
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 onion, quartered
1 head garlic, halved
1 lemon, halved
1 bunch fresh thyme
1 bunch fresh rosemary
salt and pepper to taste

For the Gravy

4 cups turkey drippings
4 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 325°F.
2Remove giblets and neck from turkey.
3Rinse turkey inside and out with cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
4Place turkey breast-side up in a roasting pan.
5Rub softened butter all over the turkey, including under the skin.
6Place onion, garlic, lemon, thyme, and rosemary inside the turkey cavity.
7Season turkey generously with salt and pepper inside and out.
8Roast turkey in preheated oven for 30 minutes.
9Then reduce oven temperature to 300°F and continue roasting.
10Baste turkey every 30 minutes with pan drippings.
11Cook until the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
12Place a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone.
13This usually takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes for a 12-pound turkey.
14Remove turkey from the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes before carving.
15This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the turkey.
16While the turkey is resting, prepare the gravy.
17Place roasting pan over medium heat on the stove.
18Skim fat from the drippings, leaving about 4 cups.
19Stir in flour to make a paste.
20Gradually add chicken broth, stirring constantly.
21Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until thickened.
22Season with salt and pepper to taste.
23Carve the turkey and serve with gravy.
24Enjoy your perfectly roasted turkey with rich, flavorful gravy.

🔧Equipment

Roasting pan
Meat thermometer
Basting brush
Whisk
Saucepan

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 500 kcal🧈Total Fat: 35g💛Saturated Fat: 15g❤️Cholesterol: 185mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 5g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 45g

📝Notes

Tips: For extra crispy skin, increase the oven temperature to 425°F for the first 30 minutes of roasting. You can also brush the turkey with a mixture of butter and honey for added flavor.

This roast turkey and gravy recipe is a perfect addition to any meal – whether you’re serving it as a main course or using it as a side dish. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to reheat – simply place the leftovers in the oven until warmed through. You can also use leftover gravy as a dipping sauce or serve it over mashed potatoes or rice.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Roast Turkey and Gravy

Q: What type of turkey should I use for this recipe?

This recipe works well with either fresh or frozen turkey, but keep in mind that frozen turkeys may take longer to thaw than fresh ones.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the turkey and gravy ahead of time – simply refrigerate them until the big day.

Q: How do I ensure that my turkey stays moist?

Tenting the turkey with foil during roasting will help lock in moisture.

Q: Can I substitute other types of meat for the turkey?

While this recipe was designed specifically for turkey, you can experiment with other poultry meats like chicken or duck if you prefer.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover turkey and gravy in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days.

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