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Herb-Roasted Turkey with Lemon & Garlic Butter

Herb-Roasted Turkey with Lemon & Garlic Butter is the centerpiece your holiday table has been missing. This succulent turkey, bursting with flavors of fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic, is perfectly roasted to golden perfection. Ideal for family gatherings or festive occasions, it transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also creates unforgettable moments around the dinner table. Serve this dish and watch as your loved ones savor every bite—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 head fresh garlic, minced
  • 3 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 3 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
  • 3 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
  • Zest of 2 firm lemons
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 large onions, quartered
  • 4 large carrots, roughly chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove giblets from the turkey.
  2. In a bowl, combine butter, garlic, herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until mixed.
  3. Gently lift the turkey skin from the breast and spread half of the herb butter underneath; use the rest on top.
  4. Place onions and carrots in the roasting pan; set turkey on top. Pour chicken broth around the turkey.
  5. Roast for approximately 3 hours or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
  6. Baste every 30 minutes with pan juices for a golden-brown skin.
  7. Let rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.

Nutrition

Keywords: - Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor. - Customize with additional herbs or swap lemon for orange for a sweet twist. - Store leftovers in an airtight container; refrigerate for up to four days.