There’s something truly magical about preparing an Oven Roasted Turkey, filling your kitchen with warm, savory aromas and gathering friends and family around the table for a feast. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, a holiday celebration, or a special Sunday dinner, this turkey recipe combines juicy tenderness with crispy, golden skin and an unforgettable medley of herbs and spices. It’s a showstopper dish that promises comfort and satisfaction in every bite, and it’s far easier to master than you might think!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Oven Roasted Turkey Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Oven Roasted Turkey lies in its straightforward ingredient list—every choice serves a purpose, coming together to create a mouthwatering centerpiece. From fresh herbs to lemons, each component adds a special touch to taste, moisture, and color.

Whole turkey (12-14 pounds): The star of our show—choose a bird that fits comfortably in your oven and roasting pan.
Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Essential for a crisp, golden skin and moist, flavorful meat.
Salt (2 teaspoons): Enhances every savory note and brings out the best in the turkey.
Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle warmth and depth to every bite.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Delivers a mild punch of garlicky goodness throughout.
Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses the meat with mellow, sweet undertones.
Paprika (1 teaspoon): Offers a gentle smokiness and helps develop that beautiful browned skin.
Fresh thyme (1 tablespoon, chopped): Brings lemony, earthy notes that complement turkey beautifully.
Fresh rosemary (1 tablespoon, chopped): Infuses the meat with its signature fragrant, piney flavor.
Fresh sage (1 tablespoon, chopped): Adds a classic, slightly peppery flavor that feels quintessentially festive.
Large onion (quartered): Perfumes the turkey from the inside out while it cooks.
Lemon (halved): Pops in a subtle citrus brightness that keeps things light and flavorful.
Garlic cloves (4, smashed): A few cloves in the cavity infuse the entire turkey with gentle garlic aroma.
Low-sodium chicken broth (2 cups): Ensures a moist roasting environment and collects as a delicious base for pan gravy.

How to Make Oven Roasted Turkey

Step 1: Prep the Turkey

First things first: preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Reach into the turkey’s cavity and remove any giblets or neck pieces (these can be reserved for stock, if you like!). Then, pat the turkey dry using plenty of paper towels—this will ensure that gorgeous, crispy skin. Set your turkey on the roasting rack while you get the seasoning ready.

Step 2: Make the Herb Butter Blend

In a small bowl, mix your softened butter with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, and sage. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to mash everything into a fragrant, creamy paste—this is the secret weapon for flavor and moisture in an Oven Roasted Turkey.

Step 3: Season Under and Over the Skin

Gently loosen the skin over the turkey’s breast using your fingers, being careful not to tear it. Slide half of your herb butter mixture underneath, spreading it as evenly as possible over the breast meat. Rub the remaining butter all over the outside of the turkey to coat every nook and cranny—this is your roadmap to delicious, golden skin.

Step 4: Stuff the Cavity

It’s time to bring in some aromatics! Fill the turkey’s cavity with the quartered onion, halved lemon, and smashed garlic cloves. This simple mixture will infuse deep, subtle flavors into your Oven Roasted Turkey as it cooks—no elaborate stuffing required.

Step 5: Arrange in the Pan and Add Broth

Carefully transfer the turkey, breast-side up, onto a roasting rack placed in a large roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan; this will help keep the turkey juicy and provide a flavorful foundation for pan drippings. Tuck the wings under to prevent burning if you like.

Step 6: Roast and Baste

Slide the turkey into the oven and let the magic happen! Roast for about 13-15 minutes per pound, occasionally basting it with pan juices for extra moisture and shine. If the skin starts to brown faster than you’d like, tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Continue roasting until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Let It Rest and Carve

Once your Oven Roasted Turkey has reached perfect doneness, take it out of the oven and rest it (uncovered or tented with foil) for at least 20 minutes. This critical step allows the juices to redistribute, so each slice stays deliciously moist. When ready, carve the turkey and get ready for oohs and aahs at the table!

How to Serve Oven Roasted Turkey

Garnishes

For a truly stunning presentation, garnish your Oven Roasted Turkey with extra sprigs of rosemary, thyme, or sage, along with lemon wedges or roasted garlic bulbs. Pomegranate seeds or sliced oranges add a pop of color, making your turkey as vibrant as it is delicious.

Side Dishes

No Oven Roasted Turkey is complete without the classic supporting cast! Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, herbed stuffing, green beans, and cranberry sauce for a traditional feel. Or, try root vegetable gratins and citrusy salads to add unique twists and a bit of freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling festive, arrange your sliced turkey on a large platter and surround it with roasted seasonal vegetables or colorful fruits. Create a “turkey grazing board” by nestling slices among cheeses, nuts, and pickles. For individual servings, layer slices on toasted brioche and top with a drizzle of pan gravy for a restaurant-worthy holiday treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover Oven Roasted Turkey tightly in foil or plastic wrap, or store it in airtight containers. It will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days, staying juicy and flavorful for sandwiches, salads, or reheated meals.

Freezing

If you have extra turkey, freeze slices or shredded meat in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months. Make sure to label and date your packages so you can always have a taste of the holidays on hand!

Reheating

To keep your Oven Roasted Turkey moist when reheating, add a splash of broth and cover with foil. Warm in a 325°F oven until heated through, or gently reheat slices in the microwave with a damp paper towel to lock in moisture.

FAQs

How do I keep my Oven Roasted Turkey from drying out?

Basting with pan juices and using an herb butter under and over the skin helps retain moisture. Letting the turkey rest before carving also keeps it juicy.

What size turkey should I buy for my gathering?

Plan on about 1 to 1.5 pounds of turkey per person. A 12-14 pound Oven Roasted Turkey is perfect for 10-12 guests, with a little extra for leftovers!

Do I need to brine my turkey before roasting?

Brining is optional but can help your Oven Roasted Turkey stay extra moist and flavorful. If you have time, try a simple overnight brine—just remember to reduce extra salt in your seasoning blend.

How do I make gravy from the turkey drippings?

After roasting, skim fat from the pan drippings and whisk with a flour slurry or cornstarch in a saucepan. Simmer until thickened, then season to taste. It’s the ultimate complement to your turkey slices!

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs can be used in a pinch; just use about one-third the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. They’ll still bring delicious flavor to your Oven Roasted Turkey.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for an approachable way to impress your crowd, this Oven Roasted Turkey will never let you down. There’s nothing quite like watching everyone savor that perfect blend of flavors and sharing in the joy around the table. Give this recipe a try—you’ll create memories and traditions that will last for years!

Oven Roasted Turkey Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 17 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 4 hours
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delight your guests with a perfectly roasted turkey that’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor. This oven-roasted turkey recipe is a classic for Thanksgiving or any special occasion. The buttery herb mixture adds richness, while the aromatics infuse the meat with extra taste. Follow these simple steps to create a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

1 whole turkey (12–14 pounds)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped

Additional Ingredients:

1 large onion, quartered
1 lemon, halved
4 garlic cloves, smashed
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
Prepare the Turkey: Remove giblets and pat the turkey dry. Mix softened butter with seasonings. Rub half of the butter mixture under the turkey skin and the rest over the outside.
Stuff the Turkey: Place onion, lemon, and garlic in the cavity. Put the turkey on a roasting rack in a pan, pour in chicken broth.
Roast the Turkey: Roast, basting occasionally, until the thermometer reads 165°F (74°C).
Rest and Carve: Let the turkey rest before carving.