Herb butter turkey recipe

The Herb Butter Turkey Recipe is a classic holiday dish that combines the rich flavors of butter, garlic, and fresh herbs with the tender and juicy texture of a perfectly roasted turkey. This recipe is a staple of many Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations, offering a deliciously moist and flavorful main course that is sure to impress your guests. The herb butter not only adds a savory aroma to the turkey but also ensures that the meat stays juicy and tender throughout the cooking process. This traditional recipe has been passed down through generations, and its simplicity and elegance make it a perfect addition to any holiday meal.

Ingredients:

• For the Herb Butter:
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 tablespoons garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)
• For the Turkey:
  • 1 (12-20 pound) whole turkey
  • 1 large onion, quartered
  • 1 lemon, quartered
  • 6 sprigs of fresh rosemary
  • 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
  • 3 sprigs of fresh sage
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Prepare the Herb Butter: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. If using lemon zest, add it to the mixture and stir again.
3. Prepare the Turkey: Remove the giblets from the turkey cavity and pat the turkey dry with a clean paper towel.
4. Stuff the Cavity: Place the quartered onion and lemon inside the turkey cavity. Add the sprigs of rosemary, thyme, and sage.
5. Rub the Herb Butter: Gently separate the skin from the breast muscle and rub about ⅓ of the herb butter mixture under the skin. Spread the remaining butter mixture evenly over the outside of the turkey, making sure to get the drumsticks and wings.
6. Season the Turkey: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the turkey, both inside and out.
7. Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey in a large roasting pan with the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. If using a roasting rack, place the turkey on it. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
8. Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature. The breast meat should be at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit, and the thickest part of the thigh should be between 170 and 175 degrees Fahrenheit.
9. Let it Rest: Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving.

Top Tips:

1. Pat Dry the Turkey: Patting the turkey dry with a paper towel before roasting helps the skin crisp up nicely.
2. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage add a lot of flavor to the turkey. Make sure to use them fresh for the best results.
3. Don’t Overbutter: While butter is essential for flavor and moisture, too much butter can make the turkey greasy. Use about ⅓ of the herb butter under the skin and the rest on the outside.
4. Check the Temperature: A meat thermometer is crucial for ensuring the turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
5. Let it Rest: Letting the turkey rest before carving allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and juicy.
6. Use a Roasting Rack: If you have a roasting rack, use it to elevate the turkey and promote even browning.

Variations:

1. Garlic Herb Butter: Add more garlic to the herb butter mixture for an extra savory flavor.
2. Herb-Infused Oil: Mix some olive oil with the herb butter for a richer flavor.
3. Citrus Twist: Add some lemon juice or orange zest to the herb butter for a citrusy twist.
4. Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes to the herb butter for a spicy kick.
5. Herb-Butter Glaze: Brush the turkey with the herb butter mixture during the last 30 minutes of roasting for a golden glaze.

Nutritional Guide:

Additional Nutritional Notes:
This recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it a great option for those looking for a balanced meal. The herbs and spices used in the recipe add minimal calories but a lot of flavor. The turkey itself is a lean protein source, and the herb butter adds healthy fats that help keep the meat moist and flavorful. Always remember to use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt in the dish, especially if you are watching your sodium intake.