Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This turkey is elevated by the garlic herb butter, which locks in moisture and adds incredible depth of flavor. It’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients, and the result is a beautifully roasted bird that’s tender inside and perfectly crisp outside—guaranteed to impress your Thanksgiving guests.

Ingredients

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds), thawed
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 large onion, quartered
1 lemon, halved
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (for basting and roasting pan)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
Position a rack in a roasting pan.
Prepare Herb Butter:
In a bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Prepare Turkey:
Remove giblets and pat turkey dry with paper towels.
Gently loosen skin from turkey breast and legs using your fingers.
Spread half of the herb butter under the skin, directly on the meat.
Rub the remaining butter all over the outside of the turkey.
Stuff Turkey:
Stuff the cavity with quartered onion and lemon halves.
Roast:
Place turkey breast-side up on the rack in the roasting pan.
Pour chicken broth into the pan.
Roast the turkey, basting every 30 minutes with pan juices, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C), about 3 to 3 1/2 hours.
Rest:
Remove turkey from oven and tent loosely with foil.
Let rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12-14
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 3–3.5 hours
Rest time: 20-30 minutes
Total time: About 4 hours

Variations

Spiced Butter: Add smoked paprika or cayenne for a kick.
Citrus Herb: Mix in orange zest and fresh thyme for a citrus twist.
Brine: Brine turkey overnight for extra moisture.
Butter Alternatives: Use compound butter with shallots or lemon juice.
Herb Mix: Substitute with dried herbs if fresh aren’t available.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover turkey in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven covered with foil to maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I prepare the herb butter ahead?

Yes, make herb butter up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate.

How do I keep the turkey moist?

Basting regularly and using herb butter under the skin helps keep the meat juicy.

Do I need to truss the turkey?

It’s optional but helps the bird cook evenly.

How do I check if the turkey is done?

Use an instant-read thermometer; thigh temperature should reach 165°F.

Can I use this recipe for a smaller turkey?

Yes, adjust cooking time accordingly.

Should I cover the turkey while roasting?

Start uncovered for crispy skin; tent with foil if browning too fast.

How long should the turkey rest before carving?

At least 20 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.

Can I use salted butter?

Reduce added salt if using salted butter.

What sides go well with this turkey?

Mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and roasted vegetables.

Can I freeze leftover turkey?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Garlic Herb Butter Thanksgiving Turkey is a flavorful and moist centerpiece that’s easy to prepare yet impressively delicious. Infused with fresh herbs and garlic, this turkey promises juicy meat and golden, crispy skin—perfect for a memorable holiday meal.