The Ultimate Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe: Moist and Flavorful

TLDRLearn how to make the perfect Thanksgiving turkey that is moist and flavorful. Follow the steps to brine the turkey, apply a butter herb rub, and season it with salt, pepper, and herbs. Roast the turkey for 3 to 3.5 hours and enjoy a delicious holiday feast.

Key insights

🦃Brining the turkey helps to keep it moist and flavorful.

🧈Applying a butter herb rub under the turkey skin enhances the flavor and helps to keep the meat moist.

🧂Seasoning the turkey with salt, pepper, and herbs adds depth of flavor to the meat.

🍽️Roasting the turkey for 3 to 3.5 hours at the appropriate temperature ensures it is cooked through and juicy.

🍗Enjoy a delicious, moist, and flavorful Thanksgiving turkey that will impress your guests.

Q&A

Why is brining the turkey important?

Brining helps to infuse the turkey with flavor and moisture, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful meat.

How long should I brine the turkey?

For an 18 to 20 lb turkey, brining for 24 hours is recommended. Adjust the brining time based on the size of your turkey.

Can I use other herbs for the butter herb rub?

Yes, you can use any herbs you prefer or have on hand. Some popular options include rosemary, thyme, sage, and parsley.

What temperature should I roast the turkey at?

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and roast the turkey until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This usually takes 3 to 3.5 hours for an 18 to 20 lb turkey.

How do I know if the turkey is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. It should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh and breast.

Timestamped Summary

01:01Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and it's time to prepare the ultimate turkey recipe.

01:51Brining the turkey is essential to keep it moist and flavorful. Let it brine for 24 hours to ensure maximum flavor.

07:39Apply a butter herb rub under the turkey's skin to enhance the flavor and keep the meat juicy.

13:50Season the turkey with salt, pepper, and herbs to add depth of flavor before roasting it in the oven.

15:36Roast the turkey at 325°F (165°C) for 3 to 3.5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).