{"id":5907,"date":"2020-11-29T16:33:16","date_gmt":"2020-11-29T16:33:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.howtocook.recipes\/?p=5907"},"modified":"2026-01-21T10:28:08","modified_gmt":"2026-01-21T10:28:08","slug":"easy-traditional-turkey-recipe","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.howtocook.recipes\/easy-traditional-turkey-recipe\/","title":{"rendered":"Easy Traditional Turkey Recipe"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

When I was a kid, I remember being fascinated with my mom\u2019s whole roast turkey recipe<\/strong>. Learning how to cook a whole turkey seemed intimidating but it always came out perfectly moist and tender. My first attempt at cooking a whole turkey was a total fail, but after multiple attempts and fine tuning the details I learned what to do to make it savory, moist, and absolutely delightful, and now you can too. Here is the best Thanksgiving traditional turkey recipe that we share every year and now you can too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to cook a whole Turkey (Best Turkey Recipe)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cooking a whole turkey might seem like a big challenge since it\u2019s usually the centerpiece to a special meal, particularly during the holidays. But this is the best turkey recipe because it uses simple ingredient that bring about beautiful results in presentation and flavor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Ingredients<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey Ingredients<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Below you can find a complete list of the ingredients you will need to make this delicious classic Thanksgiving turkey recipe. The list of ingredients is simple and can be found at any major supermarket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  • Whole Turkey<\/strong> \u2013 well, obviously!<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Yellow onions<\/strong> \u2013 these make for pungent aromatics.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Baby red potatoes<\/strong> \u2013 creates a base under the turkey while keeping the bottom of the pan for perfect circulation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Carrots<\/strong> \u2013 gives your baked turkey some color when serving, plus they taste so good with the herb butter and turkey juices.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Fresh herbs<\/strong> \u2013 rosemary, sage, and thyme combination make the perfect turkey seasoning.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Lemon<\/strong> \u2013 creates a dazzling flavor.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Garlic<\/strong> \u2013 for the herb butter.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Unsalted butter<\/strong> \u2013 choose unsalted as you\u2019ll be salting the turkey.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
    \"Easy<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Easy Traditional Turkey Recipe<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    When cooking a turkey in the oven the baking time takes several hours. However, this easy turkey recipe is prepped in just 30 minutes. As it bakes, you can use that time to focus on creating all of the side dishes that will pair perfectly with your meal. Ideally, you\u2019ll have prepped all that before too and you can finally put your feet up (or sneak a glass of wine!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n

    Somethings up…the farmer just unfriended me on Facebook.
    Tom the Turkey<\/cite><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

    \"ALT\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    How do you Make Roast Turkey<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
      \n
    • If you want things to go smoothly, you should remember to let your turkey sit on the counter for an hour to come to room temperature. Letting your turkey come up to room temperature before cooking will allow it to cook more evenly and faster. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • You\u2019ll prep the roasting dish with veggies and get the herb butter ready. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • After that, you’re ready to start on the turkey. When preparing a turkey, don’t forget to remove the neck and giblets from the inside first. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Then, pat the turkey dry and start by seasoning it inside and out with salt and pepper.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

      Fill the cavity with aromatics, put the herb butter under the skin, and bake it. You\u2019ll soon be reveling in the smell of savory baked turkey. There is nothing that brings the family together like a turkey feast!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      \"How<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

      <\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Expert Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Turkey Every Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
        \n
      • Plenty of thawing time<\/strong> – Allow enough time for your turkey to thaw in the fridge. Do not even try baking a turkey if it\u2019s still frozen. Start early as this thawing process can take between 3-5 days in the refrigerator.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Stuff your turkey with aromatics<\/strong> – This recipe calls for lemon, fresh herbs, and onion to go into the cavity. It makes the meat more moist and imparts the perfect flavor in oven roasted turkey.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Don\u2019t forget to remove the giblets<\/strong> – My mom likes to tell me about the first turkey she ever made. She didn\u2019t know that bag was in there and needless to say, her kitchen filled up with stinky smoke and they wound up going out to eat. Yes, there is a bag usually inside the turkey neck with the giblets. Remove it first \ud83d\ude42<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
        \"How<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

        <\/p>\n\n\n\n

        How to Cook a Thanksgiving Turkey<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        There are several ways to cook a turkey, however a roast turkey recipe is the most traditional and best way to cook a turkey for Thanksgiving holiday. Once you do all the prep work, cooking a turkey is simple. Make it easy on yourself by prepping everything beforehand so all you have to do is put it together and bake the bird.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        How do you prepare a turkey?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        You\u2019ll need to make sure your turkey is thawed completely. If you purchased a frozen turkey it can take between 3-5 days for it to defrost in the fridge. Once it is fully defrosted, pull your turkey out of the fridge for about an hour and let it come up to room temperature. Once it is at room temp you can start your prep. You will have to remove the neck and giblets which come in a bag that can be found inside the turkey. From there, you\u2019ll pat it dry and season it, stuffing it with aromatic herbs and spreading butter under the skin to keep it moist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        What is the best way to season a turkey?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        Seasoning inside the bird as well as seasoning under the skin are among the best ways to season a turkey. This will add so much more flavor as sometimes the seasonings on the top can drop off. The seasoning under the skin will remain in tact and and keep the meat flavorful and juicy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        What can I put in my turkey for flavor?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        Lemon, onion, and herbs like rosemary, sage, and thyme are all wonderful aromatics to put in your turkey. This helps give it more flavor and a heavenly aroma too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \"How<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

        <\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Do I butter or oil my turkey?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        Butter is best for adding a beautiful, rich flavor while keeping the turkey meat moist. Plus, it helps the skin get nice and golden brown. The skin over the turkey breast is very thin and will be be the first to brown.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Should I put butter under the skin of my turkey?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        Butter under the turkey skin is one of the best tricks for a perfect tasting bird. But go a step further and use my herb butter to get the most delightful flavor of all. Adding seasoning under the skin is a trick of the pros.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        How do I Keep my Turkey Moist<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        My secret is using the herb butter under the skin. Not only does it add amazing flavor, but it also serves to keep the meat tender and moist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        How can I prepare my turkey the night before Thanksgiving?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        You can season it and get it ready the night before. If you choose to butter it at this point, you should plan on buttering it again before it goes in the oven to help the skin brown up nicely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \"What<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

        Turkey Cook Time – How long to cook a whole turkey in the oven?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        Knowing how long to cook a whole turkey in the oven will vary depending on the weight of your turkey. The rule of thumb is to check the weight of your turkey (it should say on the sticker label) and cook it for 15-20 minutes at 325\u00b0F per pound of turkey (unstuffed). The best way to not overcook or undercook your turkey is to use a meat thermometer to check the turkey internal temperature. The USDA recommends the turkey internal temp to reach 165\u00b0F.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        It is always recommended to use a meat thermometer to make sure you are cooking your turkey properly. Meat thermometers are a quick and easy way to take the stress and guesswork out of cooking a turkey. You can set the temperature and forget it. Most of the electronic meat thermometers will beep when its ready so you know its perfectly cooked and still moist every time!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Expert Tip For Best Results<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        For best results, roast the turkey on a rack set inside the roasting pan so air circulates beneath the bird, this helps promote even browning and crisping of the underside of the skin. Also, about 30 minutes before the end of cooking, tent the breast loosely with foil if it\u2019s too dark, which lets the legs finish without overcooking. After removing the turkey from the oven, allow it to rest for at least 20 minutes before carving, this gives the juices a chance to redistribute and dramatically improves the moistness of every slice. Use those drippings from the rack as a base for a rich, flavorful gravy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
        What temperature to cook a turkey?<\/strong>

        The standard oven temperature for turkey is 325\u00b0F, which is the the lowest temperature the USDA recommends cooking turkey.<\/p> <\/div>

        How long to cook a 10 lb turkey?<\/strong>

        Using a conventional oven you will need to cook a 10 lb turkey for 2.5 hours to 3 hours and 20 minutes at 325\u00b0F until the internal temp reaches 165\u00b0F.<\/p> <\/div>

        How long to cook a 12 lb turkey?<\/strong>

        Using a conventional oven you will need to cook a 12 lb turkey for 3 hours to 4 hours at 325\u00b0F until the internal temp reaches 165\u00b0F.<\/p> <\/div>

        How long to cook a 14 lb turkey?<\/strong>

        Using a conventional oven you will need to cook a 14 lb turkey for 3.5 hours to 4 hours and 40 minutes at 325\u00b0F until the internal temp reaches 165\u00b0F.<\/p> <\/div>

        How long to cook a 16 lb turkey?<\/strong>

        Using a conventional oven you will need to cook a 16 lb turkey for 4 hours to 5 hours and 20 minutes at 325\u00b0F until the internal temp reaches 165\u00b0F.<\/p> <\/div>

        How long to cook a 18 lb turkey?<\/strong>

        Using a conventional oven you will need to cook a 18 lb turkey for 4.5 hours to 6 hours at 325\u00b0F.until the internal temp reaches 165\u00b0F.<\/p> <\/div>

        How long to cook a 20 lb turkey?<\/strong>

        Using a conventional oven you will need to cook a 20 lb turkey for 5 hours to 6 hours and 40 minutes at 325\u00b0F until the internal temp reaches 165\u00b0F.<\/p> <\/div>

        Is it better to cook a turkey at 325F or 350F?<\/strong>

        This recipe goes with 325F for cooking turkey, the perfect temperature to cook it effectively without overdoing it. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n

        How do you roast a turkey without drying it out?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        Pay attention to your turkey roasting time. The turkey cooking time per pound is 15 to 20 minutes at 325\u00b0F per every pound of unstuffed turkey. Your meat thermometer can help you be certain it\u2019s cooked to 165\u00b0F internally to prevent it from being overcooked and dry or under cooked. They are a pro tip to a perfectly cooked turkey every single time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \"What<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

        <\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Do you put water in the bottom of the turkey pan?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        There\u2019s no need to do that. With the turkey drippings and juices coming out all over the veggies at the bottom, there will be plenty of delightful turkey broth soon enough as the base for your turkey gravy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \"Should<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

        <\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Do you cook a turkey covered or uncovered?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        Some people cover their turkeys, but that won\u2019t let the skin brown up. You need to get that golden skin first. Then you can cover it up as you wish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        How often do I baste a turkey?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        Basting a turkey is not required, but if you choose to do so, go with 30-minute intervals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        What to Serve with Baked Turkey (Side Dishes) <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        With this baked turkey recipe, you will have red potatoes, onions, and carrots at the bottom of your roasting pan. But you\u2019ll likely want some more things. Dinner rolls, mashed potatoes with gravy, sauteed seasonal green veggies (like spinach or brussels sprouts), baked sweet potatoes, and a fresh salad are all fine ideas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \"Do<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

        <\/p>\n\n\n\n

        How to Store Leftover Turkey<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        Once the big meal is complete, wrap leftover turkey in aluminum foil or stow in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. A turkey feast makes lots of wonderful leftovers! You can use them for turkey sandwiches, turkey soup, and more turkey plates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Can You Freeze Turkey?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        Turkey is a wonderful thing to have in the freezer. You can use it to make other meals, making meal prep a breeze. You\u2019ll need to take time to pull all the meat off the bones and separate it. Then it can be kept in your freezer for up to 3 months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        How to Reheat Frozen Turkey<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        I put it in the fridge overnight and then bake it at 300F with a little broth or gravy to keep it from drying out. This should take about 30 minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \n\n\n\n

        Watch How To Make Turkey (Video)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n