How to Cook a Turkey in the Oven: Simple and Delicious

Roasting a turkey is a quintessential part of many holiday celebrations, most notably Thanksgiving. The process transforms a humble bird into a succulent centerpiece, bursting with flavor and aroma that fills the home with warmth and joy. With this simple and delicious recipe, you can create a perfectly golden-brown Turkey in the Oven that will impress your family and friends.

Whether it’s a festive gathering or a family dinner, a roasted turkey is a dish that brings everyone together. Let’s dive into the details and make your turkey the star of the show!

Turkey in the Oven: Perfect Pairing

• Pair your roasted turkey with classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and stuffing for a complete meal.
• A glass of refreshing apple cider complements the flavors beautifully.

Occasions to Serve

• Thanksgiving
• Christmas
• Family reunions
• Special dinners or celebrations

How to Cook a Turkey in the Oven

Roasting a turkey is a quintessential part of many holiday celebrations, most notably Thanksgiving. 

Print Pin Rate

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: how to cook a turkey in the oven

Prep Time: 30 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 3 hours hours 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 4 hours hours

Servings: 8 People

Calories: 350kcal

Author: Yum Dinner

Equipment

• Oven

Ingredients

For the Turkey

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 onion, quartered
• 2-3 carrots, cut into chunks
• 2-3 celery stalks, cut into chunks
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Optional Stuffing

• 4 cups bread cubes
• 1 cup onions, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 tablespoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1-2 cups chicken broth (to moisten)

Instructions

• Preparation: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the turkey giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
• Season the Turkey: Rub the softened butter all over the turkey, including under the skin. Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary evenly over the turkey.
• Stuff the Turkey: If using stuffing, mix the bread cubes, onions, celery, sage, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Moisten with chicken broth until combined but not soggy. Stuff the cavity of the turkey loosely.
• Prepare the Roasting Pan: Place the quartered onion, carrots, and celery in a roasting pan. Add the turkey on top, breast-side up. Pour chicken broth into the pan to keep the turkey moist during cooking.
• Roast the Turkey: Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil and roast in the preheated oven. Remove the foil during the last hour to allow the skin to brown. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
• Rest: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
• Carve and Serve: Carve the turkey and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious roast turkey!

Nutrition

Serving: 1P | Calories: 350kcal | Protein: 45g | Fat: 18g | Sodium: 300mg

Recipe Overview

• Servings: 8-10
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours
• Total Time: 4-4.5 hours
• Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 45g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Sodium: 300mg

Cook and Prep Times

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes (includes seasoning and stuffing)
• Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (depending on the weight of the turkey)

Ingredients List

For the Turkey

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 onion, quartered
• 2-3 carrots, cut into chunks
• 2-3 celery stalks, cut into chunks
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Optional Stuffing

• 4 cups bread cubes
• 1 cup onions, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 tablespoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1-2 cups chicken broth (to moisten)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the turkey giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
2. Season the Turkey: Rub the softened butter all over the turkey, including under the skin. Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary evenly over the turkey.
3. Stuff the Turkey: If using stuffing, mix the bread cubes, onions, celery, sage, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Moisten with chicken broth until combined but not soggy. Stuff the cavity of the turkey loosely.
4. Prepare the Roasting Pan: Place the quartered onion, carrots, and celery in a roasting pan. Add the turkey on top, breast-side up. Pour chicken broth into the pan to keep the turkey moist during cooking.
5. Roast the Turkey: Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil and roast in the preheated oven. Remove the foil during the last hour to allow the skin to brown. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
6. Rest: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
7. Carve and Serve: Carve the turkey and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious roast turkey!

Tips for a Perfect Roast Turkey

• Brine the Turkey: For added flavor and moisture, consider brining the turkey a day before roasting.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Always use a meat thermometer to check the doneness; this prevents overcooking.
• Let It Rest: Don’t skip the resting step; it’s crucial for juicy meat.
• Save the Drippings: Use the drippings from the roasting pan to make a flavorful gravy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Turkey is Dry: Avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature early. Basting occasionally with pan juices can help.
• Uneven Cooking: If the turkey is uneven, consider tenting the breast with foil to prevent it from cooking too quickly.
• Skin is Not Crispy: Ensure the turkey is dry before applying butter and roast it uncovered during the last hour.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I roast a frozen turkey? Yes, but it will take significantly longer to cook. It’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator before roasting.
2. What if I don’t have a roasting pan? You can use any oven-safe dish; just ensure it can hold the turkey and the broth.
3. Can I prepare the turkey the night before? Yes, you can season it and refrigerate it overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before roasting.
4. How long should I cook the turkey? Generally, cook for about 13-15 minutes per pound. Always check the internal temperature for safety.
5. What to do with leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Use them in soups, sandwiches, or casseroles.

Conclusion

Roasting a turkey in the oven is not only a rewarding culinary experience but also a beautiful way to celebrate gatherings with loved ones. With this simple and delicious recipe, you’ll create a flavorful, juicy turkey that everyone will rave about. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of a perfectly roasted turkey!