Name: Herb Roast Turkey Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 3 h 45 min
Total time: 4 h 50 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 14 lbs Turkey; ¼ cup olive oil; ½ cup Herbs; 1 recipe stuffing; onions and fresh herbs; 4 cups broth

There's nothing quite like a perfectly roasted turkey to crown your holiday feast. This herb-infused roast turkey recipe ensures a succulent, flavorful bird with crisp skin and moist, tender meat. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special gathering, this dish will surely impress your guests and become a tradition in your household.

Photos of Herb Roast Turkey Recipe

While many of the ingredients for this herb roast turkey recipe are pantry staples, you might need to double-check your stock of fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and sage. These aromatic herbs are essential to infuse the turkey with their distinctive flavors. If you plan to stuff the turkey, ensure you have a quality stuffing mixture ready. Lastly, make sure you have enough broth on hand to keep the roasting environment moist and to prepare a delicious gravy.

Ingredients For Herb Roast Turkey

Turkey: The centerpiece of the dish, a large bird perfect for roasting.

Olive oil: Used to coat the turkey and help crisp up the skin.

Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, and sage add deep, earthy flavors to the turkey.

Stuffing: Optional; adds additional flavor when cooked inside the turkey.

Onions: Adds aromatics and flavor, both inside the cavity and in the roasting pan.

Broth: Keeps the turkey moist and is used to make gravy from the drippings.

One reader, Karylin Busch says:

The herb roast turkey recipe was a hit at our family dinner! The flavors were perfectly balanced, and the turkey came out juicy and tender. The fresh herbs added a wonderful aroma. This will definitely be our go-to turkey recipe for future gatherings!

Karylin Busch

Key Techniques for a Flavorful and Juicy Roast Turkey

How to remove giblets and neck: Reach into the turkey cavity and pull out the giblets and neck, which are usually in a small bag. How to pat turkey dry: Use paper towels to gently press and absorb moisture from the turkey's skin. How to rub olive oil and herbs: Use your hands to evenly spread olive oil and chopped herbs over the turkey's surface. How to tie legs together: Use kitchen string to bind the turkey's legs together, or tuck them under the flap of skin at the tail. How to twist wing tips: Tuck the tips of the wings under the turkey to prevent them from burning. How to tent with foil: Loosely cover the turkey breast with a piece of aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. How to rest turkey: Let the cooked turkey sit covered with foil for at least 20 minutes before carving. How to make gravy from drippings: Use the drippings from the roasting pan to prepare gravy while the turkey rests.

How To Make Herb Roast Turkey

The spicy and minty with a few earthy flavors from rosemary, thyme, and parsley make this herb roast turkey a savory and fragrant dish.

Preparation: 45 minutes

Cooking: 3 hours 45 minutes

Rest Time: 20 minutes

Total: 4 hours 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

14lbsturkey
¼cupolive oil
½cupherbs,parsley, rosemary, sage and/or thyme, chopped
1recipe stuffing,optional
onions and fresh herbs,optional
4cupsbroth,chicken or turkey

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Remove giblets and neck from turkey cavity and pat turkey dry with paper towels. If stuffing the turkey, wipe the inside of the cavity with paper towels.
Rub olive oil and chopped herbs over turkey and season generously with salt/pepper.
If stuffing turkey, fill with stuffing loosely (do not pack stuffing) or add ½ an onion and fresh herbs to the cavity.
Tie legs together with kitchen string or tuck under the flap of skin at the tail if your turkey has one. Twist the tips of the wings under the turkey.
Place turkey in a roasting pan on a rack, breast side up (optional, add celery, onion, carrot and the turkey neck to the bottom of the roasting pan). Add 4 cups broth to the bottom of the pan (or enough to fill the pan about 1″ deep).
Add turkey to the oven, reduce heat to 325°F and roast until turkey reaches 165°F *see below. Once the breast starts to brown, loosely tent a piece of foil over the breast so it doesn’t overcook.
Remove turkey from the roasting pan and tent with foil, rest at least 20 minutes. Make gravy from the drippings while the turkey rests.

Nutrition

Calories: 804.42kcal
Fat: 34.56g
Saturated Fat: 8.41g
Trans Fat: 0.33g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12.99g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.26g
Carbohydrates: 2.34g
Fiber: 0.90g
Sugar: 0.49g
Protein: 114.89g
Cholesterol: 381.02mg
Sodium: 609.18mg
Calcium: 103.66mg
Potassium: 1237.66mg
Iron: 7.20mg
Vitamin A: 121.74µg
Vitamin C: 9.24mg

Expert Advice for Achieving Crispy Turkey Skin

To ensure a moist and flavorful turkey, consider brining it for 12-24 hours before roasting. A simple brine can be made with water, salt, sugar, and aromatics like bay leaves, peppercorns, and garlic. This process helps the turkey retain moisture and enhances its natural flavors.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Herb Roast Turkey

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop onions and herbs the day before to save time on the big day.

Use pre-made broth: Opt for store-bought broth to cut down on preparation time.

Skip stuffing: Cook stuffing separately to reduce cooking time and ensure even cooking.

Preheat oven early: Make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F before you start preparing the turkey.

Simplify seasoning: Use a pre-mixed herb blend to quickly season the turkey.

Use a meat thermometer: This ensures the turkey is cooked perfectly without constant checking.

Substitute Ingredients For Herb Roast Turkey Recipe

14 lbs turkey - Substitute with chicken: If you have a smaller gathering, a large chicken can be a good substitute for turkey. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
¼ cup olive oil - Substitute with melted butter: Butter adds a rich flavor and helps in browning the skin beautifully.
½ cup herbs - Substitute with dried herbs: If fresh herbs are not available, dried herbs can be used. Use about one-third of the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.
1 recipe stuffing - Substitute with wild rice pilaf: For a gluten-free option, wild rice pilaf can be used as a stuffing alternative.
onions and fresh herbs - Substitute with shallots and dried herbs: Shallots provide a milder flavor than onions, and dried herbs can replace fresh ones if necessary.
4 cups broth - Substitute with vegetable stock: For a vegetarian option or a different flavor profile, vegetable stock can be used instead of broth.

Presentation Ideas for a Stunning Turkey Centerpiece

Select a pristine serving platter: Choose a large, elegant platter that can accommodate the turkey and its garnishes. A white or neutral-colored platter will make the colors of the herbs and stuffing pop.
Carve the turkey with precision: Slice the turkey into even, thin slices. Arrange the slices in a fan shape on the platter, starting from the center and working outwards. This not only looks appealing but also makes it easier for guests to serve themselves.
Highlight the herbs: Garnish the platter with fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Place small sprigs around the turkey slices to add a burst of color and a hint of freshness.
Add visual interest with vegetables: Surround the turkey with roasted onions, carrots, and celery. These vegetables not only add flavor but also create a visually appealing border around the meat.
Incorporate the stuffing creatively: Instead of stuffing the turkey, serve the stuffing in small, individual portions using a ring mold. Place these portions around the turkey slices to add structure and elegance to the presentation.
Drizzle with a finishing touch: Lightly drizzle olive oil infused with herbs over the turkey slices. This adds a subtle sheen and enhances the flavor profile.
Serve with a side of gravy: Present the gravy in a beautiful gravy boat. Place it next to the platter so guests can add as much or as little as they like. Ensure the gravy is warm and smooth, free of lumps.
Create a harmonious color palette: Use garnishes like cranberries or pomegranate seeds to add pops of red, which contrast beautifully with the golden turkey and green herbs. This creates a visually stunning dish that appeals to the eyes as well as the palate.

Essential Tools for Roasting the Perfect Turkey

Oven: Used to roast the turkey at the specified temperatures to ensure even cooking.
Roasting pan: Holds the turkey during roasting and collects drippings for gravy.
Rack: Elevates the turkey in the roasting pan to allow heat to circulate and ensure even cooking.
Kitchen string: Ties the turkey legs together to maintain shape and ensure even cooking.
Foil: Used to tent the turkey breast to prevent over-browning and to cover the turkey while it rests.
Paper towels: Used to pat the turkey dry and wipe the cavity, ensuring a crispier skin.
Meat thermometer: Measures the internal temperature of the turkey to ensure it reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for preparing the turkey and chopping herbs.
Chef's knife: Used for chopping herbs and preparing onions and other vegetables.
Mixing bowl: Holds the chopped herbs and olive oil mixture for rubbing on the turkey.
Basting brush: Applies the olive oil and herb mixture evenly over the turkey.
Tongs: Helps to handle the turkey and place it in the roasting pan.
Measuring cups: Measures the olive oil and broth accurately.
Gravy separator: Separates fat from the drippings to make a smooth gravy.
Whisk: Used to mix the gravy ingredients together smoothly.
Saucepan: Heats the broth and drippings to make the gravy.
Carving knife: Slices the turkey for serving after it has rested.
Serving platter: Holds the carved turkey for presentation and serving.

Proper Storage and Freezing Methods for Roast Turkey

Let the roast turkey cool completely before storing or freezing. This usually takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the size of the bird.
Carve the cooled turkey into slices or pieces, separating the white meat and dark meat if desired.
Place the carved turkey in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. If using a container, make sure to press out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or wrapped package with the date and contents for easy identification later.
To store in the refrigerator, place the wrapped or sealed turkey in the coldest part of the fridge (usually the back). Properly stored, cooked turkey will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
To freeze, place the wrapped or sealed turkey in the freezer. Frozen turkey will maintain its best quality for up to 4 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
When ready to use frozen turkey, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Never thaw turkey at room temperature, as this can promote bacterial growth.
Reheat thawed or refrigerated turkey until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can reheat in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth or water to prevent drying out.

How To Reheat Leftover Turkey While Keeping It Moist

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the leftover turkey in a baking dish and add a splash of broth or water to the bottom of the pan. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the turkey is heated through.
For a crispy exterior, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of reheating. This method works well for reheating larger portions of turkey, such as half a roast turkey.
If you have smaller portions or slices of leftover turkey, you can reheat them in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the skillet and heat over medium heat. Add the turkey slices and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through.
For a quick and easy option, you can reheat leftover turkey in the microwave. Place the turkey in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of broth or water. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes per serving, or until the turkey is heated through.
If you have a lot of leftover turkey, consider making a turkey soup or turkey pot pie. These dishes are a great way to use up leftover turkey and give it new life in a different form.
When reheating leftover turkey, be sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. This is especially important if you are reheating a large portion of turkey that may not heat evenly.

Interesting Trivia About Roast Turkey Traditions

A fun fact about this herb roast turkey recipe is that using fresh herbs not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful aroma to the turkey. The combination of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage can make your holiday meal extra special.

Budget-Friendly Tips for Making Herb Roast Turkey

The herb roast turkey recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Given the main ingredient, a 14 lbs turkey, and the use of common pantry items like olive oil and broth, the overall cost remains reasonable. Fresh herbs and optional vegetables like onions and carrots add flavor without breaking the bank. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $30-$40 USD, making it an economical choice for a special meal. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Roast Turkey Recipe Healthy?

The herb roast turkey recipe is relatively healthy, as it uses olive oil, herbs, and broth to flavor the turkey, rather than relying on excessive amounts of butter or heavy cream. Turkey itself is a lean protein source, providing essential amino acids and nutrients like selenium and zinc. The recipe also includes vegetables like onions, celery, and carrots, which add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the dish. However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier.

To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Use a low-sodium or homemade broth to reduce the overall sodium content
Opt for a whole grain or gluten-free stuffing to increase fiber intake and accommodate dietary restrictions
Incorporate more vegetables into the stuffing or roasting pan, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or squash, to boost the nutrient density
Experiment with different herbs and spices, like rosemary, thyme, or smoked paprika, to add flavor without relying on salt
Remove the skin before serving to reduce the amount of saturated fat consumed
Pair the turkey with nutrient-rich side dishes, such as roasted sweet potatoes, sautéed greens, or a colorful salad, to create a well-rounded meal

Editor's Take: Why This Turkey Recipe Stands Out

This herb roast turkey recipe is a classic yet flavorful approach to preparing a holiday centerpiece. The use of olive oil and fresh herbs ensures a moist and aromatic bird. Including options for stuffing or aromatics in the cavity adds versatility. The method of tenting the breast with foil to prevent overcooking is a smart touch. However, I would suggest basting the turkey occasionally with the pan juices for added moisture and flavor. Overall, this recipe promises a delicious and well-seasoned turkey, perfect for any festive gathering.

Enhance Your Herb Roast Turkey Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine a velvety blend of potatoes and garlic, whipped to perfection and infused with a hint of butter and cream. This side-dish will complement the herb roast turkey with its rich and creamy texture, making every bite a comforting delight.

Cranberry Orange Relish: Brighten up your Thanksgiving table with a zesty cranberry and orange relish. The tartness of the cranberries combined with the citrusy notes of orange will add a refreshing contrast to the savory turkey, creating a burst of flavor in every mouthful.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Transform Brussels sprouts into a gourmet experience by roasting them with crispy bacon. The caramelized edges and smoky flavor of the bacon will enhance the earthy taste of the sprouts, making it a perfect match for the herb roast turkey.

Butternut Squash Soup: Start your meal with a warm and comforting bowl of butternut squash soup. The creamy texture and sweet, nutty flavor of the squash will set the stage for the main course, providing a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave your guests craving for more.

Pumpkin Pie: End your feast on a sweet note with a classic pumpkin pie. The spiced pumpkin filling and flaky crust will be the perfect finale to your herb roast turkey dinner, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and spice.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Enjoy Herb Roast Turkey

Garlic Butter Roast Chicken: Imagine a golden-brown chicken with crispy skin and juicy meat, infused with the rich flavors of garlic and butter. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

Cranberry Glazed Ham: A succulent ham glazed with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce. This recipe brings a festive touch to any meal, making it a great choice for holiday gatherings.

Stuffed Pork Loin: A tender pork loin filled with a savory stuffing of apples, herbs, and breadcrumbs. This dish is both elegant and comforting, perfect for impressing your guests.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection and drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. This side dish is a delightful complement to any main course.

Pumpkin Pie: A classic dessert featuring a creamy pumpkin filling spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This pie is a must-have for any fall or holiday meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Turkey

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start your meal. Imagine plump mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, and parmesan cheese. The filling is seasoned with fresh herbs and a touch of lemon zest for brightness. These bite-sized treats are baked until golden and bubbly, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Serve them warm to enjoy the earthy, cheesy goodness in every bite.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian starter that never fails to impress. Picture crispy slices of baguette toasted to perfection, then topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic. A drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of sea salt elevate this simple dish to new heights. The combination of crunchy bread and juicy, flavorful toppings makes it a refreshing and satisfying way to kick off your meal.

Desserts:

Pumpkin Pie: Imagine a Pumpkin Pie with a twist: a gingersnap crust that adds a spicy crunch to every bite. Top it off with a dollop of maple whipped cream and a sprinkle of candied pecans. The creamy pumpkin filling is infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of ginger, making it the perfect autumnal treat. Serve it warm with a side of vanilla bean ice cream for an extra touch of decadence.

Apple Crisp: Create a Apple Crisp that will leave your guests craving more. Start with tart Granny Smith apples, sliced thin and tossed with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice. The crumble topping is a delightful mix of rolled oats, butter, and toasted almonds. Bake until golden and bubbly, then serve with a generous scoop of cinnamon ice cream. For an added touch, drizzle with caramel sauce and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.

Why trust this Herb Roast Turkey Recipe:

This herb roast turkey recipe is a tried-and-true method for achieving a perfectly roasted bird. The combination of olive oil and fresh herbs ensures a flavorful and moist turkey, while the addition of broth keeps it juicy throughout the roasting process. By following these detailed instructions, you can confidently prepare a delicious centerpiece for your holiday meal.

Share your thoughts on this delicious Herb Roast Turkey Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How do I know when the turkey is done?

I use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey is done when it reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the breast and thigh.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use dried herbs if you don't have fresh ones. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third of the amount.

How often should I baste the turkey?

I usually baste the turkey every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful. Just be quick so you don't let too much heat escape from the oven.

What kind of stuffing should I use?

You can use any stuffing recipe you like. If you prefer not to stuff the turkey, you can add half an onion and some fresh herbs to the cavity for extra flavor.

Can I make the turkey ahead of time?

You can roast the turkey ahead of time and reheat it, but it's best served fresh. If you do make it ahead, carve the turkey and store it with some broth to keep it moist when reheating.