Holiday Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter Recipe

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Nothing says holiday celebration like a perfectly roasted turkey.

This Holiday Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter Recipe ensures a juicy, flavorful bird with golden, crispy skin that will wow your family and guests.

Infused with fresh herbs and butter, it’s a classic centerpiece for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any festive occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Juicy, tender meat thanks to herb butter under the skin

  • Crispy, golden skin that looks as good as it tastes

  • Simple preparation with pantry-friendly ingredients

  • Perfect for holiday feasts with traditional sides

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Turkey

  • 12–14 lb whole turkey, thawed if frozen

  • Salt and black pepper

  • 1 onion, quartered

  • 1 lemon, halved

  • 4–5 garlic cloves, smashed

  • 4–5 sprigs of fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage

For the Herb Butter

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

  • 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped

  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tsp lemon zest

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make Holiday Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter

1. Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Remove the turkey giblets and pat the bird dry with paper towels.
Season the cavity generously with salt and pepper. Stuff with onion, lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs.

2. Make the Herb Butter

In a small bowl, combine softened butter, chopped herbs, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Mix until smooth and well incorporated.

3. Apply the Herb Butter

Gently loosen the skin over the turkey breast with your fingers.
Spread half of the herb butter under the skin directly onto the meat.
Rub the remaining herb butter over the outside of the turkey for maximum flavor and golden color.

4. Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan.
Tent loosely with foil and roast for 2 ½ to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.

Tip: Remove foil for the last 30–45 minutes to let the skin crisp up and turn golden brown.

5. Rest Before Carving

Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20–30 minutes.
This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.

Tips for a Perfect Holiday Turkey

  • Brine the turkey overnight for extra juiciness.

  • Use a roasting rack to ensure even cooking and crispy skin.

  • Baste occasionally with pan juices for added flavor.

  • Add vegetables like carrots and celery to the roasting pan for a natural gravy base.

Serving Suggestions

This turkey pairs beautifully with:

  • Mashed potatoes and gravy

  • Cranberry sauce

  • Roasted vegetables

  • Stuffing or dressing

  • Fresh dinner rolls

Storing & Reheating

  • Refrigerate leftovers for 3–4 days

  • Freeze carved turkey for 2–3 months in airtight containers

  • Reheat gently in the oven or stovetop to maintain moisture

This Holiday Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter Recipe combines simplicity and elegance.

The herb butter infuses the meat with flavor, while the golden, crispy skin makes a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table.

With just a few easy steps, you can create a turkey that tastes like it came from a professional chef’s kitchen—perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion.

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