Name: Roasted Herb-Infused Turkey Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12-14 lb turkey (thawed); ½ bunch fresh parsley; 1 package fresh poultry herb blend (or fresh rosemary, thyme, oregano); 1 yellow onion (chopped); 8 garlic cloves (mashed); ¼ cup olive oil (or vegetable oil); 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp ground black pepper

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Introduction

Roasted turkey is a classic centerpiece for festive meals and family gatherings. This recipe yields a juicy, flavorful bird with crispy skin, seasoned simply with fresh herbs and garlic. Perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without fuss.

A whole roasted turkey with golden brown, crispy skin speckled with black pepper sits centered on a white plate with blue floral patterns, garnished with sprigs of fresh green herbs peeking out from underneath. The turkey's wings and legs are neatly tucked, showing a juicy and well-cooked texture. The background is a white marbled surface, adding a clean and bright contrast to the rich colors of the turkey. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12-14 lb turkey (thawed)
½ bunch fresh parsley
1 package fresh poultry herb blend (or fresh rosemary, thyme, oregano)
1 yellow onion, chopped
8 garlic cloves, mashed
¼ cup olive oil (or vegetable oil)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp ground black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Step 2: Remove the giblets and neck from inside the turkey. Drain any juices and pat the skin dry with paper towels. Place the turkey breast side up in a roasting pan.
Step 3: Brush the olive oil all over the turkey’s skin. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Stuff the turkey cavity with chopped onion, mashed garlic cloves, parsley, and the fresh herb blend.
Step 5: Fold the wings underneath the turkey and tie the legs together with kitchen twine.
Step 6: Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F. Roast the turkey, checking periodically, until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F. If the skin browns too quickly, cover the turkey loosely with foil.
Step 7: Once cooked, let the turkey rest for 15-30 minutes before carving. Serve and enjoy! Save the leftover carcass for homemade turkey broth.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispy skin, pat the turkey very dry before oiling and seasoning.
Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the roasting pan for added moisture and flavor.
Use fresh herbs like sage or tarragon in place of or alongside poultry herb blend for a different flavor profile.
If you prefer, brine the turkey overnight for juicier meat.

Storage

Store leftover roasted turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover slices with foil and warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Leftover turkey can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

How to Serve

A whole roasted chicken with a crispy, golden-brown skin speckled with black pepper sits in a shiny silver roasting pan. The chicken is centered with its wings folded close to the body and some herbs and garlic pieces visible inside the cavity. The roasting pan rests on a white marbled surface, with a checked cloth partially under it and fresh green herbs, including rosemary and sage, scattered alongside. The lighting highlights the juicy texture and rich color of the chicken's skin. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

How long does it take to roast a 12-14 lb turkey?

Generally, roasting at 325°F takes about 15 minutes per pound, so plan for approximately 3 to 3.5 hours. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness rather than relying solely on time.

Can I prepare the turkey the night before?

Yes, you can season and stuff the turkey the night before and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature about 30 minutes before roasting for even cooking.