Centerpiece

Citrus-herb roast turkey

A straightforward whole bird with crisp skin, a calm timeline, and no last-minute basting.

gluten-free
Serves
10
Prep
35 min
Cook
210 min
Oven
325°F
Citrus-herb roast turkey prepared for a Thanksgiving meal

Method

  1. 01

    Pat the turkey dry. Season inside and out with salt and pepper, then refrigerate uncovered for 24 to 48 hours.

  2. 02

    Remove the turkey from the refrigerator 45 minutes before roasting. Heat the oven to 325°F.

  3. 03

    Rub the skin with butter. Place citrus, onion, thyme, and sage loosely in the cavity. Tie the legs without closing the cavity tightly.

  4. 04

    Set the turkey breast-side up on the rack, add stock to the pan, and roast without opening the oven repeatedly.

  5. 05

    Begin checking temperature before the estimated finish. Verify 165°F in the thickest breast, innermost thigh, and innermost wing area.

  6. 06

    Rest at least 30 minutes before carving. Use the resting window to reheat sides.

Food-safety checkpoint

USDA guidance calls for verifying 165°F in the thickest breast, innermost thigh, and innermost wing area. Use current official guidance for thawing and handling.

Read the USDA guide