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A close-up shot of a crispy Thanksgiving turkey, golden-brown skin, glistening with butter and herbs.

Crispy Thanksgiving Turkey

A classic centerpiece for your Thanksgiving feast, this crispy roasted turkey is flavorful, juicy, and beautifully golden.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 12 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • as needed fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary) for stuffing
  • 1 piece onion, quartered
  • 2 pieces carrots, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
  2. Remove giblets, dry turkey, and mix butter, oil, salt, pepper, garlic, onion, thyme, rosemary, paprika.
  3. Loosen skin, rub half of butter mixture under skin, remaining over outside. Stuff cavity with herbs, onion, carrots, celery.
  4. Place on rack, pour broth, roast 30 min at 450°F, then reduce to 325°F and roast 2-2.5 hrs until 165°F internal.
  5. Baste every 30 min, rest 20 min before carving.

Notes

Ensure the turkey reaches the proper internal temperature for safety and juiciness.