Thanksgiving is all about gathering loved ones around a beautifully set table, sharing gratitude, and enjoying a delicious, hearty meal. And at the heart of this celebration lies the star of the show: the perfect roast turkey. With its crispy skin, aromatic herbs, and juicy meat, this herb and apple-infused turkey will make your Thanksgiving feast truly unforgettable.
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (about 14-16 pounds / 6.5-7 kg)
- ¼ cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil or ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary and/or thyme
- 6 fresh sage leaves
Preparation
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 500°F (260°C), positioning the rack on the lowest level.
- Prepare the bird: Remove the neck and giblets from the cavity; reserve for gravy or stock. Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
- Apply fat and season: Generously rub the turkey with olive oil or softened butter, ensuring coverage under the skin if possible. Season evenly with salt and pepper. For added flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs over the skin.
- Stuff the cavity: Insert apple slices, the cinnamon stick, and fresh herbs inside the turkey’s cavity. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine to maintain shape during roasting.
- Initial roasting: Place the turkey on a roasting rack inside a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes at 500°F (260°C) to crisp the skin and lock in moisture.
- Lower temperature and continue roasting: Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (180°C), and continue roasting until a meat thermometer registers 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast. For a 14-16 pound turkey, this usually takes about 2 to 2.5 hours total. If the skin begins to brown too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
- Rest and carve: Remove the turkey from the oven, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 15-20 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Then, carve and serve with your favorite sides.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Thanksgiving Turkey
- Choose a high-quality bird: Opt for a fresh or well-frozen turkey with smooth skin. A high-quality turkey ensures tender, flavorful meat.
- Dry it well: Pat the turkey dry with paper towels before roasting—this step is key for that crispy, golden skin.
- Use a meat thermometer: The secret to juicy turkey is cooking it to the right temperature—165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
- Let it rest: Resting the turkey for 15-20 minutes after roasting allows the juices to settle, making carving easier and the meat more succulent.
Flavorful Variations to Make Your Thanksgiving Special
- Citrus twist: Swap out the apples for orange or lemon slices for a bright, zesty flavor.
- Marinate for extra depth: Marinate the turkey in white wine, garlic, and herbs overnight for an extra layer of richness.
- Add spice: Incorporate smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for a smoky or subtle spicy kick that complements the season.
How to Serve Your Thanksgiving Turkey
This turkey pairs beautifully with classic holiday sides—creamy mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, tangy cranberry sauce, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a fresh autumn salad. For an elegant presentation, carve it on a large platter garnished with sprigs of fresh herbs, and let the aromas fill your home.
Storing and Freezing Your Feast
| State | How to Store | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Store in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil | Up to 3-4 days |
| Freezer | Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or use freezer bags | Up to 3 months |
Freezing and Thawing Tips
- Freeze leftovers: Wrap the carved turkey tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then label and freeze for future delicious meals.
- Thaw properly: Thaw in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours, or submerge in cold water (changing every 30 minutes) for faster results.
Your Thanksgiving Preparation Timeline
| Step | Action | Approximate Time |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 500°F (260°C), with rack in the lowest position | 15 minutes |
| Prepare the bird | Clean, dry, season, and stuff | 15 minutes |
| Initial roasting | 30 minutes at 500°F (260°C) | 30 minutes |
| Roast at lower temperature | Reduce to 350°F (180°C) and cook until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C) | 2-2.5 hours |
| Rest and carve | Rest for 15-20 minutes, then carve and serve | 20 minutes |
This Thanksgiving, let your turkey be the centerpiece of warmth, gratitude, and delicious memories. With a little preparation and love, you’ll create a feast that your family and friends will talk about for years to come. Gather around, give thanks, and enjoy every bite of this flavorful, perfectly roasted turkey—because there’s nothing quite like celebrating with good food and great company!
