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Roasted Turkey for Christmas Lunch

A flavorful, juicy roasted turkey with crispy skin, perfect for your Christmas lunch gathering.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Christmas
Calories: 290
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 whole Whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
  • 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups Chicken broth
  • 1 large Onion, quartered
  • 2 medium Carrots, chopped
  • 2 stalks Celery, chopped
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon Dried rosemary
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Prepare the turkey by removing the giblets and patting it dry with paper towels.
  3. Rub the softened butter all over the turkey, ensuring every nook is covered. Generously season with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
  4. Stuff the cavity of the turkey with the quartered onion, chopped carrots, celery, and minced garlic.
  5. Pour the chicken broth into the roasting pan.
  6. Tuck the wings underneath the turkey and tie the legs together with kitchen twine.
Cooking
  1. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 2 to 3 hours.
  2. Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the pan juices.
  3. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
  4. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
  5. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Notes

For optimal flavor, consider brining the turkey beforehand. Store leftovers in an airtight container; they last 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.