Thyme Roasted Turkey

  Chicken & Turkey

It's easy for flavors to get lost when using too many seasonings together. When in doubt, a simple combination of butter and fresh thyme captures the essence of Thanksgiving for a classic turkey dinner.

Thyme Roasted Turkey

Average Rating: 4

TOTAL TIME: Prep: 15 min. Bake: 3 hours + standing
YIELD: 12 servings.

Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 tablespoons minced fresh thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 turkey (12 to 14 pounds)

Instructions

  • 1. In a small bowl, mix the butter, thyme, salt and pepper. Place turkey on a rack in a shallow roasting pan, breast side up. With fingers, carefully loosen skin from turkey breast; rub half of the butter mixture under the skin. Secure skin to underside of breast with toothpicks. Rub outside of turkey with remaining butter mixture. Tuck wings under turkey; tie drumsticks together.
  • 2. Bake, uncovered, at 325° for 3 to 3-3/4 hours or until a thermometer inserted in thigh reads 180°, basting occasionally with pan drippings. Cover loosely with foil if turkey browns too quickly.
  • 3. Discard toothpicks. Cover and let stand for 20 minutes before carving.

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