Whole turkey is a must have for the holidays if you have a large gathering. Learn how to prepare this juicy, oven-baked roasted turkey recipe with tips for leftovers, storage, and serving ideas.
I also included a handy turkey thawing chart so that you know how long you need to thaw your turkey based on weight so it's ready to be seasoned and cooked.
Easy Crock pot chicken and stuffing recipe
Cooking a whole turkey might feel like a big task, but it’s simpler than you think. This recipe for whole turkey will guide you through the process, whether you’re preparing it for a festive holiday feast or a cozy family dinner.
From roasting to serving, this guide ensures your turkey is flavorful, moist, and perfect every time. Let’s dive in and make a turkey you’ll be proud to serve!
Recipe Highlights
Delicious flavor: A well-seasoned, roasted turkey recipe is tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
Perfect for gatherings: A whole turkey is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for holidays or family events.
Versatile leftovers: Turn leftover turkey into exciting meals like turkey fried rice or noodle soup.
Beginner-friendly tips: Even if it’s your first time, this recipe makes the process approachable and foolproof.
Ingredients
- Turkey
- Oil
- Dijon mustard
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Thyme
- Italian seasoning
- Apples
- Lemons
- Fresh thyme and rosemary
* Need to print out this recipe? You’ll find a printable recipe card at the end of this post. Enjoy!
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- Roast pan or dish
How to roast a whole turkey
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Mix all rub ingredients in a bowl.
Coat the turkey, including the cavity, with the marinade. For best results, marinate for several hours or overnight.
Stuff the cavity with sliced apples and lemon, tie the legs, and add rosemary and thyme to the pan.
Cover with foil and roast for 2 hours 15 mins. Remove foil, increase oven to 400°F, and roast for 30 more minutes.
When it's fully cooked, tent the turkey with foil and let it rest for 20 to 30 minutes before carving or serving.
Best sides for Thanksgiving turkey roast.
Pair your oven-baked whole turkey with classic sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and roasted vegetables.
Don’t forget dinner rolls and a rich gravy to complete the meal. For a fresh touch, add a green salad or a fruit-based side like cranberry fluff salad.
How to store
Storing: Let the turkey cool completely before carving the leftovers and storing in airtight containers. Refrigerate and consume within up to 5 days.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in smaller portions in the microwave.
How to use leftovers
Leftover Turkey Fried Rice: A quick and flavorful way to transform leftover turkey into a new dish.
Turkey Noodle Soup: A comforting soup loaded with turkey, noodles, and vegetables.
Turkey Sandwiches: Layer slices of turkey with cheese, cranberry sauce, and greens for an easy lunch.
Casseroles or Pot Pies: Combine turkey with vegetables and creamy sauce, then bake for a hearty meal.
Helpful Tips
- Thaw Properly: Always thaw your turkey in the refrigerator; allow 24 hours for every 4–5 pounds of turkey.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the thickest part of the turkey reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Let It Rest: After roasting, let the turkey rest for 20–30 minutes before carving to retain its juices.
FAQs
The cooking time depends on the turkey’s weight. Roast it at 350°F for 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For the breast area and up to 185°F for the thigh area.
Basting can help keep the turkey moist, but it’s optional. For a crispy skin, avoid opening the oven frequently.
For even cooking, I prefer to cook the stuffing separately and serve on the side. However, if you choose to stuff the turkey, ensure the stuffing also reaches 165°F.
More holiday recipes
- Air fryer whole chicken
- Christmas chicken recipe
- Check out all our Home Cooked Recipes
Now that you’re armed with all the tips and tricks, it’s time to prepare a delicious whole turkey for your family ! Whether it’s for Thanksgiving or Christmas this roasted turkey recipe will shine on your table.
Don’t wait, grab your ingredients and get started already. Let us know how your turkey turns out in the comments below!
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Thanksgiving whole turkey recipe
Ingredients
- 8 lb whole turkey (fully thawed)
Turkey marinade
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoons salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons onion powder
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- Juice from ½ a lemon
Extras
- 2 apples
- 1 ½ lemons
- sprigs of fresh thyme rosemary
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Mix the marinade ingredients in a bowl.
- Coat the turkey, including the cavity, with the marinade. For best results, marinate for several hours or overnight.
- Stuff the cavity with sliced apples and lemon, tie the legs, and add rosemary and thyme to the pan.
- Cover with foil and roast for 2 hours 15 mins. Remove foil, increase oven to 400°F, and roast for 30 more minutes or until internal temp reaches 165°F
- Tent the turkey with foil and let it rest for 30 minutes before carving or serving.
Notes
- Always thaw your turkey in the refrigerator; allow 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds of turkey.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the thickest part of the turkey reaches 165°F for safe consumption. (Breast area should be up to 165°F (74°C) and 185°F for the thigh area)
- Let It Rest: After roasting, let the turkey rest for 20–30 minutes before carving to retain its juices.
