The BEST Thanksgiving Turkey recipe that packs all of the flavor and juiciness you expect from the perfect Thanksgiving turkey, with none of the stress! Plus a step by step tutorial for how to cook the perfect turkey.

Not only is this roasted turkey recipe fool-proof and easy to make, it will exceed expectations as the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving feast!

Overhead photo of a roasted turkey on a large white platter, garnished with lemons, apples, garlic and fresh green herbs.

Thanksgiving Turkey

Why in the world do people stress so much over their Thanksgiving Turkey? Ok, I guess it IS the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving meal. And that usually means you have a table full of people not to disappoint. Ok, I get it. It’s a big deal.

My hope is to squash any fears or insecurities you might have about cooking a perfect, beautiful Thanksgiving Turkey. This method is completely fuss-free and EASY. There’s no brining or basting the turkey, no cooking it upside down, or anything weird.

You don’t even need an expensive roasting pan. I’m convinced that this recipe is not only the simplest way to cook a Thanksgiving turkey, it also yields a gorgeous, super juicy, perfectly cooked turkey.

The real KEY to baking a perfect Thanksgiving Turkey is not to overcook it–that’s what dries out the meat, and you want to carve into a juicy, moist turkey on Thanksgiving!  So, just plan ahead to get the timing right.

White and dark meat carved from a turkey, served on a large white platter with fresh green herbs.

Let’s go ahead and go over the basics– the do’s, and the don’ts– for How to Cook a Thanksgiving Turkey:
What size turkey to buy for Thanksgiving dinner:

First things first: Buy about 1.5 pounds of turkey per person. (So if you’re feeding 6 people, buy at least a 10 lb. turkey). That way you’ll have leftovers. 

How to thaw your turkey:

Make sure and allow plenty of time for your turkey to thaw! A good rule of thumb is to allow one day in the fridge for ever 5 pounds of turkey. I always give myself one extra day, just to be safe. Set the turkey on a cookie sheet or pan, to catch any liquid the turkey may drip as it defrosts in the fridge.

Don’t wash the turkey.

If you wash your turkey in your sink you will just contaminate your sink. Remove the turkey from it’s packaging, dry it off with some paper towels, and then prepare it for the oven. Any bacteria on the turkey will be killed in the hot oven while it bakes.

Don’t brine the turkey.

If you buy a high-quality turkey from the store (like Butterball or Norbest), then brining the turkey is an unnecessary step. You can do it if you want, but you can still achieve a deliciously moist turkey without brining it. However, if the turkey is wild, you should brine it the night before to make sure it will be moist and flavorful.

Don’t baste the turkey.

Basting is really unnecessary to produce a beautiful golden brown turkey. It also requires you to constantly open the oven, which causes the oven to loose heat and the turkey to take longer to cook–which could lead to a dry turkey. By smearing an herb butter mixture over the outer and inner skin of the turkey you will ensure the skin will brown beautifully, and taste amazing. 

Don’t cook stuffing inside the turkey.

If you try to put stuffing/dressing inside the cavity of the bird, the turkey will be overcooked by the time the stuffing reaches a temperature that’s safe to eat. Instead, cook your stuffing in a casserole dish.  Then you can fill the cavity of the turkey with things that will give it flavor (and add flavor to the drippings/stock): salt and pepper and any mixture of onion, apple, carrots, celery, or citrus. 

Do test the turkey with a thermometer.

The only way to really tell if the turkey is cooked (165 degrees F), is by using a thermometer (I love this one). Test the turkey right from the oven—if it reaches 160 degrees F, I take it out and tent it with foil. It will continue to cook inside the foil tent to make up that extra 5 degrees.

Do let the turkey rest.

After removing the turkey from the oven, let it rest for at least 15 minutes, or up to 40 minutes (that gives you some extra time if you need to bake or warm anything else in the oven). If you’re using the drippings for gravy, remove the turkey from its pan, to a cutting board and tent it with foil while it rests there. If you’re not using the drippings, then just leave the turkey in the pan and tent with foil.

You don’t need an expensive roasting pan.

If you have a big metal roasting pan, great! If you don’t, no worries. Just use a casserole dish big enough to fit the bird, or buy a $1 disposable foil roasting pan from Walmart (then you can throw it away after). Place a bunch of chopped veggies on the bottom of your pan. The veggies will act like the wire rack in a regular roasting pan by elevating the turkey slightly. Place the turkey right on top of the chopped veggies.

Do save the turkey drippings.

After the turkey is finished cooking there will be juice and browned cooked bits at the bottom of your roasting pan. You can reserve all of it for making turkey gravy. You can also use the leftover neck and giblets you pull from the turkey when you remove it from the packaging, to make giblet gravy.  The most flavorful gravy! Your grandma would be proud 😉

Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey on a large white platter with a knife carving into the breast meat of the turkey.

How to prepare a simple roasted Thanksgiving turkey:

First, remove the thawed turkey from it’s packaging. Remove the neck (usually found in the large cavity of the bird) and the bag of giblets (sometimes found in the smaller neck cavity of the bird). Discard them, or save them for gravy. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.

The neck and giblets from inside the turkey cavity are being removed.

Next, season the cavity of the turkey with salt and pepper. Stuff it with the quartered lemon, onion, apple and herbs.

Four photos showing the cavity of the turkey being stuffed with salt, pepper, onion, apple, lemon and herbs.

Tuck the wings of the turkey underneath the turkey and set the turkey on a roasting rack inside a roasting pan (or on top of a bed of chopped veggies —carrots, onion and celery work well—in a disposable roasting pan). Tucking the wings prevents them from burning, and helps the turkey sit flatter.

Two photos showing the wing of a turkey being tucked underneath the bird.

Use your fingers to loosen and lift the skin above the breasts (on the top of the turkey) and smooth a few tablespoons of the herb butter underneath. Use some twine to tie the turkey legs together. Then slather the outside turkey in the rest of the herb butter. That’s it! You are ready to let your oven do the rest of the work!

Preparation of a thanksgiving turkey including fingers loosening the skin on the breast of an uncooked turkey. Then the turkey is placed in a roasting pan and basted in softened herb butter before being roasted in the oven.

You will want to check the turkey about half way through cooking. Use your oven light to see if the skin is golden, and then place a large piece of tinfoil over the breast meat of the turkey to help keep it from overcooking.

Side view of a roasted thanksgiving served in a large platter and garnished with lemons, garlic, apple and herbs.

 

Whether this is your first time cooking a turkey, or you just decided to give this method I try, I would love to hear from you! Rate the recipe and comment below with your experience.

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Recipe

Roasted Turkey on a large white platter, garnished with lemons, apples, garlic and fresh green herbs.
Prep 20 minutes
Cook 3 hours 30 minutes
Total 3 hours 50 minutes
Save Recipe

Ingredients
  

  • 1 12-20 pound turkey*
  • 1 onion , peeled and quartered
  • 1 lemon , quartered
  • 1 apple (your favorite kind), quartered
  • .75 ounce container fresh rosemary*
  • .75 ounce container fresh thyme*
  • .75 ounce container fresh sage*

For the herb butter:

Instructions
 

  • If the turkey is frozen: Thaw in the fridge, 24 hours for every 5 pounds of Turkey. I like to give myself 1 extra day, just to be safe.
  • Remove the thawed turkey from the fridge 1 hour before roasting, to let it come to room temperature.
  • Adjust your oven rack so the turkey will sit in the center of the oven. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.
  • Make the herb butter by combining room temperature butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, one tablespoon fresh chopped rosemary, one tablespoon fresh chopped thyme, and half a tablespoon of fresh chopped sage. (You’ll use the remaining fresh herbs for stuffing inside the cavity of the turkey)
  • Remove turkey from packaging and remove the neck and giblets from the inside the cavities of the bird. (Reserve them for gravy, if you want, or discard them). Pat the turkey very dry with paper towels.
  • Season the cavity of the turkey with salt and pepper. Stuff it with the quartered lemon, onion and apple and leftover herbs.
  • Use your fingers to loosen and lift the skin above the breasts (on the top of the turkey) and smooth a few tablespoons of the herb butter underneath.
  • Tuck the wings of the turkey underneath the turkey and set the turkey on a roasting rack inside a roasting pan*.
  • Microwave the remaining herb butter mixture for 30 seconds (it doesn’t need to be completely melted--just really softened). Use a basting brush to brush the remaining herb butter all over the outside of the turkey, legs and wings.
  • Roast at 325 degrees F for about 13-15 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature (inserted on middle of thigh and breast) reaches about 165 degrees. 
  • (I remove the turkey from the oven once it reaches 160 degrees. Then, I tent it with foil, and let it rest on the counter. It will continue cooking under the foil, to reach 165 degrees F.)
  • ***Check the turkey about halfway through cooking, and once the skin gets golden brown, cover the top of the turkey with tinfoil, to protect the breast meat from overcooking. Alternately, you could start cooking the turkey with it tented in foil, then during the last hour or so of cooking you can take the foil off to let the turkey brown.
  • Allow turkey to rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. https://tastesbetterfromscratch.com/how-to-carve-a-turkey/
  • Reserve any drippings and juice remaining in your roasting pan to make turkey gravy.

Notes

Turkey Size: if you're cooking for a smaller crowd (or just like white meat), try my Turkey Breast recipe
Herbs: to substitute dried herbs, use 1 teaspoon dried herbs per 1 tablespoon fresh chopped herbs.
Tips for covering with tinfoil:  Start with the bird uncovered.  Once the skin gets golden brown, tent the bird with a large piece of tinfoil.  If you have a roasting pan, you can use the lid to the roasting pan instead.
For Disposable Roasting Pan: Place fresh chopped vegetables on the bottom of the pan to act as a rack to elevate the turkey.  Use 4-5 ribs of celery and 4 large carrots, roughly chopped. The veggies will add great flavor for your dripping to use for gravy however I don't recommend eating them or using them in gravy.
For An Electric Roasting Oven: directions stay the same!
Convection Oven: You can use the same method to cook the turkey in a convection oven, just check the temperature sooner (start checking after 2 hours) as it will cook faster.
How to Carve a Turkey photos and Video.

Nutrition

Calories: 576kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 70gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 264mgSodium: 518mgPotassium: 765mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 565IUVitamin C: 5.4mgCalcium: 46mgIron: 2.9mg

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RATE and COMMENT below–I would love to hear your experience.

 

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About The Author

Lauren Allen

Welcome! I’m Lauren, a mom of four and lover of good food. Here you’ll find easy recipes and weeknight meal ideas made with real ingredients, with step-by-step photos and videos.

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Comments

  1. 5 stars
    Thank you so much for this recipe! I LOVE it! It is so well explained, easy, and makes the juiciest, most delicious, best turkey. Every time I roast a turkey I follow this recipe and I do one every few months because it’s so economical, creates delicious leftovers, and I can cook so many future meals all at once and store the leftovers in the freezer. The garlic butter under the breast skin makes the breast meat incredibly tasty.

    I find my cooking time is usually on the lower end of the range but I also cook my turkey to a lower temperature. I did some research on safe temperatures and now take my turkey out of the oven when it reaches 150F measured at multiple “thick”spots (breast, thigh). I leave the lid of my roasting pan on and the thermometer in the bird as it rests for 30 minutes and I’m always amazed at how much the temperature rises as it rests (usually 17F or more). A turkey only needs to reach 150F for 3.8 minutes to kill salmonella and at 165F salmonella is killed instantly. I feel safe and haven’t made anyone sick yet with this method and the turkey is so incredibly juicy! Do a bit of research and decide what you feel safe with, this lower temperature method works for me! I have an excellent, thick walled, high quality roasting pan which helps hold heat in during the resting period.

  2. 5 stars
    Wow! I made this tonight and the turkey is sensational! Thank you for excellent directions; they made it so easy and with this recipe, I am brave enough to make it for company now. 🙂

  3. Fantastic recipe! This was my first attempt cooking a turkey and it turned out great. Followed the recipe exactly as written. Thank you for sharing a delicious recipe that was easy to follow.

  4. 5 stars
    Made this turkey recipe for second time. It is absolutely the best and the easiest. Let my turkey sit covered in foil for over an hour – carved beautiful and so juicy. The recommended timing was spot on! Thanks for sharing. Merry Christmas!

  5. 5 stars
    I was skeptical at first but this was literally the easiest and tastiest turkey I’ve ever cooked. The broth is gorgeous, looking forward to making soup with it tomorrow .

  6. 5 stars
    Really simple and moist, tasty, as described. Fool proof and takes stress out of roasting a turkey. Love it and all the tips are really helpful too. Read them!

  7. 5 stars
    I’m the go to chef for big turkey dinners for my extended family. Every year we cook for 16-20 people and this is hands down the best recipe I’ve come across. ~10 times now and it’s a hit every time. Follow it to the letter and you and your guests will never be disappointed. Thanks a ton to the author!

  8. 5 stars
    This is my go to recipe for roasting a turkey in the oven. It is delicious 100% of the time. The drippings make fabulous gravy and it makes great hot turkey sandwiches too. I also make turkey pot pie with the leftovers. This is definitely a trustworthy recipe and is easy enough to use if it is your first time. I have used a rack and also chopped vegetables underneath the turkey. Both methods work. Thank you for sharing this recipe. It’s one of my favourites, and I have many!

  9. 5 stars
    We make this recipe every year for Thanksgiving and it’s always the best turkey. Who actually likes eating turkey? Not many people. But my guests always gobble this up. One tweak we have discovered is applying the room temp herb butter the night before and letting it sit overnight. Then cover in the melted herb butter before roasting. For some reason this locks in so much more flavor! Everyone always asks me for my recipe and I share this page!

    1. I made this recipe for Thanksgiving, and it’s the best turkey that I ever tasted. It was very moist and flavorful. I will do it again for Christmas.

    2. 5 stars
      Totally agree. I do the compound butter (garlic, herbs and butter, salt, pepper) a day ahead. Make sure to add a bit of olive oil to prevent the butter from burning. Stuff it under the skin EVERYWHERE. Thighs, breast, etc… Add a bit of olive oil to the outside of the skin. Voila!

  10. 5 stars
    Thank you for such a wonderful, simple recipe! I have used this recipe several times and it always turns out amazing.
    I have always used smaller birds, but this year I have a 25lb turkey. Do you have any suggestions for bigger birds?
    Thank you!

  11. 5 stars
    Great recipe that I’ve used for 2 years now, and will continue to use. Both times were incredible! My family was very happy. Thank you!

  12. 5 stars
    My first turkey! My husband brined it for me the night before then I followed the instructions although I did not let it come to room temp. I tented it for the first 3 hours and then uncovered it. It took about 4.5 to 5 hours and it was AMAZING! Crispy skin and super moist inside. no basting, no fuss, perfection!

  13. 5 stars
    Yo, I was worried it was gonna be a plain turkey cause the ingredients were simple and the directions were too. But I trusted the people in the reviews, and went forward with it. Let me just say… this Turkey had the hood grubbin!!!! The breast was so juicy, Juss how I like em. I ain’t juss talking bout poultry either. I’m kidding. All in all. Good looking out. I highly recommend this. If I could give shawty another star I would fa sho. The hood thanks ya. I thank ya.

  14. 1 star
    My turkey was 21 pounds. Followed the instructions and my turkey was beyond done after after 3 1/2 hours!!! Very disappointed! Nothing like a ruined dinner party!

    1. 5 stars
      Either your oven runs hot, or you should get run out of the kitchen!! Obviously, 8,000+ 5-star reviewers could follow instructions, but your culinary skills aren’t worth a single star!! People like you shouldn’t be allowed to rate this wonderful recipe!

    2. What part of checking the temperature do you not understand? Obviously you didn’t read the entire directions. She even gave notes on different type of ovens. Just stay out of the kitchen.

    3. 5 stars
      Patty Haag, you seem to confirm that the equipment you used to cook your turkey wasn’t faulty — but your culinary skills are! Maybe I didn’t make myself clear — OVER 8,000 reviewers, including myself, successfully followed simple instructions but YOU ALONE FAILED!! You should ask yourself, “Why is that?”

      Patty Haag, of course, admitting self-defeat is more difficult than the ease of blaming YOUR FAILURE on a tried and true 5-STAR RECIPE, but that’s like telling the judge in traffic court, “It’s not my fault, Your Honor! It’s that 1-star Lamborghini that’s to blame for my incredibly reckless driving!”

      Patty Haag, in parting I compare you to the heartless Grinch: but instead of stealing Christmas, your flawed logic stole the overall 5-star rating from this wonderful recipe, reducing it to 4.99 stars. You nauseate me, Patty Hagg!

  15. 5 stars
    This was my first time making a turkey and I chose this recipe based on it being simple and the good reviews. All my guests raved about it and were shocked it was actually moist! It wasn’t even hard, I will continue to make this every year. I took it out early as suggested (at 160) and tented it in foil and I think that really helped keep it juicy

  16. 5 stars
    Surprisingly good! I was skeptical about the lack of brining or basting, but the method worked! Super juicy bird. The timing was spot on. I baked a 17 pound turkey in 5 1/2 hours.

  17. I have tried numerous methods to cook a turkey over the years, and this was hands down the most moist and perfectly browned turkey I have ever made. This recipe will be followed every year from now on. Thank you!

  18. 5 stars
    It has been about 10 years since I cooked a turkey for the holidays. I found this recipe and it was very easy. Definitely the best bird I have ever made. I was lucky I had fresh rosemary, thyme and other herbs from my indoor garden. Stuffing with the automatics made a huge difference in the taste. Juicy and just perfect. This will be my go to for a no stress experience.

  19. 5 stars
    Wonderful recipe. 21+ pound bird was done in 3.5 hours, and was incredible, the white meat was so juicy! I didn’t use nearly as much garlic, and added herbs inside and out. /Users/DonnaHome/Pictures/Photos Library.photoslibrary/resources/derivatives/6/6147DB10-DD8A-42D5-AC9A-130FD395F94E_1_105_c.jpeg

  20. 5 stars
    Quick, easy and juicy perfection! I brined my turkey for a day and a half and it required less cook time than suggested in the instructions (glad I pulled it out to check on it). This is my forever recipe from here on out but unlike the blog states, I think brining is a necessity. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!!

  21. 5 stars
    My wife was stressing about making another turkey that doesn’t turn out for Thanksgiving. I told her not to worry, me and Lauren would handle it! I followed your directions and it turned out perfect! First juicy breast meat I’ve ever had! I WILL be making that more often! Thank you Lauren!

  22. 5 stars
    I made this exactly as specified but omitted the garlic. I will be making it again next year. So good and moist!

  23. 5 stars
    I used this recipe this year just as written. In 40 years of roasting turkeys this is, hands down, the best turkey I have ever cooked. Came out beautiful and tasted even better. First slice of the breast left a puddle, literally, of juice when removed. I will be using this recipe for the next 40 years. Fantastic recipe and don’t change a thing.

  24. 5 stars
    Followed the recipe mostly and this turkey came out AMAZING! I added an orange by mistake, (LOL) but I’d do it again. The apple, orange, lemon, and NOT basting really made the difference. It was the juiciest turkey ever! Made the gravy with the drippings, flour, brandy, salt, and pepper. It was next level.

  25. 5 stars
    SO good – the BEST Thanksgiving turkey. Guests were raving about the smell as it cooked (and the taste when it was time to eat!).

  26. 5 stars
    I WANT TO THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH FOR THIS RECIPE THE BEST EVER TURKEY SO JUICY AND MOIST AND TENDER. THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH AGAIN LAUREN ALLEN

  27. 5 stars
    Delicious! I was looking for an easy turkey recipe as the last time I made turkey, it came out awful. This recipe was super easy and the turkey came out juicy & flavorful! Thank you for your easy, detailed instructions as well as your video. This is my new go-to Thanksgiving turkey recipe!

  28. I had only ever cooked a thanksgiving turkey once before and I’m honestly not a huge fan of the bird however that being said I cannot get enough of this turkey. It came out so good with all the fresh herbs and crispy skin and you can really taste the citrus I loved it thank you

  29. 5 stars
    I followed this recipe from A to Z and everyone complimented me on how flavorful and juicy the Butterball turkey was. I may have added too much salt to the cavity because the gravy ended up being a bit too salty – not sure if that was from the pan drippings or the fact I added McCormick turkey gravy seasoning to thicken it up a bit. Guests liked the gravy, though, too and I was the only one worried about it being too salty.

  30. I have done my Turkey the same way for probably the last 12 to 15 years. I Decided to give this recipe a try although my family Tried to persuade me to stick to how a normally do it because of how Good it turns out. I mostly followed the recipe but instead of using fresh herbs on the outside I used my dried herbs plus added smoked paprika. I placed my 24 lb turkey in at 10 pm on 210°. In the morning around 8:30 I turned it up to 275°. I took it out at 10 am so I could use my oven for casseroles. Then at 11:30 placed it back in the oven without the foil on speed bake at 425° till browned (about 10-15 min). It was perfection. Not only was it the best, juciest Turkey I’ve ever made… the drippings made the best gravy in the world! Thanks 🙂

  31. 5 stars
    This was juicy and tasty. I did not follow the recipe to the t. I did additional high quality butter blended with the same herds and inject the turkey twice during the baking process. Other than that I did follow and it was amazing. Also, I did not use expensive turkey(frozen and cheap). It was delicious

  32. 5 stars
    This was the tastiest and juiciest turkey I have ever made, and the gravy was fantastic, thank you! I did have one issue though with the timing of the various temps of the turkey with the breast reaching 165 while the legs still registered 159. Any suggestions on what to do differently next time to facilitate more even cooking? I took it out when the breast was done and put the legs in the microwave for a minute this time!

  33. This was a wonderful recipe! We all enjoyed it greatly. I have cooked many turkeys, and many were a great success, but this was our favorite! Thank you for the wonderful recipe!

    1. 5 stars
      Recipe was easy to follow. Turkey tasted delicious 🙂 I did have some trouble with the turkey browning. Otherwise it tasted great and flavorful.
      To help brown further- I basted with butter and honey in the end And that helped

  34. 5 stars
    27 yrs of making Thanksgiving turkeys and this was by far the easiest and best tasting one I have ever made! Texture was spot on. Oh, and the gravy from the pan drippings?!? Didn’t need to season it even a bit! Sooooo flavorful! My new go to recipe!! (And I didn’t change a thing!)

  35. 5 stars
    This was my first time hosting Thanksgiving. I made the turkey using this exact recipe. It came out perfect! It was the most delicious and juicy turkey ever! This will be my go-to every year! Thank you!

  36. Outstanding! I followed the recipe exactly as written except for swapping out carrot and celery for the apple. The turkey smelled amazing while roasting and I only had to cover the top with a small piece of foil for an hour or so. I’ll make this again and share the recipe with others.

  37. 5 stars
    This is a keeper. I have been trying different recipes for years and this one pleased everyone. Looked and cooked beautifully.

  38. 5 stars
    It was perfect!! Followed your recipe, except the butter. I used olive oil instead due to grandson’s dairy allergy!! It was flavorful and juicy!! Also, “pretty”! It was a big hit here and there were ZERO left overs. That’s says a lot because the Ham is usually what everyone in this family goes to!! Thank you. Will be using this again!!

  39. 4 stars
    Hi! This was my first turkey, hosting Thanksgiving for 9. Followed all instructions – made a 12 lb fresh turkey. Breast meat was 165 at 2.5 hours, even after tenting at the halfway point, and I thought the thighs were done, so I took it out to rest about 45 minutes. After cutting into it, breast meat was juicy and perfect. Thighs were medium rare. So we cut off the breast meat and put the bird back in the oven.
    I have four oven rack heights in my oven, so I didn’t put it on the lowest rack, but the second from lowest because that put it in the middle of the oven as you instructed. Heat source is on the top. It obviously should have cooked longer, but I was afraid the breasts would overcook since they hit 165. Should I have put it on the lowest rack? What could I have done differently so the bird cooked more evenly? After finishing the dark portions in the oven and microwave, it was all eventually great, but hoping for advice. Thanks!

  40. 5 stars
    I’ve made turkey before but wanted to try something new. This recipe worked very well and I appreciated the thorough instructions. The house smelled so delicious while the bird was in the oven and ended up tasting just as good. What could go wrong with so much butter and garlic? I will definitely make this one again. Thank you for a carefully thought out recipe.

  41. 5 stars
    Best turkey I’ve ever made. I love herbs, so I didn’t measure them. I just added as much as I wanted. I also added lemons, carrots, celery, & onion to the pan with a carton of chicken stock. I covered w/ foil & uncovered for the last 30 min. It was juicy & delicious! Thank you for the recipe.

  42. 4 stars
    The white meat on the top of this turkey breast was moist and delicious! Easily some of the best white meat we’ve ever had. But the legs were overcooked and the under side seemed undercooked :/ Any advice would be appreciated! I used a regular roasting pan.

  43. 5 stars
    First time I ever attempted to roast a turkey. So glad I found this recipe. 15 lb turkey came out a beautiful golden brown, aromatic and moist. I posted a photo on Instagram, almost didn’t want to cut into it, glad I did, was delicious and surprised everyone, especially since my first bird to cook!

  44. 5 stars
    AMAZING!! I found this recipe last minute and have literally made 2 other turkeys in my life. This was so easy and fool-proof and turned out so moist. My family loved it. Thank you!!😃

  45. Best. Turkey. I’ve. Ever. Made! Will definitely use again. Over and over. Fresh herbs (plus a lot of butter) make a HUGE DIFFERENCE!!

  46. 5 stars
    Last year my Turkey came out horrible so I was nervous this year because it’s only my 2nd time cooking one. I’m happy to say my Turkey was delicious and both of my kids loved it! I’m bookmarking this recipe as it was great!

  47. Wonderful! My family raved about the turkey this year – juicy and delicious, absolutely perfect. I only used about half of the butter, and it was excellent. Cooking time was exact. Thank you! Will be my go to for future Thanksgiving meals.

  48. 5 stars
    Best and easiest recipe ever! It turned out PERFECT! I mean so perfect, so juicy, it was falling off the bones. I LOVED the light flavoring of the citrus. We’re using this recipe from now on!!! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

  49. My first time cooking a turkey and it turned out perfect! A lot of compliments of how juicy and flavorful it was.

    The moment I found this recipe, I was no longer nervous. Reading Everyone’s reviews were so helpful, so if this is your first time cooking a turkey or using this recipe I highly recommend taking the time to read reviews.

    I cooked a 21 lb Butterball turkey for 15 family members. I followed the recipe exactly. I did prep the turkey last night and got up at 3:30 am to let it sit for an hour to reach room temperature. In the oven at 4:45 am and took it out at 163 degrees at 11 am.
    Covered it with foil and let it rest for two hours in the same pan, then cut and placed on a platter. Perfect, I will forever use this recipe.

  50. 4 stars
    Followed your recipe, but only made half the amount of herb butter, and placed all of it underneath the skin.
    Turkey was delicious.

  51. 5 stars
    I am the Thanksgiving host in our family every year. I used to roast my turkey with sage butter between the skin, but tried this recipe this year. This will be my go to from now on. It was delicious and moist. I received so many compliments. The only down side, there were no leftover for a turkey sandwich later. There was nothing left but bones!

  52. 5 stars
    I made it for thanksgiving this year and it was absolutely perfect! The best turkey I’ve ever made in 30 years of cooking! Thank you!

  53. 5 stars
    We’ve been using this recipe since 2020 (our 4th time using it!) and we will never do it any other way! I tell everyone about it but very few have listened. Shame because I’ve never tasted a better turkey! Thanks for this post!

  54. 3 stars
    Me again. I wanted one star again, but it wouldn’t let me. Terrible time typing with one finger. I would love to know what I did wrong to end up with a complete disaster. I used a deep roasting pan. When temperature hit 160, I did what you said. I covered and waited for temperature to hit 165. I guess I didn’t check enough places. How could it be done in one place and yet raw in others?

  55. 5 stars
    Great recipe. Easy. Everyone loved the turkey. Mine was 19.60 pounds.
    If your oven is a convection oven. Check the turkey about an hour before what a regular oven takes to cook it.

  56. 1 star
    I was so happy to find an easy recipe. I followed your recipe to letter. 325 for about 3 hours. It was nicely browned on top. Took it out of the oven can checked temp. It was 160 in one or two spots. I started my stovetop stuffing and instant mash potatoes. Then my wife started carving. It was raw. In the mean time my stuffing and potatoes are done and no turkey. Long story short. Stuffing and potatoes are dried out. Turkey a total disaster. It seemed to be done in spots and raw in others. Thank goodness for Swansons tv dinner. Never again.

  57. 5 stars
    Turned out beautiful and very delicious and tasty!

    This recipe is simply the best!!!

    I’m using this from now on!

    Thank you so much!

  58. 5 stars
    I’m trying to make this recipe, but my turkey is partially frozen! Has anyone had this experience? I’m now using instructions to cook a frozen turkey, but plan on switching to this recipe once I can remove the turkey neck and giblets.

    1. You can soak in cold water to try and thaw it more quickly just make sure to change out the cold water with new water every 30 mins

    2. Yes it will work! You’re just going to have to roast for longer. Hard to say how much longer but I once you get over the 4-5 hour mark start tracking its temperature. And once the skin looks nice and golden brown you probably want to tent with foil so that the outside doesn’t get overcooked.

    3. Hey, same happened to me. I left it out for a day and a half. Was still semi frozen. I just used my muscles and pulled out and cut all of the giblets out. I’m now following this recipe and it defrosted as I went along.

    4. Look up how to do a turkey water bath. You can’t cook a partially frozen turkey, it can grow bacteria. You’ll need to do a water bath to bring it to room temp, then follow these instructions. Good luck and happy Thanksgiving!

    5. 4 stars
      Gosh yes! This also happened to me earlier today, and ended up making the whole process a lot longer than planned for! I had my 14 lb bird in the fridge since Sunday, and the cavity was still solid even after sitting out for 1 hour. What I ended up doing was run warm water inside the cavity to loosen up the neck and then plucked out the gizzards one by one with tongs that have gripper teeth on them. I also had to bake it an hour longer since the thicker parts of it wasn’t hitting 160 yet. Fortunately my family was okay with the longer wait, but really… the whole thing was a little fusterating. I wonder if it was that generic brand?

  59. I haven’t cooked a turkey in years, so I found this recipe and I just put a 21 lb bird in the oven. Had to make a couple changes as I didn’t have an orange or apple. But close to the rest! Can’t wait to eat it later. You mentioned 3-3.5 hours but I thought turkey was 15 minutes per pound which would be 5 hours!?! So I’ve planned for 4 and check it then!! Thank you in advance!!

  60. I tried this recipe last year and it was a hit! This was absolutely the most flavorful and juicy turkey I’ve ever had! I’ll be using this recipe from now on!

  61. This is my third year using this recipe and it’s amazing. 2 years ago I was newly married to the oldest son of a family who had been doing thanksgiving at the boss sisters house forever. She handled all of the main things and desserts as she’s a baker. I decided that I was going to try the turkey and was immediately terrified so I started to RESEARCH. This recipes seemed easy and boy was it a home run! I’m the turkey maker every year lol. I’ve added my own tweaks like the amount of herbs and adding lemon juice to the herb butter but I don’t think I’ll ever not use this recipe as my guide.

  62. 5 stars
    This will be my third year using this recipe. As Lauren said, family loves how the Turkey looks and taste!

  63. I have a roaster pan with a lid. Do I use the lid to cover the turkey only AFTER the bird is browned? Do I NOT use the lid DURING the first stages of cooking? Thank you

    1. Not sure if it’s too late to answer this or not, but we did some research on this very question last year. Basically the only difference is the turkey won’t brown/crisp up in the bag like it will if left out. We opted to skip the bag and prepared it EXACTLY as this recipe describes and it came out perfectly. Five stars all around and the family raves about it! This year’s turkey is currently in the oven (with no bag again) for round 2. 🙂 good luck!

  64. Going to give this recipe a try! My daughter usually hosts thanksgiving but this year I will . She thinks I can’t cook a turkey , hope this proves her wrong!

  65. 5 stars
    No doubt, this is the best turkey recipe ever! I fortunately stumbled upon it last year and it was a downright home run!!! Turkey is so flavorful and juicy, everyone was raving about it! Hosting Thanksgiving can be intimidating but this recipe is a standout and couldn’t be simpler to follow! Thank you so much Lauren! Happy Thanksgiving y’all.

  66. 5 stars
    This is the first time I’ve made a turkey & it seems intimidating, but reading this recipe blog post I do feel more confident! I’m excited to see how it turns out! I don’t have any lemons so hopefully that doesn’t make a huge difference 🤞

    1. 5 stars
      I host Thanksgiving every year and never veer from my turkey recipe. But when I saw how many great reviews this recipe got, and how easy it seemed, I decided to try it. It came out incredible! Delicious, tender and no work after it’s in the over! Everyone loved it. My new go to recipe for turkey! Thanks!

  67. 5 stars
    This is my go to recipe. I can add if I want but I usually stick to the instructions. Often extra butter but that’s me.

  68. 5 stars
    My very picky kids LOVE this recipe! All 5 of ‘em!! They tell me it’s so juicy! We had started only doing hams every holiday until we tried this recipe. Welcome back turkey!!

    1. I’m trying it now and it almost ruined my turkey, eventhough I followed instructions. Hubby had to rescue the poor turkey. I hope yours turns out better!

      1. Can you share more details? How did it almost ruined the turkey and how did your husband rescued it? I’m going to use this recipe in the morning!

      2. 5 stars
        If you are referring to some smoke, splatter and burning from the butter hitting the roasting pan as it melts, I too am trying this recipe for the first time and had that problem after about 10 minutes in the oven. Poured a cup or so of chicken stock into the bottom of the roasting pan and problemo solved.
        20 pounder in the oven at 10:30 and at 10:50, the house already smells heavenly of roasting garlic and turkey. Can’t wait to dig in this afternoon!

      3. Could you please explain more? What happened? How was it ruined, or almost ruined? What steps did you take prior to something going wrong?
        The comment was extremely vague. More details would make it helpful.

  69. I made this Turkey for for Thanksgiving last year and it was hands down the best turkey I’ve ever had! Everyone loved it and have asked me to make it again tomorrow for Thankgiving so praying it will come out as good as it did last year 🙏

  70. Very noob oven user here. I only see: bake or broil option on my oven. The instruction says roast at 325. Which one do I use?

    1. Bake is what you use.
      Broil is usually just for browning the top with cheese or the skin of the bird. Broil only heats from top. You’ll do great! 😊

  71. I have a 20lb Foster Farms Turkey. Do I have to brine it? Or will it turn out fine with this recipe? Please someone let me know

    1. I’m not familiar with Foster Farms brand BUT unless it’s a wild turkey or you are smoking it, you most likely do NOT need to brine it. Happy Thanksgiving!

  72. I plan to roast our 18 pound turkey using this recipe on Friday. My wife is giving me the side eye over the addition of 6 to 8 cloves of minced garlic to the mix. “Garlic and turkey?” she says. Does the garlic over power the rest of the herbs? Thanks in advance, and I will report back. 🙂

    1. Popping in to say the same thing – definitely no overpowering garlic taste at all! For a turkey this size like the recipe calls for, you’d probably need like 20-30 cloves to be “too” garlicky. 🙂

  73. 5 stars
    Never liked turkey. My kids didn’t like turkey. My wife didn’t like turkey. Been grilling steaks for the past 10 years. Moved to France last year, and being Americans in France now, a) we don’t have a Thursday holiday (so did it Wednesday aka today) and b) gotta do a turkey for once to represent… Yankees in baguetteland, duh.
    Needless to say, my google search found this recipe and, despite having no clue what to do, I followed the recipe to a tee and we all like turkey now. Clueless tip: I opted for the foil post-browning and it was juicy and delicious. 11 pound turkey for 2h20m with the foil at 1h20. Was great. A+++

    Ps no gravy or any of the classics… just scooped the juice from the drip into the carved meat and voila!
    *french accent* Les Gobbles gobbles

  74. I absolutely love this recipe! I use it every year and get so many compliments. The combination of seasonings and putting it under the skin results in a juicy and tender turkey.

  75. I’ve used this recipe the past several Thanksgivings, cooking an 18-20lbs bird in an electric counter top roaster. Perfect for easy, all purpose, traditional holiday turkey. Tender and flavorful every time. Thank you!

  76. I plan on using a disposable roasting pan and roasting the turkey over chopped potatoes, carrots, celery, squash and onion. Is there a reason you do not recommend eating the veggies that the turkey roasts on?

    1. Me too! 3rd year. I eat the veggies underneath. Nothing wrong with them. Just not your best show. My parents served them all the time. Great flavor. Sometimes weird texture. Some are worried about raw turkey juices. Add the veggies to the gravy and you cook off any raw. But that’s not really necessary according to my grandma. The heat did its job

  77. Last year, I followed this recipe exactly as it is written and it was wonderful! It was beautiful and delicious and we didn’t even have any leftovers! I’m cooking it again this year! It was so good that I’m hoping it wasn’t beginner’s luck! Lol

  78. Hello & happy holidays!. I’m trying your Best Sweet Potato Casserole this year, shaking it up a little instead of the usual although much loved candied yams. I’m looking forward to them!
    In regard to the turkey, it is just my son and I this year so I went with a bone-in Turkey breast. ( It was delivered a little larger than I need at 8 pounds but I’ll be sending a lot of leftovers home with my 27 year old son who lives in a big house full of 6 bachelors..I’m sure they will all get eaten!) I digress. My turkey breast…do you think I can prepare it the same way as your recipe states and get a similar result? I thought about putting the aromatics in the pan with the other veggies that the turkey breast will be sitting on while roasting. What do you think…will that work?
    I would appreciate your thoughts.
    Peace, Sara

      1. 5 stars
        Would you suggest to stuff the apples, onions, and lemons in the day of? Or is this something you can also do the day before?

        Thank you so much! 🙂

  79. 5 stars
    I hosted last year and made my first ever turkey following this recipe. I was told numerous times how it was the best turkey they’ve had. So.. came back to snag the recipe again to make this year as well. I appreciate how simple this is and allows me time to visit with guests instead of slaving in the kitchen all day. Thank you!!

  80. What is the purpose of the fruits and vegetables inside the Turkey? Is there anything else that can be substituted for them?

    1. You can put any aromatics you like inside the turkey. They add a little flavor, but are mostly there to keep the turkey moist, from the steam they create in the cavity.

  81. 5 stars
    This is my first year trying this recipe! It seems almost too easy compared to some of the recipes I’ve tried in the past. This is also my first fresh organic fed bird so I’m hoping for a great outcome. Will post results after Thanksgiving dinner.

      1. Much easier and safer to cook the stuffing outside the bird. With the recipe you have other stuff in the cavity so definitely bake the stuffing in its own container and serve alongside the turkey. Have fun!

  82. 5 stars
    I am looking forward to making this. I have all the ingredients. I did buy the brand O Organics Whole Turkey Frozen It does not say salted brined. Do I need to brine it?

    1. Read the ingredient list and all over the packaging to see if any additional salt/water was added. If not, you can brine it if you’d like, or even do a dry brine if you don’t want to submerge it in a wet brine.

      1. 5 stars
        Thank you for the reply Lauren! I went ahead and started the dry brine last night.
        One more question, can I still use the herb butter recipe even if using a brine? Will that be too much? Some recommend just doing a dry brine with no additional favoring or butter.

  83. 5 stars
    This is my second year and second time making a Turkey and this recipe really makes it so easy! It’s the best Turkey I’ve had and not dry whatsoever! I would just make extra herb butter, it’s the best part of it. Thank you!

  84. 5 stars
    Curious if anyone dried their turkey in the fridge a day or two before cooking? Drying always seems to help crisp up the skin, but I don’t want to mess with this great recipe.

    1. 5 stars
      Here is a great tip if your turkey comes out a little dry. Set it on the table on top of something to catch the water. Then take a pitcher of warm water and completely saturate the turkey with the water. This will turn the turkey from being dry to a nice, moist and very wet turkey! If the turkey is still dry, simply submerge the turkey and a bucket water for about 15 minutes. Again, problem solved!

    1. What kind of turkey did you buy? The label will tell you if it’s been injected with any salt water solution.brine. If not, brining it would be great.

  85. 5 stars
    Best Thanksgiving Turkey I’ve every made. Everyone commented on how tender and flavorful the turkey was. Thank you for this great recipe

  86. 5 stars
    Made this last year — the first time I ever hosted a Thanksgiving meal and cooked a whole turkey. It was the easily best I’ve ever had! Honestly, I never even knew Thanksgiving turkey could come out tasting so moist. I couldn’t even believe that *I* was the one who made this. We’re hosting again this year, and I made a “test turkey” earlier this month on my husband’s request – still excellent. Can’t wait to make again on Thursday. I also make your outstanding stuffing and I just generally really like your recipe-writing style – your instructions are so thorough, well-explained, and easy-to-follow. Cheers, thanks again, and a very happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!

  87. I just wanted to thank you for this recipe. Last year, my husband and I were tasked with hosting Thanksgiving for the first time in our lives – for 16 people. We had never made a turkey ever. I found this recipe, we followed it to a T, and the turkey was both gorgeous and DELICIOUS. We got so many compliments, and my grandma, who had hosted for 40 years, teared up telling me how proud she was of me lol! I bookmarked this and we’re preparing to make it again this year (albeit for a smaller group this time.) THANK YOU so much for the incredible recipe and the best turkey any of us have ever had!

  88. 5 stars
    Since I’m back here again this year I figured I should leave a comment. This is the ONLY turkey recipe I’ve gone back to two years in a row. It was absolutely delicious.

  89. 5 stars
    Normally turkey not a favorite meat but this recipe was s game changer- so good!! Turkey had delicious favor and with this recipe we will have turkey often. Thanks, Jean

  90. I made this yesterday for an early Thanksgiving. I usually brine and clean up all of that mess to try to achieve a moist bird. This turkey truly was SO easy. I probably spent 15 minutes putting in the herb butter and stuffing the cavity. I put it in the oven and unlike my normal self, I never opened the door or basted until the timer went off. A friend just asked me where she can get a cooked hot bird on Thanksgiving. I said she could get it at my house. I’m going to make it for her. It was that easy. I literally just have to turn on the oven. It was juicy, tender, delicious, and extremely easy. Highly recommend!

  91. Hi Laura,

    I want to make your recipe for Thanksgiving this year. It’s my first time making a turkey from scratch. I did buy a 12 pound butterball. I want to ask if I need to season the outside of the turkey with additional salt/pepper as it is my understanding that butterballs are pre brined. Also, how much salt/pepper should I put inside the turkey?

    1. Hi Stephen, yes you can salt and pepper all over the outside and inside the turkey cavity. I don’t measure it– just sprinkle some on, like seasoning any meat.

  92. Is it okay to use salted butter instead of unsalted for the herb butter? First time cooking the turkey (ah !)
    Thanks!!

      1. Do you recommend taking the turkey out of the packaging the night before and letting the skin dry out in the fridge? I heard that this can help with getting crispier skin. I have a pre-brined turkey

  93. I can’t find fresh herbs. I was told last minute that I will be doing a turkey. Do I get the 75oz dried. Use the teaspoon to tablespoon like the notes say and use the rest of the 75oz in the cavity? Or only some?

    1. For the herb butter you will need 1 tablespoon chopped thyme and rosemary, and 1/2 tablespoons chopped sage. Any remaining herbs you can stuff in the cavity of the bird.

  94. Can anyone answer, exactly where do you check the temperature for the 160 degrees? I have an instant read thermo., but never cooked a turkey before. Thanks!

    1. You can watch the video and see where I test it–you want to check it in the thickest parts of the thigh meat and breast meat (don’t hit bone, or it will measure a hotter temperature than it actually is).

  95. 5 stars
    This will be the third year I’m cooking my Thanksgiving turkey with this recipe. My family and friends said it’s the best turkey they have ever eaten. It comes out so juicy and flavorful. Never dry. When my mother decided to stop cooking for Thanksgiving, this was the recipe I found and decided to give it a try for the first time ever cooking a turkey. I love using the fresh herbs and garlic for the butter and stuffing some inside. They smell wonderful and earthy. Using apples, lemons and onions inside is such a great idea. The aroma when it’s cooking is amazing. This recipe is opposite of how my mother cooked and prepped her turkey. The old school traditional way of washing the turkey, putting stuffing inside, constantly basting it, ect. Now I know why her turkey was dry all those years. My family and friends look forward to my turkey every year now! I want to thank you so much for your Thanksgiving turkey recipe!

  96. I’m going to try this recipe! It looks simple enough! I’m not a cook so please excuse the ignorance of this question but I’m wondering if the lemon, apple & onion that goes inside the turkey is just for flavor? Or does that get eaten too?

  97. 5 stars
    Made this the last 2 years and it was the best turkey we’ve ever had. Making it again this year. Going to try a brine first but if you’ve never made this it’s probably not necessary just something I want to try. Came here for the recipe again and thought I’d add my praise.

  98. I made this recipe last New Year’s Eve. My Turkey came out delicious moist and tender. I did have to cook my Turkey longer than the recipe calls for but it came out Perfect.

    I’m going to use this recipe again this Thanksgiving!! But I have a question can I prep the turkey on Wednesday night so I can have it ready to pop in the oven Early Thanksgiving morning? Thank You!!

    1. Leaving uncovered in the fridge overnight is actually desirable as it lets the skin dry out yielding a crisper skin after roasting. ATK has some videos on this method but it’s really just very straightforward.

  99. 5 stars
    We’ve made this for 2 years and it’s been absolutely delicious. This year I’m wondering if I could make it the day before and then just warm it up. Would that dry it out?

    1. If you want to make it ahead, I would prep it with the herb butter and refrigerate overnight, then bake it day of. I don’t recommend reheating the whole turkey the next day or it would be dry. If you want to cook it ahead, then I would carve it and rewarm the meat the next day in a pan with simmering chicken broth, before serving.

  100. 5 stars
    In addition to your recipe, I did an overnight wet-brine with the turkey, however I’m giving all props to your recipe. I served 10 women, who have been cooking and eating turkey for years, and they said it was the best turkey they’ve ever had. And I agree!! Amazing flavor. Dare I say, crave worthy turkey!! I mean how many people really love turkey. Most of us only eat it once a year. This recipe has me wanting to put it on the menu monthly! Absolutely delicious! Thank you so much for sharing it with everyone. I’ve passed it along to all the ladies as well.

  101. 5 stars
    I’ve read some of the great reviews and decided not to buy a precooked turkey! I am excited to try this recipe as well as the gravy recipe! Question- how do you prepare the turkey as far as cleaning/washing? Is this necessary? Thank you!

    1. Awesome, you’ve got this! You don’t wash it (that will just add bacteria to your sink, and any bacteria on it will be killed in the hot oven while it cooks). Open the bag inside your sink so the juices run out, and then place it on a big baking sheet or cutting board and pat it dry with paper towels, all of the outside and inside the cavity.

  102. 2 stars
    Was so excited to try this recipe after I read the reviews! But I’m sorely disappointed, I followed the cook time rules and I’m way past that and it’s still not even close to being done, followed the recipe exactly as written and now it’s very late and still no turkey.

    1. If that’s the case, your oven temperature could be off (test with a thermometer) or the turkey was still frozen. This is a fool proof recipe and 13-15 minutes per pound is standard across the board in terms of cooking time for a turkey.

  103. I have made this recipe before with excellent results. I am not a turkey lover but really enjoyed the turkey last year.
    This year I messed up and got a 22lb turkey. Can I still use this recipe? How do I adjust?

    1. Yes, you can! With a turkey that big, you may actually want to consider brining it (the longer it takes the turkey to cook, the more likely to get dry). Otherwise I would cover all of the breast meat with foil for most of the baking time, and remove it closer to the end, for the skin to get brown.

  104. 5 stars
    Made the juiciest brown skin magazine cover worthy Turkey I’ve ever made. It seems like a lot of butter, but it’s worth it to use every ounce of it.

    We added stuffing instead of the listed ingredients, and it all came out great.

  105. 5 stars
    I think this will be the fourth year I make this recipe. It turns out so perfect every time, I don’t change a thing. The turkey can be such an intimidating thing to make for Thanksgiving dinner, but if you follow these directions exactly, it’s foolproof!

  106. 5 stars
    I made my very first turkey for Thanksgiving 2 years ago when I was pregnant. It was also the day I announced my pregnancy to my whole family!! So this turkey recipe is so special to me. Everyone loved the turkey. It was so juicy and flavorful. I was so proud of myself! Now I’m planning to make it this year in our new home with my son. I hope it goes well this year too. Thank you for such a fantastic recipe!

  107. 5 stars
    Used this recipe twice. Did exactly as recommended. It was great success . Doing it again this year. Thank you so much!

  108. 5 stars
    I have used this recipe at Thanksgiving for 5 years and it has always been a huge hit. Turkey is always moist, skin perfectly cooked. The herb butter is fantastic tasting! Some years I do the apples, lemons, and onions inside. Other years I just put in herbs. Couple hints, if you stuff the turkey with apples and spices, you can use those apples for a fantastic dressing afterwards! Makes sure to tent foil the wings when they brown, they always brown first and need a tent. The recipe produces some juice for gravy, but I find it does not make enough for a substantial amount because the turkey is so juicy. Better to make a giblets gravy than rely on extra turkey juice, which is not bad… just something to note.

  109. 5 stars
    Looks simple and has great reviews so I’m going to try. Only thing is I do not cook with salt in regular dishes. I use Goya Adobo so not sure how much salt to use for a 14 pound. Any suggesting?

  110. Hey Lauren!

    I loved the simplicity of this turkey but found the meat a little dry during my trial run. I know my oven isn’t too hot, used a piece of foil to tent, checked the temp with a digital thermometer, etc. Any tips to prevent this result next time?

    1. Anne Marie, add more wet ingredients inside, as much as I can fit. I had an extra orange leftover from the cranberry sauce, and always extra apples, lemons, onion. The herb butter is what will give that beautiful flavor and texture, so you really want to stuff it with things that will release steam. I stuff as much of that inside as I can fit. The fruit doesn’t really add too much flavor, but the extra liquid steams the bird from the inside, so the meat is juicier. If you have ever seen a beer can chicken, it’s the same effect.

  111. 5 stars
    I have made this recipe several times and the turkey is delicious. My family loves it and I usually don’t have left overs. Flavor is great and the meat is juicy. This my go to recipe for Thanksgiving.

  112. 5 stars
    Amazing! I had never made a Thanksgiving Turkey before but I have used this recipe for the last two years and it has been delicious both times. And so easy to do! Thank you!

  113. I’ve been making turkey basting and stuffing for 5 years until…….THIS ONE!! Dear god this is way better and so much easier!!! So juicy and flavorful. This is the easiest perfectly perfect turkey! Thank you!

  114. If using a boneless breast (nothing to stuff), are there ways I could incorporate the apple and lemon for flavor?

  115. Excited to try out this recipe! Planning to use a fresh turkey instead of frozen. Not planning to brine. Has anyone tried this?

    1. Yes–it’s if you use a frozen store-turkey (like butterball or Jennie-o) you don’t need to brine it. If it’s fresh/organic, then you should brine it.

  116. 5 stars
    Hi I am worried this will not be enough salt for a whole turkey. 1 tsp on the outside doesn’t seem like a lot? Please advise thanks!

    1. The 1 teaspoon of salt is for the herb butter. You should salt and pepper the turkey all over the outside, and inside the center cavity.

  117. 5 stars
    Last year was my first year making a turkey for thanksgiving and this recipe saved me! I’ll 100% be using again this year.

  118. 5 stars
    I am not the best cook. I made this for Thanksgiving 2022. I have never heard as much praise about turkey as I heard about this one. It was wonderful. I highly recommend following this recipe exactly.

  119. Do you think it would be better to do convection or non-convection? I don’t care how long it takes to cook. Thank you!

    1. Convection works really well and creates a very consistent cook on all parts. Just watch the wings and remember it will take less time.

  120. 5 stars
    Last year, I used this recipe exactly as you have it and it was delicious wonderful! Everyone loved it and there were no leftovers! It was so beautiful. I just looked back to make sure I had this recipe saved. The herb butter was the delicious. Thanks, Lauren!

  121. I need to make a turkey plus additional turkey breasts for many guests. How should I cook the additional turkey breasts?

  122. Lauren, hello. My oven is pretty basic and only has “bake” and “broil” options. Most turkey recipes require to “roast. Can I still prepare the turkey in accordance with your recipe and then bake it at 325 F? Thank you.

  123. I would like to know if it’s possible to substitute olive oil for the butter. I have a guest coming that can’t eat any dairy products so I would need to use either olive oil or ghee. Thank you.

  124. Hello, I love your recipe and instructional video. I am wondering if I can prep the turkey the night before I cook it or is it better to prep and then put it directly in oven?
    Thanks

  125. Made this for Thanksgiving and my family went wild! The best turkey they’ve ever had. I cooked it until the internal temperature was 165⁰F and it was incredibly moist. Everyone please try this recipe!!

  126. 5 stars
    I made the no fuss turkey, dressing (vegan style) and giblet gravy. The whole thanksgiving dinner was fantastic! everybody loved it. Thanks

  127. 5 stars
    My best friend and I started using this recipe about 4 years ago when we moved out together and made our own thanksgiving dinner for the first time.

    This recipe made the best turkey we have both EVER had and every year now we use it. It is forever bookmarked in my phone, Lauren we thank you forever!

  128. 5 stars
    excellent easy to follow – also the options of when & how to use foil; dried/fresh herb ratios. thank you!

  129. 5 stars
    This is seriously the best turkey recipe! I highly recommend using a fresh turkey, tastes so much better than a frozen one. This is the first time I’ve made a turkey that was actually juicy all the way through! Thank you!

  130. Hello I’m very excited to try this recipe this Thanksgiving. However I’d love to know what needs to be tweaked to do it on the BBQ (gas grill) so I can free up oven space for all the other dishes. Have you tried it on the grill? Do you have suggestions of how that changes your recipe, if at all, and the cooking temperature etc. Would love to hear your thoughts on that!

    1. Alexandra, please let us know what you did on the grill and how it turned out!

      My own experience with whole birds on the grill is limited to chicken roasters, so much smaller than a turkey, but the beer can style with the same herb butter prep method never fails to impress in taste or appearance.

  131. 4 stars
    I hate Thyme. Do you suggest just leaving it out, or substituting with something else? If so, what do I substitute it with?

  132. 5 stars
    Made this for Easter, and got rave reviews, “best turkey I’ve ever eaten” from the hard-core foodie at the table! Basic ingredients, simple steps, came out super juicy and so delicious. My go-to turkey recipe from now on!

  133. 1 star
    Not enough of a cook time. 165 is not properly cooked. Turkey was raw. And it ruined my Easter dinner.

    1. I’m sorry to hear that the turkey did not turn out well for you. It can be frustrating when a recipe does not yield the desired results.

      In regards to your comment about the cook time, I want to make sure I understand your concern correctly. It sounds like you felt that the turkey was not properly cooked at an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, is that correct?

      While the USDA recommends a minimum internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for poultry, it’s possible that the turkey may have needed additional time in the oven. Factors such as the size and shape of the turkey, the accuracy of your oven temperature, and the type of oven you’re using can all impact cooking time.

      If you’d like to provide more information about your experience, I’d be happy to help troubleshoot and offer suggestions for how to ensure your turkey is fully cooked and safe to eat in the future.

      1. 5 stars
        This is how my mom has always made her Turkey, since I was a child…except she does put stuffing inside her Turkey and it gets done perfectly. She starts with prep & on the table right on time every year. Early start, as in maybe 3am. 😅
        I can appreciate Stacy, on her patience, understanding and politeness, in replying to this specific comment; Although you may have felt that it “ruined” your Easter, it was no fault of hers, but your own. Always give yourself some extra time, just for those type of things- especially if it was your first time trying it out. Also, Easter is only ruined, if you have a negative outlook, as A Turkey isn’t what we’re celebrating to begin with. It’s all about perspective and spending time, coming together with family.

    2. 5 stars
      I can’t say enough good things about this recipe. I have used for the last few family dinners and most recently today for our family Easter dinner. I feel so confident about making turkey now. Thanks so much for sharing this recipe and preparation instructions, so easy to follow.

  134. 5 stars
    This is simply the best turkey recipe I have ever used. I’ve tried all the tricks, breast down, roasting bags, basting, brining, injecting and frying, smoking and this is hand;s down the BEST!! Always moist and delicious!! Thank you! I’ll never cook a turkey any other other way!

  135. 5 stars
    I love this recipe. Simple and the turkey came out just right. I picked up an extra turkey in November because they were so cheap and was kind of dreading doing the whole brining thing now in March. Your recipe made it easy.

  136. 5 stars
    Hey I made this for me and my husband Barty and he loved it and so did I and soo gonna make it for Thanksgiving!!!!

  137. 5 stars
    This past November I hosted Thanksgiving dinner for the very first time and used this recipe. The amount of positive feedback I got from friends and family was overwhelming! The bird was incredibly juicy and flavorful and earned me multiple nominations to make it again this upcoming Turkey Day lol

    This recipe really stole the show and I’m happy to add it to my collection.

  138. 5 stars
    I just made this for the second time. This recipe is GENIUS!! Since I made this for the first time last year I sware I’ve had a hard time eating anyone else’s cooked turkey. Both times it came out perfection! I think the apple is what does it for me, and the butter, herbs and garlic. The meat has a subtle apple taste which is what I love! Just the right hint of flavor. For the first time I actually like turkey meat ! I wanna try to get my mom to use this method next Thanksgiving! She makes a good turkey but this is just incredible !! Thank you !

  139. 5 stars
    This was the first Turkey I ever made, and I have not stopped making it!!! So juicy and delicious. “My” (your) turkey recipe quickly became the best turkey I’ve ever had. I see other comments stating it’s dry, and I don’t understand it, because mine is always so juicy. Another one states it’s not done because of pinkness, but as long as you checked multiple areas with and accurate thermometer and got 165, pink is safe!

  140. 5 stars
    This was my first time EVER trying to cook a turkey and this recipe was amazing!! I loved all the helpful steps and videos. I subbed the butter for olive oil and it still tasted amazing!!

  141. 5 stars
    This recipe is exactly as stated. So easy and the results were delicious. My family enjoyed it more than any turkey I’ve ever made and EVEN ate the dark meat.

  142. 1 star
    I usually do the cheesecloth method and tried this recipe out as something new and different. It came out SO Dry!! I felt like Clark in Christmas vacation cutting into the turkey. Horrible recipe!

    1. I have done this for years and never had it turn out dry. Check your thermometer, oven temp, time you roast it. Sounds more like operator error than the recipe.

  143. 3 stars
    Easy to prepare. However, for a 14 lb turkey I put it for 3.5 hours as suggested, but it came out pink and even red in some areas. I suggest more time for a thoroughly cooked turkey. The taste was overall good so I liked the seasonings, but I still think brining would have made it tastier. I also do recommend rinsing it. It did brown very nicely so the foil tent idea was great.

  144. 5 stars
    Outstanding! Most tender, juiciest turkey we’ve ever had! And sooooo easy! This is only the 2nd turkey I’ve ever roasted, and now I feel utterly confident if I ever cook another. I decided not to put stuffing inside. I used onion and lemon quarters. I didn’t have fresh herbs, so I used a mixture of poultry and Italian seasoning along with the minced garlic in the butter. I added a little onion and chili powder. I didn’t stick the thermometer in till it had been in for 13 minutes per pound, and the breast temperature was at 170 already so I took it out to rest tented, while I finished the gravy. When I carved it up, there was loads of juice inside the breast meat. Thank you so much for taking the stress out of this important meal.

  145. 5 stars
    I wish I could add more than 5 stars! I was so nervous making the Turkey this Christmas for my in-laws but this recipe was SPOT ON! So juicy and delicious and excellent flavor. The whole house smelled amazing. We had a 20 lb Turkey and followed the directions/timing exactly and the results were absolutely perfect, saving recipe for next year! Thank you!

    Ps I added the onions, celery and carrots in the bottom of my roasting pan as the “rack” and it resulted in the best tasting gravy I’ve ever made, I didn’t need any additional broth or seasoning, just some Wondra and it was incredible.

  146. 5 stars
    I wish I could add more than 5 stars! I was so nervous making the Turkey this Christmas for my in-laws but this recipe was SPOT ON! So juicy and delicious and excellent flavor. The whole house smelled amazing. We had a 20 lb Turkey and followed the directions/timing exactly and the results were absolutely perfect, saving recipe for next year! Thank you!

  147. 5 stars
    We have been using this recipe now for a few years and my whole extended family raves about it every time. So easy…but SO good! I never really liked Turkey breast meat until trying this recipe. 😅

    We have never tried the bed of veggies before but this year we are going to!

  148. 5 stars
    Made my first turkey for Thanksgiving and everyone went crazy for it and couldn’t believe it was my first turkey. I’m using this same recipe for Christmas today. Thank you!

  149. 5 stars
    Best turkey recipe, we followed the recipe for our 2022 Christmas celebration dinner last night and it came out perfect. Moist and tasty. This recipe is so simple will definitely use this over again, thank you so much!

  150. 5 stars
    This truly is the best turkey I’ve ever had. I’ve made it for our family Christmas gathering for 2 years now and everyone raves about it. It’s so flavorful and juicy. Definitely the only way I’ll be cooking turkey from now on.

  151. 5 stars
    This is a great recipe, it’s my second time using it this year.
    I got great responses from everyone. I had to do it again.

  152. 5 stars
    I have made this turkey recipe several times. Took the worry out for me. Comes out perfectly every time. Thank you. Perfection.

  153. 5 stars
    This turned out great. Family was very pleased with the flavor and moisture of the turkey. Turkey wasn’t dry at all. Must be the cup of butter! Rubbing it under skin seems to be the trick. Used dried herbs and was happy with results. Also had to use the foil tent as suggested because bird browned nicely about 2 hours in and probably would have burned on outside if not for adding the foil, but that could be my oven, but recommend following that tip. Thanks for sharing, will come back to this!

  154. 5 stars
    Second time making Turkey – this came out great – juicy and flavory -will use this from now on . Easy and quick plenty of drippings for gravy – Made a 20 lb bird and was done perfect in 4 hours. Thank you for sharing you recipe.

  155. 5 stars
    I tried this recipe for Thanksgiving this year, and everyone loved it! My sister typically does all the big stuff to prepare the Thanksgiving turkey (brining, basting, injections), but she kept sneaking bites as it was being carved and she loved it 🙂 Thanks for making this so approachable Lauren! I’m a big fan!

  156. 5 stars
    Wow this turned out great! I have never made a large turkey without using an oven bag and then with the bag there is no crispy skin. My turkey came out brown and just like your picture & everyone loved it! Thank you for sharing!! This was an easy but super delicious turkey!

  157. 5 stars
    Year 3 of using this recipe for the turkey on Thanksgiving and just as perfect as year’s past. The method is so simple yet so fool-proof. Make sure you have a digital thermometer to check the turkey’s internal temperature as cooking times vary so much by weight and oven type.

    I think the key to this recipe’s success is the herb butter coating the turkey’s surface. It really helps to give it a nice color and keeps it moist throughout. In my oven and with a 16-ish pound turkey it will appear golden brown after about 1.5 hours after which I use a foil tent to keep the skin form burning.

    I may make some small changes here and there in the future, but I can’t say enough good things about this recipe. What a winner!

  158. Thank you so much for this step-by-step, easy to follow instruction! My husband gets a free turkey from work every year and I never really knew how to properly cook it (always turned out dry). The turkey came out fantastic this time. Juicy and flavorful. I even made gravy with the drippings for the first time. I can’t wait to use all of the delicious meat for all sorts of different meals!

  159. 5 stars
    Best most awesome delicious receipe. It worked to the T. Family loved it. Tasted moist and like chicken. Even the non-turkey eaters loved it. Thank you for sharing

  160. 5 stars
    This worked wonderfully! Awesome tip about melting the butter enough to brush it on top. So flavorful and I appreciated the options to use dried herbs.

  161. 5 stars
    This worked wonderfully! Awesome tip about melting the butter enough to brush it on top. So flavorful and I appreciated the options to use dried herbs.

  162. 5 stars
    WOW!!! I posted a question earlier last week before making this, and had to follow up here after thanksgiving… This was my first time ever making a turkey, and we hosted 16 people total (so needless to say, I was a bit worried how the turkey would come out). But this recipe is fool-proof! I had relatives saying this was the best turkey they ever had (including my dad, who has made the turkey the previous 25 yrs!). The turkey was moist, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. Only suggestion/advice- I’d personally use 12-15 mins per lb as a guide, depending on your oven. My 24 lb turkey was done at about 12 mins per lb, which meant it was ready a few hrs before lunch, as we estimated it to cook at least 14-15 mins per lb. So definitely consider whether your oven runs hot before estimating your cook time. Overall though, this wasn’t an issue and we heated the turkey back in the oven once guests arrived 🙂

    This was my first recipe off this site, but absolutely will be checking out more after this hit! Will never try another turkey recipe. Thank you sooo much!

  163. 5 stars
    I made my very first turkey this year using this recipe and my husband said it was the first turkey he’s ever actually liked because it was juicy and not dry at all. I bombed the gravy, but the turkey was so good on its own that it worked out. 😂

  164. 5 stars
    First turkey I’ve ever roasted. It was perfection! Followed your gravy recipe at the bottom of this page and used the meat from the neck only and it was the most rich flavorful gravy ever 🙂

  165. 5 stars
    Absolutely amazing recipe. My turkey came out golden brown, juicy and delicious! This is my third year in a row using this recipe, never fails!

  166. 5 stars
    It was totally delicious. So moist. Beautiful color. Thank you so much. I’ve never left the lid off my roaster before because I was always afraid it would dry out. Now I’m so excited about having another turkey because it was so good. Thank you! My family loved it !

  167. 5 stars
    This is the ULTIMATE turkey recipe! It was so easy and the turkey was the juiciest turkey we have ever made this year…HIGHLY recommend, hands down best turkey recipe especially for Thanksgiving.

  168. 5 stars
    Only the 2nd turkey I have ever made and by far One of the best I’ve ever eaten. That should say a lot for this easy no fuss delight.

  169. 5 stars
    I made this for Thanksgiving this year and it was a huge hit. Everyone could not believe how juicy it turned out.

    This is now my go-to turkey recipe. Thank you!

  170. 5 stars
    Excellent recipe. The turkey came out very juicy and flavorful! It was so easy, and made me look like an expert chef!

  171. I tried the recipe for the first time. This is my eighth turkey that I have cooked myself. The big chunks of vegetable and fruit are a great idea. This is by far the most moist white meat that I have ever tasted. The spices are a good mix. Not to overwhelming. Skin was golden brown. I tented the turkey half way through the cook time. I believe your 160 degrees is too low. I checked the turkey at 160 degrees and the meat was not cooked all the way. My meat thermometer says cook poultry to 185 degrees. I cooked the turkey to 180 degrees and the meat was done. I will try this recipe again. Thank-you.

  172. 5 stars
    This recipe made our whole dinner! THANK YOU!!! Every year we have tried a different way to prepare the turkey because we have yet to find one that everyone likes. We will be doing it this way from now on. EVERYONE loved how this turkey came out!

  173. 5 stars
    Wow this was my first time making turkey for thanksgiving and it came out amazing! It was simple and easy to follow but bursting with flavor and tenderness.
    I usually go to my family’s for thanksgiving so I was nervous but it came out so great. My family really enjoyed it! Thank you so much for sharing this recipe. I will be making this again next year!

  174. 5 stars
    This was the best turkey I have ever tasted, let alone made. It was moist and flavorful, not dry in the least. I was so happy! This will definitely be my recipe I use for years to come. Thank you!

  175. I have bern making this recipe for three years now. Everyone always compliment me on how hood the turkey is. I do add other seasoning to my liking but everything else I still do. Thank you for this recipe.

  176. 5 stars
    This is the second (or maybe third?) year in a row I’ve made this turkey for Thanksgiving and it always gets rave reviews. This year we had some friends over for games night on Friday so I heated up some leftovers for everyone and the turkey was still moist and delicious even reheated!

  177. Wow. This was THE best explanation of how to cook a Thanksgiving turkey ever! I’ve cooked many Thanksgiving turkeys, but whether it’s your first time or your 20th time, this blog post is so helpful, with tips and tricks I’ve never thought of! I’ll be saving this page to refer back to every year for myself, and also for new cooks.

  178. 5 stars
    I made this turkey yesterday using a 15 pound butterball. I never tasted a better turkey and everyone raves about it! We had leftovers today and the meat was still so juicy and tender after microwaving! Thank you so much for sharing your recipe! I’m sure I’ll be asked to prepare it again next year.

  179. This Turkey really was “no fuss” and so moist and juicy. I added a cheese cloth to the top while baking and it browned so beautifully.

  180. 5 stars
    I used this recipe for thanksgiving and my turkey was moist and delicious. It’s easy and the flavors are not over powering Everyone loved it.

  181. 5 stars
    This is the first turkey I made ever. Thank sweet Jesus I found and used this recipe.

    Most of my family doesn’t care for turkey (including myself) because it is typically so dry. My sister-in-law desperately wanted a turkey because “it’s not Thanksgiving without a turkey”. I was volunteered to make the turkey. We had an 18.5lb turkey. I used the exact recipe. EVERYONE raved how tender, juicy and delicious it was. The best part is it was SO easy and didn’t take that long to make.

    I’ve now been assigned to forever make the turkey. Thank you for the recipe!

  182. 5 stars
    This was my first time ever making a Thanksgiving turkey, and it came out perfectly! My entire family said it was the best Turkey they’ve ever had. It was so tender and juicy and flavorful. I honestly can’t say enough good things about this recipe, and it required zero basting, and zero brining? Literal Perfection!

  183. 5 stars
    Thank you so much for this incredible recipe! I made it for the first time yesterday for Thanksgiving. It honestly was the best turkey I have ever tasted! I got rave reviews from all of my guests. The best ones were from my adult children who usually don’t even like turkey, they just eat the sides. That all changed yesterday with your wonderful recipe. They not only asked for seconds but asked to take home leftovers. I normally make only turkey breast’s as I was intimidated with making a whole turkey. I’ll never go back as this recipe is now a family favorite! Thanks for your easy to follow directions as well as the video on how to carve it. Thanks again!!😊

  184. I used this recipe at Thanksgiving this year and my family said this was my best turkey yet. I loved that I was able to achieve such good results without the hassle of brining.
    I added a quarter cup of maple syrup to the herb butter for a hint of sweetness.

  185. 5 stars
    Kudos, Lauren! I’ve prepared a lot of turkeys over the years and this recipe produced the most moist and delicious bird ever. Even my father-in-law complimented me multiple times on the flavor and the day-after sandwiches were just as delicious. I can’t wait to make another to see if I get similar results.

  186. Made for a very flavorful turkey! The video was especially helpful so we could know which way to fill in the turkey.

  187. 5 stars
    I made this turkey yesterday for Thanksgiving 2022 and it was great. Super easy, no fuss just as promised. People were surprised that the white meat was moist while the dark meat thouroughly cooked. I did use my oven meat thermometer and took it out when it hit 160ish.

  188. 5 stars
    Such an easy and yummy turkey recipe! The ease of this recipe allowed be to enjoy more free time and not worry about the turkey. 🤗

  189. 5 stars
    I was so nervous first time cooking a 20-lbs turkey but your recipe nailed it! Truly juicy and delicious! Thank you for sharing your cooking expertise! I will continue to use this recipe every year!

  190. 5 stars
    I have been trying different turkey recipes for several years, having taken over Thanksgiving hosting. This is by far the best turkey we have had! I had a small, store brand turkey, and followed the instructions. It was so easy, delicious, and made the best gravy, as well!!This is my go to recipe going forward!!!

  191. Best Turkey recipe! I will continue to use this each year, the turkey turned out moist and full of flavor… Family loved it

    1. 5 stars
      This is hands down the best turkey I’ve ever made. It was flavorful and moist and will be my go to recipe for cooking our holiday meals. I also used the drippings for our gravy and it was incredible. I’m so sad that there isn’t more leftover, which is a first!

  192. 5 stars
    My best turkey yet, by following this recipe!!! I quietly waited as my family started eating & one by one began commenting on how delicious & moist the turkey came out! YAY…success!!! Turkey wiped out this year. Will be using THIS recipe again next year for sure. Cooking at the lower heat, then tenting with foil halfway or when skin golden brown – were very helpful tips.

  193. We made this the first time this Thanksgiving and it turned out perfect. We ended up having to let it rest for almost an hour while waiting on some sides and it was still hot and so juicy. We will use this from now on!

  194. 5 stars
    I use this recipe for every turkey I make (since my very first time!)… so thankful to have found it!!!! My family loves my turkey more than anyone else’s – so I’d say that means it’s 5 star!

  195. Hi Lauren,
    I cooked a Turkey using your herb butter recipe to coat it prior to putting it in the oven. It was Excellent!
    I also followed your instructions on how to carve the Turkey. Also Excellent! Thank you so much!

  196. 5 stars
    I make this Turkey recipe every year for Thanksgiving and every year I get rave reviews. It is extremely easy but comes out delicious and not dried out thanks to the garlic butter. I cooked my first Turkey a few years ago using this recipe and couldn’t get over how easy, yet delicious, it was. Thank you for putting this together!

  197. 4 stars
    The final product was delicious but, the time to cook a 20lb turkey in a convection oven, with out dressing, takes only 2-2 1/2 hours. When planning ahead you must figure about 8-9 minutes per pound.

  198. Thank you for sharing this! I put it to use yesterday, and had the best Thanksgiving turkey dinner ever!!
    I look forward to repeats ✌🏽

    1. 5 stars
      It’s my 3rd year in a row using this panic-free recipe. The instructions are so simple to follow and makes a beautiful golden brown, juicy and tasty Turkey every year! Thank you for making this available to us!

  199. 5 stars
    I just wanted to tell you this was the most moist turkey I’ve ever made..it was delicious thank you for sharing your recipe.

  200. 5 stars
    Super easy to follow and the Turkey came out amazing. Everyone loved it and this will be my go-to recipe from now on.

  201. 5 stars
    Thank you for this recipe! This is the first time I was super happy with how my turkey came out. Everyone thought is was delicious! And the gravy came out amazing with the flavorful drippings. Your video is so helpful!

  202. 5 stars
    The star of the show! Everyone raved about the turkey. So juicy and flavorful. Hands down the best turkey I’ve had. I didn’t change a thing, made exactly as the recipe is written. Thank you for sharing, I really enjoyed the video instructions as well.

  203. 5 stars
    Very easy recipe to follow and the video is a plus. The turkey was super moist! We have not made a Turkey in over 20 years. This year we hosted and I found this highly rated recipe and I see why it’s rated so high. Everyone loved it!!

  204. 5 stars
    I’ve probably made over 25 turkeys in my lifetime…this one was the best. I also appreciate the instructions for different situations – I have a roasting pan without a rack – raising the turkey by adding a layer of veggies underneath was key!

    I made the garlic herb butter and thought that it might be more than I would need. So I set some aside before rubbing the rest all over (and under the skin of) the bird. I was right, the recipe is generous…and I wrapped the extra in waxed paper and put it back in the fridge. It was excellent on our rolls later! I might make the butter more often because it was delish!

  205. 5 stars
    This was my first time ever making a Turkey. I was so nervous and found this recipe with amazing reviews so I decided to give it a try. My husband was extremely skeptical and kept asking “don’t you think you should brine it?” “Are you sure you don’t want to baste it?” I said “nope, I am trying this recipe and we shall see what happens”.

    Anyway, needless to say I was so worried. I had people coming over and I had bought a 22lb turkey. I made it and it came out really good. It was juicy and tender and I could not believe it. I am saving this recipe and will make it again next year!
    I will add that I put my turkey in the fridge on Saturday morning, but when I took it out on Thursday morning so let it get to room temperature it was still mildly frozen. I was so upset! I should have listened to the instructions that said to give ut a few extra days in case. By 11am it still had a few frozen bits inside AND it was not room temperature I thought it would for sure flop.

  206. 5 stars
    Wow! It was my turn to hose thanksgiving for the first time. The pressure was on to make a great turkey so I opted for this simple-ish but promising recipe. As always, it was a home run. My husband said I must make it like this next year too😂 and he was wanting to smoke it. I also made your pumpkin pie recipe and my grandma and mom raved over it. Said it was all restaurant quality. Thanks for the great recipes and a positive first thanksgiving experience

  207. 5 stars
    Easy to follow instructions! Husband said it was the best turkey he’s ever had. I appreciated I didn’t have to do any sort of brining or basting and that you mentioned the tip about covering it with foil halfway once it’s golden. We used a bunch of your other recipes too-mashed potatoes, stuffing and sweet potato casserole-they were all amazing. Thanks for making Thanksgiving dinner easier!

  208. So good. Moist and delicious. My adult son couldn’t stop talking about the great flavor, best turkey he ever tasted and how moist it was.

  209. 5 stars
    I used to just be the Thanksgiving SIDES queen. This year, as I now have a family of my own, wanted to start my our own tradition. So instead of opting for a pre-cooked Turkey, I followed this recipe instead. I’m at the half way point and the entire house smells AMAZING. Thank you so much!

  210. 5 stars
    Perfection. We love this recipe. Easy to follow and turns out perfect. I even learned how to carve the turkey with her video.

  211. 5 stars
    It’s the second thanksgiving I use this recipe and it comes out so good and juicy! I’ll keep using it every thanksgiving. That’s the reason I’m on “turkey duty” every year!

  212. Happy Thanksgiving! Our first time cooking a turkey in an electric roaster. We had the lid on for the first 2 hours and the bottom is getting golden but not the top. Do we still tent it? Thanks for the recipe!

  213. 5 stars
    I’ve used this recipe for the last 3 years and it’s a favorite in my home of picky eaters! Thank u and happy thanksgiving

  214. 5 stars
    I follow your recipe two years ago and was a total success. I hope I have the same luck today.
    Thank you for publishing!

  215. 5 stars
    I have used this recipe the last two years. I made a few errors and the turkey still turned out moist and flavorful! If you are a newbie to cooking a turkey, this recipe is for you.

    Ralph – San Antonio, Texas

  216. 5 stars
    I first found this recipe in 2020. I had never made a turkey before, usually that was already prepared by the host at big family dinners. All I knew was that I needed a turkey that tasted … better … than the turkey I’ve tasted in the past.

    This year makes the 3rd year I’ve used this recipe, and each year I love it more and more. It has never disappointed!!!

  217. 5 stars
    I found this recipe about four years ago and it literally is easy and yields a moist, delicious bird every time. I hardly ever even eat meat but I look forward to this day all year…lol. The main thing that’s different from the way I have made turkey in the past, is the vegetables at the bottom of the pan serving as a rack and buying fresh herbs vs. dried. I do add celery and an additional citrus like an orange or tangerine in the cavity and this year I threw some parsley in there too. Anyway, Thank you!

  218. 5 stars
    As I’m writing this the Turkey has 2 hours left and we did have to tint it but it looks amazing can’t wait to eat it

  219. This is my third year using this recipe! My whole family loves it. It’s so easy and is seriously the best Turkey I’ve ever tasted!

  220. 5 stars
    This is hands-down, the easiest and best turkey recipe I have ever came across. This is only my second time making turkey for Thanksgiving but the first time I made it everybody was super impressed and definitely didn’t think it was my first time it is super flavorful and very juicy to the point where I thought it was not completely cooked. But the temperature check we did approved it was cooked. It was just perfect and juicy!

  221. 5 stars
    was going to cook turkey in an up right smoker, but got up an its was raining, So I wanted to cook the turkey in the oven. I seen your way to cook the turkey in the oven, and decided to try it. thank you.
    7:15 am 11-24-2022

  222. 5 stars
    I have been using this recipe for a few years now and I will never use another recipe. The turkey comes out AMAZING and flavorful. I’ve never liked turkey until I used this recipe. The only things I do in addition to this recipe is use an injectable butter kit and cook it in an oven bag.

  223. 5 stars
    Wow! Thanks so much! 💕🦃💕
    I’m so excited for my family to enjoy MY first turkey! I hope you have a magical Thanksgiving!!

  224. 5 stars
    I have made your recipe for three years now !! It is so easy and holds so much flavor . Thank you for sharing!! Happy Thanksgiving!!

  225. I used this recipe last year & will be using it again this year.!!! I didn’t stuff it with the lemon,onion,apple & herbs last year but I definitely am this year.!! The herb butter did give it a nice flavor.!! Happy Thanksgiving.!! 🦃

  226. 5 stars
    Our family dreaded having turkey on Thanksgiving. Everyone fought over the dark meat. The white meat was always so dry. NOW IT’S THEIR FAVORITE! My nephew even switched holidays with his mom to come back this year! I followed your recipe to a T except i brined it for two days in really salty water. This year im soaking the bird in pickle juice with salt and garlic. I can’t wait to try your gravy recipe tomorrow. !!!

  227. 5 stars
    This is the second turkey i have ever made, and my dad, who said my last turkey was dry and not very tasty (in a kind way xD), has now said that he is now ruined for other turkeys. I am super happy with the recipe!
    Note: smaller turkeys will struggle to get all the “stuffings” inside. I did not add one onion quarter. Also, watch your temperature! I did not have to bake my turkey the full amount. Also, if using a butterball, you might find a lot of extra juice in your turkey- tilt it in your pan after cooking to make sure you’re safe to transfer to your cutting board!

  228. 5 stars
    I’ve used your directions since Thanksgiving 2018, and my turkey has never failed to impress since then. I thought it was about time to leave a rating. 5 starts every year!

  229. 5 stars
    My father in law does not eat turkey on Thanksgiving. It’s just not his thing. Well I tried this out and it was awesome. He loved it!! I was asked to bring again this year :). Can’t wait to try it again.

    1. You can leave them out and it will be fine–they just elevate the bird to help it cook more evenly and they add flavor to the drippings. You could roll up some big lines of aluminum foil and make a “rack” for the bottom if you want.

  230. This looking amazing. Plan on trying it this week. Quick question though. I typically use a roasting rack and place a cup of water at the bottom of the pan. Would I just placed the chopped veggies at the bottom with the water or will it burn? And last question, with a 8 lb turkey would one twig of sage, rosemary, thyme be too over powering? Thank you!

  231. I think this is the recipe I made last year and if so, it was a hit! If it isn’t, it’s what I’ll be trying this year. 🙂

    However, I see the calories are listed as 576, but for how many ounces of turkey?

    Thank you!

  232. Question about cooking on convection bake vs vs convection roast vs regular bake. Not in a time crunch but only comment I saw about cenvection bake said it dried it out. Would you recommend just using regular bake?

    1. We always use a regular oven and this recipe was tested in a regular oven. That being said, a convection oven should work great just be aware it will cook your turkey much faster so you’ll want to check it earlier and keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. Hope that helps! Happy thanksgiving!

  233. 5 stars
    This is a great recipe I tried it last year. However, I believe last year there was a link to cranberry sauce that doesn’t require cooking and it was so good. Can someone help me find that recipe? Thank you

  234. 5 stars
    This is the most tasty, moist turkey I have ever made. It was a beautiful bird. I have never used garlic, carrot or apple with a turkey before. A family member is allergic to celery so I left that out. Wow! This will be my go to recipe from now on! Thank you for this delicious recipe!

  235. 5 stars
    I’ve only made a few turkeys so I’m by no means an expert. However, by following the steps for this recipe I was able to make the moistest and most flavorful turkey I’ve ever tasted. This will always be my go-to from now on.

  236. 5 stars
    Thank you for sharing this recipe. The ingredients sound amazing together. But I’m going to roast mine breast side down and tented in foil. The breast turns out more juicy. I don’t care about presentation as much as tender juicy meat plus the skin contains cholesterol that I have to stay away from. Thanks again. Happy holidays.

  237. 5 stars
    I found this recipe last year and made it for Thanksgiving last year. It was so good, I’m making it again this Thanksgiving! I followed the recipe exactly how it’s written and it was absolutely perfect! Looking forward to using this recipe again this Thanksgiving!

  238. 5 stars
    This looking amazing. Plan on trying it this week. Quick question though. I typically use a roasting rack and place a cup of water at the bottom of the pan. Would I just placed the chopped veggies at the bottom with the water or will it burn? And last question, with a 8 lb turkey would one twig of sage, rosemary, thyme be too over powering? Thank you!

  239. 5 stars
    Honestly, I never put comments up on the internet, but I needed to make an exception this time. Every time I use this simple recipe, it garners great results. The only downside is that after your family taste your bird, you’ll be asked to make it every year. Thank you for the great recipe!!!

  240. 5 stars
    Wow! My turkey turned out perfect!!! And was the star of dinner. I am throughly impressed at how easy and delicious this was. Saving this recipe.

  241. Since my grandmother has passed Thanksgiving has now passed on to me for the family. I used this recipe last year and again this year. Absolutely wonderful and is my solid forever. Everyone loves it. Also I use your cranberry salad recipe. Excellent. Thank you so much for bringing old recipes to new generations who lost the 100 year old index cards. P.S. And they are easier and still as lovely.

  242. 5 stars
    This is my go to Thanksgiving turkey recipe every year. Supper easy and actually fun to do. I have never had a complaint, just rave reviews.

  243. 5 stars
    I made this turkey last year. It was the BEST turkey I have ever made. Even the grandkids remember it was delicious so of course, I am making it again this year. Thank you so much!! 🦃

  244. I used the convection setting on my oven to roast the turkey and it came out dry. Could be a couple of reasons: could be the turkey I bought which was not injected with saline as most commercial brands are; or it could be the cooking time which was determined by the electric thermometer which was around 3 hrs. Following the recipe here did produce a flavorful turkey so we’ll see what the guest think.

  245. 5 stars
    I made this turkey last year for Thanksgiving and it was absolutely amazing !!! Everyone complemented, everyone wanted more, it’s crazy how simple the recipe is, but just goes to show how natural ingredients can truly make a difference! Making it this year again !

  246. 5 stars
    The best recipe ever!!! This will be my third year using this recipe. My turkey has come out so moist and tasty. The compliments I have received from my family is what sealed the deal! The herb butter on top of the turkey makes it so moist and juicy, never have I achieved that before. The herbs, lemon and apples inside the bird make it very flavorful. Look no further than this recipe.

  247. 5 stars
    I just cooked this turkey last night and did it last year as well. Last night’s was so amazing one person even did it was divine. In the cavity I put quartered a lemon and orange and kind of squished them in there and then the herbs as well.

    I still struggled to get the butter on top of the skin even after patting it dry but forgot about using the brush and just used my hands. It was a disaster. But I got it work. Next year will be even better. Thank you so much for making me look like an expert.

  248. 5 stars
    Tried this recipe last year to make my first ever turkey and it was THE BEST turkey I have ever had! Blew me away with how juicy and flavorful it turned out 🤤 Pulling it out again this year and I’m so excited!

  249. 5 stars
    I came across this recipe three years ago and have used it ever since! The most juicy, tender turkey you’ll every roast. My sister-in-law, who has always hated turkey because she finds it dry, is the first to reach for seconds every year now!

  250. 5 stars
    I have been asked to make the turkey for 3 years running because it’s the best! It’s talked about all year long.
    Thanks for sharing

  251. 5 stars
    I went through my bookmarked recipes to find this one again to prep for this thanksgiving. Everyone RAVED about it last year when I made it, and cooking the turkey has always intimidated me by his turkey recipe gave me confidence. 😂

  252. 5 stars
    Easy enough for a newbie to understand and makes it seem less intimidating. Will be my first time making turkey this year! I’m actually getting excited 😁

  253. I used this recipe last year to cook my first Thanksgiving turkey and it came out perfect! Juicy and golden brown. I’m definitely using it again this year! Thank you for making something that seems so scary so easy!

  254. Do you know how well this recipe would work if we were to only cook half a turkey? Our family gathering will be small (5 people) and the smallest turkey our local farm had was a 17.5lb bird–way too much for all of us. So we were thinking about cutting it in half and only cooking the one side. Any recommendations or suggestions? Thanks!!

    1. 4 stars
      Yes, it keeps all the juices inside the bag and in my opinion keeps the turkey from getting dry. Used this recipe about 4 years and used the bag all years.

  255. 5 stars
    This is the go to Turkey recipe! My only note would be to purchase a Diestel Organic Brined Turkey. Makes it even more moist than it already is!

  256. 5 stars
    Came out delicious and very moist. Received compliments. Will be using the recipe this coming Thanksgiving again.

  257. I made this last year for thanksgiving and I got SO many compliments! I’m 100% doing it again this year! I’m so happy I bookmarked this recipe! I was just looking for a recipe and was hoping I did and there it was! Yay me! I’ve never cooked a turkey before so for a first time it was very easy and delicious!

  258. 5 stars
    I’m trying this recipe right now. Wish me luck and then I’ll make a review on how it turned out. This will be my first time ever making a turkey.

  259. 5 stars
    I made this for thanksgiving, and my family absolutely loved it!! So flavourful, and not dry at all. I will continue using this from now on! ☺️

  260. 5 stars
    My Father-in-law HATES turkey. It was my first time cooking the turkey last thanksgiving and I followed this recipe. He said it’s the best turkey he’s ever had and even grabbed a plate full of leftovers! Will make it again this year 🙂

  261. 5 stars
    This was the first time I made a turkey. It turned out absolutely amazing. I didn’t have sage but it still tasted great without. I got so many compliments. It was flavourful, soft and juicy! I will be making this every thanksgiving. Thank you!!

  262. 5 stars
    I was skeptical when it said not to baste, but I followed the directions and ended up with a beautifully crispy skin and a moist turkey! This was by far the easiest turkey I’ve done and one of the best results!

  263. 5 stars
    I made this in 2020 and it turned out amazing! But I am made it dairy free and cannot remember if olive oil or dairy free butter was recommended. We have a dairy allergy in our house. It turned out amazing. Does anyone have any recs? I am thinking dairy free butter is better than olive oil?

  264. I cook the turkey and check the internal temperature (165°) before I take it out of the oven. I let is sit for 30-45 minutes after taking it out of the oven. However, when I cut the turkey the thigh part (where it joins the upper body) is always pink and looks uncooked. The whole turkey is well cooked except that area and I tried everything to solve this but no luck. What am I doing wrong🤔🤔🤔

  265. So easy! Wonderful instructions, they have everything you need to know to get an awesome turkey dinner. I have been doing turkey dinner for years but this was the easiest ever. I actually feel relaxed instead of frantic. Thanks!

  266. Question: if I’ve placed the apple, lemon, onion, and herbs in the cavity; do I then go by the “stuffed” timing or is it loose enough that I should be using the “unstuffed” timing?

  267. 5 stars
    This was hands down the best oven roasted turkey I’ve had! Served it for my first time hosting Thanksgiving and everyone raved about it. I’ll be making it again this year!

    I decided to tent from the beginning and I’m convinced that’s what kept it so moist. Highly recommend this recipe!

    1. Did you tent it the entire time or uncover it at the end? Also how did tuyvtenr it voided in n the king sides ie the short sides where the handles are? Thank you

  268. Oh, & I forgot to add that this also made the most delicious pan gravy I’ve ever had! It had such a depth of flavor, it was just incredible!

    Thanks again!

    1. 5 stars
      Hello Lauren,

      I have been cooking meals in the group home I have been working in for 11 years. And I go to the internet for recipes often to keep our menu fresh. This turkey recipe has become my go to as our boys absolutely LOVE and devour their dinners. And as a veteran recipe gatherer I am sincere in saying that I feel this recipe is my favourite of all time. Period. Stellar, uncomplicated, concise instructions resulting in an absolutely fabulous result.
      On behalf of myself and our boys, THANK YOU!!

  269. 5 stars
    OMG! This was the absolute best turkey I’ve ever eaten in all of my 63 years!
    I was gifted a turkey at Thanksgiving last year, but didn’t cook it because we already had plans for something else.
    Fast forward to Memorial Day. I needed to feed several people & this thing had been haunting me every time I opened the freezer. I’ve had an irrational fear of cooking turkey for years after not having great success with previous attempts. I tended to put myself in situations where I didn’t have to be “the one” responsible for cooking them.
    Well, I decided today’s the day! I landed on your recipe after a Google search, and boy am I so thankful!
    Everyone agreed that this was the very best they’d ever had! So flavorful! So tender! And best of all, soooo EASY!
    Thank you so much for a fantastic recipe!!!

  270. 5 stars
    So, I don’t really cook- and I was able to figure out this recipe and it worked great. It was moist and had enough flavor. I didn’t have a lemon on hand, so I just added a squirt of lemon juice on the inside with the apple and onion. I also substituted every fresh herb with dried. I melted the butter on the stove top and stirred in the herbs and garlic. Then I spooned a good deal of the mixture underneath the turkey skin and still had a lot to liberally spread over the top of the bird. I think the recipe has a lot of potential tweaks and is pretty forgiving. Our turkey turned out great!

  271. Hi Lauren
    I’m wondering about adding additional juices to the pan for gravy. I see there isn’t any liquid added while the Turkey cooks. Will this still provide for gravy?

    1. The drippings/juice from the bird should be plentiful, but you can add a cup or two of chicken stock if you want!

  272. 2 stars
    Herbs are very strong in this; especially for delicate white turkey breast. Even 1/3 the amount can be overpowering.

  273. 5 stars
    I had never made a turkey until yesterday. The recipe was so straight forward, and the result…wonderful!
    Thanks so much 🙂

  274. 5 stars
    I did this recipe twice and it is really good and easy. However, instead of the apples and lemon inside the turkey, I used oranges as I love the flavor of oranges with turkey. I also made deep holes in the turkey with a thin knife. Thank you.

  275. 5 stars
    I’ve used this recipe nearly a dozen times since I first found it, and the turkey comes out perfect ever time. Thank you for sharing this!

  276. Best and most BEAUTIFUL turkey, EVER!

    We went with just the garlic and butter, salt, and pepper. Moist, perfectly browned, and absolutely perfect for a Sunday evening meal. Next time, we’ll add more garlic! 🙂
    Thank you!

  277. 3 stars
    My Grandmother (husband was head chef at major hotel) and mother both made incredible giblet stuffing that tasted wonderful but tasting it both outside and cooked inside the bird it was always best inside the bird. Turkey was always perfectly cooked as well. I did try one year adding all this other stuff when I did not want to make the stuffing and was not impressed, so I’ll take the 3 hours it takes me to make the stuffing anytime.

  278. 5 stars
    Perfect! I must say that it was pretty easy to prepare. People was delighted with the juicy and flavorful of this recipe!! Thank you!

  279. 2 stars
    followed the recipe step by step, even watched the video, for some reason my turkey turned out bland and dry with very little flavor, this was a huge disappointment for new year’s even dinner, i’ll stick with injecting and cooking in bag

    1. 5 stars
      Made this recipe 3x each time more better not sure what the previous commenter did wrong as this was the best recipe by far. I’ve used a cheap brand turkey and an expensive brand turkey so this recipe says a lot!!!!!!

  280. 5 stars
    Grateful for the recipe! I am not one to do comments, but this recipe had the Turkey come out beautiful, moist and delicious for a new year’s day feast so I had to do so. Also the gravy was spot on, Turkey was bedded on carrots/onions/celery, I used the roasting dish juice and split the gravy in two, one with the gibblets etc and one without- everyone loved both but the gibblet version most.

    1. 5 stars
      This is literally one of the easiest ways to prepare a good turkey dinner, no brining, no injection, barely any basting, and no stuffing preparations, I feel sorry for whoever you cook for.

  281. I have been making turkey’s for many years and this has to be the best one we ever had. The only thing i did different was added Celery underneath turkey and added apples and oranges inside as well as the lemon, onion and herbs. We did have to lay a piece of foil across the top because it was getting too dark on top..i also used my convection oven to shorten up the time. We will surely make this recipe again!

  282. 5 stars
    My daughter in law said this Turkey was the best she’s ever tasted. Everyone thought it was wonderful and it was a huge hit. Thank you for this awesome receipt.

  283. 5 stars
    My Christmas dinner guests said this was hands down the best turkey they’ve ever eaten in their lives. I have to agree. Thanks for making me the Christmas dinner all-star!

  284. 3 stars
    I did not find this recipe to be easy nor good.
    Putting the butter herb mix together and slathering over the turkey was not easy. I did like the taste with this butter mixture either. I will not make it this way again.

  285. 5 stars
    I tried this today on a 15 pound turkey and it was wonderful. Used dried herbs in place of the fresh. Will use this recipe from now on. Thank you for the video and appreciate how easy your instructions are to follow.

  286. I have always had a baked ham for Christmas, but my husband and 1 son always wanted turkey as well. We always cooked turkey breasts on the side. This year when we went to get a breast it was cheaper to get a whole turkey. So of course I looked up best way turkey recipe and voila!!!! I found yours. I knew immediately after reading the ingredients that this was for us. Well you did not disappoint. So delicious and moist I didn’t even have the baked ham which I loved so much . You have me sold on turkey. Thank you! Even my Ham only sons said yes to turkey.

  287. I followed your recipe and our turkey was perfect. I couldn’t believe that I was able to cook such a delicious turkey! Thank you

  288. 5 stars
    Thanks for the flavourful recipe!
    I cooked a 9lb (smaller) organic, local farm turkey. I made a dry brine from 2tbsp kosher salt, pepper, dried herbs. Let it sit in fridge for 48 hours prior to cooking. I used less butter because my turkey was small.

    I found that I overstuffed the cavity with the apple, onion and lemon, so the breast was cooking, but the inside of the turkey was raw. I ended up having to remote the apple, onion, lemon and cooking for a longer time.

    Long story short, if you’re cooking a smaller turkey, don’t overstuff the inside of the turkey.

  289. 5 stars
    I don’t normally leave reviews but this recipe has earned it. Follow the directions to a T and it is FOOLPROOF. I made my very first turkey this thanksgiving and again for christmas and they were PERFECT each time. I love how simple this recipe is. And I think that the simplicity is the secret to it’s success. Less room for error. Both times my turkey was fall off the bone moist and super easy to carve.
    Make sure that you use the weight of your turkey to determine how long to cook it, and se a meat thermometer to determine when you are done. Aside from applying or removing the tinfoil(whatever order you do it in)DO NOT OPEN THE OVEN until you start taking the Turkey’s temp.
    Also, let your Turkey rest for 30 minutes. You will be glad you did.

  290. Omg I did this recipe and thank you so much for this now my family called me a chef and for now on I’m sticking to this recipe and thanks again for this quick and easy way to cook a turkey

  291. 1 star
    Made this recipe first at thanksgiving, did a 12lb bird, maxed out the 15min/lb, used a thermometer, had to cook for another hour. It was delicious, but I didn’t plan for dinner to be an hour late for the guests. I sucked it up and figured hey, next time I’ll pull it out two hours ahead from the fridge. We’ve since moved houses. Made a 15lb turkey today, sat for four days in the fridge, and I pulled it out 2 hours ahead of time. Cooked to 15min/lb ended up 3.75h, and surprise, had to cook for another hour. I’m not sure how everyone else is getting these amazing birds done but I’ve switched ovens, used the thermometer, and did everything else to the recipe. The stuffing recipe on this website is to die for, but will be trying another turkey recipe for the next holidays.

  292. 5 stars
    I usually deep fry our Turkey, this year I decided to go with the oven. I found this recipe and this will now be my new “go to” Turkey recipe. The flavors were by far the best. I’m not sure if the Turkey I used made a difference, but I bought a Organic Diestel Brined Turkey and followed this recipe to the T and it came out PERFECT!! I used all fresh herbs and I made sure to wrap it in foil once I removed from the over and 45 minutes later when I carved it, it was still piping hot! You will not be disappointed one bit.

  293. Best Turkey I have ever cooked!!

    Absolutely moist and flavourful!!

    I have passed it along to many people!!

    Thank you for sharing!!

    Merry Christmas to you and your Family!!

    Cheers!! xo

  294. 5 stars
    I followed the recipe for the Turkey exactly as it describes and it turned out just perfect. That was for Thanksgiving then cooked another one to use for Turkey sandwiches and soups and it turned out so delicious from now on this is the recipe I am using. Thank you for sharing such a great recipe

  295. 3 stars
    Cooking time is incorrect. Lauren assume cooking time linearity. It’s not linear. Cooked a 15 lb turkey today. She suggests cooking 13-15 minutes at 325. Cooking suggested would be 3 hrs and 5 mins, minimum. I cooked for 3 hours exactly. Internal temp was 186 deg. Linearity assumes that you could cook 1 lb of turkey meat for 13-15 minutes and it would have an internal temp of 165 deg. that’s not how it works.

    1. So how DOES it work?
      I’d love some help on times if the recipe times don’t work. Wouldn’t want to overcook…
      or undercook to the point of hours more.
      Maybe this is the Turkey dilemma everyone stressed over ?

        1. 16 pound thawed bird and eating at 1:00 pm. Over or undercooked birds have always been the issue for me. Your opinion would be greatly appreciated. My questions are what temperature and for how long?

  296. 5 stars
    Made this last night, to reheat for Christmas. It was amazing. Followed recipe as listed, but omitted citrus and added parsley to butter rub. Thanks for a moist flavorful turkey recipe!

  297. 5 stars
    Great recipe…I highly recommend it..the taste is amazing, keeps all the juices in a very simple way,easy to prepare not fuzz and best of all everyone enjoyed it..I have done this recipe 3 times without any changes because it doesn’t need it..never a problem …

  298. 5 stars
    This was the best looking & TASTING turkey I have made in 25 years!!!!!! Thank you. I wish I could post the picture. 😊

  299. Loved the turkey recipe, man it was excellent. We cooked it for my Daughter’s 49th birthday and was a hit with her Hubby and 3 kids as well. Thank you

  300. 5 stars
    Lauren, I just love your YouTube videos! You explain things so well – it gives me the confidence to try my first turkey. Question: If I’ve bought a Butterball Seasoned Young Turkey, is it okay to use butter on the outside? On their websites, they add only cooking spray. I just want to make sure I’m not overdoing the butter. Thank you so much for sharing your cooking expertise!!

  301. 5 stars
    Absolutely delicious!!! I didn’t have fresh herbs, and dried worked wonderfully. I also cooked it in a roasting bag. I WILL absolutely use this recipe again! ❤️

  302. 5 stars
    I used your method Christmas 2020 and hands down, it was the best, most moist turkey I have ever made, and I have made many. I read all of the tips and applied them. Amazing. I can’t wait to do the same again this year. Everyone was so impressed. My sister still has the pic of the cooked bird on her phone. Sincere thanks !! This method is a real keeper 🙂

  303. 5 stars
    Hello ! I come all the way from Brazil and here we can only get Turkeys with 25% of water solution. I shouldn’t add salt and pepper in this case, right ? And just another question, I need to do the turkey in the morning but we are only going to eat it at night. How should I reheat it if it gets cold ? My family wants it whole on the table instead of already carved so I’m kinda confuse on how to do this properly. Thanks !

  304. 5 stars
    This made the absolute BEST thanksgiving Turkey! I exchanged the apple for an orange since I needed all my apples for a pie LOL but otherwise I followed the recipe exactly and it was perfect. This is my now go-to Turkey recipe. Thank you so much!

  305. I have been making Thanksgiving turkey for over 50 years. I was making it so complicated! I used this recipe and it was truly easy and the best bird I ever baked!

  306. I made a 20 lb turkey like this using ghee instead of butter and it came out great. Everyone liked it a lot

  307. 5 stars
    I made this for my family of 10 on Thanksgiving. This was the best turkey recipe with amazing flavor, tender meat and easy, practical ingredients. I’ll be making this again! Thank you!

  308. 5 stars
    Thank you for this recipe! I was dreading making the turkey this year after many Thanksgivings of overcooked turkeys and dry turkey breasts. This was the easiest, most flavorful and moist turkey I have ever made. Even my daughter’s boyfriend commented again, what a great tasting turkey it was, when eating leftovers a few days later. I’m 74 and wish I had discovered this recipe years ago and saved my family from many failed and dry turkeys. Great recipe!!

  309. 5 stars
    I did it! My first solo bird! Would not have been a success without this recipe. I was agonizing over how to prepare the turkey; saw this easy option & bonus! found a fresh “roasting mix” of the 3 herbs in the produce section. Felt like it was meant to be & way less stress. Thank you so much!

  310. 5 stars
    Best turkey ever!!! I also used dry herbs and it was fantastic. I will use this recipe from now on. Family members couldn’t believe it was so tender and juicy!

  311. 5 stars
    Hello Lauren, Thank you, I tried this and it turned out to be the best turkey I have ever tasted or made. it was so stress free and painless, and it tasted very nice and moist. Best of all it was right on time for thanksgiving dinner. My kids are going to be bragging about eating the best turkey ever made by their mum for a long time!!!. Thank you for sharing this recipe Lauren! I’m so excited I forgot to give 5 awesome stars, you’ve earned even more

  312. 5 stars
    BEST turkey I have ever made! Beautifully brown, moist and delicious. I thought there might have been too much herb butter but pushed to use it all and followed the recipe as written. Glad I did! I checked the bird 1 hour before the estimated finish time and was surprised to find that it was done (I used 13 mins per lb.). I will use this recipe/method forever!

  313. BEST turkey I have ever made! Beautifully brown, moist and delicious. I thought that there was too much herb butter but pushed to use it all. Glad that I did. Also, I checked the bird one hour before my estimated cooking time of 5 hours (13 mins per lb) and was surprised to find that it was done. So happy to have been advised to start checking an hour before anticipated finish. I will use this recipe/method forever!

  314. 1 star
    Completely baffled by this recipe and the ratings. It is basically roast it 325 after slathering with butter. I was forced to allow my significant other try it without me brining due to the promise of ease and the high ratings.

    As expected it is just like any other recipe that says roast after slathering with butter. Dry breast and over cooked thighs.

  315. 5 stars
    I used this recipe based on the thousands of positive reviews and I’m so glad I did! I’ve cooked a couple turkeys before (with lots of outside help) and they turned out just OK. This one though….perfect! Super easy, even I could do it with minimal assistance (primarily involved someone holding up the bird for me ha!). Highly recommend!!!

  316. 5 stars
    Thank you! This reassuring, practical advice saved the day as I baked my very first Thanksgiving turkey ever. The addition of the herbs, fruit and vegetables as well as the counsel to spring for the thermometer made all the difference. The meat was juicy and flavorful!

  317. 5 stars
    This recipe was perfect! It was my first time ever cooking a turkey & I was super nervous about it! My family was amazed and so was I !

  318. Wow! This was the best turkey I have ever made! The blend of flavors all infused in the turkey and it delicious!!! I used a roaster to cook my turkey since I had limited oven space. I then broiled the top of the turkey at the end. The turkey was so juicy and flavorful and the gravy I made from the juices was awesome sauce!

  319. 5 stars
    I will be 70 years old next year, so I have quite a few Thanksgiving turkey dinners under my belt…but for the last 15 years or so, other branches of the family had hosted until this year, so I felt a little rusty and consulted the internet and found Laura’s Easy, No-Fuss Thanksgiving Turkey recipe. Seeing a couple of thousand responses at near 5 stars, I decided to give it a try. I was hosting for 10, and every single guest RAVED about this recipe. I had a 15lb. fresh hen, and I literally did not have a shred of leftovers when everyone left. This was also just as easy as promised, and SO MOIST and JUICY. One caveat…if you are cooking in a convection oven as I did, you may find it cooks in 1/2 the time. I checked mine at 2 hours, which was supposed to be midpoint and it was already up to over 160, so I removed it immediately and it was perfect!

  320. 5 stars
    This is the PERFECT recipe – in my opinion anyway! So important to have the turkey thawed and have it come to room temperature before assembling! I think this has been the crucial step I haven’t been consistent with! 🙁 This is the first year my turkey browned all over – the herbed butter is amazing!!! I’ve never been able to have a turkey that LOOKS like the picture from the recipe – I was beaming/near tears as I was pulling from the oven! I’m so glad I found this recipe! (Truth be told, I didn’t have all fresh herbs so I just threw together basic poultry spices I had on hand)

  321. 5 stars
    Outstanding recipe, Lauren! We cooked a twenty-pound turkey for fifteen people and it was a resounding favorite. Perfectly seasoned bird, and the drippings provided enough flavor to make an excellent gravy without adding anything but broth and flour. Can’t wait to taste the turkey soup!

    Delicious and beautifully detailed recipe. Thank you!

  322. 5 stars
    words could not describe how amazing this turkey was. I mean honestly it was soo good that i had to come back a drop a comment.. Im not one to leave reviews but i just had to. Everyone was complimenting how amazing, how juicy and how delicious the turkey was! This was my husband and I first time making turkey, and were thinking about buying another to make it again because it was just that good! wow! Thank you so very much Lauren!!!

  323. 5 stars
    Oh my heavens it was so good. Very moist. Everyone loved it and I couldn’t have been more pleased. My first time ever cooking a whole turkey.

  324. 5 stars
    I made this for Thanksgiving and it was a huge success!! Turned out perfectly I used the dry herbs instead of fresh herbs and still was fantastic!! Thank you so much for the recipe and this is my go to for Any turkey now!! This was my first year cooking the Thanksgiving dinner and all were so impressed and it’s all thanks to you and your recipe!!

  325. 5 stars
    I’m a believer! I set my oven to convection roast at 325. I had a 15 lb turkey, I tented it about after an hour, as the breasts had evenly browned. I inserted an internal thermometer deep in the thigh and set it for 170 degrees. Overall, it took 2 hours and 45 minutes to cook. It rested about 2 hours and it was absolutely delicious.

  326. Thank you for this amazing recipe. As a novice at cooking Turkey I was thrilled at the delicious Turkey I contributed to our family Thanksgiving meal. Everyone loved it with comments like “best Turkey I have ever had”. Your video was thorough and easy to follow. Thanks you so much for sharing your expertise!!

  327. 5 stars
    It was my first time making a turkey and I was extremely nervous. I came across this recipe and let me tell you. THE BEST! I don’t like turkey due to all my years it being dry. This turkey was flavorful and juicy! I received many compliments ! I will be using the recipe here on out! Thank you so much!!

  328. 5 stars
    I had never made a turkey before yesterday and I followed this recipe exactly. It was the juiciest turkey I’ve had in recent memory. Came out delicious and I couldn’t recommend this recipe more.

  329. 5 stars
    Thankyou Lauren, you really made our 2021 Thanksgiving. We had never cooked a full turkey before and we followed your recipe including the broccoli casserole with only some minor changes for ingredients, going with what we had. Both came out delicious and we will use your recipes again trying different ones.

  330. 5 stars
    My first turkey was a HUGE success and delicious. Thank you for sharing this quick and easy recipe. I will definitely be using it again.

  331. 5 stars
    Oh man best Turkey recipe ever! I’m currently copying this recipe down on paper so we can make it every year. I don’t ever want to cook a Turkey any other way ever again! Lol

  332. Love this recipe! Best turkey I ever made… so moist and the herbed butter made a gorgeous brown.
    Thank you so much!

  333. This is the best Thanksgiving Turkey recipe! It is so easy and the turkey tasted so good. Tried last year, it worked perfect, this year even better. All my guest yesterday loved the turkey! This is my forever recipe now!

  334. 5 stars
    THE ABSOLUTE BEST TURKEY I HAVE EVER MADE!!! Everyone absolutely LOVED it and it was MOIST!!!❤️❤️❤️Wish I could post my picture! It was picture perfect:)

  335. 5 stars
    The Best! Second year in a row making it and I am confident in saying I perfected the recipe. It turned out moist and really flavorful! I’m so proud of the turkey I made!! The only variation I made was adding a bit of lemon zest from the lemon to the herb butter. My go to recipe for sure!

  336. 5 stars
    Spot on Recipe and fantastic blog post. Thank you for the write-up, pictures and already answered questions on your recipe blog.

  337. 5 stars
    SUCCESS! Used this recipe to roast my first ever turkey for Thanksgiving dinner! All of my concerns were covered – when to buy, how to thaw and simple cooking instructions. The turkey was very flavorful and moist.

    Tasted so yummy that there is none left! Have to get a bigger turkey next year.

  338. I have never been trusted to do the turkey for thanksgiving. My mom has always done most of the dinner and I just bring desserts. This year we bought our first home so my husband and I wanted to host so we got to make the bird this year. My excited husband bought the biggest turkey he could find and I followed your steps and this turkey turned out so moist and tender. Will use this guide every time I make a turkey in the future!, 5 stars!!

  339. 2 stars
    I followed recipe to the letter. I took it our when my meat thermometer read 160 degrees, tented it and let it rest about 45 minutes and when we carved it it was not done. The white meat was good, but dark meat was raw and tough. Really disappointed.

    1. I’m guessing you only tested the white meat? If you used an accurate thermometer, and measured the dark meat correctly, it would not have shown 160 degrees and still have been raw inside.

  340. 5 stars
    I have already used this recipe twice and it is the easiest and yummiest turkey I have made. I also add in celery and carrot just for a little extra moisture. I didn’t have fresh Rosemary and thyme so I just used the dry kind and it worked just as well. The first time I did this, I went light on the seasonings and I decided to go a bit heavier the second time and it turned out much better! It would be really hard to add too much seasoning. Also the drippings were delicious with the variety of the fruits and veggies. 10/10 if you are inexperienced chef like me!

  341. First year I had the responsibility of the turkey, & it was the hit of the table. Left everything in the recipe as is, & NEVER open the oven! I personally don’t like turkey but this was JUICY, SOFT, & HERBACIOUS. MMM.

  342. 5 stars
    So, I’m well known in my family as the best cook ever and the recipes related to thanksgiving from this website kicked up my reputation A LOT!! I used at least 6 recipes from here and all were fabulous. Thank you Lauren for awesome ideas!!

  343. 5 stars
    OMG. Perfect turkey for yesterday’s dinner! I didn’t brine, I didn’t baste, I slathered it with the herb butter and the turkey was beautiful, and deliciously moist. Thank you for a picture perfect turkey!

  344. Literally THE BEST turkey I’ve ever made!! We have dairy allergies so I used Earth balance vegan butter and all dry herbs mixed into it and then slathered the turkey exactly the way this recipe calls for and I let it sit uncovered in the refrigerator overnight to dry out the skin until the next day.. I let the seasoned turkey sit out at room temperature until it came to room temperature, and then I oven roasted it and pulled it out after 2 1/2 hours to check the temperature because I have a convection oven which cooks things faster— my 19 pound turkey was done in a little over three hours and came out perfectly! Super juicy and tender, everyone raved- TYSM.:)

  345. 5 stars
    This was amazing and simple! The turkey was so moist and delicious! Thank you for sharing! Everyone was amazed about how tender and moist it was!

  346. 5 stars
    Thank you so much for this delicious recipe. This was my first time baking a turkey and I am beyond pleased with the way It came out 😋 it was golden brown and juicy 🤤 just the way I wanted my turkey to be. I unfortunately didn’t have the fresh rosemary, thyme or sage 😕 because I had barely looked this up the night before and didn’t have a chance to get some. It still came out amazing. I will have everything I need for next Thanksgiving ☺

  347. 5 stars
    I will start by saying that the thought of handling something like a thanksgiving turkey literally scared me lol. We usually just get a smoked one, and an unsliced, bone in ham as they are never dry and my father doesn’t usually like turkey. He likes the smoked ok, as long as he gets a leg or thigh. My stepmother loves turkey though and this year she was really wanting a roasted one instead of the smoked we usually have. As I am the one with the culinary skill, and love cooking I am the one that makes everything. My father is getting to where he can’t hold things well to cook and my stepmother doesn’t cook, its not something she likes doing or is good at because of it. I never thought I liked turkey myself growing up as my grandmother always cooked them to death. Needless to say, I was worried about trying my skill on something that just seemed like such a difficult thing to cook… And I now realize how unnecessary my fears were. I took two weeks going through every recipe and method I could get my hands on in my search for the best recipe for our tastes, to try. One that would compliment the other dishes I usually make, the main one that it needed to go well with was my grandma’s sage cornbread dressing/stuffing (actually half cornbread and half bread). The ingredients in this recipe had the same base flavors of tart citrus as the dishes I already usually make. Right down to the lemon and apple used inside the turkey. I chose to use a granny smith apple as the tart undertones really blended well with the lemon and sage. I had never heard of stuffing it with things like apples. The turkey I got was 15 1/2lbs. I followed this recipe exactly, and the results were better than I had dared hope for! My father swears this was the best turkey he’s ever had. My stepmother swears its even better than her mother used to make, and she was an excellent cook! My daughter, who has always loved turkey, said that it was the best one ever. Even better than the smoked we usually get. Both of my boys have requested that this be our new standard recipe for thanksgiving turkey, and I have to agree. The flavor was incredible, and it went so well with the other dishes everything complimented each other perfectly. It was also the most juicy turkey I have ever had and I couldn’t believe how tender it was! This is our new standard recipe for thanksgiving turkey now, with the exception of still getting a smoked one every few years or so to mix things up.

  348. 5 stars
    This recipe was absolutely perfect!! My turkey usually one out a lil on the dry side, however not this time. Best turkey I have ever made, perfectly seasoned and moist ❤️❤️😁 only recipe I will ever use😋😋

  349. 5 stars
    I followed this recipe to a tee and picked the method of keeping the turkey covered with foil until the last hour (so that it browned at the end). I picked that version because I imagined it would make the skin crisper than the other way around. The turkey was 15lbs and took 3.5 hours to cook. I let it rest for 30 minutes and it was the juiciest, most delicious turkey ever!

    Thank you so much for the clear directions. This was my first time making a turkey 🙂

  350. 5 stars
    I’ve used this recipe two years in a row. Both years it was incredible, and the first time I used it was the first time I ever roasted a turkey. I had to do my own math to calculate how long to roast (especially in my smaller oven), but the recipe itself is foolproof. Last year we had no guests (2020), but this year we did. My mother-in-law, who’s made Thanksgiving turkey dozens of times, said it was better than any turkey she’d ever made.

  351. Thank you for your recipe.. i made it.. we are all full, mine got bit tough cause i forgot to put foil half way while cooking, so it end up over cook, but the thing is you have the right temperature, mine didn’t get burn, nice color of skin. So happy i found your recipe here… Thank you. I also made some gravy, i followed your steps and ingredients except i dont put the giblet, my husband accidentally throw it. Hehehe.. love love love Laura…

  352. 5 stars
    I tried this recipe today for the first time to cook our Thanksgiving turkey. It came out of the oven looking like a magazine picture! It was beautiful! The turkey was so moist and juicy. I will continue using this recipe forever. Do yourself a favor and try it.

  353. Hi Laura, I had an 11 pound Turkey and followed your recipe to the T! I actually cooked mine for 3hrs and 15 minutes and it’s still came out undercooked. Do you have any ideas why that could’ve happened? Thank you!

    1. A thermometer is essential to tell if the turkey is cooked properly. Use an accurate thermometer to test the dark meat and the white meat, before removing it from the oven.

    2. You might want to get an oven thermometer to see whether you oven is heating properly. I cooked a 23 lb. turkey for 4 hours and it was perfect. I had expected to cook it another hour but when I checked it was done. Sounds like it could be your oven.

  354. 5 stars
    Thank you for your incredible recipe! It was my first time roasting a Turkey like this in the oven and it turned out so perfect. Everyone loved it.

  355. 5 stars
    We cooked a 20 lb Turkey that came out great. This was my first time hosting thanksgiving and never cooked a turkey before. Everyone was saying that it came out perfect. Great and easy recipe thank you so much!

  356. 5 stars
    ABSOLUTELY PHENOMENAL! Not many of my guests really like Turkey and everyone had seconds and thirds. Everyone said that it was by far the most tender and flavorful Turkey they have ever had! I will never cook Turkey any other way.

  357. 5 stars
    Second year making this and it turned out just as good if not better than last year. As I noted in my previous review, you only need one stick of butter to coat the turkey. Anything more is overkill. I put a piece of foil over it halfway through to prevent burning. The color is exactly as shown in the pictures on this site. It’s seriously a foolproof recipe and the turkey was very tender and juicy. I’m not sure I’ll make it any other way.

  358. 5 stars
    Best recipe if your turkey is dry. My family couldn’t believe I made a juicy bird. I did end up covering mine with the roaster lid after it was sufficiently brown, turned out great. This is a print-worthy recipe for the book, if you are old fashioned like me.

  359. 5 stars
    We hosted our first Thanksgiving together, with both sides of the family, twenty people total. We’ve never roasted a turkey in the oven before, and we have been stressing over it. We have searched for recipes, and read a ton of reviews. We were indecisive about roasting in a bag or following this recipe, but decided to give it a try. This turned out amazing, super moist, and flavorful. We had a 22lb turkey, we added more butter, and herb mixture than the recipe called for, and also added half of an orange to the mixture for stuffing it. Cooked in our convection oven, and it only took around 4 hours. This is definitely worth making again! Don’t second guess this method, give it a try!

  360. 5 stars
    Make this Turkey if you want people to think you’re a PRO!! This is the best Turkey I’ve ever eaten. It’s moist, juicy the herb butter makes it taste amazing! Also, NO BASTING!! Truly is a show stopper Turkey!!! Thank you for creating this awesome, easy recipe:)

  361. 5 stars
    Thank you so much for this! I made my first turkey this year and following this recipe exactly as you directed, the turkey came out the most delicious, juicy turkey I have ever eaten! I will be following this year after year!!

  362. 5 stars
    This recipe was amazing. I’ve never hosted Thanksgiving let alone cooked a turkey before and it was a great hit with the family for our first holiday in our home. I will definitely be using this recipe in the years to come!

    Thank you so much for posting this and making it available!!!

  363. 5 stars
    Unbelievably juicy and flavorful! My Turkey was the hit for dinner! This was my second time using this recipe and it’s always a hit with my family.

  364. Lauren,
    thank you for shearing this recipe, this was the first Turkey i cooked. it turned out great.
    i received a 23.08 lb. fresh turkey from a local farm, i used your brine recipe as well.
    this was the best turkey I’ve had.

  365. 5 stars
    Thank you so much for this recip3! I was intimidated by the idea of cooking an entire turkey, but this turned out amazingly juicy and full of flavor, and it was pretty easy! The instructions were perfect. This will be a go-to recipe for me!

  366. 5 stars
    Wow! My turkey came out so tasty and moist. The easiest and best turkey i have made in the 20 some years i have been making Thanksgiving dinner!! It will be my go to every year.

  367. 1 star
    Ruined our thanksgiving. These times are not right. I cooked for the maximum amount of time you recommended and it wasn’t even half done. Every side was timed to the Turkey.

    1. If you used a thermometer like any sane person cooking fowl you wouldn’t have ruined an incredibly easy dinner.

  368. 5 stars
    Thank you, this worked well for me. First time making a Thanksgiving meal for my family and everyone loved the turkey!

  369. 5 stars
    Made this recipe last year, and again this year and it was a hit both times!!! Easy, and delicious! Definitely recommend, even for beginners.

  370. Definitely the recipe I will be using anytime I make turkey. This was my first time cooking a turkey I was nervous but after reading all the comments I knew this was the recipe I wanted to try. My oldest son’s comments to my cooking is normally “eh it’s fine.” But today he said, ” mom your are the only person I know who can make good turkey.” I have won with this recipe. Thank you for making what could have been a stressful day easy with this wonderful recipe.

  371. 1 star
    This horrible recipe has ruined thanksgiving.

    1 day for each 5 pounds of turkey is no where even close to enought time to thaw. you think a website that makes recipes for revenue would know how to not lie to its readers. horrible recipe.

  372. Hi Laura
    This is my 1st turkey and I am very nervous I have a convection oven and my pound is 16 how long do you suggest I cook this I have the tinfoil on it now and at what temperature on convention bake

    1. Take off the foil until your skin is about to get too brown, then use it. Then, using a meat thermometer, start checking your meat temp. Check thighs and breast. Thighs will reach 165 degrees first then the breasts will. At 165 the Turkey is done

    2. 5 stars
      I am making this recipe now and I took the turkey out at 160 as suggested but my thermometer temperature is going down, not up in temp to the 165. I have the thermometer in the thigh. Are you taking the temp in a different area? I’m afraid my turkey is going to be dry now because I popped it back in the oven.

  373. 5 stars
    I’ve been making turkeys for years always trying new methods with varying levels of success. EVERYTHING I’VE LEARNED IS RIGHT IN THIS RECIPE! Thank you for cutting through the noise and posting this! Having a reliable meat thermometer is key. It saves you an over cooked bird.

  374. Will the turkey turn out the same if I use the convection setting on my oven? I have a 23 pound turkey any idea how long it would take to cook? I screwed up and didn’t get it in the oven in time to cook with the regular setting.
    Thank you,

  375. 5 stars
    If you don’t have a lemon, would a lime or mandarin oranges work the same or would those change the flavor? Or is there any way to use lemon juice? Thank you.

  376. 5 stars
    Hi! Last year I did this and the garlic burned. But the turkey was amazing. Just had to scrap it off. What did I do wrong?

  377. 5 stars
    I love this recipe! I made the the turkey last year with this recipe and it turned out so amazing. As a result of my success, I’ve chosen to use this recipe again this year. It’s so easy and makes a delicious turkey. I’m also not big on cooking. This recipe makes it look like I can cook. All things aside, I would never have volunteered to do the turkey 2 years in a row if it weren’t for this recipe.

  378. 5 stars
    We just finished our Thanksgiving meal in German time zone with a 7kg turkey. This recipe and video instructions helped make an absolutely perfect feast!

  379. 5 stars
    This is an amazing recipe. I would love if the recipe had conversions for the dried herbs to make it more simple for those that can’t use fresh herbs.

    1. I think you may have missed her note about that substitution. Herbs: to substitute dried herbs, use 1 teaspoon dried herbs per 1 tablespoon fresh chopped herbs.

    2. It does. The suggested conversion is in the notes section.
      Sub 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for each 1 tablespoon of fresh, chopped herbs.

  380. I prepped my bird last night so I had less to worry about today. Except I messed up and put most of the butter underneath the skin and rubbed few tablespoons on the skin. What should I do?
    Should I just put more butter on skin before roasting to protect the skin??

    1. It will be fine! You could rub some olive oil over the outside as well, if it’s not completely covered. Happy Thanksgiving!

      1. Used this recipe last year (first time) and using again this year. Makes an excellent turkey and even this cooking dummy (me) can follow the instructions! Thanks Lauren. I just need your gravy recipe next 🙂

  381. 5 stars
    Used this recipe last year & everyone in the family loved it. So from now on it’s the one & only recipe for us on Thanksgiving & Christmas dinners. Thank you

  382. 5 stars
    So far, this is the best explained recipe I have ever seen. Thank you for sharing such a great tip. Happy Thanksgiving!

    1. 5 stars
      Have made turkeys before. This is by the far the easiest to follow. I was tired of turkeys with no flavor. Decided to try this today the smell from the kitchen is unbelievable. Can’t wait to eat and thank so much for this.

  383. 5 stars
    The recipe is great! I used it last year for both Thanksgiving and Christmas turkey (2020), and it was a huge hit – even with my brother who is a chef! I’m using it again this year.

  384. Hi Lauren! I am making 3 turkeys for Tomorrow they are about 13 pounds each. I have already prepped them following your recipe and put them in the fridge. I will take them out ahead of time so they could reach room temperature.

    Quick question: I want to cook 2 of them side by side in the oven. They are in separate aluminum trays. Will I have to cook them longer because there are 2 of them? Or I can do the 3 hours and 20 min for both?
    Thank you so much! Happy thanksgiving!

    1. They may need a bit longer than 13 minutes per pound–I’d guess at least 3 hours–keep an eye on them and check the temperature!

  385. 5 stars
    Even tho I’ve cooked a turkey before but trying things u haven’t use yet is still good & omg it was a success never tried it with apples or lemons I would definitely recommend.

  386. 5 stars
    This is my third year making the turkey with this recipe. Everyone always loves it. Even my mom! And the gravy it makes is always very flavorful. Another big bonus. Thank you!!

  387. I’m making turkey for the first time tomorrow and following this recipe – it sounds simple and delicious! Is it ok if I don’t tie the legs together? I just realized I never got twine. I didn’t know if that was necessary or could be skipped.

  388. Hi Lauren,
    I’m about to make this for my first Thanksgiving turkey, as me and my family are quarantined so we just got the turkey today last minute and it’s frozen. Would you recommend leaving it out on the counter overnight or getting it out of the fridge early tomorrow morning for putting it in the oven at 11:00am?

  389. 5 stars
    Made this last thanksgiving and got so many compliments on how delicious the turkey was . I spoke with my friend and she said she recommended cooking turkey upside down ( breast down ) to keep breast even more tender . Though it might not be as presentable she said it makes the breast meat fantastic . Have you heard of their method ?

    1. Yes, and it does but the turkey looks awful. You can achieve the same if you make it in an oven bag. Comes out absolutely perfect and incredibly juicy.

  390. 5 stars
    Your recipe has helped me achieve a turkey masterpiece for my family to enjoy! Thank you and Happy Thanksgiving!

  391. 5 stars
    I made this last year, and am so glad I found it again for this year! It turned out absolutely amazing, cooked to perfection.

  392. I made this turkey last year during the pandemic because we didn’t have family that was comfortable getting together. It was the first time I’d ever made a turkey (since I was 30 years old) and it turned out amazing!! This year I’m making it again for a Friendsgiving and the recipe is just as easy, straightforward and helpful as I remember!

  393. 5 stars
    I strted using this recipe a few years ago after taking up turkey duty and boy! Best turkey I’ve ever had. Juicy and delicious! Highly recommend! Tip: make sure you weigh your turkey once it’s defrosted so that you have a better estimate of how long to cook it.

  394. 5 stars
    5 out of 5 stars hands down! Made this last year and it was the most mouth-watering moist turkey I have ever made. It was a hit with the whole family! Easy to make. Thank you for the recipe. This is now my go too for Thanksgiving.

    1. Juiciest and tastiest Turkey ever! Made it for the first time last year for our quarantined family of three. We’re so looking forward to making it again this year to share with everyone else!

      Thank you!

  395. 5 stars
    Made this last year and it was fantastic and easy. Question this year can I prep it the night before and put it back in the fridge until time for the oven?

  396. 5 stars
    Lauren this looks amazing. If I have a crowd who requires nondairy, can I substitute the butter with margarine olive oil or any other thing…? Thanks and happy thanksgiving 🙂

  397. I am attempting to use this recipe but I will also be making ham with one oven. Will it be okay if both meat are baking at the same time?

    1. I would not suggest doing both in the oven at the same time, only because with so much in the oven, the turkey will take longer to cook, and risk drying out. The ham is already cooked (just needs to be warmed), so if it were me, I would simmer chicken broth in a large pan on the stove, and warm up carved pieces of ham in the simmering sauce, before serving. You could add all of the meat to a large platter and cover it to keep it warm, as you warm the meat, in batches.

  398. We will be traveling about 90 minutes to where dinner is. Would it be best to bake same day vs day before? How would be the best way to reheat the entire turkey if day before? If same day will it travel ok and reheat or just crisp the skin at the location?

    1. I think the recommendation is that turkeys be refrigerated if sitting out for 2 hours or longer (double check with USDA). If that’s the case, you’d be fine to travel with it as soon as its out of the oven, tenting it well to keep it warm, and carve it as soon as you get there. If you decide to cook it the day before, you can just travel with the carved meat. You can reheat it at your destination by warming it in a large pan of chicken broth on the stove, or in the oven.

  399. I bought fresh herbs (not dried) from the store that were not in a container. I’m not sure how much exactly is .75 ounces. About how much would you say?

  400. Because of all the wonderful reviews I am going to use your recipe this year. A big 22lb turkey!! Question—— where does it say on a store bought turkey if it has been injected with brine?

    1. It will say in small print somewhere on the packaging something like “contains up to 8% of a solution of…”

  401. The turkey available at the grocery store is too big (15lbs) for us and it won’t fit our oven. Which is better to do: roast the crown (breast) separate from legs and wings, or roast as half turkey? What other tips you can share?

    1. You could spatchcock the turkey. With this method you cut the backbone out. This allows you to flatten the turkey somewhat. You’d need to adjust the cooking time. Google “spatchcocked turkey”.

  402. Hi-
    This sounds easy and delicious. Just to clarify, if I have a store bought fresh turkey I should brine it before using your recipe? The turkey says no added solution, no antibiotics, limited processing, no added ingredients. Seems like it has not been brined, right? What happens if I choose not to brine it? Thank you!

  403. I bought an organic turkey and want to use your recipe. I saw where you tell someone to brine the turkey because it was fresh from a farm. Do I need to brine the organic turkey? I rather not.

  404. 5 stars
    Made this recipe last year which was my first time roasting a turkey (stuffed with stuffing though). I must say it was the most flavorful and juicy turkey I have ever eaten in my entire life! I cut into the breast after resting the turkey for 15-20 minutes and the juicing were flowing out of the meat which is unheard of. The meat had actual flavor from the herb butter as well and the skin so crispy! My only concern now is that I will always compare this recipe to every turkey I eat made my someone else.

  405. I bought a roasting pan (not disposable) do I need to add the veggies underneath? Thanks

    I used your recipe last year and everyone loved it. Using it again this year.

    1. You need something to prop up the turkey. You can use a rack or I like to use a bed of roughly cut up veggies.

  406. 5 stars
    Beginner here… I just made the herb butter… 7 cloves… It’s crazy garlicy! Did you chop it or use a garlic press?

    1. Are you sure you used individual small cloves as opposed to an entire head? And yes, mince it with a garlic press.

  407. First time trying this, if I do have a nicer roasting pan, I would just put veggies under the rack correct? But still not eat them? Sorry if my questions are stupid

    1. I only would if you plan to make gravy with the drippings. The veggies would add good flavor to the drippings, but no, you don’t want to eat them after because they will have cooked and soaked in turkey fat/drippings for hours.

  408. Could you help me with the measurements of dried herbs? I’m not sure how many tablespoons of fresh herbs to expect to get from a .75 ounce container. Would about two tablespoons of each (thyme, rosemary, sage) dried be about right?

    1. For the herb butter, use 1 teaspoon dried rosemary and dried thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon dried sage. Then you could add those same amounts into the cavity of the bird, as well.

  409. 5 stars
    Made this last year, 2020, my first big turkey… it was fabulous! It looked beautiful too! Thank you for easy to follow instructions and ingredients. Planning to follow your recipe again this year. Looking forward to it. 🤍

  410. My family is requesting potatoes inside the turkey. Can they be added along with the carrots, celery, onion, and lemons? Any ideas?

    1. Sure, but do you mean to eat or mash? Or just for flavor? You can add anything you want in the cavity–it wont fit a ton….

  411. I would like to make this the day before I serve it. I have a small house and kitchen and am hosting 7 guests. How would you recommend reheating it?

    1. I would carve the turkey and store all the carved meat, covered, in the fridge. To reheat, warm some chicken broth in a skillet until simmering. Heat the slices of meat for a few seconds in the simmering broth, just until warm. Remove from broth and serve.

  412. Followed the well-written instructions and was rewarded with delicious turkey. Inclined to make it more often than just Thanksgiving. Thanks!

  413. Can I cook and carve the turkey on Wednesday and heat it up for Thanksgiving dinner? I would heat up with some broth and covered with aluminum foil for about 20 min in the oven?

    1. Yes, that would work great–or heat the broth on the stove until simmering and dip the meat in it for a few seconds, until warm.

  414. 5 stars
    My goodness – I just found you and am so glad. My turkey just went in the over and I can’t wait. I’ve struggled with all the different things – brining, in a bag etc – but your directions and presentation are clear, succinct and fun. You seem down to earth and I can certianly relate to that challenge with 4 kiddos – I’ve been there – they’re grown now but the best. Thanks! Will be following you!

      1. 5 stars
        My first turkey ever using this recipe and it turned out fantastic! Everyone said it was the best they’d ever had and elected me to be in charge of the turkey from here on out. Not sure I wanted that responsibility 🤔 and I’m not even a meat eater lol

  415. 5 stars
    First turkey I’ve ever cooked!
    Came out perfect!!!
    One thing I did that was additional to this recipe was put chicken broth on the bottom of the pan.
    The entire turkey was moist.
    And everyone loved it!

  416. 5 stars
    I have fried my turkey for 10+ years ever since hosting and always concerned to try another way. This was such a surprise, so easy and as good or better as frying. Many complements.

  417. 5 stars
    I’ve been put in charge of the turkey for our Thanksgivings from here on out thanks to this recipe (not sure if that’s a good thing or a bad thing, haha). This turned out wonderfully! It was quick and delicious.

  418. 5 stars
    My first turkey ever! The recipe was so easy to follow! Didn’t change anything… and the turkey came out juicy, moist and the best part…. Tasted delicious! (With a hint of the citrus from the stuffed quartered lemons).

  419. 5 stars
    I am coming back for tbe third time/year. I absolutely love this recipe and my family loves it as well. I wanted too cook a turkey about 3 years ago and let me see it was such a great and easy recipe for a 19 year old to follow and here i am once again. Thank you for sharing.

  420. 5 stars
    This recipe was prefect, I needed to give my turkey a cold bath and it worked and was thawed in time.

    Thank you Lauren!!!

  421. 5 stars
    This is the best thanksgiving turkey I have ever eaten and I got it right first try and I am definitely making the same recipe this year… absolutely mouthwatering

  422. Despite your recipe, tips and recommendations, I think most of us OLDtimers will stay with the way our moms passed down to us, including washing the bird. Can’t teach an old dog….

  423. How important is stuffing the turkey with an apple and lemon? Could I use other aromatics like carrots/celery/onions instead?

  424. First turkey I have roasted in oven and I am 70 years young.
    My wife has not stopped raving about best turkey ever. After this one, Deep fried is over rated.
    I did use a soup spoon upside down to seperate skin a little further for the buttery seasonings. I also puréed buttery seasons so I could inject legs and breast.
    Thx for a great success on my first but not last oven cooked turkey!

  425. How would you adjust the timing to do just a turkey breast?
    Also, would I need to add some liquid to the baking pan since breast alone will release less juices?

  426. 5 stars
    EASY, MOIST and FLAVORFUL. I’m a little late on this blog but I made this turkey recipe and it came out so wonderful and it’s a very easy recipe to remember and for my second turkey I have ever cooked! I did have to take out my turkey earlier than expected because I don’t think I tented it in time and short amount of time. Expected time was 3hrs – 3hrs 30mins based on a 13.78lb turkey. I took it out probably 2hrs 25 mins at 160degrees. It went up to 165 degrees and super moist and cooked all the way through and crisp skin! (: wish I could post a picture!

  427. Making this turkey AGAIN for Thanksgiving, it’s so so good! Also thank you for having a straight to the point and very helpful cooking article

  428. We made this turkey for Christmas dinner last year and it was delicious! One of the best turkey dinners we have ever had really! We are using the recipe for Thanksgiving this year. Thank you Lauren!

  429. 5 stars
    I made this last year and it was delicious! I also covered the top it in bacon so it was extra rich! This year I am cooking for extended family and there is a dairy allergy. Would olive oil work for the herb spread? Or do I need to find a butter substitute? Thanks!

  430. 5 stars
    Turned out very moist & Flavorfull. STILL having some issues with my new convection oven, and timing. I did buy the thermometor she recommended. Just tapped the link, and it took me right to amazon. So far so good on that. But i also use a digital in the oven w/ exterior read out thermometor, so I do not have to keep opening the oven.

    1. 4 stars
      I have a new stove with a convection oven and I am terrified of burning the Turkey. Can you please tell me for how long and what temp you cooked it and how many pounds it was. Thank you!!!

      1. Alba I have. Convection oven and you want to cut the cooking temp by 25 and the cooking time by a quarter at least so start checking after 2 hours is what I would do

  431. I have used this recipe the past two years, and plan on using it again this year. Thank you for posting such an easy delicious turkey recipe!

  432. I am going to try this recipe this year, I am not a fan of turkey every turkey I have had has been dry. I read the reviews.

  433. How do you cook your stuffing? I’ve read many people stuff the turkey to add flavor, but I don’t see anything about that. Thanks!! Can’t wait to try this.

  434. Can I do all the prep work the night before? That way it’s just ready to go straight into the oven on thanksgiving day.

    1. You can just be sure the turkey is completely thawed and let the turkey sit on the counter for an hour before placing in the oven.

  435. 5 stars
    I followed this recipe last year and it turned out amazing! Do you recommend any specific unsalted butter or ones to avoid?

  436. This recipe was a huge success two years ago and I’m using it again this year. Definitely took the stress out of the turkey making and was moist and delicious. Thank you!

  437. I was wondering what everyone does with all the sides they have to cook in the oven too? Does this effect the amount of time the turkey has to cook? First time cooking a turkey in the oven…any advice would be most appreciated!!

    1. Have the sides ready to go in the oven right when the turkey is finished cooking, since it will need to rest for at least 30 minutes, before you eat!

  438. 5 stars
    One of if not the best oven baked turkeys I’ve tasted. So flavorful, juicy, and tender. I did brine my turkey for 24 hours, but will try this turkey recipe without brining it next time. I can see why this recipe has so many great reviews.

  439. Could I do this in a turkey roaster instead of the oven? Or will that cause it to lose the golden brown color on the skin? Thanks!

  440. What’s a good substitute for the quarter lemon? We have citrus allergies in my family. I’m not sure it matter, since it in the cavity of the bird getting cooked, but I don’t want to risk it, or waste the rest of the lemon.

    Would another apple suffice?

  441. 5 stars
    You are great. Thank you for all the details. This is the 1st time that my baked turkey tasted so delicious. Thank you so very much

  442. I plan to use this recipe for making a turkey for the first time. I’ve cooked plenty of chickens but never a turkey. Would injecting the turkey with some of the butter/herb mixture be overkill? I do it with the chicken I cook and it results in a very juicy bird. I just don’t want to over do it but want that flavor throughout the entire bird, not just on the outside. I feel that most turkeys I’ve ever had you really don’t get much flavor unless you have some of the skin with it too.

  443. This recipe looks great! If I had a roasting pan and rack, but wanted to use chopped veggies for making the gravy, could I put the veggies underneath the rack in the roasting pan to get that flavor?

  444. 5 stars
    My nephew is allergic to EVERYTHING! And butter is a no go for the boy…. do you think I could substitute Olive Oil for the butter. I would love to be able to cook a moist turkey that he could enjoy and my sister would not have to prepare a meal for him separately. Thoughts or suggestions?

    1. Just want to to say as a mama with to 2 food allergic sons, that it is super thoughtful and sweet of you to be inclusive and considerate of your nephew! What a great aunt you are!!!! For my dairy allergic son I just use non dairy butter. Or you can use olive oil.

  445. 5 stars
    I made this for Thanksgiving last year and it was easy and delicious. I am planning to make it again this year but I would also like to know if this would work for a chicken As i would like to make it for supper tonight. Thanks so much for this recipe Lauren.

  446. 5 stars
    Made this last year during my first year hosting, and it was amazing! However, I am wondering if could possibly prep the turkey with the herb butter the night before?

        1. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Give it plenty of time to come to room temperature in the morning, before cooking.

  447. Do you have any tips for a turkey breast? They tend to flop over and you can’t really “stuff” them with apples, veggies, etc.

    1. Silly question but how do you cover just the breast meat? Do I just lay a sheet of tin foil around it and try to crunch it down around the breast meat?

    2. When I’ve made a turkey breast, I’ve placed all of the veggies on the outside around the breast to keep it standing. if you pack enough in that will keep the breast upright.

    3. Once you prep the breast as directed for the turkey using less of the herb mixture, place the turkey skin side down on 4 to 5 long pieces of kitchen twine, in your roasting pan. Place cut up medium sized chunks of lemon, onion and apple nestled “inside ” the turkey breast cavity. You can place a smallish piece of parchment over the veg mixture, then bring the string up over the veggies & apple, to secure them in place as best as possible. Tie the strings together. Flip the breast over to skin side up. Some veggie mix may fall out, just tuck them under the breast. ( I poke a few TINY holes in the parchment to let some of the juices run out). To help your turkey breast stand up better, you can try “propping” it with a lg slalk of celery and a chunk
      .( I make up the whole herb butter recipe, but use only what is needed, then save the rest for sliding under the skin of any roasted chicken recipe. The unused herb butter can also be placed on wax paper , folded up and placed in a FREEZER bag. (NOT just a food storage bag)
      Hope this helps. Post how it turned out.

  448. I love this recipe!! I used it last year and it came out perfectly. I have a husband who refuses to have a small turkey this year so ours is 23 pounds though. Will this still work the same?

  449. I just cooked this and cooked for 15mins/pound. The popper in the turkey hadn’t popped but using a meat thermometer it said 165 degrees on both sides (between breast and leg). When beginning to cut the turkey was still raw. Did I check in the wrong place? Do you ever cook it more than 15 mins/pound?

    1. I don’t have anything against them (and think they produce a juicy turkey as well), but I don’t think they’re necessary, and I like the skin better when cooked without one.

  450. I am cooking my first Thanksgiving this year and want to use this recipe. My family loves the neck. How do I go about cooking it with this recipe?

  451. 4 stars
    My husband hates onion. Do you recommend another veggie to use as a substitute? Would not using onion affect flavor?

  452. I made this last year and holy shit was it amazing. It was my first time being in charge of a turkey and the flavor was delicious! It’s fool proof and I was surprised how few ingredients it needs.

  453. Why do you not recommend to eat the veggies that will serve as a rack for the Turkey? The recipe looks delicious! Will definitely be trying.

    1. They will be completely soaked in turkey fat drippings after its done cooking, so they will not taste good. Their purpose is to add flavor to the drippings, for when you make gravy.

  454. Will the Turkey skin be crispy or should I make any modifications? My family loves super crispy skin.

    I am so excited to use this recipe this year!

    Thank you!

  455. I would like to make this for thanksgiving, but it is just me and my husband. I am planning on making a 3 pound turkey. Would I change the cooking time for this? Or the oven temperature?

  456. We do not like rosemary. Can I leave it out without compromising the turkey? Practically every Turkey recipe includes it, but for us it’s a big YUCK.

  457. 5 stars
    I made this recipe last Thanksgiving, EVERYONE asked me for the recipe. The BEST turkey any of us have ever eaten. Two thumbs up way way up.

  458. 5 stars
    So thanksgiving food is my favorite and I make multiple turkeys a year. I decided to branch out this year as I always make it the same way. It’s always good, but I just wanted to try something new. I am SO GLAD I came across this recipe! It made the most flavorful and moist Turkey with perfectly golden skin. I got so many compliments on it! I can honestly say it was the best tasting and probably the most beautiful turkey I’ve ever made! Thank you for sharing your recipe, tips and tricks!

  459. “Throw away the giblets”? Never! They’re excellent foods, and can be minced and sprinkled in with the dressing, or chopped and added to turkey soup (made by simmering the bones in water for an hour or so), ground up and added to the gravy, or at the very least, simmered with the bones for flavor in turkey broth. I can’t imagine just throwing away good (and very flavorful) food!
    Of course, remove the bones from the neck before doing any of the above!

  460. Any way I can substitute the apples or even not use them? Has anyone tried to make without the apples and know if it’ll drastically change the flavor?

  461. I meant to leave a comment last Thanksgiving. This was hands down the best turkey I ever had in my life. If you follow the recipe exactly, it is no fail. The key is to take it out at 160 and let it rest. It will continue to cook to 165. Making it again this Thanksgiving. This is a keeper that will become your family turkey recipe!

  462. 5 stars
    This recipe is amazing. It’s straight forward and it simplifies things. (Not putting the stuffing in the bird! ). No need to overcomplicate something. Thanks for your approach to making what is daunting and intimidating to simple and delicious!

  463. 5 stars
    Seriously THE BEST turkey ever. Super juicy and tender – with really nice, light herb-citrus-apple flavour. Absolutely the only turkey recipe we’ll use for Thanksgiving from now on!

  464. 5 stars
    I have not cooked very many turkey’s but this recipe made me look like a pro! Was absolutely delicious. I used dried herbs this time but will definitely pick up fresh ones next time. Will be my go to recipe from now on, thank you for sharing 😃

  465. How do you cook a fresh turkey?
    My concern I don’t have a big enough fridge to thaw a frozen turkey.

  466. 5 stars
    This is our second year using this recipe and our family and relatives just love it ! It is so juicy and delivers a huge amount of drippings. The colour of the turkey is golden brown and beautiful.
    Thank you for sharing your expertise!

  467. 5 stars
    This was a fab recipe and worked great for our first time cooking a turkey! Didn’t taste a lot of herbs in the turkey but it wasn’t dry and required very little basting.

    The veggies were good too!

  468. 5 stars
    I made this for Thanksgiving this year, so amazing, so many compliments from my guests.
    Thank you, very easy to follow as well.

  469. I have used this recipe for the past three years on Thanksgiving and Christmas! Its my go to! SO flavorful and moist!

  470. 5 stars
    I followed this recipe for our family’s Thanksgiving dinner (we celebrate in October in Canada 🇨🇦) and not only was so easy to follow, but it turned out amazing! I had a 14lb bird and we barely had leftovers!
    This will definitely be my go-to recipe for turkey! Thank you.

  471. I had never been responsible for a thanksgiving meal before (in Canada, its in October). This recipe was easy to follow and the turkey was FANTASTIC… everyone was very impressed. Thank you so much!

  472. 5 stars
    I don’t normally leave reviews but for this recipe I couldn’t resist. It was fantastic! ! We just had this for thanksgiving dinner. The turkey was moist and the drippings flavourful for the best gravy I have ever made.

  473. Hi there! I would like to cook and carve my turkey the day before so I have less to do on Thanksgiving Day. How would you recommend reheating it so that it doesn’t dry out?

    1. Heat broth to very hot in a large skillet. Add the sliced meat, dipping on both sides to warm it in the broth for a few seconds.

  474. I am going to be making this recipe tomorrow, I was wondering if it will still work out to be as good with a 7 pound turkey instead of a 12-20 pound?

    1. Yes, but I would cut the herb butter mixture in half (you wont need that much for such a small turkey). And watch it because it will cook pretty quickly!

  475. 5 stars
    I made this last Thanksgiving and was a little hesitant about this recipe since there was no basting required, but I gave it a try. THIS WAS THE BEST TURKEY IVE EVER HAD! Basting is a myth, don’t do it and follow this recipe, you’ll be glad you did!

  476. 4 stars
    Thank you!! Directions are pretty easy to follow and understand. First time making a Turkey bt myself come out good. I think I may have over cooked it a little bit but it was good!!

  477. 5 stars
    My family and I absolutely enjoyed the turkey and the juices made an awesome gravy. Will definitely cook our turkey like this again.

  478. 5 stars
    Just made this for Easter, April 4, 2021.
    The veggies in the cavity produced a lot of liquid so the turkey was really moist, unlike what I am used to.
    I would use this recipe again.

  479. 5 stars
    I used this recipe for Easter Sunday dinner today. Phenomenal ideas with great video. I’m a veteran home cook & immediately recognized this as perfect recipe for our 20 lb turkey. We used your thawing a frozen turkey instructions as well which worked wonders. Wish I could post a pic to show you how beautifully brown & juicy it was. Thanks a million

  480. 5 stars
    I came across this recipe for Easter 2020. I had never cooked a turkey before but because of covid, our usual family gathering couldn’t take place. I have now made this recipe two more times since then for other holidays and it is always amazing! My family was nervous of how it would turn out as chicken is not my strong suit in the kitchen, so they were nervous about the turkey… but all three times my husband and son have LOVED it! Thank you for sharing this fantastic and easy recipe!

  481. This is a great recipe with easy to follow step by step instructions. Turkey never seemed so easy! Thank you for this post!

  482. 5 stars
    This was my first turkey ever and it was so delicious, both my husband and I were amazed. It was better than my parents’ turkeys and his parents as well, but sshhhh don’t tell them 😉
    Super happy with this recipe!!…though I didn’t have an apple so I put a cut up pear inside instead…it was still so good!!!

  483. 5 stars
    My first time cooking a whole turkey, so I was nervous! But, this was incredibly easy to follow and the pictures really helped; especially to locate the innards. It’s still roasting in the oven and smells amazing. I’m sure it will turn out perfectly!

  484. 5 stars
    I LOVE THIS RECIPE! I am not very good in the kitchen and all of my family and friends know this, so when I made a turkey by following this recipe the last two years they were very impressed and loved it! Thank you for sharing this easy to follow delicious turkey recipe 😊

  485. 5 stars
    First time cooking a turkey and I used this recipe. Usually my mom cooks Thanksgiving Day but this year was different. Every member of my family told me that it was the best turkey they had ever had. I have to say… I was impressed!

  486. 5 stars
    I moved to Texas 8 months ago, and for the first time in my 35 years was responsible for making our Thanksgiving turkey. Prior to this year, I had ALWAYS had Thanksgiving dinner with my grandparents who always insisted on cooking the main courses. For 35 years, I’ve eaten dried out, flavorless turkey (thank goodness my family is old school and doesn’t go searching for recipes online!), so I’ve never really been a fan of the meat and only eat it that once a year.

    So this year, I’m searching online for recipes because SURELY something has to exist that looks and tastes better than the stuff I’ve been eating, and I came across this recipe. It looked absolutely amazing, and I figured if I could produce a turkey that looked half as good as the one here it was bound to taste better.

    I followed this recipe (almost) to the letter. I was rushing while making a bunch of different things and forgot to melt the butter before spreading it over the top (I didn’t even read that part to be honest!), so I ended up just spreading it all in more of a thick paste with my hands. It came out absolutely amazing, and was a HUGE hit with my boyfriends family and my children who all said they haven’t tasted a turkey this good before. I was so proud of it!

    This recipe was so amazing Im making another turkey for my family tonight! Thank you for this amazing recipe!!

  487. 5 stars
    This recipe was a A+!!! Will definitely make again! It is so simple to make and tasted outstanding! I usually prepare my turkeys with wine and a cheesecloth but wanted to try something different! I will be making this recipe again!

  488. 5 stars
    Best turkey I have ever cooked….and I have been toasting turkeys for more than 50 years!! I have always brined my turkey, washed it, and basted it. Yes, all the things you say DON’T DO. I did use a cooking bag because I had just cleaned my oven. The turkey was very moist, gravy was delicious and not salty. I used all of the drippings and did not have to open a can of broth. Thank you. It just goes to show, no matter our age, we can still learn something new..Peggy, age 74.

  489. 5 stars
    I used this recipe when roasting my first turkey this past Thanksgiving. Usually my mom/aunts cook the turkey for big holiday meals, but we all stayed home this year so I (terrifyingly) decided to make my first turkey. Your step-by-step directions, videos, and tips were so helpful! My son and fiance went wild for the turkey, it was moist, flavorful, and perfect!! Thank you so much!

  490. 5 stars
    Delicious! I followed the directions exactly. The whole family loved it! My extremely picky 10 yr old son couldn’t get enough. Thank you!

  491. 5 stars
    Hi! Lauren – Last Christmas I roasted my first ever turkey using your recipe. Strange? Not really – I live in Malaysia. It’s not part of my cultural celebrations BUT with this on-going pandemic, we decided to roast a turkey to celebrate being alive and to give thanks for the year. Anyways, followed ALL your instructions (the frozen turkey was from the U.S.A so defrosting was a fun step too), even made the giblet based gravy. Everything turned out fantastic, turkey was perfect, gravy delicious (roast potatoes, veg). Thank you so much for the recipe. I searched through the internet and thought yours was clear and straightforward. We had so much fun, took lots of photographs. We will always remember our home-made roast turkey dinner of Christmas 2020.

  492. 3 stars
    I was excited to try this but hit bumps along the way. I couldn’t get the skin separated to place the butter under the skin. Even my strapping son couldn’t separate it. The turkey was just under 13 pounds. I thawed it for 4 days and I placed the veggies inside and cooked it for 3.25 hours. The timer popped up , I checked the meat thermometer, all was good. Removed it to the platter to rest and after 5 mins, the platter was full of pinkish-red juice. I checked inside the bird, the vegetables were not soft and there was a pool of the same pink juice. I had removed the neck from the cavity easily and it was thawed. I don’t know what happened. I popped it back in the oven and had to put everything else on hold. Not the “easy” delicious turkey I was anticipating. So disappointed.

    1. Hi Pat I’m sorry this happened, but you really need to properly check the turkey with a thermometer in several places (both sides thighs, legs, and breasts). Use the thermometer as your guide for when to take it out of the oven. If he vegetables were not even soft after 3.25 hours in the oven, then I’d most definitely get your oven calibrated as well to make sure it’s cooking at that temperature.

  493. 5 stars
    I only used herbs and whole garlic cloves, I just used this recipe for the timing and cooking instructions. No lie, I ate most of the perfectly browned skin before my husband even saw the bird. Definitely perfected the turkey time and temp with this recipe! Thank you! 15 min times 15 pounds at 325 was delicious!

  494. 5 stars
    Unbelievably tasty and easy! I’ve been frying turkeys for almost 30 years. We had an extra turkey from Thanksgiving and decided trying to roast it. This recipe did NOT disappoint!

  495. 5 stars
    Followed the directions & out of all the turkeys I have ever made this is the absolute BEST !!!! So juicy.

  496. 5 stars
    It followed this recipe for cooking turkey and it was my first time. It was great and my partner who says he doesn’t like turkey had two servers. The only change that I made was leaving the buttered turkey will all the fillings in the fridge over night as I didn’t have enough time to cook it on the day that I planned for. It turned out great and it was very flavourful.
    Thanks for the recipe,

  497. I made this recipe and I Have to say, OMG. This is my first turkey. The breast were so tender and juicy. The taste was superb. My girlfriend was so impressed. Golden brown and juicy. I cooked it a total of 3 1/2 hours. I foil tented the breast at 2 hours. If you ever want to have delicious, moist turkey, just come to Des Moines, Iowa and I will show you how it’s done. Thank you for the great recipe. I am now the turkey king!

  498. 5 stars
    The absolute best turkey I’ve had ever! My daughter who does not eat turkey, ate for three straight days! Thank you!

  499. 5 stars
    Excellent results and easy instructions to follow. I’ve used this recipe 3 times now and each time it was just as delicious as the last. Thank you for sharing your recipe.

  500. 5 stars
    Amazing!!! It was my first time making a whole turkey and your instructions were easy to follow. Thank you!
    A quick question. I ended up throwing away the apple/onion/lemon/herbs that were stuffed inside the turkey as there as no mention of what to do with them in the recipe. Is that what I’m supposed to do?

  501. Ok, I never leave comments online but needed to thank you for this amazing recipe, you may have just saved Christmas 😉 ! I’m a disaster when it comes to the oven but followed the recipe and also watched your video and my turkey came out perfect!

  502. 5 stars
    My first time making a turkey and my brother said it was the best turkey he’d ever had. My dad also said it was exceptional. Best Christmas ever. Thank you!

  503. 5 stars
    This was the star of the best meal that I have ever made! The herbs and fruit not only make the turnkey juicy and delicious, it also make the gravy to die for! It reminded me of the amazing sauces we had in Paris. Thanks for transporting me back to fond memories!

  504. 5 stars
    I cooked a turkey this past Thanksgiving using this recipe and it turned out great. It couldn’t have been any easier. Am using it again for a post Christmas dinner. Thank -you.

  505. 5 stars
    My mother in law is a huge foodie! She was skeptical of this recipe. However she loved it! The turkey was so moist! The drippings made the perfect gravy.

  506. 3 stars
    I didn’t have time to brine the turkey and do my usual prep so I found this recipe in an effort to roast quick easy and delicious. Easy – yes. Quick and delicious? Meh. It took at least twice as long as the recipe indicated to reach proper temperatures internally and as far as delicious I would say it was just ok.

  507. Perfect recipe! Followed it exactly as written and the turkey was cooked to perfection. Everyone loved it. Will use the same recipe again next time!

  508. 5 stars
    Omg !!!! It looks sooooo good ! Thank you for this. It was so easy and my first time cooking a Turkey . NAILED IT!

  509. 5 stars
    First time making a turkey, I didn’t have the fresh herbs of the recipe so I put dried thyme, and parsley instead and added celery inside. I also put onions carrots and celery on the bottom of the turkey as I didn’t have a roasting rack. I had a 16 pound turkey so I put it in the oven for a little less than 3 hours on convect bake. After 2 hours I covered it with the foil. I was perfect, well baked but not dry. Everybody liked it, will do it again for sure!

  510. I want to try this recipe out, however I don’t have any lemons on hand. Can I substitute oranges for the lemons? Thanks in advance!

  511. 5 stars
    The meat is so moist and fragrant. We made it today and everyone enjoys it. Thank you for sharing this great recipe. We would give it a six stars. Merry Christmas!

  512. 5 stars
    Excellent recipe. Made roast turkey first time .turned out perfect. All the family enjoyed it. Thanks for all the tips and ideas.

  513. 5 stars
    I love this turkey! It’s so juicy and flavourful! I had this for thanksgiving and loved it so much I’m making it today for Xmas! I used the veggies on the bottom of my roasting pan and the gravy is delicious.

  514. 5 stars
    I tried this today for our Christmas eve dinner and it’s amazing!!

    This is my first time cooking turkey and I made the good decision to follow your recipe.

    I followed the recipe but I don’t have fresh rosemary, thyme and sage so I substitute it with dried rosemary, oregano, italian seasoning and mixed herbs and it’s still taste amazing!

    I have 6.2kg turkey and I cooked it for 4hrs.

    Thank you for this recipe.

  515. Has anyone made this without butter? I know- butter is better but my son is allergic. Does olive oil work in place of the dairy? Thanks!

    1. I think you could, but the fat content is a really good part of the cooking of the turkey! It would still be tasty I’m sure! I’ve made a turkey with olive oil before, and it turned out great

  516. I followed this recipe at Thanksgiving and using it today for our Christmas Eve dinner. Super easy to follow and the turkey is perfect. Thank you!
    Kathy

  517. 5 stars
    Haven’t cooked a turkey in a few years. This was a very simple recipe. Only thing I had trouble with was tucking the wings under the bird.

  518. 5 stars
    I’ve been making turkey for Thanksgiving for years. This year I decided to look for a new recipe. I ran into this one and decided to try this simple recipe…this is by far the BEST turkey I’ve ever made. I’m not a huge fan of turkey until I had this one. I made it for Thanksgiving & for the first time ever doing it for Christmas it was so good I decided to make it again. I normally do a ham. It’s very moist and tasty. Even the next day! I would highly recommend this recipe.

  519. 5 stars
    This has become our go-to turkey recipe. The turkey comes out juicy and delicious. Best turkey we’ve ever had. The aromatics make for a delicious soup stock when you’re all done.

  520. 5 stars
    This was my first time cooking a turkey and it was amazing! It’s was a huge turkey as we had 36 people for supper. Everyone loved it and asked which recipe I used. I now have it bookmarked so I can make it again next year! Thank you so much!!

  521. I’m trying to roast my first turkey, and your recipe sounds great. Thank you for all the pictures and instructions.
    Excellent.

  522. As described, the turkey was easy and delicious. Thanks. Now I wish I could learn how to carve it correctly! As many articles as I’ve read and videos watched, I just can’t fo it.

  523. 5 stars
    This was my first time making a turkey so the name of this recipe got my attention.My husband said it’s the best turkey he’s ever had he could not stop raving about it. It was such a hot that I’ve been tasked with making it again foe Christmas. The recipe was easy to follow completely stress free.

  524. 5 stars
    I usually don’t write reviews, but I’m new to making turkeys and I found this recipe. EVERYONE said it was the best turkey they had ever had. Not only did it look beautiful and perfectly browned, it was so moist (even the breast meat) and delicious. Such a hit! I’m making it for the second time right now 🙂

  525. 5 stars
    “Best Turkey I’ve eaten!” That’s what my family and BF told me when I served this Turkey. It was sooo juicy and full of flavor. I cooked my 14 lb Turkey for 4 1/2 hours at 325° and I covered the breast with aluminum foil the last 90 minutes….just perfect!!! Thank you for sharing!

  526. This was the best turkey I have ever eaten. I hadn’t cooked a turkey in years and I was nervous having quite a few people. I hardly had leftovers it was that good.

  527. Outstanding and rather simple recipe, I made a 15 lb and 25 lb with the recipe and the both turned out great. I recommend a quality turkey like butterball and covering with foil for 20-30 minutes after removing the turkey from the oven.

  528. 5 stars
    OMG, I followed all the instructions and it was my best turkey ever! My husband doesn’t like turkey and he couldn’t get enough of it! Thank you for sharing!

  529. 5 stars
    Soooo easy and delicious! The best turkey I have ever made, let alone eaten. Wow! Wow! Wow!
    Thank you for a tremendous recipe.

    One tip if you start with an under-thawed turkey — my bird was not quite fully thawed (the cavity was a bit icy) and I think that must have contributed to it under-cooking. While the thighs were at 170 degrees when I took it out of the oven, they were semi-raw when cutting after the resting period. Returned to the oven to cook another full hour and a half after.

  530. 5 stars
    This was my first turkey and it turned out great!! Super moist, great flavor. I live in Central America so I used lime instead of lemon but followed the rest of the recipe very closely. Didn’t need to tent it with foil during the cooking process, Turkey had a perfect golden brown color.

    Thanks you for a great recipe!!

  531. 5 stars
    Made this for Thanksgiving turned out very juicy. Did not have enough room in the cavity to fit all the apple quarters, so I put one in the neck cavity skin side out.

  532. 5 stars
    First time ever making a turkey and not very skilled in the cooking department in any way! Lol! So easy and absolutely delicious! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

  533. 5 stars
    This was the best turkey ever! I did brine ours the evening prior as we purchased a natural turkey that was not injected. Turned out perfect!

  534. I used your turkey recipe and it did turn out good. My only problem was I think I cooked it too long. And espy the dark meat came out dry.
    I used your recommended time.
    Other wise it was great and also looked great.

  535. 5 stars
    I used this recipe to help me with my first turkey. The recipe is great and I enjoyed the extra helpful tips!
    Thank you!

  536. 5 stars
    I don’t cook often and when I do, I follow recipes. When I decided to cook all Thanksgiving dishes for 13 people, I wondered if I had made the right decision. Well, let’s just say that every one raved about my turkey. It was juicy and very tasty and my guests loved it. I was asked to cook the turkey from now on. It was definitely a hit! Thank you!

  537. 5 stars
    Joining in with everyone else to say this recipe was a success. I studied it probably for an entire month, making sure I would have the steps memorized and it worked. I thawed the turkey with enough time and it was ready to go Thursday morning. I followed the recipe mostly as is, but added some additional things for flavor. I rubbed the turkey in and out with a blend of seasonings from my shelf (garlic, seasoned salt, and pepper) and added a stick of butter inside and it kept the turkey so moist. I coated the turkey with the herb butter mix a few different times during the cooking process and tinted it as well with the foil but it slowed down the cooking, so I removed it about an hour before I took it out and it was perfect. Fell right off the bone and was simply *chef’s kiss*. This was my first time making a turkey and I feel super confident in doing it again! Everyone loved it.

  538. 5 stars
    I used this recipe to make my first ever turkey for Thanksgiving this year. It was so easy to follow and turned out perfect! Thank you!!

  539. 5 stars
    So this is the third year I’ve made turkey for “Friend’s Giving / Thanksgiving”

    I had this recipe saved on my computer, but a few months back I ended up losing this recipe. I was devastated, as this turkey has ALWAYS been a huge hit. So I spent the past week scouring online for this recipe again and was absolutely GIDDY when I found it again.

    Short of a few changes with the herbs used, this has been an amazing recipe each year I’ve used it. Simple, easy, and “me-proof”.

  540. 5 stars
    If this is your first turkey, I recommend this 1000%!! This was my first turkey this year and it was perfect and juicy!! Will try again for sure!

  541. 5 stars
    I’m so happy I found this recipe. This was my first Thanksgiving Turkey and it was amazing ! Turkey was moist , flavorful and delicious! My husband said it’s the best he has ever had ! I’ll be using this recipe every time .

  542. Excellent Recipe! This will be my go-to recipe every year. I did overcook it because I lost track of time. It was still very good, but I will make sure to check the temperature a half hour before the estimated time. Also, I threw out the broth, big mistake, as you can reheat your leftovers and cover it with the broths so that it doesn’t dry out. I also don’t know what you mean by covering the breast with foil. I covered the whole pan with foil, but should I have just placed foil on top of the breast?
    Thank you for such a wonderful recipe. Minus the spices, this is how I roast a chicken in the oven. 🙂

  543. 5 stars
    My VERY first time cooking a turkey. I can’t believe how easy it was… AND how tasty. I can say, that if ever I’m asked to cook a turkey again, I will have no hesitation. Thank you so much for posting such an Easy, No Fuss recipe

  544. 5 stars
    The best turkey I have ever had, so moist, so much flavor and the gravy was just as delicious as it was infused with the herb butter flavors!

  545. 5 stars
    My first time cooking a turkey for my family. I followed your recipe and it was a hit! The turkey was tender and juicy! Everyone loved it! Thank you! 5 stars for this recipe!

  546. 5 stars
    Absolutely delicious recipe! It was my first time doing my own turkey, and these instructions were very clear and easy to follow. The turkey turned out positively scrumptious, and I got raving compliments from my guests. I will be saving this recipe to make every year!

  547. 5 stars
    Cooked my first Thanksgiving dinner due to Covid restrictions preventing our traditional family gathering. I stressed about not ruining the turkey all week. This recipe not only helped not ruin it, it was by far the best turkey I ever had. The flavor and moistness was fantastic and it could not have been easier. The left overs are great! I cooked a 20 lbs turkey and took just under 4 hours to 160 degrees. Pulled and let sit for 40 minutes. Covered with Foil about 2.5 hours in to stop the skin from overcooking. Thanks for posting the recipe, this one is a keeper!

  548. 5 stars
    I was so worried about trying this because I usually go to so much trouble preparing and tending to the turkey for hours!! OMG! One of the best turkeys ever!!! So tender and delicious ! Will always use this recipe! Thank you so much !

  549. 5 stars
    This is my first time to roast Turkey coz I always rely on ready cooked ones, but after following your recipe instructions, it came out way better than the ones that I usually buy! Thank you! My whole family was impressed!

  550. 5 stars
    This is the first time I have ever cooked the turkey, and it came out great. The recipe was super clear, easy to follow, and stress-free. I stuck it in, checked it just once or twice, put the top on when in was browned, pulled it out given the time calculation suggested and voila! Faster and easier than I ever imagined. This is a keeper! Now for the soup…

  551. 5 stars
    Turkey turned out fantastic. Used dried spices, not fresh. It only took 3.5 hrs for a 17lb turkey.

    I’ve tried other methods over the years. This was the best turkey ever & will continue with this recipe in the future.

  552. 5 stars
    This was my first time making turkey and the recipe was easy to follow. It was the best turkey I’ve had! It was tender, moist, and full of flavor!

  553. 5 stars
    Best turkey recipe ever! My turkey came out so moist and so juicy and so flavorful! I did add extra fresh seasoning under the skin as well, but I’m sure it would of still came out just as flavorful without the extra seasoning! This was a hit! My picky husband even said this was the best turkey he had ever eaten! Thank you for saving Thamisgiving dinner!

  554. 5 stars
    I gave this recipe to my 19 year old grandson who wanted to host Thanksgiving in his first apartment. He did an awesome job and the turkey was the most beautifully browned turkey I have ever seen. One friend on Facebook said it looked like a turkey one would use for a TV commercial or movie. It was so juicy and delicious and the breast was not dry at all. I have never seen the skin so crisp on a turkey. I used your recipe for the turkey gravy and it was also very easy and delicious. Thank you for sharing your recipes.

  555. 5 stars
    Absolutely perfect recipe! My niece even loved it and she doesn’t like Turkey. But most of all Lauren is the sweetest and most helpful person!!! I asked her questions and she took time to help, give advice, and encouragement. Again thank you so much for helping me make this recipe and for your time and encouragement; you’re an amazing woman!

  556. That ask THE best turkey I have ever made! Thank you for the recipe! The simplicity was tops along with the flavor & moisture. I think using fresh herbs was important. Also, your tip to remove from the oven at 160 degrees was critical. I will definitely share this with family and friends. I couldn’t wait to have leftovers! I know the soup from the carcass will be extra flavorful! I HIGHLY recommend this recipe!

  557. 5 stars
    It’s been probably a decade since I’ve made a Thanksgiving turkey. This recipe was so easy and I cannot tell you how delicious the turkey tasted. Super moist and cooked to perfection! I had a nearly 23 lb turkey and I cooked at the suggested 325 for 5.5 hours. It was PERFECT!!! I tented the top after about 45 minutes because it was browning quickly. I was so nervous the turkey was going to be dry as I didn’t baste it (which I watched my dad do growing up). But I trusted the recipe and instructions and left the over closed after I tented the top. EVERYONE enjoyed the turkey and my husband said the gravy (I also used Lauren’s gravy recipe) was THE BEST gravy he’d ever had! Thank you, Lauren for sharing your recipes!! I’ll definitely be back for Christmas dinner!

  558. I tried this recipe this year 2020. It was so delicious and moist and juicy. My family loved the herbs. It was a success. I will be using this recipe every year

  559. 5 stars
    This was my first time cooking a turkey and it was absolutely delicious!! I am very thankful for this recipe. My family LOVED it and told me that I’m in charge of the turkey every year. It was super flavorful and juicy. 😋❤️ I will definitely use this recipe every single year.

    It was the easiest and stress-less turkey ever! 🙌🏼

  560. 5 stars
    Amazing!! This is a keeper recipe for sure!!! I think I’ve only made 1-2 turkeys ever and they were not memorable! I followed this recipe exactly and it turned out perfect!! It took longer than the directions but all due to baking 2 additional side dishes at the same time in the oven. This will now forever be my go-to turkey recipe!! Thanks for sharing it!!!

  561. 5 stars
    This turkey was fabulous! I was running behind schedule on Thanksgiving morning and this recipe was perfect! After 21 years of marriage, my husband says it is the best turkey I have ever made for Thanksgiving. And I have to say, that it is the easiest recipe I have used. I roasted a 17 lb turkey and the butter and herbs were easy to prepare and apply to the bird. The cavity was filled with apple, lemon, onion, herbs, etc. I have never used an apple but it worked out great! My husband is a very good cook and knows his food and claims it was incredibly juicy and perfectly cooked. It tasted just as good the next day in our leftover turkey sandwiches. I didn’t think a recipe could be so easy and so good, but I definitely will give it 5 stars.

  562. Thank you so much! This year was the first time I have ever made a turkey dinner. I was nervous that it wouldn’t come out that great but with your easy steps, it came out absolutely amazing! I will save for every year going forward and not change a thing!

  563. 5 stars
    I have been making the turkey for Thanksgiving for over 20 years. I have cooked it so many different way and have never liked it. I used this recipe and for the first time I was proud of my turkey. It was flavorful and moist! Thank you!

  564. 5 stars
    Followed every step except I baked at 400 for first 30 minutes then continued baking at 350 for remainder of time. Also seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder when I was letting it dry out overnight in the fridge. My boyfriend said it was the best Turkey he’s ever had! Definitely a keeper. Thank you!

  565. 3 stars
    This recipe did not turn out for me. I followed the recipe and took the Turkey out of the oven when temperature reached 165. I let it rest with foil all around it for about 1/2 hour and when I went to carve it, the thigh was completely pink and bloody. I put it back in the oven for another 45 minutes and it still was not done. Disappointing.

    1. I’m so sorry that happened! Next time be sure to take the temperature of the thighs before you remove the turkey from the oven.

  566. 5 stars
    This really was an easy and no fuss recipe. Yesterday was my first time hosting Thanksgiving and cooking a turkey. My dad tried to take over and make the turkey like he usually does and I made him stick to the instructions with me exactly! It was perfectly seasoned and didn’t come out dry. It was such an easy recipe I forgot the turkey was even in the oven sometimes because you don’t have to constantly check and baste it. It came out great!!!

  567. I just made this turkey for the first time for Thanksgiving for 13 people. It was very easy and turned out fantastic! I have only made a few turkeys is my life as typically this is not my holiday to host, so I was nervous. I followed your recipe exactly, even the no basting part. I was worried about this as my mother and grandmother always basted but the turkey was juicy, flavorful and the skin was nice and crisp. My father told me it was the best turkey he ever had (He is 80 years old) and that I should keep this recipe in safekeeping. Everyone else loved it too. Even my 13-year-old daughter who never liked turkey before. Thank you for the recipe! I am excited to try more of your recipes.

  568. 5 stars
    It was my first time making a turkey. I was worried it would be dry and undercooked… however, it came out juicy and delicious and I got many compliments. I personally don’t like turkey but I tried it and it was pretty good!

  569. 5 stars
    This turkey turned out PERFECTLY. I have never had white meat that was so moist and the turkey as a whole was very flavorful. Because I used salted butter (it was all I had), I went VERY light on the salt and I wish I had done just a bit more, but was so afraid of over salting it. Thank you for this recipe – IT IS A KEEPER!

  570. 5 stars
    Thank you so much for sharing this recipe. The whole family loved it. So far this is the best tasting turkey we’ve ever had.

  571. 3 stars
    Followed this recipe for our bird yesterday and it was lackluster. I used all fresh ingredients from my garden. Maybe it would have been better with even more seasoning? It was absolutely gorgeous, but the taste was just ‘fine’. I wish this had been a hit, but I won’t be repeating it. I don’t think anyone at the table took seconds of the turkey. At least the trusty sides were a hit!

  572. 5 stars
    Best turkey I’ve ever made! Usually I’m not a big fan of turkey because it always comes out so dry. This time it was so moist. While eating, I commented to my husband at least a few times how it was the first turkey I’ve eaten that wasn’t dry. Several others echoed my thoughts. I will use this recipe every time I cook a turkey from now on! Easy and yummy!

  573. 5 stars
    Amazing turkey! So juicy and wonderful! My whole family said it was the best turkey they have ever had and my family owned a restaurant for 30 years! 10/10 would recommend!

  574. 5 stars
    Your turkey recipe is amazing and so easy – thank you! Half of my family do not like turkey, but this is seriously the best we’ve ever tasted, so moist and flavorful. You’ve transformed our Thanksgiving meal into something we will actually look forward to year after year. This recipe’s a keeper!

  575. 5 stars
    Super juicy and delicious. I roasted it at 450° for 45 minutes uncovered while basting it with the remaining compound herb butter mixed with chicken stock every 15 minutes. I dropped them temperature to 350° for the remainder of the cooking time and tented the bird with foil. I also had a disposable pan so I used celery and carrots to lift the bird. It turned out excellent! Thanks for the recipe .

  576. 5 stars
    I was so tired of dry turkey! This recipe gave me a moist turkey with a wonderful flavor. I will make it this way every time!

  577. 5 stars
    I was really nervous to cook a turkey for the first time but everything went perfect and it’s all thanks to the recipe!! It was sooo good! Thank you!

  578. 5 stars
    I have never in my life cooked a turkey before, Whenever I tried turkey from friends and family and I must say I am not a fan of turkey, I was never so impressed; so I was hesitant to cook it to start with, but I had to give it a try. I needed an easy, simple recipe. I used this recipe yesterday for Thanksgiving and it was a big success!! Juicy, flavorful, very delicious, so easy to prepare, I was amazed. I will use it again and again. Thanks for sharing this recipe with everybody.

  579. 5 stars
    My first time making a turkey. Followed the recipe exactly and it was perfect – looked beautiful and tasted delicious!

  580. 5 stars
    Best Turkey we have made! Typically we fry or smoke a turkey but we wanted to take it easy this year and bake one.

  581. 5 stars
    Superb! Followed the exact steps. I had a 10.5 lbs young organic turkey and it took approx 3hrs to cook. I also used green apple instead of red apple. The flavor was amazing, juicy and the aromatics too were edible. This recipe is a keeper!

    1. 5 stars
      Thank you for the recipe! It came out really great! I omitted certain ingredients that I cannot have and it still came out good. And the tips were a big help.

  582. 5 stars
    Thank you!! Our turkey was moist and very flavorful, and for the first time ever, cooked all the way through in the allotted time! I think basting has been my enemy all these years. I’ve never been one to eat turkey plain, but my husband and I kept swiping bits from the cutting board. This recipe will be our standard from now on!

  583. 5 stars
    This was amazing. I don’t even EAT turkey and it was perfect. My first turkey and what a resounding success — I still can’t get over myself. This was the easiest most accurate recipe I’ve ever attempted. I’m so glad you explained everything the way in which you did. Thank you so so much.

  584. 5 stars
    So happy I found this recipe!! The turkey came out amazing and the family loved the flavors. I definitely need to work on my carving skills😆

  585. 5 stars
    I was so nervous to cook turkey for the first time. This recipe was great for an amateur cook like me. I had guests had they were very impressed. Thank you for this recipe!

  586. This was my first time cooking a turkey with my partner. My partner even said it turned better than his dad’s. We’ll be following this process again.

  587. 5 stars
    This was my first time cooking Thanksgiving dinner. I’m not very experienced with cooking and I was really nervous about it. But this recipe was so helpful, it made it super easy. I used the turkey gravy recipe too (since I forgot the gravy!) I was so shocked at how great both turned out! (I used the Bluetooth thermometer from Meater to track the cook time.) My mom said it was the best turkey she’d ever had. My kiddo and I usually don’t even like turkey that much and we both loved it. I’m so glad I found these recipes! Thank you!

  588. 5 stars
    I never leave reviews on anything but I knew I had to for this turkey recipe! Absolutely AMAZING. So easy, and so delicious. My whole life I’ve hated turkey for thanksgiving but this was absolutely incredible! My first time making a turkey and it was so easy!

  589. 5 stars
    Over the years, I have cooked many turkeys. Each year, varying the recipe slightly. This year, I followed EASY, NO-FUSS THANKSGIVING TURKEY by Lauren Allen. Turkey came out fabulous – so juicy, great flavor and mouthwatering. It is an an easy and no fuss receipe. When I compare this recipe to what I did in the past, it seemed to work very well. Here are a few comparisons. (1) In the past, I washed and brined the turkey. This year, I did not. (note, I did buy an expensive fresh Hoka Turkey- $3.99 lb that also doesn’t require brining) (2) I made the herb butter mix and spread it on. (in the past I spread butter and then sprinkled on the herbs. The mixture Laura uses worked well and tasted great. (3) At first I thought it was confusing – but I did lift of the breast skin with my hand and smeared the herb butter mix inside. (4) in the past, I stuffed the turkey with carrots, celery and onions. I followed the recipe and put lemon, apples and onions. Wow! The apples and lemons were great. Putting the celery and carrots on the bottom of the pan worked so well. I cooked a 28 lb hoka turkey. So, I put up the tin foil tent to start with it. Then, I did not open the oven to baste, and waited until I hit the 3 hour mark and then took off the tinfoil ent to cook for one more hour. The outside of the turkey looked beautiful when served on the dining room table. Everyone was raving on how the turkey tasted this year! I will use this recipe moving forward!

  590. 1 star
    The heat is too low for the time amounts! I had to throw the turkey back in 3 times, it ruined the timing of Thanksgiving dinner, such a waste of time letting it sit for 30 mins before carving when it was still pink, & yes it was 160 degrees where we inserted the thermometer! I honestly don’t know how this recipe gets such good reviews unless u delete all the bad ones!

    1. Hi Jill,
      I’m so sorry your turkey was uncooked but you need to wait until the temperature reaches 165, not 160. Also, you should make sure that the thermometer is inserted in the thickest part of the breast and the thickest part of the thigh. It will continue cooking as it rests.

  591. 5 stars
    My 72 year old father said it was one of the best turkeys he’s ever had and that’s a HUGE compliment coming from him! Here are the two things that I think made all the difference for me only because I’ve done similar recipes in the past but they didn’t turn out as well as your recipe. Tenting the turkey in the BEGINNING half of cooking and then removing the foil through the second half. The breast meat was so juicy but had the skin perfectly crisped. Also…the butter I used this time was the Irish cream butter. Yes, it’s probably not as healthy as a salt free butter but you only live once 😬 my 10 year old also voted mommy’s turkey as the number 1 winner. Thanks for the tips and for giving such clear direction! It’s no wonder your recipe still has 5 stars with that many reviews! Kudos to you!!

  592. 5 stars
    Cooked my first Turkey with this recipe! My brother even commented that it was juicy but cooked faster and seemed to be less stressful than how my parents cook the bird! Very pleased with the results!

  593. I used this recipe for this years turkey & it was the best tasting turkey I’ve ever made! Will definitely keep this! Thank you!!

  594. 5 stars
    Thank you so much for sharing your recipe
    It has been 33 years since the last time I cooked a Turkey.
    Your recipe is amazing and it provided for our Turkey to come out also amazing and delicious!!!
    And so juicy no dry section at all!!!

    Thank you

  595. Loved this! I made a few changes: Roasted at 325 for 2 hours, tented, then removed the tent and turned the oven up to 425 for about 45 minutes.

  596. 5 stars
    Made this yesterday for Thanksgiving!! My first time EVER making a turkey and it was AMAZING!!! Easy and delicious!! Thank you for the recipe!!!

  597. 5 stars
    My husband & I made our first Thanksgiving turkey yesterday with this recipe. SO GOOD! It came out perfectly! A lot of people we know cook their turkey in a plastic bag in the oven, and we definitely did NOT want to do that so I was so happy to find this recipe. This recipe was easy to follow and delicious, our Turkey came out moist and flavorful, with a beautiful color. Thank you for making our first Thanksgiving turkey a success!

  598. 5 stars
    The tittle ALMOST says it all, it should say “easy no fuss delicious juicy thanksgiving turkey”! Really simple and delicious results. Thank you!

  599. 5 stars
    Being from Germany, this was the first turkey I cooked in my life. I chose your recipe because I liked the easy, step-by-step instructions and followed them religiously.
    Three hungry guys can’t be wrong: It turned out perfect. Juicy, moist, with a lot of flavour and done all the way through. If I could, I would give ten stars!
    I used the veggies from the roasting pan: Put them in the blender and got them real creamy, dumped it into a pot and added the cooking-water from the innards and some chicken stock, boiled it on the stove top for a few seconds and added some white wine and spices. Sooo much better than store-bought… and you know what’s in it.
    Again, thank you for sharing this wonderful recipe!

  600. 5 stars
    This year (2020), we were not able to gather with our extended family, so at age 56, I cooked my first turkey ever using this recipe! It was juicy and so delicious! Thank you so much.

  601. 5 stars
    Hi Lauren I made the Easy No Fuss Thanksgiving Turkey and the turkey gravy recipe that you had linked minus the giblets. Both recipes were exactly what I was looking for. The turkey turned out perfect I roasted a 14 pound bird and followed both recipes exactly. They both were easy and no stress. I would definitely make again and would recommend. Thanks!

  602. 5 stars
    It’s great to know I’m not the only person that got nervous for the first time. Thank you for this awesome recipe! It was an easy recipe to follow. My turkey came out great and very delicious! Thank you!!

  603. 4 stars
    Loved the paragraphs before the recipe. They are sooo helpful – they cover the things debated across turkey recipes and why you recommend what you do. In a friendly way.

    I followed your recommendations and the turkey was pretty and tasty. The only thing that wan’t ideal was the skin didn’t turn out crisp. I used a wet-brined turkey (came that way from Trader Joes), but patted it dry. I did not tent the tukey halfway through cooking and never opened the oven until it was almost done, to take temp. When done I let the turkey rest 1/2 hour w foil loosely over. Any idea how to get the crisp skin next year? Thanks, Lainey

    1. 24 hours before you’re going to cook the turkey take it out of the wet brine, pat it dry, and let it sit on a rack in the roasting pan in your fridge. The skin will air dry and you’ll have crispy skin!

  604. 5 stars
    I’m not a fan of cooking. Too much work involved. But this recipe was really easy to follow. And I was SHOCKED by how much everyone loved it! I even converted my brother who never liked turkey. He said it’s the best turkey he’s ever had! Wow! Thank you for the amazing recipe! Glad I found this one!

  605. 5 stars
    Turkey was very moist and so tender! I did not brine it and it was really great. Had to extend the cooking time but it was not dry at all! Covered for about 30min after oven. Thanks a lot for sharing your recipe!

  606. 5 stars
    Used this recipe on a 25lb non-brand name turkey and it was so delicious! Truly flavorful meat and crispy skin with zero basting!

    I do not have a convection oven but the turkey still finished cooking almost 2 hours earlier than I anticipated based on the weight. Covered it in foil and let it rest for over an hour before cutting into it. I was nervous about it drying out because the breast read a temp of 180F when I pulled it out of the oven. Thankfully, it was not dry at all, juicy and tasty!

    Spouse had to work and didn’t get to try the turkey hot and fresh, but even after warming it up in the microwave it was still packed with flavor! Spouse was truly impressed!

  607. 5 stars
    This was my first ever crack at cooking the family Thanksgiving turkey. I had ordered a fresh turkey months ago and it came in at 26 #’s. About 10 3’s heavier than we ended up needing under the COVID life style. Long Story short, the receipt and instructions were excellent and the turkey came out great! When I carved into the turkey the juices flowed out of it! It was so moist and delicious!!

    Thank you for sharing!

  608. 5 stars
    One of the best turkeys I’ve made! The meat was so moist, and everyone, even those that aren’t fans of turkey, enjoyed it. I used a roasting bag but I’ll try going without next time. Thank you!

  609. 5 stars
    This was super easy and SO DELICIOUS!! I also followed your directions on the gravy and this was the best turkey I’ve ever made!

  610. Used your recipe for my turkey yesterday and it turned out great! It was so moist and everyone raved bout it! I believe I’ve started a new tradition:) Thank you!

  611. 5 stars
    I may very well be the world’s pickiest eater and granted I like turkey, this was the best Turkey I’ve ever had. I got a roaster oven to cook it so I could have the main oven free. Between that and in this recipe the meat was so tender, the flavor was divine. I am looking forward to the left overs!!! I actually used two apples. One green and one red.
    I didn’t do the foil tent. Heavenly!

  612. 1 star
    There was so much liquid in the center of the turkey from the lemon and apple that the turkey took many more hours than thought to cook through to a safe temperature. This turkey recipe ruined our thanksgiving, pushing our 5 PM dinner to 9 PM…

    1. I’m so sorry your turkey didn’t cook as you anticipated. The juice inside the cavity of the turkey would not have been the problem, though. I’d calibrate your oven and make sure it’s heating correctly.

  613. 5 stars
    It was my first time doing turkey, as per my kinder’s request, and this recipe was a hit! Everybody was nervous that even my husband asked if we have a backup protein just in case. But this recipe didn’t dissappoint. It was so tasty and moist and no gamey taste at all, that there’s barely any left-overs. I used a 15lb Butterball and did the tent with foil at the start then let it brown during the last hour. It came out perfect! I had to tent it again once i took it out when the temp was at 160-162. Thank you for this wonderful recipe. It sure is for keeps!

  614. 5 stars
    I gave this recipe a try given its simplicity (no brining! no basting!) and the allure of fresh herbs. I followed it essentially verbatim and found it to be nearly without flaw. Importantly, the turkey turned out wonderfully. I have a convection oven so the timing was shorter than what was specified here. The two key elements are to loosely cover in foil after the turkey has a deep golden brown color and to accurately measure the internal temperature because that’s the truest indicator of doneness.

    The drippings were more than ample for making turkey gravy. I did add a small amount of chicken stock in the pan at the start of roasting which I had seen elsewhere. I’m not sure if that helped with keeping things moist, but it couldn’t have hurt when collecting the drippings later. The resulting gravy was outstanding.

    Here are the few observations I have that deviate from the recommendations:

    – My 16.5 lb turkey’s internal cavity couldn’t possibly accommodate an apple, lemon, and onion no matter how it was cut. Two quarters of each were about all I could muster. Regardless, I love the idea of putting moist, fragrant things inside the turkey to infuse flavor and prevent dryness. This recipe reminded me that thyme should be a first ballot hall of fame herb.

    – Making the herb butter is probably something better done the night before as it’s quite tedious to chop up all of the garlic and herbs. You won’t want to bother doing all of this in the flow of prepping your turkey. Also, one cup (two whole sticks!) of butter is flatly absurd. You’ll use, maybe if you’re ambitious, a quarter of that. There’s only so much you can get under the breast skin and coating the entire outer surface doesn’t require this kind of butter commitment. I’d also scale back on the garlic even though I’m a huge fan.

    All in all, this was an excellent recipe and one in which my turkey looked almost exactly as the recipe promised. Given how easy this was, I would try this again in a heartbeat.

  615. 5 stars
    Made this today with green apples, onions, and lemons inside. My almost 16 lb turkey was AMAZING! Everyone said it was the best EVER! I can’t wait to make it again next year…….

  616. 5 stars
    I made this the first time during covid. Wanted something super easy. This was amazing! I never basted, never covered with foil etc. The skin was an amazing color and super crispy and the meat moist and yummy. I’m impressed that I didn’t mess it up. This will be going in my favs. Loved it!

  617. 5 stars
    It was SO good! Mine did not need to cook as long as it said, maybe the pounds include the neck? Anyway it was my first turkey and it turned out amazing! THANK YOU.

  618. 5 stars
    My first turkey and it came out absolutely perfect! The skin was roasted golden brown,tasty and was perfectly crispy. The inside was juicy.This may have been the best turkey I’ve ever had.

  619. 5 stars
    My husband doesn’t like white/breast meat because it is always too dry, but this recipe produce the best tasting turkey we have ever had, and I have never cooked a turkey before! Only thing I would say is don’t tinfoil tent it at 160, cook until 165 in the oven, and defrost it from frozen 4 days in advance for 10 pound turkey. I did 3 days and it was still frozen inside.

  620. 5 stars
    I’ve never cooked a turkey before, but this was very easy to do and absolutely the most flavorful and moist turkey I’ve every tasted. It was a BIG hit! Thank you for making it easy for those of us who cook very little without compromising the flavor. This turkey recipe is AMAZING!

  621. 5 stars
    It was wonderful….one of the moistest birds ever. Many compliments from others. Only problem i had is that the smallest turkey I could get was 21.9 lbs and we only had 3 people to eat, its enough leftovers to last until the end of the pandemic for us. Thank you .

  622. At least one good thing has come from this pandemic that we are dealing with. We usually go to one of the grandparents homes for the holidays. Everyone brings their assigned dish and whoever is hosting provides the turkey. With everything going on we decided to stay home and cook everything on our own. Thank you for your time and detailed instructions. Even the little video was so helpful! Thanksgiving 2020 in the books as a success in the Freeman family home!

  623. 5 stars
    Made it today for Thanksgiving, and it came out amazing . I will admit that I accidentally cooked the turkey upside down, but I think that actually helped! The dark meat wasn’t as greasy, and the white meat was very moist and just falling apart. The taste was perfect too. Even the picky eaters loved it. Will make this recipe again!

  624. 5 stars
    Alright, I’m impressed. And so were my husband and my parents. This was my first time cooking a turkey and I was nervous. Started it late, looked at the wrong number on the tag so my weight was off (only by 2lbs, not a big deal), and I only had some of the listed ingredients (we decided to do a traditional dinner very last minute). But I made the herb butter with what I had on hand, stuffed a bunch of quartered apples and oranges inside the bird with a nice coating of the herb butter inside too. Then I peeled the skin back like the recipe says and slathered the rest of the butter under there. It came out SOOO GOOD!!! I couldn’t believe it. So moist and juicy and it cut apart/crumbled with a fork. I used a roasting pan, put the lid on halfway through and that was the only thing I did to this the entire time it was cooking. This is a super easy recipe to customize with what you have on hand and still come out with an awesome dinner. Thank you for this amazing recipe!!

  625. 5 stars
    I cannot express this enough, THE BEST turkey I’ve ever had. This was the first time I’ve ever made a turkey and it was the best I’ve ever had. It’s so flavorful and moist. Im really proud of myself and I’m very thankful for this recipe.

  626. 5 stars
    Our turkey turned out AMAZING using this recipe. No one in my family particularly likes turkey, we eat it only for the tradition, but everyone raved over how flavorful and moist this turned out. I have never had a turkey that was so tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor! Can’t wait to make it again next Thanksgiving!

  627. 5 stars
    Thank you for this great tutorial & recipe! I followed it step by step, but I did baste my turkey. This was my first turkey I’ve made by myself and it was amazing and so easy!

  628. 5 stars
    I cooked Thanksgiving dinner for the first time and used this turkey recipe. I followed it really closely and cooked a 10.25 lb turkey that came out deliciously moist! I made the herb butter the day before just to cut down on prep time on Thanksgiving day. Thanks for the wonderful recipe and all the great tips on this page!

  629. My mother always made the Thanksgiving turkey, but since we didn’t get to go to her house this year, I followed this recipe. It was simple and low-stress and tasted great. Thank you!

  630. 5 stars
    Excellent! Easy to prepare. No hassle brining or basting. Turkey came out very moist. I did roast the turkey at 450 degrees for the first 30 minutes, and then decreased it to 325 degrees for the rest of the time. I definitely will use this recipe again.

  631. 5 stars
    Very easy and yummy recipe. I hadn’t cooked a turkey in over 30 years and this was a no brainer. Thanks for the tips!

  632. 5 stars
    This is my first time making Thanksgiving dinner. My bird was 25lbs!!!!! Omg I freaked out when I saw how big it was!!! I love the tips at the end. VERY HELPFUL!!!! My anxiety was at a 10, up until I pulled the bird out. JUICY!!! FLAVORFUL!!!! I’m thankful for YOU today, for posting this recipe! Thank you! Happy Thanksgiving!!!

  633. I used this recipe today. It was outstanding, easy to follow and resulted in juicy, tender and delicious turkey! I highly recommend, no need to deviate from recipe.

  634. 5 stars
    This was the best turkey I’ve made, and I’ve been cooking Thanksgiving dinner for years! I followed the recipe as written! Thank you.

  635. The turkey smelled great and looked great, but my 12-pound turkey definitely did not cook through, even after 4 hours as 325! I wonder whether the heat should be higher. Or maybe I did something wrong.

  636. 5 stars
    It was my very first time making a turkey and it came out so delicious and juicy. Best recipe ever. Very easy to prepare. Thank you for sharing

  637. 5 stars
    I’m 45 years old and this year I made my first Thanksgiving turkey for my husband and two girls. Thank you for this recipe it was SO delicious!!!! Everyone loved it❤️

  638. Tried this recipe for our Thanksgiving turkey and it was so flavorful and moist. I was in doubt about using the lemon and was surprised to discover it’s a great flavor enhancer. Will use this recipe again Thx!

  639. 5 stars
    My entire family said it was the best turkey they have ever had, and it really was. I won’t make a turkey any other way again it was that good ! So glad I found this recipe !
    Viki

  640. 2 stars
    Unfortunately this was the worst turkey I’ve ever made. It looked amazing but it was DRY and the flavor wasn’t as good as I expected.

  641. 5 stars
    Fantastic and so easy!! This was my first time making the whole turkey and it came out perfect.. looks like I’ll be making it every year moving forward

  642. 5 stars
    I baked a turkey once 20+ year ago, and then today using your recipe. According to my husband, it was the most flavorful and juicy turkey he had ever eaten .. and I agree 🙂

  643. 2 stars
    The best part was how beautiful brown and crispy the skin got. The flavor was good, but didn’t seem to permeate the entire bird. Worst of all, I completely thawed the 10.88 lb turkey and then let it sit in the sink for about an hour before filling the cavity with herbs, onion, apple and lemon. I planned heavily on the 13-15 min per pound. I roasted it at 325 for about 3 hours the night before Thanksgiving, planning to reheat it the next night. I tented the breast For the first two hours. It spent another hour or a bit more in a 350 oven while the other sides heated through. It was still raw in the very deepest parts. Disappointing.

  644. 5 stars
    This was not my first turkey, yet may be the last I always cook! It was juicy delicious and super simple. I followed the recipe fully.

  645. Thank you for the delicious and easy turkey recipe! We made it for our little family today and it was so good! This was my first time baking the turkey myself, but you helped me rock it!!

  646. Hi there… I’m using this recipe tomorrow for our Thanksgiving. Can I prep my thawed turkey tonight and have it ready for oven in the morning? Appreciate any input🦃.

  647. 1 star
    You can kill someone at the temp and time you say to use. My turkey wasn’t no where near done making me a fool in front of my family!

  648. 5 stars
    This recipe is phenomenal. I will use this every year from now on. I’m 22, this is my first time ever cooking a turkey. If I can do it you can do it.

  649. 5 stars
    Best turkey – first time making my own from scratch. I ama vegetarian, but my husband eats meat. He said the turkey is flavorful, delicious and juicy – sucess!!! Thank you so much for this recipe 🙂

    Sincerely,
    Lois

  650. 5 stars
    Fabulous, best turkey ever. Thank you so much it was super moist and tender and full of fabulous flavors. This is my forever recipe.

  651. 5 stars
    This is the best turkey I have ever roasted! I followed the recipe to a tee and it came it perfectly cooked and juicy. Wow! So impressed. Thank you! 🙂

  652. 5 stars
    This recipe was amazing! This year was my first time cooking a turkey #covid, and this recipe saved the day! I would put the flavor and moistness right up there with a deep fried turkey. I used a knife to slice the skin open above the breasts, continued to separate the skin from the meat, and filled the pockets with the butter. Game changer! I also think putting the apples inside the turkey helped to keep it from drying out. I’ll be saving this recipe for future years. Thank you!

  653. 5 stars
    This made for a very flavorful and moist turkey!! I used herbs de Provence to substitute for the three individual spices. Sooo good! Thank you!! Happy Thanksgiving!

  654. 5 stars
    Easy recipe, first ever turkey. No longer afraid to cook now, actually its my first ever dinner. Just me and my son, ( covid-19) enjoyed all my dinner. Thank you Sally

  655. Third year in a row making my Thanksgiving turkey like this. I’m committed to making this our family recipe to pass down for generations to come! I actually used apple, onion, and celery the last 2 times and it’s been wonderful! Your turkey will never be (and stay) as juicy/moist using traditional stuffing!

  656. Cooked my first ever Thanksgiving turkey with this recipe and it was a hit! Very flavorful and juicy. The extra info before getting into the ingredients and method was extremely helpful too. Thank you!

  657. 5 stars
    My family loved the way it smelled and said it was the best turkey they’ve had. I’m now in charge of the Turkey every year 🤣 Great recipe and instructions thanks!!!

  658. Making my first Thanksgiving dinner for my family this year, found this recipe and it felt like a blessing, super straightforward, simple, and the herb butter smells amazing! Excited to see how the turkey turns out.

  659. 5 stars
    Love this super easy recipe! Turkey was so juicy, even after I cooked a little over the 165 degrees. This was only the second time I’ve ever cooked a turkey, and my family loved it. Thank you!

  660. 5 stars
    Made my first turkey today with this recipe. It came out juicy and flavorful you could taste the lemon ever so slighy. I would recommend this to anyone it was easy and came out great.

  661. Hi- how do you know whether to go with 13 or 15 per pound? Mine is cooking now at 325 and it is a 13.17 lb turkey. Thanks for all the tips here!! First time turkey roasting for me:)

    1. Start on the lower end at 13 mintues per pound and check it after about 2 hours and 45 minutes. Then check periodically based on how cooked it is at that time until it reaches 165 at the thickest part of the breast and thigh.

  662. 5 stars
    I’ve been using this recipe now for three or four years and every time it has come out wonderful the only thing I add is root vegetables to the bottom of the pan where I put the turkey on top and I let the juices soak into the vegetables and it makes for a great side dish I recommend this immensely though no one knows me of course so I don’t know how far my recommendation will go but it is a great recipe, enjoy

  663. 4 stars
    East & no fuss exactly what it’s states is exactly what you get! Thumbs up on this recipe especially since I already had all of this in my cupboards.

  664. Thanks for posting an easy recipe!! 2nd time ever making a turkey! I’m excited to try it!! If I don’t have apples on hand can I use oranges?

  665. 5 stars
    I just tried this recipe and my turkey looks and smells amazing!! It’s my first turkey ever so I was scared about it, but this was so easy to make and I have one happy husband! THANK YOU! Happy thanksgiving! 🙂

  666. 5 stars
    Oh my goodness! Never thought it could be sooo easy to make a Thanksgiving turkey. This was my first time. Such a perfect recipe. You don’t have to baste brine, etc 😄😄😄😄

  667. 5 stars
    This is my go-to recipe every Thanksgiving since my first solo turkey attempt in 2017. The temperature is just right for the juiciest meat. This recipe is easy to follow and gives much needed information for a first-timer to be successful.

  668. 4 stars
    I made this recipe yesterday (the day before Thanksgiving) and the bird came out super moist (we bought an organic turkey with no antibiotics) and followed this recipe. It was the best turkey I have made. The only thing I would say is to not use the leftover drippings for gravy. I used about 2 oranges and 2 lemons for this recipe for the inside of the bird and for what the bird rested on, and the gravy came out sour. You can still make a gravy just without using the drippings from the bird. Either way, turkey was delicious. Thanks so much for a great recipe and Happy Thanksgiving!

  669. 5 stars
    Just found out 8 hrs ago I’ll be cooking a turkey for the first time and this recipe looks amazing and is relieving some of my anxiety. Thank you in advance for a delicious bird. Happy Thanksgiving!
    .

  670. 5 stars
    Thank you for your recipe, I make a turkey every year but for some reason this one took the stress out out of it. Got it in at 6am will let you know more after dinner.

  671. I can’t wait to make this! Can you please give me a measurement of how much salt and pepper to put in the cavity? Thank you!

  672. 5 stars
    First timer… wasn’t disappointed . Easy steps to follow . A bit nervous, but feel very confident. Now the 4 hour wait.

  673. Recipe sounds great, will try today! One question : some sites say that properly cooked turkey should be 180F in thigh and 170F in breast, while other recipes like this one says 165F. Is 165F safe enough? Also, thinking about adding stock to the bottom of roasting pan with some root vegetables, do recommend or will it mess with the results? Thank you!

    1. 5 stars
      I also put roof vegetables at the bottom of the pan and put the turkey on top of it but I don’t I usually leave the turkey droppings for the vegetables to soak instead of adding anything else and it’s come out great I’ve been doing this recipe now for I think this is the third or fourth year

  674. 5 stars
    Well I just violated this poor bird in every way known! This is only my second turkey. I am excited for this one. The last one I brined and the gravy was disgusting. The homemade gravy is one of our favorite parts of the meal so we need a lot. Wish me luck that I don’t screw this poor fella up after what all I just did to him!! Happy Thanksgiving all! Will post our end result later.

  675. When using a roasting pan, do you use the lid to cover the turkey? Or is it cooked without the lid and then use the tinfoil tent?

    1. Cook it without the lid and then use the lid instead of the foil to “tent” your turkey if it’s getting too brown and to cover it after cooking.

  676. 5 stars
    Excellent recipe!! I made this turkey last year and it turned it out wonderful. I plan to make it again. The only modification I used was a roasting bag. Not sure if this made a difference or not, but my mother always used one. The turkey was so great! The directions were clear and easy. Thank you for posting.

  677. 5 stars
    It was so good & juicy!!
    The steps was very easy to follow I recommend it for everyone to try …. Happy Holidays to everyone !!
    Enjoy, enjoy ,enjoy 😘😘

  678. 5 stars
    Great and Easy to follow Recipe.
    Thank you for sharing. I work fulltime and only cook 1-2 days a week.
    Id like to try some of your 30 minute recipes so my family can enjoy more home cooked meals.

  679. The second I saw “don’t brine the turkey”, I thought to myself “I don’t trust a single word in the rest of this article”. I’ve been cooking for my family for many years. I tried brining for the first time 5-6 years ago. If you don’t think brining makes a difference, you should turn in your apron.

    1. I have brined turkey in the past. I gave this recipe a try last Thanksgiving and it was by far the best Turkey I have ever eaten. My family still raves about this recipe and can’t wait to eat it again this year. Before you so harshly judge a recipe (and the author) , maybe you should give it a try first and then post your honest review.

    2. Did you even read that section? She said it is unnecessary to brine turkeys bought at the supermarket. Most of these turkeys are already brined. She suggests to brine farm-fresh turkeys the night before. People ought to read things completely before flying off the handle.

  680. I’m making the Turkey for the 1st time this year! I’m so excited for the end result of the Turkey!

    Thank you for the recipe! 😃

  681. 5 stars
    Loved the taste and this has been 3 year same recipe I’ve used now came out of the oven beautifully every time never disappoints us ! Thank you

    1. 3 stars
      I’m not sure what happened but I made this today and the timing was off completely on my turkey. I had a 14 pound turkey and it took close to 5 hours for it to come to temperature?

  682. 5 stars
    This cooking method and recipe resulted in the most delicious Turkey I think I have ever made. It’s a shame due to the current situation I am unable to share it directly with my friends and family, so virtually will have to do. I am so looking forward to sharing it next year! The Turkey was very moist, flavorful and literally came right off the bone. I’ve used the same herbs in the past but the secret has got to be the apple, lemon and onion. I wouldn’t have thought to use that combo on my own. I’m thinking at Christmas I may bake a Turkey breast with the same butter mixture and use a baking bag and include the apple, onion and lemon to see if it will have the same effect. Thanks so much sharing!!

  683. 5 stars
    I’m going to try this tomorrow. In past years I followed ATK recommendation to microwave stuffing until it is quite hot (140?) before stuffing it in the bird. This will help it reach the right temp before the breast overcooks.

  684. 5 stars
    Easy and love your encouraging, supportive words about how anyone can do this! Tasty and moist turkey. Thank you so much. Turned out perfectly.

  685. Ok am trying this recipe this year i have a 25 1/2 or bout a 26lb turkey in what temperature should i start cooking and how long is it go to take to cook.. And do i double the recipe.. Sorry to ask so much qustions is cause this is my first time..

    1. Follow the directions in the recipe card and roast at 325 degrees F for about 13-15 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature (inserted on middle of thigh and breast) reaches about 165 degrees. Best of luck!

    1. You don’t need to put foil in the roasting pan. The purpose of the veggies are to help flavor the drippings for gravy. But the turkey is fine to sit right on the roasting pan.

  686. You’re calming my nerves about cooking a turkey 🙂 For dried herbs, you said 1 tspn dried herbs = 1 Tbsp fresh, but how much Dried herbs should we put in the CAVITY? 🙂

    1. Herbs and spices are usually to your taste and liking so don’t worry too much about exact numbers. As an estimate put 1 tsp of each herb in the herb butter and 3-4 teaspoons inside the cavity.

  687. Used this recipe last year, it’s amazing. Everyone loved it. Making again tomorrow. Thank Lauren. This will stay in our family for years to come.

  688. 5 stars
    Loads of compliments from this recipe. I made my first turkey ever using this recipe and everyone loved it this past Sunday. It was on a 14lb one. Thanks so much. It helps that we used a remote meat thermometer too, so it wasnt dry at all since it wasn’t overcooked.

  689. I will be trying this with my turkey this year. I just have one question? Every year when i cook the turkey, i start cooking it at 1 a.m on 200 degrees. At about 6 a.m i turn up the heat to 350. Would i still be able to use this cooking method with your ingredients/ recipe? Or do you recommend following your directions?

  690. Hello!
    I am making this turkey tomorrow! Last time I mad e a turkey was 15 years ago so I could use some help. My oven has 3 settings – bake, convection bake, SMS convection roast. I am an amateur cook and have no idea which one I should use and how they will affect the cooking time. I have an 18 lb turkey. Planning to eat around 2 – 2:30. What should I do? Thank you!

    1. Bake the turkey at 325 for about 13-15 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature. Fist check on it after 2 hours and cover it with foil if it’s getting too brown. Then check on it at about 4 hours and put the thermometer in the thickest part of the breast and thigh. The turkey is finished when your thermometer reches 165 degrees.

  691. 5 stars
    I made this for me and my husband last year and it was great! Last year, I made a half turkey, this year, I’m cooking a whole turkey for me and my in-laws! Wish me luck! Just curious, why don’t you recommend eating the veggies at the bottom of the turkey? I don’t remember reading that note last year and I ate the carrots, they were delicious! Just want to make sure they’re safe to eat

  692. 5 stars
    We had our Turkey on Sunday. This recipe made the best turkey I have ever roasted!!! Thank you so much for sharing!

  693. 5 stars
    We tried this recipe last year and it was OUTSTANDING!!!!! We hosted and everyone raved about the deliciousness of this turkey! We are making it again this year for just our household… highly recommend this recipe!!! Thank you 😊

  694. 5 stars
    I saw this recipe and immediately tried it. OMG!!!!!! It’s amazing and very moist. I let my Wife taste it and she is sold. The only thing I think I had to search, was weight to cooking time. I went with the 20 minutes per pound cooking time. Also, based off your ovens make/ model. Consider rotating the turkey to get the even browning. Thanks Lauren!!!! My Wife is also a Mom of four and Moms really make this parenting thing look easy-though I know it’s not.

  695. I’m giving 5*’s ahead of time. Simply because the recipe and steps are “perfect”!. I even like the fact that you don’t have to truly wash the bird. I had planned to do a 10lb turkey for my husband and self (no thank you CoVid). My mom, God father, and one of my brothers will be joining us. 13lbs it is. Plan on sending plenty plates out! My daughter and her boyfriend, still to young to fix Thanksgiving. So once again thank you for this quick and easy how to.

  696. 5 stars
    This too will be my very first time making a turkey for my family of four a bit nervous, but reading everyone’s comments about how easy it is has calmed my nerves🥰 Thank you for this recipe👏

  697. Excited to try this recipe! My family requested stuffing inside the turkey. Any modifications or recommendations you have for this?

    1. 5 stars
      This was SOO good…perfectly moist. The key seemed to be not putting a lid over the whole turkey, plus covering the breast with foil upfront. The seasonings inside and out were perfect, and I added some extra lemon juice in the cavity. My family was all down on having turkey and wanted ham because they don’t like dry turkey, but this was such a hit, they’ve almost finished all of the leftovers. So much for freezing some of our 21 pounder!
      Never basted, tried not to open the oven, and the whole house smelled of turkey from the oven vent. The cats were so excited! 🙂

  698. 5 stars
    Great recipe! The turkey was perfectly moist. My family was hesitant about the apple, onion, & lemon combo because they’re so picky, but dinner was a hit! Thank you.

  699. Hi! This will be my first turkey and I’m nervous and have a few questions, okay is it okay to use a roasting bag? The turkey I have comes with a thermometer so will I need to still check on it, if so when? Thanks! Can’t wait to try this!!!

    1. You don’t need the bag but you can use it if you want. As a general rule, roast the turkey at 325 degrees F for about 13-15 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature (inserted on middle of thigh and breast) reaches about 165 degrees. So check your thermometer as it get closer to the suggested cook time.

    1. Absolutely! You may not need as many ingredients but you can’t go to wrong. Just be sure to roast it at 325 degrees F for about 13-15 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature (inserted on middle of thigh and breast) reaches about 165 degrees.

  700. Question: I see you do not add water to pan. Do u get enough drippings and liquid to make gravy without adding the water?

  701. 5 stars
    Great looking recipe but one big question… Why no instructions on gravy making? Turkey day turkey isn’t turkey without gravy.

  702. How early can I start the turkey? For example, can I get it ready in the morning, stick it in the fridge and then put it in the oven when the time is right?

      1. Should I put stuffing in the bird after other ingredients?
        If it won’t end up a good consistency, I will forget about stuffing it!

  703. I made this recipe last year. It was my first time making a turkey, and I was very nervous. But this recipe was easy and the turkey tasted incredible. I fed 20 people and got rave reviews. Can’t wait to make it again tomorrow. Smaller gathering this year with just our household (thanks, Covid) but I am looking forward to this delicious turkey again. Thank you!

  704. 5 stars
    Fantastic recipe. By far the easiest and best tasting turkey I’ve ever prepared. I followed the recipe exactly. I also made the turkey gravy with the drippings and it was delicious as well. Thank you for great recipe!

  705. I have tried this recipe before and my family loved it,so we’re doing it again for Thanksgiving. I love the veggies stuffed idea

  706. Planning on making this tomorrow for Thanksgiving. We have some homemade stuffing. If we put in the apples, onions, lemons, and herbs at first, can we stuff the turkey with the homemade stuffing (already cooked) towards the end of roasting? Or will there not be enough room? Can’t wait to try this!

  707. This is my first year cooking one and I’m so glad I found this recipe! I can’t wait to try it! You definitely calmed my nerves 😂

  708. I just found this recipe! Finally, a recipe that does not have me totally freaked out to make our first turkey tomorrow. Due to Covid, we are not attending our family Thanksgiving so we are now attempting our first turkey. Wish us luck!! A video, easy ingredients, and great step by steps. I feel hopeful now. Thank you for sharing this!

  709. Im cooking for only my boyfriend and I this year (first time!) He is suffering from a stomach ulcer and I’m concerned that lemon will upset his stomach. Is there a substitute for lemon that I can use that is less acidic?

  710. Hi
    We have a local, organic free range 16 pound bird bought directly from the small farm here in Vermont. There are no other ingredients added. Do you think I should brine? I was all prepared to not brine and follow your recipe exactly. Yikes!

    1. You can definitely prep it the night before, put it in your roasting pan, cover it, and put it in the fridge. Allow it to come to room temp for 30-60 minutes before roasting.

  711. I am interested in using this recipe. The reviews and the recipe itself looks positive. This is my first time.making my own turkey! I’ve been told to use a bag, is the bag a positive tool in this recipe or should I not?

  712. 5 stars
    Super excited to try this recipe tomorrow!! Having a hard time getting my question to post… But I have an old school big turkey pan, do I still follow everything exactly on this recipe? And when I take it out for 30 minutes, do I tent with foil or can I just leave the lid on the pan? Thank you!

  713. This may be a silly question – should I cover the turkey with the roasting pan life while it is roasting in the oven? Thanks!!

    1. No you don’t need to. Use your lid as the “tent” instead of the aluminum foil that’s suggested in the recipe (to cover if it’s getting to brown or after cooking as a tent).

  714. My 12 lb frozen turkey (Shoprite brand) says it “contains 6% retained water. Contains no artificial ingredients and is minimally processes”.
    Do I need to brine this? If so, what is the best way to brine the turkey? Thank you!

  715. I can’t wait to try this! Usually we use cook our turkey in a turkey bag to help it stay moist. Would you recommend that with this method?

  716. Thank you for the step by step preparation for the Thanksgiving Turkey. As a man, and I speak for many , cooking the Thanksgiving Turkey was normally the mothers and daughters job. I really enjoy cooking and like most men , cooking is like driving. they take no advise from others. Eventually you get there. But with cooking , getting there could be the result of a dried out Turkey. And with a dried turkey , you better have a good gravy recipe or Thanksgiving Dinner could be a disaster . Your step by step helps and eases the doubts of ruining the meal. Happy Thanksgiving and as a man , we could always blame it on 2020, which this year caused havoc on everything.

  717. I used this recipe last year and the breast meat was 165 and the inside by the leg was 130, how do I get a more evenly cooked turkey?    I thawed the 12 pound turkey for 4 days  in the fridge.  But there was still some ice inside the turkey when I pulled it out of the fridge.  I had to cut the turkey into pieces and insert some of it back into the oven to finish cooking.

    1. Definitely make sure the entire turkey is thawed before hand, and let it rest at room temp for 1 hour before roasting.

  718. 5 stars
    I tried this recipe last Thanksgiving and my turkey was like butter, so moist not dry or greasy at all, everyone LOVED IT going to do the same this year..Thanks Tastes better from Scratch!!!

  719. 5 stars
    I made the mistake of using this recipe last year for thanksgiving. Now I’m expected to bring the turkey every year for ever.
    Truly easy and so, so good.
    My husband said “don’t change a thing!”

  720. 5 stars
    I have a question my husband and grandson are allergic to onions is can i still use the lemons, herbs and apples in the turkey? The reason that I ask is because I was wondering if it will still taste the same. This is my first time making Thanksgiving dinner and I would like to not mess up. Just kidding. Thank you

  721. 5 stars
    Thank you so much it’s made preparing my turkey much easier than I thought! We will have a great Thanksgiving hope you do too.

  722. Hello and thank you for this recipe! I have made your recipe several times and each time the turkey comes out PERFECT! I’ve made it with a smaller than 12lb (9 I think?) turkey and just use the same ingredients and put in what fits and place the rest under the bird with the other vegetables. I don’t use the roasting rack, i add the veggies as per your comment above beneath the bird.

  723. 5 stars
    Very excited to make this again. It’s the best turkey recipe out there. If I have the time, would it be even tastier if I do the under-the-skin herb butter and fill the cavity 24-48 hours in advance? If I prepare it ahead, anything I would need to leave out until I’m ready to cook, like the salt etc? Thanks!

    1. I recommend a disposable pan just for ease of clean up. You don’t need a turkey bag but it is fine if you use it.

    1. You really can’t go too wrong here but if you are uncomfortable using that many herbs, feel free to half it.

  724. I’m looking forward to making this recipe this year, my question is can I season the turkey 1 or 2 days before Thanksgiving?

    1. I like to prep it the day before, cover it, and store it in the fridge until about 30 minutes prior to roasting.

  725. What a great page you have here. I can’t wait to try this recipe for our Thanksgiving Turkey. I am so eager that I am wondering if I can prepare it today, since it’s already thawed and bake it on Thursday or if I am just better off waiting until Thursday. I guess I am thinking it might dry out in the fridge if I remove all the packaging etc. What do you think?

    1. I like to prep it the day before, cover it, and store it in the fridge until about 30 minutes prior to roasing.

  726. 5 stars
    I used this recipe last year and it came out perfect!!! It was my first time cooking a turkey ever. The akin was a bit crisp although it was still very moist. This time I will probably tent with foil in the beginning but looking forward to yummy food!!

  727. My first year cooking the turkey! What if I want to cook it the day before. We are eating at my aunts but I’m cooking it at my house. How long should I let it sit and cool after it’s done cooking, before refrigeration? What would reheating instructions be? Thank you!

    1. Let it rest for about 30 minute before refrigerating. To reheat, Id suggest cutting the meat off and laying it in a baking dish. Add some broth to the pan (1/2 – 1 cup, to keep the meat moist), cover with foil and reheat at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes.

  728. 5 stars
    Best and easy turkey recipe for first time cooking a turkey. It came out juice and golden brown. Everyone loved it.

  729. 5 stars
    Last year I used the disposable foil pan with a bed of veggies and it worked out great. I also added low sodium chicken broth which added to the flavor. We did not eat a he veggies, as you suggest, but we added a few potatoes which cooked up great and were delicious. Also we put some celery in the cavity.

  730. 5 stars
    This was perfect! Great step by step instructions! I made it last year for the first time and I think it was one of my best turkey’s ever!! Im using this recipe again this year! Thank you!!!

  731. How do I brine the turkey? I’ve never done turkey before in my life so I’m extremely nervous about it, I want it to be perfect for my small crew!

    1. My best advice is to read through this post thoroughly and i’m confident it will turn out great. I don’t think its necessary to brine your turkey (see my opinion about this above in the post).

    1. 5 stars
      In 2018 I made my first turkey ever using this recipe. It turned out perfect and I used it in 2019 and will again this year! Thanks to you and this recipe I have found that cooking a turkey is no stress at all!

  732. Hi, I made this last year for the first time and it was absolutely perfect!! I am making it again this year but realized I grabbed a different brand, this year I have a Publix brand turkey where last year I had Butterball. Do you think this will make any difference? Should I brine it? I’m not sure how lesser of quality the Publix brand turkey is compared to the butterball.

    1. That’s totally fine! It will say somewhere on the packaging if it has other ingredients (basically injected brine). I’m guessing it does, as most store-bought turkey’s like that do, in which case, just proceed with the recipe as stated! If it doesn’t, you could brine it before to add flavor and moisture.

  733. Would you still recommend this method and recipe for an 8 lbs turkey? We have a small crew this year so we went with a little bird.

    1. Yes, absolutely! Just adjust the time to cook, based on weight, and you can probably use half the amount of herb butter.

  734. This is my first year cooking the bird and am excited to impress with th recipe. I have a quick question about the herbs. I use 3/4 oz of rosemary, sage, and thyme for the cavity, but how much do I use for the herb butter with the 6-8 cloves of minced garlic? Thank you!!

  735. Can you tell me, if you use all of the fresh herbs to put in the turkey? How much do you reserve or use for the herb butter? I am a measurement kind of person lol, Thanks!

  736. 5 stars
    Best turkey I have ever roasted! Will only use this recipe from now on! I “tented” the turkey with aluminum foil for the first hour, then removed for the remainder of time in the oven. I used dried herbs. I have a roasting pan and rack, so didn’t try the bed of veggies, but I did stuff an apple, onion, lemon and garlic in the cavity. The gravy was extremely delicious as well, as the drippings included the butter, herbs, and flavors from the “stuffing”, along with the turkey juices. I plan to roast turkeys more often now that I have this awesome recipe!

  737. 5 stars
    Ive made many of turkeys but never as delicious this recipe. The rosemary really takes the flavor to the next level!! Absolutely awesome recipe.

  738. 5 stars
    Just about how I prepare and cook my turkey. Well done! You have explained it well in very simple instructions. I am teaching my children to cook a turkey and this will help with step by step directions.

  739. First time ever cooking a turkey myself. This was the juiciest and most flavorful turkey I have ever eaten. Great recipe! I’m glad I found this. My wife put us on the spot when she offered to host Thanksgiving dinner for my side of the family. Everything turned out great and the Turkey was definitely center piece and worthy of the spot.

  740. Would using a JENNIE-O turkey be fine for this?

    I’m unsure if that brand is already flavored as it comes already brined and if I added your ingredients on top of it would it taste good? I have the “JENNIE-O® Premium Fresh Young Turkey”

    1. That is a turkey that has already been injected with brine (see the fine print on the front of the packaging, underneath the photo of the turkey). You can make this recipe as instructed, with great results.

  741. I’m looking forward to this easy recipe. I like cooking once and eating many meals from it. So, I’m cooking a 10 lb. turkey for one, going quickly to turkey salad, sandwiches, and soup.

    Why do you not recommend eating the veggies on the bottom? Can I use them for my soup?

    Also, can I freeze some meat for use later?

    1. Yes, you can use the veggies for soup. I don’t eat them because by the the time the turkey has cooked they are mushy and soaked on fat/grease/drippings. Yes, you can freeze leftover turkey meat.

  742. Thanks for the simple recipe. I’ll be trying it this Thanksgiving. However I don’t know how to make giblet gravy. Can you please help me?

    1. Not weird I was actually was scrolling for this question just to make sure I wasn’t the only one going to do this it’ll be just splendid .😆😊

  743. Can I stuff the turkey with stuffing using your recipe? I used this recipe the last two years and I love it. Just not sure about putting the stuffing in the bird this year.

    1. Yes, you can! (The reason I personally choose not to, is because you have to check the temperature of the stuffing to make sure its safe to eat, and by the time it reaches safe eating temp, the turkey my be overcooked/dry).

  744. 5 stars
    This was my first time making a turkey. We have always gone to family for Thanksgiving but decided to stay home this year. Hands down this was the best turkey I have ever eaten on Thanksgiving! The flavor was amazing and it was soooo moist! The directions were great and the notes at the end were very helpful! YUUUUUMMMM!

  745. Hello,

    It will be the first time I cook turkey for Thanksgiving, I bought an organic whole turkey at whole foods and it does not seem to be brined, should I brine it before? I saw you recommended not to brine except for natural ones. Your thoughts?

    Thankyfor sharing your recipe I can’t wait to prepare it!

  746. I will be cooking this turkey the night before to bring to the office for a thanksgiving lunch. Any suggestions on keeping it fresh and juicy till noon for eating? I will be bringing the cooked turkey to the office at nine but we will carve for lunch at noon

  747. I have cooked mine in a brown paper grocery bag closing end tight w/ wooden clothespins & put a little water , an inch , in bottom of pan & every Turkey for 40+ years have come out perfectly golden browned & white meat is always juicy, never dry ! I do the butter web on & under skin! Last year cooked a 30lber.! & forgot season butter under skin & could not even notice ! I had to staple 2 bags together to make bigger bag ! & NO bag will never burn !!

    1. 5 stars
      My mom cooked hams in paper bags! I was just thinking the other day, wonder if it would work for a turkey! So glad I saw your post. Paper bag it is! Thanks

  748. This is a great recipe. I tried it last year and love it. I misplaced the recipe and did not remember who had given it to me do I started an internet scavenger hunt for the recipe. I’m so glad I found it!

    1. Excited to try this recipe this year!! Getting a fresh bird this year. Do you recommend brining it prior? Of so, for how long?

  749. I will be using this recipe! Getting a fresh bird, how and what do I need to brine? How long do I need to brine it prior to Thursday?

  750. I look forward to trying this recipe this week! I thought about rubbing the turkey with a salt/dried herb mixture a couple days before cooking … do you think that would mess up anything about the recipe?

    1. A salt rub couple days early , I would be afraid of it drying out breast meat ! Should put webs in butter spread & that’s ok to do early !

  751. 5 stars
    So looking forward to cooking this!

    So we decided to brine our turkey before we decided on this recipe. We don’t need to wash it off, right? Do you suggest we continue with the recipe with the brine on and juices in the bottom?

    1. That’s fine, it will still work great! Discard the brine, pat the turkey dry (the breast skin as much as possible so that the butter sticks) and proceed with the recipe instructions. Enjoy!

  752. Hi, this looks like a great recipe, Can the Turkey prep (butter and filling) be done the day before?

    Thank you!

  753. You mentioned that you remove at 160 and tent with foil to allow it to reach the 165-degree mark. How long does it usually take, and is this tented time part of the resting time (20-30mins)?
    Thank you!! (also, this recipe looks amazing and I’m so excited to give it a try!!)

    1. This is my first year making a full Thanksgiving meal on my own. I am so very thankful to have come across your post. Thank you so much for sharing all the wonderful information and tips for those who do not yet have a roasting pan (me!!). Can’t wait to see how it turns out. Happy Holidays!

  754. This recipe is great, but my stuffing is always equally important as the turkey, and it did not have the flavor without being inside the turkey, and I did not have extra oven space to cook the stuffing separately, so it had to be done earlier. So there was a trade off for my dinner.

  755. Can you leave out the apple if you are allergic? Would you recommend doubling the onion or lemon or just leaving it out and proceeding with the recipe? Thanks !

  756. My husband and I are preparing our first turkey for Thanksgiving this year! Usually, one of our mothers have already stepped up to do it, I was feeling nervous but this advice is helping me to feel much more confident about it! It was a last minute decision so we ended up just getting a Kroger turkey from Fred Meyers. Would you suggest brining this since it’s not the highest of quality? Or did you simply mean that those who hunt in the wild for their turkey should brine and all store bought is okay to skip out on this step?
    Thanks in advance!

    1. I meant more a “wild” fresh turkey. Check the ingredients on the turkey bag; if it “contains” anything on there other than “turkey” it has already been injected with brine (most store-bought turkeys have). Good luck, and I’d love to hear how it goes for you!

      1. One year later and I wanted to let you know that our turkey turned out SO good! So here I am ready to make a turkey again using your tips and recipe! So thankful for your blog! Seriously the best!

  757. I tried to post a comment a few days ago but, for whatever reason it was never posted. I am 46 years old and this is my FIRST turkey. I am very excited, but also very worried that it won’t turn out right. I didn’t even know what things like brining meant and had to Google. I’m so worried about it being too dry that I’m wondering if I should go ahead and brine to be safe. I have one question. Once it reaches 160 degrees and I take it out and tent it, how much longer until it reaches 165 degrees?

    1. That’s so exciting, I’d love to hear how it goes for you! You can brine if you want, but like I said, I don’t think it’s necessary as most store-bought turkeys are already injected with brine and the herb butter used in my recipes will help keep the white meat from drying out. Once it reaches 160 is when I tent it with foil and allow it to rest for 30 minutes before carving (which is when it will continue to cook to 165).

  758. If your turkey is defrosted the day before you plan on cooking it, can you rub the butter herb mixture on the turkey then and let it sit overnight to bake the next day?

  759. I’ve cooked maybe 3 turkey’s in past. My issue is to know when to start cooking the potatoes and stuffing. It’s never timed right or the bird is done sooner than the estimated time.

    1. I always prepare the stuffing the day before, and bake 1 hour before we eat (you can prepare the mashed potatoes the day before as well).

  760. Thank you for such a wonderful simple, awesome recipe, I have never cooked a turkey before and tried out your recipe, you can’t go wrong its so simple, juicy and full of flavor. Thanks again will keep cooking it.

  761. I’m using an electric roaster to cook my first tourney. I see the directions stay the same. So do I still put foil over breast 1/2 way through cooking or do I just cook without foil the entire time? Never cooked with electric roasted before.

  762. I am planning on trying this recipe this year, what about one of those oven bags? Would that prevent needing to use the tin foil at the end? I have never cooked a turkey so I just want to make sure it comes out perfect!

  763. Can I use Kerrygold garlic and herb butter instead of making it from scratch or is that not the correct flavor for roasting a turkey?

  764. Man I’m so excited to try this recipe. I’ve never cooked my own thanksgiving dinner before. But due to covid this year I’m going to give this a try! I can’t wait to see how it turns out!

    1. I’m in the same boat. We always attend Thanksgiving gatherings with family and I’ve never cooked a turkey. This recipe sounds tasty and fairly simple (which I’m all about keeping things simple!), so I think I’ll give it a try. It seems like I might need to pick up a few more things though, like twine and a pan of some sort. I have a broiler pan, but I don’t think it will be deep enough.

      1. Hi Tami, you don’t have to tie the legs if you don’t have twine. I suggest buying a disposable roasting pan for the turkey (they’re usually around $1.).

  765. 5 stars
    I used this recipe for 2019 and it was the best turkey I’ve ever made (in the last 10 years for sure, I am 67 years old and I host Thanksgiving for my family, 15 people!) it’s easy and the turkey meat is so moist and flavorful. I am doing this for 2020 for sure.

  766. We are eating Thanksgiving on Saturday (I can decorate the tree as soon as people have had “Thanksgiving”…LOL!!!). I don’t have twine, and I don’t think I can get it between now and then. Can I still make this Turkey without? My family is crushed that I’m the one making the Turkey…I have yet to make a successful one (this will be my 4 time trying…ugh! I’m praying this one works. PRAY for me…LOL! It’s just the 5 of us this year.

    1. You don’t need to truss the legs at all if you don’t have twin! (The reason for trussing is to keep “stuffing” in the turkey from falling out, but it wont be a big deal with this recipe! You’ve got this!!! I can’t wait to hear how it turns out! Be sure to read through the post and all of my tips thoroughly!

  767. If using the vegetables as a rack to elevate the Turkey, why do you not recommend eating them? I was going to put small potatoes underneath as well, should I not?

    1. You “can” eat them, they just wont taste very good as they will be mushy and soaking in turkey grease and drippings. I use the vegetables to elevate the turkey, and to add flavor to the drippings, for gravy.

  768. This recipe sounds great! Is it necessary to add broth or water to the bottom of the roasting pan while the turkey is cooking?
    Thanks!

  769. Used this recipe for the first time 2019 and going to use it again this year 2020. It’s is AMAZING ! You just can’t go wrong with this recipe . Will be cooking with this one for years to come . Friends & family said they thought it was one of the best turkeys they had ever had . Very moist & tender . I didn’t do anything different . Excellent recipe !! Thank -You !

  770. Planning to follow your recipe. Should the turkey thaw uncovered in the refrigerator or do you wait to remove the packaging when you prepare it for the oven?

  771. I like that all the comments are covid Thanksgiving. I’ve made a lot of turkeys but since this is our first year with just DH and our 3 young children I’m going to try this out.

  772. I have seen that you can line strips of bacon over the turkey breast portion to keep it moist. Have you done this before? And if so, do you recommeno?

    1. I’ve never tried it, but I imagine it would work fine as the grease from the bacon would play a similar role as the butter in the original recipe.

  773. Any benefit TO using a turkey bag? (What is the benefit anyway? Lol) This is my first year making thanksgiving dinner on my own and I have the turkey bags in my grocery order, but I have until midnight tonight to remove them. Thanks for this amazing and seemingly easy to u sets tabs recipe! I think a lot of people are looking for help this year 🙂

    1. The turkey bag helps to keep it moist, but I don’t think it’s necessary (and it doesn’t get the skin as golden brown and crispy as I like).

  774. I’m not a Rosemary, thyme or sage person unfortunately. Could you suggest any other additional herbs that could be used with this recipe for the herbed butter instead of the ones listed? Thank you!!!!

  775. Planning this turkey for thanksgiving this year since pandemic it’s my first time. My husband is worried the turkey will taste like lemons with them inside. Will it?

    1. That’s exactly what my husband doesn’t like about turkey. When I add lemon to it. But I see it’s only a quarter of a lemon, so it shouldn’t be too strong. I’m so excited to try this recipe!

  776. This is seriously the best turkey I’ve had and I’ve had a lot of different turkeys (smoked, roasted in a bag, etc) This turkey came out so juicy and moist it was amazing! I will use this recipe forever. Brining the turkey beforehand helps a lot too! Thank you for this amazing recipe.

  777. Do you need foil on the turkey during the cooking process at all, or it just left uncovered the whole time in the oven? I’m so excited to make this. It’s my first thanksgiving making a turkey!!!

    1. You will want to check the turkey about half way through cooking. Use your oven light to see if the skin is golden, and then place a large piece of tinfoil over the breast meat of the turkey if it looks brown enough. Best of luck!

  778. 5 stars
    This turkey recipe is absolutely delicious!!! It was hands-down the moistest, most flavorful turnkey I have ever made. I will definitely use this recipe in the future!! One note: I also added additional quartered onions, celery and carrots into the cavity. Thanks for this delicious recipie!

  779. I cannot wait to try this! I am cooking a bigger turkey, more like 25lbs. Does that change the amount of apple or onion, or any other ingredient I put in the cavity? I can adjust accordingly on the outside, just didn’t know if I needed to do more on the inside.

  780. Do you feel like cooking the turkey in a roasting bag would make the turkey more moist? Have you ever tried it or do you think it’s unnecessary?

    1. I prefer to cook it in a disposable roasting pan but disposable or regular roasting pan won’t make much of a difference. I just like the ease of cleanup with the disposable.

  781. 5 stars
    This is the best recipe for turkey, ever!! I have used this recipe for the last two Christmas’ (my grandchildren absolutely love it) and intend to make it again for Christmas! I am so delighted to have found it again!! I misplaced my copy, rest assured I won’t lose it again!

  782. 5 stars
    Absolutely best recipe for making a turkey. So easy (especially for my first time making one!), delicious, and juicy. Received compliments from everyone at the party. I cooked a 20 lb turkey for just about 5 hours. Baked uncovered for an hour and then tented with foil for the remaining 4 hours.

  783. I will be making the turkey this year and this recipe and sounds easy and delicious. One question…what type of dried herbs are used? Is it the same as what’s used i the cavity of the turkey?

  784. Hello! I have to use vegan butter due to a dairy allergy in the family but I can’t find an unsalted version. If I use a salted “butter” should I reduce the amount (or nix entirely) of the 1 tsp salt?

  785. 5 stars
    WOW! I’ve never made a turkey before and rarely cook chicken bc it typically doesn’t turn out the way I think it would…too dry. I was hosting this year and was nervous the main dish would be a fail. However, the turkey came out AMAZING! Sooo juicy and flavor was great. I really impressed my family and I actually impressed myself 😊 Will definitely use this recipe for future Thanksgiving dinner! Thanks so much Lauren so much for sharing your recipe and giving me confidence in my cooking!

  786. 5 stars
    Absolutely fabulous! It was my very first Turkey. It was wonderful and so successful. Everyone just loved it! Full of flavor, moist and delicious. Fantastic recipe!

  787. 5 stars
    Made my first Thanksgiving turkey by following this recipe last year and it was a hit! Now I’m the designated turkey cook in the family. The turkey comes out moist and full of flavor. My favorite part is how I don’t have to spend all day monitoring it so I can spend time with family. This recipe is a keeper!

  788. 5 stars
    I’ve been cooking turkeys for Thanksgiving for 12 years and this was by far the most juicy and delicious one I’ve ever made. Bookmarked this link for yearly use (until I can remember it all :)). Thank you!!!

  789. 5 stars
    I tried this last year when I threw my first ever thanksgiving! It was so easy and absolutely perfect! Everyone told me how it was the best turkey they ever had and I will use this recipe every thanksgiving forever!!!! Thank you!!!!!!!!!!

    1. Diana mine too!! I am sure it will be very good!
      Thank you for the tips i am so excited to try this. Happy thanksgiving all.

  790. 5 stars
    Can’t wait to try this! So when you vent the foil, do you turn the edges down and completely create a lid of the foil or do you just place it on top and not crimp the sides. And really no basting? Thanks!

  791. 5 stars
    Used this recipe last year to make turkey for the BFs family. His mum usually makes it but due to circumstances, I offered to step in to make it. But i couldn’t use my otherwise recipe because it would’ve taken too long and Thanksgiving at his house starts at 1/2pm , which my old recipe would’ve meant that I had to have the turkey in the oven by 5 am… ugh, no thanks. This recipe saved MY Thanksgiving because I was able to sleep in AND it came out sooooo JUICY & FLAVORFUL. I was so relieved cause Thanksgiving is a pretty big deal for their family. His mum wasn’t sure that it would cook in time when I told her how long we need to have it in the oven but it came out sooo good that his mum asked for the recipe so she could make it for her potluck AND this year she requested that I make the turkey Thanksgiving again! It was so simple and easy to follow that I don’t even mind it. I’m so glad I read all the tips & tricks and it came out perfectly golden, crispy, and juicy. Thank you so much!

  792. 5 stars
    I found this recipe last year. It was my first time doing the turkey and it was perfect! Better than any turkey I’ve ever had. This will always be my recipe!

  793. I have a question, for the .75 oz container of fresh herbs, did anyone use dried herbs in the same amount? Just curious because my grocery store only sells the herbs dried in that increment. Or if you didn’t, how did you use the dried herbs so it still tastes good? Thanks!

  794. I have never cooked a turkey before and my kids were really keen on me making one and used your recipe. Thank so much for easy step by step recipe, it turned out perfect for a first timer, it was tender and moist meat. I will now definitely use this recipe from now on. Thanks again for sharing your recipe.

  795. 5 stars
    This is my first time EVER making a turkey myself. My husband grew up in a family of turkey farmers, so he has had turkey just about any way you can think of. He was SO impressed by how tender and moist the white meat was– until now he has never liked the white meat. I couldn’t stop eating it– and I am not usually a big fan of turkey! Will definitely use this recipe from now on!!!

  796. 5 stars
    Turkey turned out perfect! TYSM! It wasn’t dry at all and simply delicious. This was my first time making a Thanksgiving Turkey as well. I’m so happy. I will definitely follow it again for years to come! This was wonderful. Thank you for sharing this recipe.

  797. 5 stars
    I am NOT a good cook! I DON’T like to cook! I haven’t cooked the turkey yet but after reading your great instructions, I’m no longer in fear of my Thanksgiving Turkey!! Thank you so much for the detail, the hints, and the ability to print your instructions. I’m so relieved you actually made me feel confidence in cooking my turkey. If my turkey turns out as good as your Easy, No Fuss Thanksgiving Turkey indicates, I may have a whole, new outlook of going into the kitchen!!!

  798. Amazing Results – juiciest turkey ever!. This was my first Turkey ever and I’m 53! I come from a rich in tradition, 2 turkey a year family (Christmas & Thanksgiving). This year, for all sorts of reasons, I was in charge. Once I actually found an organic turkey, turns out, most people order them well in advance. I got lucky that Loblaws (grocery store in Canada) had one 26 lbs. bird!. I then searched online, yes, in the grocery store, “Easy Turkey cooking for men” – 2 searches came up on top, one of them was yours. I’m pleased to report that I followed your recipe and it was the best juiciest perfectly brown turkey we’d every had. I ended up using a roaster as they were sold out of the $1.00 recommended pans so not sure if its related but the legs were not as cooked as the rest of the bird. Long review, a bit of a story but seriously, this was an easy to follow, no fuss Thanksgiving Turkey! I wish there was a way to attach a picture, you’d all be impressed. Happy Canadian Thanksgiving.

  799. 5 stars
    It was my first time to cook a turkey and it turned out beautifully, i tented it with foil for 3 hours and 1 hour without foil, it was superb. Thanks for the recipe.

  800. 5 stars
    We used this recipe yesterday for Canadian Thanksgiving, it was our first turkey cooked on our own and OMG this was the best turkey we’ve ever had!! Even our daughter who hates turkey because she always thinks it’s dry couldnt stop raving about how good and moist it was! Will follow this recipe every time:)

  801. 5 stars
    I offer my sincere apologies and wish to completely retract my post. We cook our turkey the night before Serving the masses. I must not have allowed the turkey to rest long enough before carving. It took more effort to cut instead of the knife gliding down the turkey breast sections. However after I placed each pre-cut section in serving pan – I drizzled gravy on top and placed in fridge. Next day placed in oven 2 hrs before serving over low 225 heat. Every piece was tender and flavourful – everyone thoroughly enjoyed it – huge successes – 22lbs gobbled up. I will never baste a turkey again. I sticking to your recipe – Thank-you!

  802. 5 stars
    This was my first attempt with a turkey. I was always so intimidated by it. Turned out moist, crispy skinned and so delicious. Your instructions were spot on and easy to follow. My family loved it. Thank you! I made the rolls too…..easy and kids loved them! By kids I mean teenagers and there were none left😂 now today will be all about turkey stuffing sandwiches!

  803. 5 stars
    My first time ever trying to make a turkey! And guess what! Everyone LOVED IT!!!! was so juicy and flavourful. Thanks alot!!! Wills hare this recipe with everyone

  804. 1 star
    It turned out to be a total disaster. I have followed all the instructions to the t and what I got at the end was half roasted turkey, dry and dark on the top and raw and bloody at the bottom. And a room full of hungry people. Horrible. Thanks!

    1. 5 stars
      Lol that sounds like a you problem. Don’t have guests over if you can’t cook! Better yet make sure you know you’ll have something to serve in case your turkey doesn’t turn.

    2. I had a similar problem and discovered that my (brand new) stove was not calibrated properly so it never truly reached the temperature that it indicated. I had it serviced under warranty and then it cooked properly. Good luck!

    3. This might have been an oven issue. Sounds like maybe you had it on broil and only the top element was heating. Or maybe your bottom element is broken.

  805. 1 star
    Very disappointed – I’ve been basting turkeys with tender juicy results for years – thought I would try your “no basting” method with poor results. We stuck to your guidelines to the letter. Also – you should post helpful pictures to show Turkey weight range cook times. Your time ranges of 13 – 15 minutes per lb Are not accurate – at 14 minutes for our 22lb Turkey – it was in the oven 1 hr longer than it should have been according to American Culinary institute. Going back to basting method fortunately we made lots of gravy

  806. 5 stars
    Followed this recipe and it turned out amazing! Everyone loved it the turkey was super moist and had so much flavour. Thank you posting this very easy to follow recipe.

  807. 5 stars
    Thank you for amazing super easy recipe yet very delicious. 1st time ever my turkey was super successful. Thank you for help us make delicious Thanksgiving dinner.

  808. 5 stars
    If we brine what recipe should we use? Just salt or can we use other spices? I found a recipe that requires salt brown sugar etc but I’m wondering if this will affect the flavor when I use your recipe to roast

  809. 5 stars
    This turned out Amazing
    My son doesn’t even like Turkey and he loved it!!
    Thank you so much for sharing your recipe
    It is my go to from now own🙂🙂🙂

  810. IVe cooked turkeys for many years. I just wanted try another way. Thanks for recommendations. Your way cook Turkey..

  811. 5 stars
    I had forgotten where I copied this recipe from alooong time ago, cant believe I found it! Must say this recipe has produced many juicy turkeys since discovering, I get so many compliments and requests to make this through out the years, everyone thinks I have a special touch all thanks to you!! The only one thing I do differently is I use oven bags (I’m a really lazy cook lol) Thank you so much for introducing me to this delicious, flavorful and ALWAYS juicy turkey recipe! Bravo!

  812. 5 stars
    Easy. Great instructions. My first time cooking a turkey. Our only complaint was that we should have gotten a bigger turkey because everyone wanted more. Thank you for this clear, instructional, easy recipe for a beginner.

  813. 5 stars
    This is the first and only recipe I’ve ever used to roast a turkey. In fact, yesterday was my first time ever roasting one. But it turned out amazing!! Everyone at my house loved it! I think I’ll be in charge of the turkey at Thanksgiving from now on!

  814. 5 stars
    easy, flavorful, dummy-proof. Never done a whole turkey. Was nervous the whole time. Surely something this easy wouldn’t work. I over-cooked it and it was still juicy and flavorful. My friends think I’m a chef or something now.

  815. 2 stars
    I followed this recipe and the recommended time to cook and found that the top half of my turkey was cooked, but the turkey near the bottom half was definitely undercooked. I used a meat thermometer and found a great disparity in temps throughout the turkey (maybe because of the stuffed cavity?).

  816. 5 stars
    Had a 21-pounder in the freezer for backup from last thanksgiving. Decided to make it during COVID quarantine, and this is the first time I have ever been able to get the skin crispy! The room temp. butter herb mixture slathered between the skin and the bird made such a nice difference. I have done the same technique with just cold strips of butter before, but it hasn’t come out like this. Will definitely bookmark this page. Thank you.

  817. 5 stars
    Great great recipe and advice here. I was searching for a turkey recipe because I forgot the temp to cook it at and for how long. The method and advice here is almost exactly how I do mine all the time and I’ve cooked a ton of turkeys. People get intimidated when faced with the bird, but if you follow the simple advice here, you’ll have the best turkey ever with less of the hassle.

    The only thing I do differently is I tightly wrap the entire breast with foil. I know that this keeps the breast meat extra juicy, but if you try it my way, just know the trade-off is a pale breast. I never bring the whole turkey to the table for carving so that’s how I get away with this.

    I love all the comments from people making turkey during these coronavirus times. I did the same thing and bought a whole turkey when the grocery store ran out of chicken. My beau thought I was crazy, but I didn’t make it to have a big turkey dinner. I sliced up some of the breast meat for sandwiches, cubed up some of it to freeze for turkey curry, and put all the dark meat and leg, thigh, and wing bones in a big ziplock Anne froze it to make turkey stock out of the bones and then soup out of the stock and dark meat. All of it was so good that I’m on to cooking my second coronaturkey now even though the stores have chicken back.

  818. 5 stars
    My husband hates turkey and I never make it, but we had one given to us. It sat in the freezer taking up space for quite a while before I figured I might as well cook it up. I followed this recipe exactly. My husband said it was amazing and very juicy and if other people’s turkey tasted like this, he never would have said he hated turkey. Thank you for the recipe!

  819. Love this Turkey recipe. It’s so easy and and flavorful. I used this recipe 2 yrs ago on Thanksgiving with friends and … They loved it. Tt was so juicy and full of favor it was a hit. Little did they know this was the very first time I had ever cooked a turkey in my 57yrs. I had always gone to my parents and my mom and dad always did it all. I am hoping to try it again this Thanksgiving.
    Thanks for easy no fuss turkey recipe I would highly recommend to anyone for their first time or wanting to try different way.

  820. 5 stars
    I tried this recipe on yesterday for my Sunday dinner. The turkey came out great. It had a good flavor and it was very moist. Thanks for sharing this wonderful recipe!!

  821. 5 stars
    This was my first time making a turkey. It was super easy!! My family LOVED it!!! The Turkey was so moist and flavorful.. By far the best Turkey we have ever tasted!!! I made this for Easter dinner, we might not wait for another holiday to make it again.

  822. This was the best oven-roasted turkey I have ever had! And very easy to prepare. Definitely a keeper!

  823. 5 stars
    I made this for Easter dinner. My first time ever cooking a turkey. And it came out perfect!!!! The meat was falling off the bones. Easiest thing to carve. The legs were juicy as well as the breast.
    I cannot thank you enough for this recipe, will be using it as a staple to cook turkey.
    So simple and easy to do.

  824. 5 stars
    Simplest and best turkey I’ve made and that was without having fresh herbs (using dried ones)! Thank you very much for this easy recipe.

  825. 5 stars
    My first time last night roasting a Turkey and it was EASY and DELICIOUS. My whole family loved it (5 of us).
    The gravy was so tasty. I was a little impatient and did not wait for my roux to go dark so i added some marmite for colour and added more stock to hide the marmite taste.
    Next time i will bake for 3.20hrs, then foil whilst roasting my veges as I have a small oven. THANK YOU 10/10 🙂

  826. 5 stars
    I have never been able to cook a turkey right, until now! I tried this recipe and it worked perfect! I usually don’t want to cook turkey because it never turns out right, but now I can’t wait to cook another one with this recipe. Thank you!

    1. Yes, you can freeze the giblets, although if taking them from a store-bought frozen turkey, I would take them out before thawing the turkey (so they stay frozen).

  827. I just made this turkey today, and I need to say it was fabulous! The onion/apple/lemon stuffed in the turkey cavity made a huge difference in flavor for both the meat and gravy. A big hit with the family! Thanks so much for this recipe. I’ve bookmarked it to make again and again.

  828. 5 stars
    Honestly, it’s a no-fail turkey!! Everyone loved loved it – we added bacon on top of the turkey, which made it amazing overall!! Thank you!! Will try the gravy next time when we are up for more time in the kitchen! (My mom would always make the gravy with the giblets. yum yum.)

  829. 5 stars
    Perfect! For boo-koo years I have made luscious turkeys in Reynold’s cooking bags. Well, I had a thawed turkey — and no bags! Thus, I found your site. Thanks to your instructions, my non-bagged turkey turned out tender and juicy. Your bread rolls are going in the oven the sec I am done typing. Can’t wait — those rose to perfection!

    Thank you!!! Liz

  830. Just made this yesterday.. had a leftover turkey from Christmas that needed to be cooked. I made small changes, set the turkey on quartered onions and celery instead of on a rack, and I didn’t melt the butter for the final rub on the turkey before cooking, I just rubbed the room temp herb butter just as it was. The turkey turned out moist and so flavorable. The Herb mix in this recipe is outstanding!

  831. 5 stars
    We had a 23 lb turkey in the freezer and I couldn’t find my old recipe and found this googling. It turned out good/ great. My only issue was the turkey got done way early like 90 minutes early so I’m guessing it would have stayed juicier if that hadn’t happened. Also it was too big for my roaster so I had to use a high sided pan I usually use for roasting vegetables and the good old aluminum foil tent, maybe this is why it cooked faster.

  832. 5 stars
    We are in stay at home mode and the stores were out of chicken. So we are having this turkey and it’s amazing and so easy! I’ll be cooking one for my crew at work tomorrow (fire fighters) and I’m confident it’s going to be a hit! I was going to smoke it but I think this is even better!

    1. We’re staying in and I’ve never cooked a turkey and had one in the freezer…so I’m giving it a try!

    2. And here I thought that I’m probably the only one cooking a turkey this time of year. It was an extra from the holidays and it is taking up way too much room in my freezer. I’ve been watching for some cooler weather to get it cooked. That would be today. Our state is under a stay at home order and so here I am cooking turkey for myself. I plan to freeze some for other recipes. So Happy Turkey Day to me!!! Stay safe out there!

  833. 5 stars
    First turkey I’ve ever made (and I’m in my 50’s!) ….. it was delicious! Very flavorful and so tender!! ❤

  834. 5 stars
    Love the recipe, but I wish you weren’t so casual about encouraging people to use a disposable pan. In this day and age no one should be saying “Just throw it away!” when creating the waste is absolutely unnecessary. Invest in a pan or dish you can use again and again!

    1. Um, I’m pretty certain she did not once “encourage” people to buy a disposable pan. She merely offered it once as a suggestion, for anyone who doesn’t own a roasting pan. Some people aren’t interested in storing a giant pan they’re only going to use once every 5 years. People do MUCH worse to our planet on a daily basis.

  835. 5 stars
    Excellent recipe! Came out so tender, juicy, and flavorful. My first time cooking a turkey, and made it easy with great results! Will be my go-to recipe if I decide to cook a turkey again sometime.

  836. 5 stars
    I used oranges instead of lemons and the best turkey ever. And I am not a big fan of turkey but this recipe might have changed my mind

  837. 5 stars
    I made this when hosting Thanksgiving this past year. It was a hit! Turkey has never my strong suite but no more! It was so good, I am making it today with a turkey I had received as a gift at Christmas.

  838. This is almost the same recipe as Giada De Laurentiis’s Turkey with Herbes de Provonce and citrus. That recipe uses oranges instead of apples for stuffing the turkey. I’ll definitely have to try this with apples. You also included some very helpful tips!!

  839. 5 stars
    Amazing! I’ve been cooking a Christmas Turkey for YEARS and they’ve NEVER turned out as nice as this one!!! My whole family raved about it and it was the definite hit of the meal!! Thank you!

  840. 4 stars
    The skin overcooked, even following the recipe perfectly but man, this bird was so moist and juicy and just fell apart and was so yummy, and I chopped up the apple and onion and squeezed a little lemon on the onions and Bon appetite!

  841. 5 stars
    Turkey was so soft and moist that it just melts in your mouth! Directions are so easy to follow and it was so easy to make!, It is truly a “Easy, No fuss Thanksgiving Turkey”!
    Thank you.

  842. 5 stars
    This recipe is THE BEST turkey I have made in 26 years of makin em 🥰…it was sooooo moist and juicy as heck 😱…can’t believe it🤯…put it in and prepped everything else…took it out…BOOM…BEST turkey EVER😎

  843. 5 stars
    This was the juiciest turkey I’ve ever made. The white meat was as juicy as dark meat. Will definitely be using this recipe every tine I make turkey from now on.

  844. This was the honest-to-God best turkey i’ve ever made or have eaten in my life. Ever. Honestly. Thank you. (Dancing around room in manner of irish river dancer/russian ballerina/hokey-pokey mash-up!) SO impressed with my st👀pid self!!💂🏻‍♀️👩🏼‍🌾💃🏻

  845. 5 stars
    I roasted my first turkey with this recipe and it was the most juicy and flavorful roasted turkey I’ve ever had, however I wouldn’t call it easy and no fuss due to the making of the herb butter and getting the skin pulled up and the herb butter spread under it. I would call it “Flavorful Herb Roasted Turkey”.

    1. Thanks for your suggestion. However, any turkey is going to need flavor added. I call it “easy no-fuss” because you don’t need to brine it, baste it, cook it upside down, use a roasting bag, or even use a roasting pan–making it much simpler than most turkey recipes.

  846. 5 stars
    We’ve made 3 turkeys with this recipe since Thanksgiving and they were all absolutely perfect and delicious. I will never stuff a turkey again!

  847. This turkey recipe was so easy and delicious! It was my second time ever cooking a turkey and a lot people said it was the best turkey they’ve ever had! I used the tips for the disposable roasting pan and it worked out really good.

  848. 5 stars
    I used this recipe as a guide for making my very first Thanksgiving Turkey. It was so easy and stress free. I’ve got another turkey in the oven now as I leave this review and I expect it to be even better. Thank you so much for this recipe!

  849. 5 stars
    This was a really good recipe and super easy to follow. We were 17 for Christmas Dinner and they all raved about the turkey’s flavor and juiciness!

  850. 5 stars
    Thank you SO much for sharing this recipe!! I’m an Aussie with an American husband who normally does the turkey (because it always looked so difficult, and there are so many posts about what could go wrong so I was never brave enough to try it) …….. until now 😊. It turned out perfect! I think I may have put the thermometer in the wrong part of the thigh because it read 170 by the time I pulled it out of the BBQ, so I never covered it with the foil tent (while letting it sit for 20 mins) in fear of it over cooking but when I got to carving the thigh, it was still really pink, but the breast and wings were cooked to perfection. So moist and tasty. No brining, and no basting. Loved it, and so did the whole family. Looks like the turkey will be my job from now on ……. at least I have another year to work out how to carve it, unfortunately I butchered it a bit, but still tasted amazing!!

  851. 5 stars
    This is my first time hosting Christmas dinner. The turkey recipe was easy to follow and it came out perfectly. Everyone said the Turkey was delicious. Thank you so much for sharing this recipe. Amazing results!

  852. 5 stars
    Christmas 2019 will go down in the books as the best turkey I ever made! After years of stuffing and spending time basting my turkey, this year was so easy. I followed this recipe and my Turkey was beautifully browned on the outside and moist on the inside. I received so many great comments on my Christmas meal. This is now my go to turkey recipe!

  853. What incredible accolades I received from my family after using this recipe! Over and over again people inquired, “What did you do to make the turkey so moist?” “How did you learn to cook a turkey like this?” Others said, “This was the best turkey I’ve ever had.” So thank you, Lauren, for helping to make our Christmas dinner a success! 🥰

  854. I’ve used your recipe along with the gravy recipe for both this past Thanksgiving and Christmas. The turkey came out awesome both times!!! Love, love, love it! No fuss is right, super super easy and super super yummy.

    Thanks,
    Roxy from Hawaii

  855. 5 stars
    Stunning recipe, simple in its prep……… I liked the sound of this recipe, easy like roasting a chook and it was . I managed to cook it in our holiday letting oven, which wasn’t flash and it turned out beautifully.
    We had 14 for Christmas lunch and the turkey along side the ham were perfect. Best Christmas lunch ever, not a skerrick of turkey was left.
    You need this recipe………. just do it!

  856. I’m 70 year old cook with so much cooking experience. I just decided to try your recipe for the first time this past Thanksgiving Day. I was so impressed with the ease of preparation and the delicious outcome. So the family requested we do a repeat for Christmas Dinner. That tells it all. This is the recipe I will pass on to my kids. Thanks so much.

  857. 5 stars
    Best turkey I’ve ever made! Tender, moist and so full of flavor that nobody needed the gravy. It’s a keeper!

  858. Prep time: 35 minutes
    This recipe is for a LARGE turkey.
    Too much everything for a small turkey.
    Huge amount of leftover herb butter…..what else can I do with it?

  859. 5 stars
    Yup, I followed exactly and the turkey was great! To think I used to baste every 15 minutes! That was a waste of time!

  860. 5 stars
    My 1st turkey EVER I made my grandma always cooked the turkey. I followed your easy step by step recipe and it turned out AMAZING!!!!! I’ll be cooking the turkey from now on. Thank you for making this Christmas stress free!!!

  861. 5 stars
    This Christmas Even was my first time cooking a turkey. My roommate came home and said, “I’m just going to throw it in the oven real quick; I have some people coming by last minute.” Not only was I in shock to hear that, as someone that cooks often, but I am also very serious about preparation and making sure that if I am preparing for guests, everything goes well. Not her, though.

    I said, “this is your dream. That I make a turkey dinner for four at the golden hour.” She smiled, and I knew I was in trouble.

    I quickly turned to the internet to find an “easy” recipe for a turkey between 12 and 18 lbs for someone that has never cooked a turkey before. I didn’t have to look far, as soon as I saw “Easy No Fuss Thanksgiving Turkey” I thought okay, we are getting close, I kept reading and then BOOM “butter and fresh herbs.” That was it, that was the kicker. I sent her to the store to get all the fresh herbs. She thought I could “improvise,” but I gave her a look that could kill, and she was steadfast after that.

    After an hour of prep, the turkey was in the oven. I was super nervous the whole time, but I followed the recipe and only added fresh ground oregano to the butter dressing that I used on the outside of the turkey. Other than that, I was quickly beginning to realize I was cooking my very first oven roasted Christmas turkey.

    After hours of basting, waiting, looking through the oven glass, and praying (just a little bit), the turkey was done. It was, well, it was PERFECT!

    The turkey was moist, crispy outside, and tender on the inside. The taste was just right. I received so many compliments, and I was so proud of myself. The stuffing between the skin and breast was vital for the crispiness and moisture. I took several pictures and sent them to my mom. My roommate did the same. Thank you for this fantastic recipe that even a newbie like me can prepare last minute. I am passing it on as we speak. 🙂

  862. This is my third time using this recipe and I have to say it is the best thing I’ve done in years. My grandson loves it. He used to tell me my turkey was a bit dry now he just praises the juicyness of it . Thank you so much for posting it!!!

  863. This looks like a good, straightforward recipe for roasting a turkey.
    I do wish people would not use disposable roasting pans (or disposable anything, for that matter.) We generate tons of unrecyclable, uncompostable waste every day. We need to stop the cycle of buying/disposing.

    Thanks for reading.

  864. Do we need to brine the turkey before? If we not, is it still come out juicy? This is my 1st time cooking Turkey, really nervous how it come out.

  865. Great recipe!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I made my 1st turkey on Thanksgiving and it came out amazing. Everyone loved it. Using the same recipe for the Christmas bird. Thank you!

  866. Everyone loved the turkey it was a 10lb turkey I changed a bit of the recipe I added chicken broth to the bottom of my roasting pan I also covered it for the first 2 and 3/4 hours then I uncovered it and raise the temperature to 400 for 30 minutes to Brown then covered it with tinfoil and a lid and rushed it to my friends house so it’s sat for about an hour but I don’t recommend that because the turkey was cold so letting it set for 30 minutes I think is good enough thank you so much for this recipe it really helped me to make a good delicious turkey

  867. What happens with the apples being in the oven so long ? Does it become like applesauce ?
    I will try this because I’m interested in the flavor.
    Thanks

  868. 5 stars
    My husband said it was the best turkey he has ever eaten…his mom is a little bitter but that is ok its a great turkey!!!

  869. I absolutely love this recipe! it was my first time cooking a turkey last year and it was a hit! I used this recipe again this Thanksgiving and everyone loved it. turkey was juicy & flavorful! it really is a easy recipe to follow! this will be my go to recipe for our turkey every year!

  870. How much salt and pepper do you put in the cavity? I see measurements for how much salt and pepper to put in the herb butter, but I can’t find how much to put in the cavity. Thanks for the help!

  871. 5 stars
    It was my first attempt at this recipe. I am not a cook, but I was tasked with making a moist turkey.
    The pressure was on 🙂
    This recipe stopped me from making the mistakes that resulted in a dry turkey in the past.
    Now everyone thinks I am a great cook.
    The family was thrilled at how moist the meat was!
    This is the only way I will ever cook a turkey again!
    It was wonderful last Thanksgiving, and will be great this Christmas.

  872. 5 stars
    Can I substitute a whole chicken instead of turkey? We’re hosting Friendsmas this weekend and was thinking of doing a roast chicken, and thought of using recipe. I used this recipe for our Thanksgiving turkey – seriously, the best turkey I’ve had in years!! The whole house smelled just amazing and the turkey came out so juicy and flavorful! Will definitely keep this for all future Thanksgivings!!
    Thank you!

  873. Hi Lauren,

    Do you by any chance have a video of this. I know you said that this is easy to follow along with but I’m worried I will still mess up. Thank you.

  874. 5 stars
    My 16 old daughter made this for our family Thanksgiving this year. This was her Forest time cooking a turning. It’s the best turkey we’ve ever eaten!

  875. I followed this recipe to a T and it did not work. The wings and legs were bloody after 4 hours for a 12 lb turkey. I only tented the breast, making sure not to cover any other part to ensure thorough cooking. Very disappointed and ruined my thanksgiving dinner.

  876. 5 stars
    As someone who hasn’t ever been regarded as a “good cook” in my family, I was absolutely DREADING having to cook a turkey this Thanksgiving. Thank goodness I found your recipe. All the information I needed was there, your pictures were super helpful, and most importantly, my turkey came out absolutely perfect! The bird was perfectly browned and tasted delicious. I didn’t even have to use a turkey bag.
    My husband loved it and it has really increased my self-confidence when it comes to cooking. I was so afraid of it burning, being under-cooked, or not being flavorful but the directions helped defeat all of those worries. Having the veggies at the bottom was a great tip since I didn’t want to go buy an expensive roasting pan. Plus, they really did add a great flavor to the gravy I made with the drippings. (For anyone wondering about eating the leftover veggies: my husband said they tasted fine, but I thought it was just all mush and no flavor)
    I wish I could post pictures of how mine came out! It was the first time this Thanksgiving that I didn’t whine about having so many leftovers 🙂
    Thank you so much for posting this easy to follow recipe for a first-time turkey cook!

  877. I have cooked turkeys before, but liked the look of the recipe. My turkey’s in the oven now. I’m really confident it will be wonderful! I’ll be making your version of giblet gravy as well.
    Thanks!🎄🎄🎄
    Elizabeth

  878. 5 stars
    Best turkey I ever had. Simple and easy to follow instructions. The turkey was moist and the flavor was delicious. My husband couldn’t stop talking about it. Thank you!

  879. 5 stars
    Omg! This was soo easy. It was my first turkey and I was really nervous, but it turns I didn’t need to be. The instructions were really clear and everything turned out perfect and I got lots of compliments on my first turkey.

  880. 5 stars
    This has to be one of the best turkeys I have ever tasted. Who knew that it would be so simple to make, and wow it was delicious!

  881. 5 stars
    Fantastic recipe! It was my first time making a turkey and this was amazingly easy to follow. I couldnt find fresh spices, and i couldn’t find rosemary at all, so i subbed for ground sage and dried thyme. Still tasted great. Thanks so much for helping me make it.

  882. 5 stars
    Absolutely fantastic recipe. Easy to do, so moist! The turkey was a huge hit. Thank you so much for sharing it with us.

  883. 5 stars
    This is my first year making a turkey as a Mrs.
    Your recipe was simple, delicious and a huge hit.
    Thank you for choosing ingredients that are easy to find and thank you for being there for all of us beginners out there.
    Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday.

  884. 5 stars
    We made a delectable Thanksgiving Dinner. My 6×10 ft kitchen has only 1 counter to work with, about 4 ft long, so we cleaned the sink to use for removing the turkey from it’s wrappings. It was an all natural, uninjected bird 17 lbs. It was leaking fluids that were bloody red, so I used the sprayer to dribble water over the bird, just to clean off the blood & empty the cavities. For the very first time I used a roasting bag, what a wonderful invention! After he drained and dried, I stuffed the cavity with onions, celery, carrots, and fresh herbs, parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme, oregano and lemons as you suggested. We placed the bird in the prepared bag after sealing the neck cavity. I added 2 cups of a tasty liquid 1 cup sherry, 1 cup turkey broth, flavored with Bell’s Seasoning and pepper plus ½ cup unsalted butter. Then sealed the rear of the turkey with an onion and a heel of bread. I read about adding the liquid to help those fragrant vegetable flavors to steam into the bird. Finally the bag got 4 cups of the same fluid poured under the turkey. I added 4 turkey bacon strips on the skin, a sprinkle of Bell’s Seasoning, and sealed the bag, cut 4 slits in the top of the bag & into the oven @ 350° for 4 hours. At that point we had no room, so turned down to warm for an hour. Came out perfectly, falling off the bone, tender, juicy. Sat on the stove for half an hour while we got the platter in the sink (completely scrubbed and thoroughly disinfected), the pan to the counter, and turkey to platter. The bag broke during this process but the pan caught everything I needed. We had prepared a meat stuffing and a bread stuffing, steamed cauliflower and asparagus, and I made a huge batch of gravy in a Dutch oven. With a homemade Cranberry Orange Relish it was a feast. Most of the turkey prep followed your instructions. I have cooked many turkeys, but this is the best tasting bird ever. Thanks for your step by step directions. And because of the roasting bag. 10 minutes to clean up the turkey pan! We used a crockpot liner for the bread stuffing too. Enormous timesavers. We agreed our next place will have a larger kitchen! Hope your Thanksgiving went well.

  885. 5 stars
    This was THE BEST turkey I have ever had! I followed almost all the steps exactly except I accidentally combined all the fresh herbs together and measured 2 1/2 tablespoons of the combined herbs into the salt/pepper/butter mixture. I also decided to let the breast brown and put the tin foil over it half way through cooking. A couple other things I thought was helpful was the digital thermometer probe that I put in the breast that could be monitored outside the oven while the bird cooked and as goes with any meat you roast it is ABSOLUTELY essential that you allow the meat to rest (uncovered) for at LEAST 15 minutes. For some reason I’m having a hard time selecting a star rating so if it comes across that I didn’t select a star this is a 5+ star recipe.

  886. So everyone Is telling me that if I don’t “clean” it and wash it out, I’ll get sick…if I have to clean it, I’m giving it away instead!🤢🤢

    Are you absolutely sure I won’t get sick from not cleaning?

    1. All of the resources I have checked say NOT to wash the turkey. You can google it and read for yourself, or here is the number to the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-674-6854 where you can ask someone directly.

  887. 5 stars
    Recently bought a house so this was my 1st time hosting Thanksgiving. I was a little intimated until I cam across your receipe. Wow thanks so much it was easy to follow and the turkey was a hit. The whole family loved it. This is the only way I’m going to cook it from now on. Thank you thank you thank you

    Happy Holidays

  888. This recipe is a life saver. So clear and concise leaves nothing to be questioned! Turkey turned out amazing! I’ll be using this recipe for years and years to come. Thank you for all your time Putting this together with pictures and all and sharing this gem of a recipe!

  889. 5 stars
    1st time turkey cook: it was easy to do, thanks to the very clear recipe. — and it turned out delicious!

    Thank you for the recipe!

  890. 5 stars
    Made this recipe on Thanksgiving, Turkey came out perfectly, the color , the tenderness and juiciness absolutely a great recipe and technique.

  891. 5 stars
    I am 55 years old and have never cooked a turkey. This Thanksgiving, I was informed at 10AM that my sister-in-law, the intended hostess of our Thanksgiving feast, was in the emergency room. I retrieved the turkey and what fixings I could find from their refrigerator. Since it was too late for any of the recipes that required any overnight treatment, I was thrilled to find this recipe. Unfortunately, the turkey was great! The unfortunate part comes next…I received a text the following morning from my sister-in-law (who was released from the hospital and able to host the dinner) thanking me for saving the day and stating that I was now to be the “official family turkey maker.” Oh nooooooo!

  892. Last year was my first time ever, cooking a Turkey and it was delicious (thank god bc it was for the in laws lol) so this year they ask me to make it again and of course it was delicious 😁😁
    Thank you very much…

  893. 5 stars
    Second time I make a turkey and this recipe was perfect. simple, easy and super super delicious. I live in europe so the only thing I needed to do was convert the messurments and boom super tasty turkey serve on the table. Thanks for sharing the recipe .

  894. 5 stars
    This Thanksgiving was my first turkey and I chose your recipe and tips. The only difference was I used salted butter but no other salt on the turkey. (We are a low salt family). It was devoured. Lots of raves about the flavor and moistness. When your chef sister asks for your recipe, you know it was good! My other sister made the gravy from the dripping and the flavor was fantastic due to these seasoned drippings. This was all so good that I bought another (much smaller!) turkey when I got home to make another for ourselves because I wanted leftovers and there were none!

  895. 5 stars
    My whole family raves about how delicious the turkey was…it was my first turkey to cook & I was nervous! Did everything you said…chopped veggies for bottom of roasting pan, let off the lid for 1st hour, then I added 2 cups of chicken broth around the bottom of the turkey & put the lid on, was afraid it might get too dry. Cooked 2 more hours…and it was beautiful, very moist and delicious. Loved the seasoning with fresh herbs. I was so proud 😊 (14.5 lb turkey fed 9 people)

  896. 5 stars
    Thank you so much for this recipe! We hosted Thanksgiving for the first time at our new home and this was my first time cooking a whole bird! It came out perfect and was so delicious. I appreciate you sharing your tips and advice!

  897. 5 stars
    Simple recipe for an awesome turkey. My 13 pound turkey turned out beautiful, golden brown and very moist. It was a hit with the family and I’ll definitely be using this recipe again!

  898. 5 stars
    Great recipe. I was cooking turkey for the first time in my life and in my family. Everyone was amazed by the taste of the Turkey. Thank you, you guys made my thanksgiving!

  899. 5 stars
    This turkey was amazing. I think we accidentally doubled the herbs in our butter sauce, and our turkey (20 lbs) took almost 6 hours to cook.. but oh my goodness it was the best turkey we’ve ever had! The flavor was perfect and the turkey was super juicy. We’ll be making this again next year! Thank you!

  900. 5 stars
    Easy and delicious! First time hosting at my house, I made two turkeys this Thanksgiving using this recipe. Success! I used the same recipe on a 13 lb. turkey and a 20 lb. turkey. Both turned out perfectly with only an adjustment for the amount of time spent in the oven. Thanks for a great recipe!

  901. 5 stars
    recipe is good but, i have a question, why the back of my turkey doesn’t have a nice color?? It is cooked but it looks like it is boiled, not baked, thanks for advice

    1. I’m not sure which side you’re talking about? The very bottom of the turkey that sits on the rack or on the vegetables? Whatever is “Exposed” in the oven will get browned. 🙂

  902. 5 stars
    This was my first year doing a Thanksgiving turkey myself, and this turkey was delicious and juicy and smelled amazing! It was better than the plain turkey cooked with water that my dad always did. Thank you! This recipe is a KEEPER! While it was a 15 pound turkey, we didn’t have as many leftovers as I thought I would for two people! Thank you again for this recipe! It’s gonna be my go-to!

  903. 5 stars
    Thank you for this great recipe! Our Thanksgiving Day turkey was juicy and delicious, and the recipe couldn’t have been easier. The only change I made was to use dried herbs instead of fresh, only because I forgot to add fresh herbs to my shopping list. It still tasted wonderful!

  904. 5 stars
    This was my first time baking a Turkey for Thanksgiving and it turned out just perfect, easy to follow steps! Very moist and so excited that I can host Thanksgiving every year now. Thank you

  905. 5 stars
    Best turkey recipe I have ever tried! I received so many compliments on the flavor and how moist the turkey was. Thank you for sharing.

  906. 5 stars
    I have used this recipe for Thanksgiving two years in a row… both times, it was a huge hit! I ate two other home- cooked Thanksgiving turkeys this year and both were DRY. Not this recipe– moist and tender both times. Love it! 🙂

    1. Made this recipe for the first time. Tired of spending all day to yield a dry turkey. This was incredibly simple and turkey was juicy for the first time ever. Thank you

  907. 5 stars
    This was our first year hosting Thanksgiving, and this recipe was delicious, honestly the best Turkey I think I’ve ever had and we had so many compliments on it. We didn’t change a thing and followed the recipe exactly. We also made gravy using the drippings, which was equally delicious! Thank you for the recipe, we will definitely be using it again!

  908. 5 stars
    Made the turkey this year and this was the best cooked turkey I have ever had! I’m sharing the recipe with everyone!

  909. 5 stars
    First time making a turkey. I’ve never been so proud of myself. My daughter is picky and very honest About my cooking. She had 3 plates of turkey and said it’s the best she’s ever had. I will be making this every year! Juicy and full of flavor. Super easy tutorial. Don’t pass this up.

  910. I followed your instructions, I got turkey to 160 and had my friend standing there with me check too. Her husband the chef went to carve and it wasn’t done. I looked today and other sites say 180. What happened?

  911. 5 stars
    This is the first time I have ever made a turkey and it was the BEST turkey I’ve ever had. I can’t believe people still stuff their turkeys with dressing/stuffing. Absolutely superb, everyone loved it! I cooked it for Friendsgiving just before actual Thanksgiving and everyone had to have the recipe for Thursday. The white meat wasn’t dry at all and everything had flavor to it. Thanks for sharing!!

  912. 5 stars
    This is by far the best recipe for turkey I have found. Got rave reviews from those at dinner. The additional hints on how long to let the turkey rest after carving were really helpful. This will definitely be my official turkey recipe from now on!

  913. 5 stars
    I’ve had many of dry turkey’s that other people have cooked for Thanksgiving dinner. Because I’m not a turkey person I have refrained from cooking a turkey ever, and I’m 55 years old. You want turkey, make it urself! I’ll make the rest of the dinner you make the Turkey. Well this year my husband had to work, so I decided to try and make a turkey for him. I’m a good cook and I always have the internet for any questions I might need answered. I found this tutorial and really liked the idea of stuffing the bird with veggies. It’s easy enough and it looks amazing. I really can’t thank you enough for helping me to make the best Turkey! It was juicy and flavorful. Best of all, my husband said it was better than his past birds. You are top of my gratitude list this year! Thank you again and Happy Thanksgiving!

  914. 5 stars
    This year was my first time doing the turkey. I chose this recipe because it seemed simple, yet flavorful, and good for a beginner. The directions are excellent and the pictures were a big help too. The end result was superb- flavorful, juicy, and WOW. Everyone loved it! I’m using this recipe for all our future Thanksgiving turkeys. Thanks so much for making my first time a rousing success!

  915. 5 stars
    I am a vegetarian that made the entire Thanksgiving for friends and family this year and I have no idea how to cook a turkey. I’ve tried in the past and been a total failure. This year I decided to follow this recipe and my very picky husband said it was the very best turkey he has EVER eaten. And that is saying a lot. Everyone loved it and went on about how delicious it was. Thank you SO MUCH for making this Thanksgiving a successful one!

  916. 5 stars
    Absolutely delicious! This was our first time hosting Thanksgiving and being responsible for the turkey ourselves so I was really worried. Found your recipe and the turkey was soooo juicy and tender! We got so many compliments on it! Thank you!

  917. 5 stars
    I have had a 50/50 success with making my own turkey, but this was simple and delicious! Plus, you have baked onions to eat with it.

  918. 5 stars
    My daughter hosted her first Thanksgiving dinner – she had a little help from me. We followed this recipe and I can honestly say that this will be the only way we bake turkeys from here out! Tender and full of flavor😍

  919. 5 stars
    Second year in a row using your turkey tips. It has turned out great every time and helped me to be confident with such a huge task. I love the aroma of the apples and lemons and herbs while cooking. You make me look like a hero!

  920. 5 stars
    Fantastic recipe! I’m 44 and yesterday was my very first time to ever cook a turkey. Very flavorful and moist with a perfect golden brown color! Thank you so much!

  921. 5 stars
    It turned out great. I heard my brother-in-law say “that turkey was cooked to perfection.” Also, my mother-in-law made gravy from the drippings and I probably heard more complements for the gravy than for turkey but it was because of the way the bird was seasoned (wink). She just collected the drippings through a strainer then made a milk and cornstarch slurry and added it to the heated drippings till it was thick. Also, she may have added a little salt and pepper. My only problem was that the turkey was darker than it probably should have been but I think my oven is just wonky. I put the foil on halfway through cooking. Next time it’ll be a little before halfway. We will definitely do this recipe next year. One last thing. I was nervous not to use a turkey baking bag but it was just as moist (if not moister) than when I had used one in the past.

  922. 5 stars
    This was my first Thanksgiving making the turkey and this recipe was so easy to do. Some of the people tried the turkey that don’t normally eat turkey and they went back for seconds and thirds. It was the best flavor and so moist. Best thanksgiving turkey I’ve had and it was beautiful to look at!

  923. 5 stars
    This is the 2nd year I’ve been using using your turkey recipe. It always turns out so moist and delicious. And not only that, but it’s the most simplest and easy to do. This is my go to recipe now anytime I make a turkey. 😀

  924. 5 stars
    I know a great recipe when I see it. This worked perfectly. I made a couple adjustments and the result was delish. The recipe is fine as is especially if you are on a low salt diet but here’s what I did. I used salted butter. I also added a tablespoon of salt not a teaspoon. One teaspoon ginger powder, two or three tablespoons light brown sugar and a teaspoon of ground cinnamon. You can add a teaspoon or a bit more of paprika to give the bird and drippings a richer color without affecting the taste. I made two cups of gravy using powder packets which required two cups water so I substituted one cup drippings for one of the cups of water. Came out tasting great. I did need to thicken it up a bit. So if you need to thicken put two tablespoons corn starch in a cup and add a little cold water. Stir with a fork until blended then slowly add a little at a time to the gravy while it’s at a low boil until you get the desired thiclness and enjoy! By the way if you stick a whole lemon or orange in the opening after stuffing the bird it will keep moisture in and help give you a nice result. Good luck but you probably won’t need luck!

  925. The garlic totally ruins it. It’s just way too strong and really not a good flavor for a turkey in my opinion. The whole family hated it and even the cats wouldn’t touch it. Thumbs down on this one.

  926. 5 stars
    Omg! Today was my first time doing turkey and my Turkey came out outstanding my family and friends loved it! Thank you for sharing this recepie!

  927. 5 stars
    Amazing!! This was my first year taking care of the turkey for dinner. Between your steps and this incredible recipe it was a hit with everyone! The skin was a nice warm brown, the meat was juicy and flavor packed, and my house is going to smell delightful for days to come! Thank you so much for taking the time to put this all together and sharing it! Happy Thanksgiving!

  928. 5 stars
    This was my first time making a turkey and this recipe was easy to follow and the turkey came out amazing! So many good tips given through out the recipe that helped make it easy to follow

  929. 5 stars
    First time cooking a turkey in probably 10 years, had no clue what I was doing, but found this recipe and turkey turned out amazing! Family raved about how juicy the meat was!

  930. 5 stars
    This was such a great easy recipe! The turkey came out perfect and I got a lot of complements! Everyone thought I was crazy for not starting with tinfoil but they were impressed with how moist it was I waited until it was golden brown and then I took it out of the oven, basted once and tented with foil. 15lb turkey was done in 3.5hrs

  931. 5 stars
    We used this last year and again this year! I am the youngest in my family of seven, and everybody is always so impressed I make the turkey! But it’s true, this truly is a no-fuss way to cook a turkey!! And so delicious!!!!

  932. 5 stars
    Today I hosted my first Thanksgiving and used this recipe and knocked it out of the park! Everyone loved it! Thank you!

  933. 5 stars
    A+ This recipe was perfection. Followed it exactly and was easy, delicious and moist! Thank you for forever making turkey easy!

  934. 5 stars
    First time making a turkey and it was the best turkey I have ever had! The seasoning was on par and the breast meat was as moist as the dark meat. This will be my family’s turkey recipe from now on.

  935. 5 stars
    I love to cook, but have never had to make or really desired to make a turkey. I just bought my first home and this was my first time hosting Thanksgiving. After lots of searching, I came across this recipe. I used a 14 lb turkey, cooked for exactly 3 hours at 325 and it came out BEAUTIFUL. Juicy, flavorful and everyone loved it. Thank you!!! I will use this recipe for many years to come.

  936. 5 stars
    So easy and SO juicy! Only the 2nd time I’ve attempted to make a turkey and I will admit that I was intimidated. Even my MOM made a comment on how good it was! Thank you!

  937. 5 stars
    Recipe was fantastic!! My whole family said it was the best turkey they have had in a long time! I did have to shorten cooking time. About an hour before it should have been done I did thermometer check and it was to temp all over bird, so it sat for a while longer but that’s OK it was great! I didn’t do the sage and lemons but it was AWESOME anyway! ❤️ Thank you!

  938. I had looked at other recipes, found yours and thought this one is for me.
    I was right, thank you for all your help. It was my first time.age 59. It was good.

  939. 5 stars
    We just finished our Thanksgiving meal, and My family absolutely raved about the turkey this year! It was easy to make, so juicy, and flavorful. I’m so grateful I found this recipe. I’m going to try some of the others as well!

  940. 5 stars
    I haven’t cooked a turkey in several years. I was very nervous because I had family and friends coming for dinner. I did this recipe and it came out perfect! Thank you so much! 😊

  941. 5 stars
    Great and easy recipe. I added bacon then removed when it began to get browned and then brushed on herb butter. Worked out well. Thanks for sharing.

  942. 5 stars
    I hosted this year for the very first time and used this recipe ( also for the very first time) and it was a HIT! I followed all of your tips and my turkey came out crispy, flavorful, and moist. I have a convection oven so I timed it for 3 hr ( 13 lb turkey) and observed for doneness.I was so overwhelmed by how much effort it can take to roast a turkey but this recipe wasn’t the case. Thank you!

  943. 5 stars
    Absolutely the best turkey we’ve eaten ever! It was stupid-proof and all of your tips were A+. My 10 yr old niece and I were able to make this turkey without issues. You da bomb!

  944. 5 stars
    Thank you for this. It is wonderful. This year is my first time having to do the turkey. I am a husband in the mix so I’m sure it was assumed that I would fail miserably. Yeah NOT SO MUCH huh. Turned out amazing.

    One critique I have is perhaps you could tell people how much salt and pepper to put inside the cavity. That is not so much for my benefit…I just shook a bunch in. But there may be people who are like, “omg how much am I supposed to shake inside, it doesn’t say!” lol

    Great recipe, again, thank you.

  945. 5 stars
    I hosted/cooked family Thanksgiving for the first time today. I was nervous and stressed to make so many different dishes at once and try to time them all to finish at the same time. I followed this recipe exactly and was so very proud and pleased with how it turned out. Thank you so much! It was delicious!

  946. 5 stars
    Came across this recipe this morning (Thanksgiving day) while debating how to cook my 14 pound turkey; thought about trying the “upside down” method I’ve been hearing about – so glad I didn’t! This recipe resulted in the best, most moist turkey I’ve ever had!! (I’m 53 and grew up in a family of great cooks and heirloom recipes). Thank you! I’ve printed this recipe and will use it from here forward!

  947. 5 stars
    I’ve been cooking Thanksgiving turkey for 30 years, and my whole family agreed that by far this was the best I’ve ever done! Some changes — used a tablespoon of poultry seasoning and I only had parsley fresh. Didn’t have a lemon, but used 2 clementines.

    It was the tastiest and juiciest turkey ever! My daughter made me promise to Pin it so that I can make it again next year. From the girl who “doesn’t like turkey.” A real winner!

  948. Have you ever tried placing the turkey breast down? I have and it allows the turkey fat to cook into the breast meat giving the breast meat to have lots of moisture and flavor. I slow cook it on about 250 degrees for tenderness and then turn it over broiling it breast side up for approximately 20 minutes until golden brown. Happy Thanksgiving!

  949. 5 stars
    I made this for Thanksgiving today. It’s beautiful! Unfortunately I can’t share pictures but I can’t wait to eat it!

  950. I’m trying the recipe for our 11.62lb Turkey. Used all the ingredients, with the exception of the lemons. Looks great just sitting there…

  951. 2nd year making this recipe. Hope it’s as good as last years. In oven now. Have made several of your recipes and all have come out fantastic. Made pumpkin roll for the first time last month. Yum. Thanks Lauren!😉

  952. Pretty easy method! I didn’t have to tie twine on turkey because it came with a plastic holder. I like the idea of tucking the wings under the turkey.

  953. Hey so kind of a silly guestion if using an oven bag do you place the veggies inside the bag or just on the roasting pan thanks

    1. In the bag! The purpose of the veggies is to flavor your broth. So if the veggies are in the broth they will mix with the juices from the turkey and make it yummy for gravy!

  954. 2 stars
    This didn’t cook and there was very little juice. We needed to turn the tempo way up for it to cook and it took many more hours than it should have.

  955. 5 stars
    Will using a bag reduce the cooking time? The bag says for a 19 pound turkey will take 2.5 hours, your calculations show around 4 hours.

    1. You can see all specific directions in the recipe card near the bottom of the post! Turkey cooks at 325 degrees F

  956. Even thought the recipe looks good, you forgot to mention the most important things, which is Time. How long it will take the Turkey to cook? How many minutes per pound? And at what temperature should the Turkey be cooked. This is key information to cook a Turkey!

    1. You can find all these specific directions in the recipe card (see step 3 and step 10) :). My guess is you didn’t scroll down far enough.

  957. 5 stars
    You saved me this Thanksgiving! I have struggled for years after my mom died to cook a turkey the way she did. I found your site this year and it’s perfect. Thank you!!

  958. Great instructions, and the pictures helped a bunch. Thank you. I’ve been a part of 60 Thanksgivings, but this was the first with me taking the helm in the kitchen. So far so good.

  959. 5 stars
    Use this recipe! I used to try brining my turkey which was laborious and didnt impress my guests or yield the results I wanted. I used this last year and I got rave reviews. I’m using the recipe again this year and cooking 2 turkeys! It’s simple, easy, and looks great. I promise you’ll love the results.

  960. I bought a new gas over this summer and I am wondering what temperature should I bake the 14.53 pound turkey I have to complete this receipt?

  961. Is it important to tie the legs? When the recipe was printed off, that info wasn’t on it – but it was on the website. Thanks!

  962. I am excited to try this recipe, first time cooking a Turkey ever. Hope it turns out great. I have 10 people counting on me.

    1. I’m confident you will love it! Just be sure not to overcook :).
      Happy Thanksgiving- would love an update on how it goes!

  963. Hey there, this will be my first time cooking a turkey. I am using a disposable roasting pan. Does the turkey have to sit on the bed on vegetables or can it just go straight into the pan? I Am not doing the gravy so I will not need any of the drippings.

  964. I love the simplicity of this recipe; no brining, no basting, no fuss👌. Thanks a lot for sharing it. Very well explained. I’m off to cooking my turkey your way!😉😋

  965. 5 stars
    So easy, looking forward to roasting my first turkey tomorrow. Should I tent the turkey from the beginning? I don’t want it to dry out.

    1. When you untent it it is to brown the bird. Take the tinfoil off about an hour before it’s finished cooking.

    1. If it’s still frozen, fill your sink with medium cool water and place turkey in the water with the wrapping ON! Luck!

  966. Hi!
    Can I bake the turkey in the roasting bag then remove it then add the foil tent? If so, how long should I leave the foil on top.. thanks for the recipe! Can’t wait to taste it!!

  967. I baked turkey tonight for tomorrow’s at can I cut it up and put in juices in pan tonight and put in frig or crockpot? 13 lb

    1. Yes you can cut it up. To reheat, I would suggest heating chicken stock on the stovetop in a large skillet and gently dip 2-3 pieces of chicken at a time in the hot liquid. That’s the best way to not dry it out! They just need to be in the hot liquid for 5-10 seconds.

  968. 5 stars
    Wow, it was delicious. Just like the title says easy no fuss. Flavors were awesome and meat was not dry. I was worried, no turning, no basting. I will use again. Happy Thanksgiving! Thanks.

  969. 5 stars
    I made your recipe last year and my family said it was the best turkey they ever had. I agreed! I plan to do it again tomorrow morning. Thank you for sharing this. ❤️❤️❤️

  970. 5 stars
    I made this recipe last year for my family. It turned out absolutely amazing! I am making it again tomorrow and I can’t wait. Thank you for this perfect Turkey recipe. 🙂

  971. Hi I’m already brining the turkey but want to use this recipe tomorrow, should I avoid salt altogether?

      1. Lauren, thank you so much for replying to me. I went ahead and used the salt as stated in the recipe and the turkey was a hit! Even my picky “chef” brother went back for it 4 times lol. I appreciate your help.

  972. Looks great! Printing as I type and it’s off to get this baby going! Thanks for the instructions and information. This was such a great find!

  973. 5 stars
    I made this turkey last year and what a hit. Flavorful and moist. I am making it again this year and thank you for your easy instruction and pictures. It really helped me.

    1. You can prepare the bird completely, cover with foil, and refrigerate overnight. Make sure to take it out of the refrigerator 1-2 hours before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature!

  974. 5 stars
    My mom and I have struggled for years since my grandmother passed away to make a turkey that tasted like hers. We’ve tried so many recipes to no avail. I found this recipe and it was so very simple. It came out beautifully and from our small taste test it was great!!

  975. 5 stars
    I made this last year and it was great! This year, I am only making a 9lb turkey, what should I change? I see you said 12-20 lb turkey

  976. Cant wait to try this! My only concern is the fact that I only have the thyme, rosemary and sage in spice form instead of fresh herbs. How much will I use of the spices for a 10 lb Turkey? Thank you!

  977. 5 stars
    I made this recipe a year ago and it was fabulous! I’m using it again shortly. I love how easy it is. I plan on using it every time I make a turkey.

  978. Can I use a poultry seasoning or a poultry rub to mix with the butter? And if so how much should I add?
    I don’t have the herbs on hand that are recommended.
    Thank you!!!

  979. 5 stars
    This is, hands down, the best roast turkey recipe! It’s my second year using it for Thanksgiving but I regularly use it for roast chicken throughout the year. Thank you!!

  980. I apologize because I am sure someone has already asked but would you say 4.5-5 hrs for a 20 lbs turkey? Can’t wait to try out this recipe!

  981. I’m stuck with a fan-forced (convection) oven. Would you recommend adjusting the temperature or the cooking time? (Thanks for the helpful tutorial – so nervous about making my first turkey this year!)

  982. If I Only Have The Herbs In Like A Season How Much Would I Need To Put Inside Turkey
    And If I’m Using A Bag Instead Of Foil Would It still be as good

  983. First time Turkey for me as well. When or why do some tent the turkey with foil while cooking? Does this speed up the cooking if so by how much? This recipe indicates only tent in foil after it reaches 160 degrees. So, I’m guessing it is not tented in foil to cook and wonder why not?

    Thank you,
    Asia

    1. The foil mid-way through cooking will help protect the breast meat from overcooking and the skin from getting too browned. Then when it comes out of the oven the foil tent over the entire turkey will keep it warm while it rests and allow it to continue cooking the last few degrees to reach 165.

  984. 5 stars
    It came out sooo juicy and delicious. I didn’t have enough fresh rosemary so I used dry rosemary and dry sage for the herb butter also a small dash of garlic powder and black pepper. Really delicious

  985. I bought my 1st house this year and decided i wanted to do Thanksgiving dinner here. Was going to get an already cooked store bought Turkey, but they had ran out before I got chance to buy one. I love to cook but have never cooked a Turkey. I can’t wait to give this recipe a try. Thanks do much. I will post another comment after ward’s too let you know how it went.

  986. I am planning on making this for my first Thanksgiving Turkey. I have to work from 9am-3pm. Do you have any pointers on cooking this while I work so I don’t have my Thanksgiving dinner at 10pm. I have a 12lb turkey!

    1. Hi Jackie, a turkey that size will take 2.5 to 3 hours to cook, so unless you have someone who can stick it in the oven for you around 1pm(so that it’s nearly ready to eat when you get home), I would prepare it completely in the morning, remove it from the fridge when you get home, and then roast it. It should be done by 7pm ish.

  987. I have heard of roasting the turkey breast side down to make the breast meat extra juicy. What is your opinion? The cavity could still be filled with your listed ingredients I assume.

    1. Yes, that is a fine way to do it, I just don’t personally think it’s worth the hassle. I think this way yields a perfectly juicy turkey.

    1. I don’t use a turkey bag. I place them at the bottom of the pan and place the turkey on top of them. Enjoy!

      1. I was going to ask the same thing! Do you think the turkey will dry out if placed in the oven on a high temp to brown it? I want crispy skin, but want to use the bag so it cooks quicker.

        1. Put it on a high temperature for 10 minutes, then turn it down. Anything higher than 325 will dry it out but you could brown it at 400 for 10-15 minutes first.

  988. This is my first time cooking a turkey,; what do I do with the lemons onions, apples that are inside the turkey? Do I have to take it out before it’s served? And how much salt and pepper do I put in the inside? I’m afraid I’ll ruin it

    1. You don’t need to remove them. Just a pinch of salt and pepper is great. Good luck, I’d love to hear how it goes!

  989. I was planning on stuffing the Turkey, can I still do that with this recipe? I wonder how the lemons will pair with the stuffing?

  990. 5 stars
    I had never cooked a turkey before. I used this recipe two years ago and last year and now am going to use it this year. My turkeys all turned out juicy and flavorful. I absolutely love this recipe.

    Thanks
    LeAnn

  991. 5 stars
    Thank God I found this recipe. I’m excited to try it because it looks impossible to screw up. Found out 2 hours ago that I need to make a turkey for Thanksgiving, and I’m a turkey virgin. (God, could I sound any more pathetic?) Anyway, I don’t have fresh herbs to put in my turkey. What measurements of herbs do I use for inside the turkey?

    1. Thanks so much for giving this recipe a try. I’m assuming your going to use dried herbs which will be fine.
      Use 1-2 Tablespoons of each, it really does not have to be exact, you are just adding flavor. Best Wishes!

    2. 5 stars
      I followed this recipe last year except for the lemon, and it was by far the best turkey our family had in 30 years! I’m refreshing my memory because tomorrow this turkey is going to rock the house!

  992. Do you know the amount of each herb (approximately) you should have for stuffing the turkey? (after creating the herb butter) I could not find .75 oz containers of each herb, so I was estimating, and there seems to be a LOT of sage.

    1. 5 stars
      I used this recipe this past Thanksgiving and received SO many compliments! This was my very first time ever roasting a turkey and I fully intend on using this recipe every single year, it’s truly phenomenal. As long as you baste your turkey every 25-30 minutes, it will be the most flavorful and juicy turkey you will ever taste. THANK YOU!

  993. 5 stars
    Made this for the first time last year and OMG it’s incredible! Was sooo beautiful I practically gave it a photo shoot! Tastes amazing! Am do excited about making it on Thursday!

  994. This may be a silly question, but does it matter if/how the veggies are chopped if I am using them to set the turkey on top of? Or instead of using veggies, could I put a wire wrack (like what I use to cool cookies) on the bottom of a disposable pan?

    1. Veggies can be chopped pretty chunky. The reason you are using veggies as your wire rack is to flavor
      the juices/broth. You could substitute a wire rack.

  995. This recipe looks delicious! Do you think I could substitute a plant butter and have it come out about the same? We have a couple of dairy allergies here! Do you have one you’d recommend if so? Thank you!

    1. Hello! I’m studying your recipe for tomorrow, excited to try it! Just one question.. it says to put foil on the turkey midway through cooking. So I’m putting foil on the turkey while it’s inside the oven? Also, it says tent it with the foil again after you take it out once it reaches 160 degrees.. so I’m putting foil on twice? Just confused on this foil part. Thank you

      1. The foil mid-way through cooking will help protect the breast meat from overcooking and the skin from getting too browned. Then when it comes out of the oven tent the entire turkey with foil while it rests, to keep it warm.

  996. I made this last year and it was a huge hit. I am making it again this year! Question, I have a roasting pan that comes with a lid, can I use that in place of the foil? I definitely don’t want to test that on Thanksgiving if no one else has.

    1. Hi there! So which way do you guys think is better? Covering with foil for the first half of cooking and then uncovering to brown? Or cook uncovered for the first half and then cover with foil? For either way, do you have to wrap the foil tightly around the turkey?

      1. No just gently place it over it. I like to put the foil on half way through cooking so that I can control how brown the skin gets.

  997. Do the rosemary, sage, and thyme have to be fresh? Would the recipe still work well using rosemary, sage, and thyme spices instead?

  998. 5 stars
    I used this recipe last Thanksgiving and my turkey came out amazingly juicy and flavorful❣️ I will be making it again this year! Thank you for this awesome, no-fuss recipe!!
    💛 Susan

  999. Probably a silly question but would you remove fruit, vegetables and herbs from the cavity before placing it on the serving platter then onto the table or just leave them in?

    1. I wouldn’t since they will taste so strongly of the dripping and grease from the turkey and butter, but you can.

  1000. Have you ever tried this recipe using a turkey bag (everything else the same)? Never cooked a Turkey before (we always host Easter), but my daughter is hosting a Friendsgiving and I’m tasked with the Turkey. My brother-in-law roasts a great Turkey each year, and says how much easier it was once he started using a bag, but I liked what I saw in this recipe. Any concerns in combining this recipe with his method of using bag? I’m thinking I’d do everything else the same.

  1001. 5 stars
    I made this turkey over the weekend for a Friendsgiving party. It was delicious! The meat literally fell off the bones and the flavor was so good.

    Thanks for this recipe, I can’t wait to use it again.

  1002. Should I cover the pan with the lid while the turkey cooks, or use a roasting bag? I worry my gas oven will scorch the bird but I’ve never made a turkey without a roasting bag so I have no clue. Excited to try this recipe!

  1003. 5 stars
    This looks like the best and easiest recipe I have found for my Turkey Day celebration this year! Thank you so much for also including a video! SUPER helpful as I am a very visual learner! Cheers and Happy Thanksgiving!

  1004. Question…. First time doing a turkey, and my turkey is 14 lbs. so if my math is correct it would be a cook time would be 3.5 hours. This makes me nervous since my mom used to cook hers overnight so I am just worried it won’t be long enough. Can you send some reassurance my way? Lol

  1005. I am planning to try this recipe this year, but I am also cooking 8 extra turkey legs with it. Do you have any suggestions on how to do the turkey legs? I have never cooked them before. Thanks in advance!

    1. Hi Tanya, you can gently pull back the skin of the turkey legs and rub the herb butter on the meat, and then pull the skin back over them. Roast the same for about 1.5 to 2 hours (ish) until they reach 175-180 degrees.

    1. The full recipe card is near the bottom of the post and details everything you will need, including rosemary, sage and thyme. 🙂

      1. I’ve got dried herbs for the butter i plan to go out today and get the fresh for in the cavity any advice on conversion for using the dried herbs for the butter?
        TIA

  1006. 5 stars
    Excellent recipe and the citrus really adds the needed acids to this preparation. I also added and a small container of frozen concentrated orange juice to the cavities and one-half ornage in each end. I found that pinning the skin to the apples on each opening encapsulated the moisture perfectly for the juiciest bird I have ever prepared. My spices came from my kitchen garden and I did not hold back on any of them!

    Thanks so much, C.

  1007. 5 stars
    Easiest turkey recipe I’ve ever used and it came out DELICIOUS! Didn’t have to spend all day basting or brushing butter on the turkey. Highly recommend!!!

  1008. 5 stars
    I just tried this recipe and it was wonderful! The turkey was juicy and flavorful. The lemon and apple infused the broth and gave it so much flavor. Anyone who has never cooked a turkey should try this recipe.

  1009. 5 stars
    This was my first year being in charge of cooking the turkey. I was freaking out but this recipe saved me so much time and stress. In the end everyone said it was the best, and juiciest turkey they’ve ever had!! Thanks to you my Thanksgiving was a huge success.

  1010. Hi, first time Turkey cooking. Can I use olive oil or any oil you can recommend instead of butter,we have a guest with allergies to dairy
    Thank you
    I’ll come back to rate the recipe

  1011. Sorry if someone had already asked this but I need to cook this overnight. Obviously will be cooking on low but I am wondering if I should wait on putting the herb butter on top until morning so the herbs don’t burn?

    Also I made this exactly to recipe last year and it came out wonderfully!! Thanks!

  1012. If I plan to use my pan that has the metal rack, should I still use the veg under the rack? I have never had a turkey turn out really tasty. I have tried several recipes…last year I spatchcocked my bird. It was moist but still not flavorful. Looking forward to trying your recipe.

    1. Hi Kathlyn, I hope you love this recipe! If you have a pan with a metal rack you do not need the veggies. I’d love to hear how it turns out!

  1013. Definitely going to try this year. We only have 5 people. Only 4 eat turkey. Hard to find a small turkey. Happy Thanksgiving!!!

    1. There is a recipe card at the bottom of the post that has all of the ingredient amounts and directions (it’s printable too!) You’ll want rosemary, thyme and sage.

  1014. Can I use a cooking bag to cook my first Turkey in? Do I need to change anything. It’s a 17 pound Turkey?
    Thanks Joyce

    1. You can use a turkey bag, but do not need to. The skin will not get as brown and crispy if you use a bag. 🙂 Enjoy!

      1. Turkey’s take about 13-15 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature (inserted on middle of thigh and breast) reaches about 165 degrees.

  1015. Can I use this recipe in an electric turkey roaster? My husband and I would love to try it this year but do not have room in our oven to cook a turkey on Thanksgiving Day. If so, what would you recommend?

  1016. 5 stars
    I have never cooked a turkey before. I had no idea what I was doing but I gave this recipe a shot. I used an 8 lb turkey because I was just making it for 3 people so the opening for the apple, onion, lemon and herbs was extremely small and I could only fit about half of them in. Other than that, holy moley! I don’t think I’ve ever tasted turkey that comes close to the taste and juiciness of this. This is now my go-to recipe. Wow, just wow!!!

  1017. 5 stars
    I don’t eat turkey, but I always cook one once or twice a year for my husband. I am never quite sure when cooking creatures, but my husband says this was the best turkey he has ever eaten, well seasoned, golden brown, tender and juicy. It was a free range, non-GMO, organically fed bird from a local farmer, and I’m not sure if that helped or hindered but the end result appears to have been lovely. Thank you for your help.

  1018. I like to add a quart of chicken broth in the roasting pan, just to give me more liquid to make the gravy. As far as I’m concerned, the gravy is the best part of a Thanksgiving Turkey. It is absolutely delicious over stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, vegetable salad and cornbread.

  1019. Hi, probably a dumb question, but what other changes would you make to the recipe if the turkey is bigger than recipe asks for? (22 pounds).

    Thanks!

  1020. I’m just wondering what kind of apple would work best, or what kind of apple you used? Do you put that stuff inside as well as putting the veggies in the pan under the turkey? Also, do you use any liquids in the pan or put it in the oven as is without liquids?

    1. Any kind of apple will work. All of the rest of your questions are answered within the post and the recipe card. Enjoy!

    1. Hi Evan, yes I do think two turkeys will take longer to cook–I haven’t tested it myself so I can’t say exactly (and I don’t know how big your turkeys are), but I would rely on a good thermometer.

  1021. Would it be ok to prep the turkey with herb butter a day or two before baking? Or would it be better to just do everything at once.

    1. Yes, that’s fine (or even better would be to prepare the herb butter in advance and slather it on beforehand.)

  1022. 5 stars
    I used this recipe last year for my first time ever making a turkey (sorry I forgot to comment), but IT WAS AMAZING and I will be making it again for this year! loving this recipe and am getting excited to make it again!

  1023. Do you just throw out the vegetables the turkey is sitting on? Also, with the amount of butter used, do you find you have a good amount of fat to remove from the drippings before you can make the pan gravy?

  1024. Hi! Should the turkey be covered in foil? Or left open for the entire time? Last time I cooked a turkey like this that was buttered, the outside was burning by the time the inside was done. Would appreciate any advice! Thanks!

    1. Yes, you can cover the turkey with foil at the beginning and remove it during the last hour or so of cooking, or you can start with it uncovered, and then cover it with foil once the skin is golden.

  1025. 5 stars
    Hi, It’s my first time to cook Turkey this Thanksgiving and I am excited to try this recipe. Do you have any suggestion with the cooking time if I use the roast feature of my convection oven? Thanks!!!

    1. My father in law just moved into a new place that could finally fit everyone and I was designated to cook an entire thanksgiving diner (my sister in laws don’t/can’t cook) it’s been years since I made a turkey myself. I am so glad I found this recipe!!! It was easy to follow and it turned out amazing!!! People that typically don’t like turkey ate it. Everyone thought it was delicious! The only thing I wouldn’t do again is baste it, which I’m aware this page says it too but my sister in laws kept saying I needed too.
      Im trying to talk my mom into letting me make the turkey this week and she is insisting to do it her traditional way. Her turkeys are good but she stuffs them with her stuffing mix and puts it in a roasting bag straight into a pan. it always seems a bit dry. Does the bag dry it out or is it cooking too long because of the stuffing inside?

      1. Cooking the turkey too long is definitely what dries it out. I’m so glad it turned out well for you. Happy Thanksgiving.

    1. Yes! When I did it last year, the bottom was thin and ended up scraping a whole in the bottom when I pulled the turkey from the oven. I would suggest doubling up the disposable pan, to be safe!

    1. No, it doesn’t. But if you’re not comfortable stuffing it with those you can just stuff it with carrots, celery, onion or garlic.

  1026. 5 stars
    Neither my husband nor I are fans of Turkey, but, we were gifted one, and I followed this recipe. It was great and so easy. We both liked it and will make it again.

  1027. I’m going to try this recipe for this year’s Thanksgiving. Do you think I could make the herb butter a few days in advance and keep it in the fridge, and then soften it when I’m ready to make the turkey?

  1028. 5 stars
    I made my very first turkey last year for Thanksgiving using this recipe.
    It has an incredible taste and everybody, I mean everybody loved it.
    They loved it so much, I made two mode for the two Christmas’s I have at my house.
    And again this year, I’ve been asked to make it again.
    It really is easy and delicious.

  1029. Your recipe and directions have eased my anxiety for roasting turkey. I am making 2 turkey breasts instead of a whole turkey so will adjust my cooking time.
    Can’t wait to make this!!

  1030. Hosting my first Thanksgiving and loving this recipe! Do you recommend a turkey bag? Also, I have a roasting pan with a flat rack, is that okay or should I use the vegetables instead? Thanks!

    1. Thanks Tonya! I personally don’t think you need the bag (you can if you want, but the skin wont get as crispy). The rack inside the roasting pan will work great! I’d love to hear how your turkey turns out!

  1031. Not sure if my comment posted the other day because I can’t find it, but I was just wondering how much salt and pepper you use to season the inside cavity of the Turkey? We can’t wait to try this!

    1. I don’t measure it, I just use a little pinch of each and sprinkle it all around! I’d love to hear how you like the turkey!

  1032. Hi thanks for the recipe I’ll be using it this year! Do you use whole carrots and celery when making the oven rack? Or should I cut them up?

  1033. I have to prepare our entire Thanksgiving dinner and serve the meal at my in laws. I am trying to figure out how to handle the turkey and not have to be at their house early in the morning and all day. Could I do all the prep the night before including the herb butter on the turkey? Then it is ready to put in the oven after it sits out to remove the chill for about an hour. Thanks in advance for your feedback!

    1. Hi Nicole, how far away do they live? You could cook the turkey at your house and leave right when it comes out of the oven (it needs to rest for 30-40 minutes after coming out of the oven before carving). Otherwise, yes you could prep everything the night before.

  1034. I want to give this a try but was wondering if it mattered if you use salted butter & if it would affect how the turkey cooked?

  1035. 5 stars
    THE BEST EVER! Made a turkey last year for the first time EVER, used this recipe, and many people said it was the best they have ever had.

  1036. Hi, when you check to see if it’s a golden color halfway through cooking do you only put foil over the breast portion of the turkey or tent the entire pan with foil? Thanks in advance!

    1. You can do either–depending on how browned it is. I usually just tent the breast meat with foil because it cooks faster than the thigh meat.

  1037. Ok this may be a stupid question but I’m also cooking a Turkey for the first time. If I use the chopped veggies instead of a roasting rack can we eat the veggies after?

    1. Hi Michelle, you can eat the veggies but I wouldn’t recommend it, only because they will have cooked in all of the turkey drippings and fat and will loose their great flavor.(I do love that veggie flavors gets infused into the turkey drippings to make great turkey gravy!)

  1038. Do you keep the thermometer in the turkey while it’s cooking? Or do you take the turkey out and check the temperature near the end?

    1. I use a digital instant read thermometer that I have to remove the turkey and check towards the end. There are thermometers (like Weber IGrill) where you can leave them in the turkey and it connects to an app on your phone that tells the exact degrees as it cooks! Pretty cool.

  1039. 5 stars
    This was the most flavorful, moist and delicious turkey ever!!! The ONLY recipe I’ll be using from now on. Thank you!

  1040. 5 stars
    We had a Friendsgiving this past weekend and got stuck with the making the turkey. I am SO glad I came across this recipe!! I was so nervous to make the turkey for everyone and it could not have turned out more perfect. I followed the recipe to a ”t” and the results were AMAZING!! This will now be my go-to turkey recipe and will now not shy away from doing the turkey. Thank you!

    1. I would start the turkey with the lid off and then once the skin gets golden, or vice versa (lid on first and take it off during last hour or so).

  1041. 5 stars
    This recipe looks amazing!!! I will be roasting a Thanksgiving turkey for the first time and my anxiety has already been reduced!!!

  1042. Hi Lauren,

    Can’t wait to try this for Thanksgiving this year. I have two questions.

    1. The recipe says to place the turkey in the center of the oven. That may not be practical on a holiday like Thanksgiving, where oven space is needed for other dishes at the same time. For instance, I will have two side-by-side 1/2 pans (sweet potato casserole and stuffed shells) on the lower shelf. How does having a “crowded” oven affect cooking time?

    2. What is the cooking time in a convection oven? My oven set to “Convection Roast” automatically adjusts the temp (minus 25º), but I would like to know if I should also adjust the cook time by 25%. So….approx. 10-12 mins instead of 13-15 min per lb.

    1. 1.Considering the length of time the turkey takes, you should be able to do most of the turkey by itself in the oven. Adding multiple items to the oven with it will effect the cooking time, so just rely on your thermometer and dont overcook it. (Also remember that the turkey needs to rest for 30 minutes after it’s finished cooking, so some side dishes could cook during that thirty minute time).
      2. Yes, I would adjust the temperature as convection cooks faster.

      Best of luck, I hope it turns out great!

  1043. 5 stars
    I made this recipe for my first EVER turkey. Turned out amazing! The aromas were lovely, meat was tender and delish… all the details were super helpful. Thank you!!

    1. Hi! We’ll have about 30 people for thanksgiving this year, so I’m cooking multiple turkeys. Any special instructions you would offer for cooking this is a roaster? i.e. is it ok to put the turkey straight in, it would you do a bed of veggies underneath in the roaster? Thanks in advance!

    2. Can I mix poultry rib or a poultry seasoning to make the herb butter? I don’t have the other herbs recommended on hand.

  1044. Good Day!

    Can I make this turkey recipe in a large outside of the oven roaster that you plug in vs using the oven?

    Thanks!

  1045. I was always told to put the breast down to keep it moist. You cook breast up; what’s the secret to keeping the breast meat moist?

    1. That’s right, I don’t “flip” the turkey. I cook it just as stated and the breast meat stays moist because I don’t overcook it, and I use an herb butter under the skin and on top.

  1046. I’m travelling this year (only an hour drive) would it be okay to cook the turkey at home and take it with me or should I cook it at my destination? I’m just worried if it rests for too long that it may dry out? Tx!

    1. If possible I would cook it at your destination, but if that’s not practical I think it would be fine, if you’re able to carve and serve it right when you arrive. (The only thing that will result in a dry turkey is overcooking it.) Good luck, I’d love to hear how it turns out!

  1047. 5 stars
    Made my very first turkey last year using this recipe. Came out fantastic. Have since made about 20 of your recipes. Each one has been right on. Thanks Lauren!😉👍

  1048. I’m going to try this for Thanksgiving this year. I’ve been doing T-giving dinner over 20 years, and never quite happy with the outcome–dry white meat. I’ve tried Butterball, organic, frozen or fresh…what is best brand of turkey to use?

  1049. It’s my first time ever cooking a turkey, so I’ve decided to use this recipe! This may be a really stupid question and I’m embarrassed to ask, but how do you tent the turkey halfway through cooking?

    1. Thanks for asking! Just cut a long piece of tinfoil. When the turkey skin is browned to your liking, carefully place the tinfoil over the breast meat.

      1. Do you just leave the the flat sheet of foil resting/balancing on top of the turkey? Or do you fully cover the turkey and wrap the foil around the edge of the pan?

        1. I don’t fully cover it, only the top/breast meat. Once it’s done cooking and I take it out of the oven to rest, that’s when I fully cover it.

          1. Thanks for asking this! First timer here as well.
            I have a follow up question on the foil tent…. what side of the foil needs to facing up vs down? Does it even matter?

          2. So exciting! It doesn’t super matter, but if you’re wanting to be really particular, the dull side facing up. I’d love to hear how it turns out!

      2. Hey Lauren, my turkey was a huge hit! Everyone was commenting about how moist it was. Thanks so much for this easy recipe!!

    2. Thanks for asking this!!! This will also be MY first time cooking a turkey ( and I don’t even eat turkey which makes it more challenging ) but Im super excited to use this recipe…FINGERS CROSSED!!!

  1050. 5 stars
    I used this recipe and my husband raved about how juicy the turkey was. I would definitely recommend it to others snd I will use it for my next turkey!! Thanks!!

  1051. 5 stars
    Excellent recipie. We moved to Canada 2 years ago and now it was time to prepare our first Turkey. Everything went smoothly, a super moisture nice Turkey, giblets gravy with green beans, cheese grits and creamed corn was on the table after a few hours. The key is the temperature, so get a good thermometer, preferably a BBQ one which gives you an exact reading. Thanks for the inspiration !

  1052. 4 stars
    I liked the butter and herb mixture and the no fuss type recipe. Our turkey turned out really well but I find that when we cook turkey the breast meat is done faster than the thigh meat and results in slightly undercooked thigh meat.

    On another site they recommend putting the roasting pan on a pizza stone with the turkey directly on the bottom of the roasting pan and tenting the breast until later. Also they recommended not tenting the bird after its done because it makes the skin soft. The bird retained its heat regardless and the skin did stay crisp. I will try the stone at christmas.

    Thanks for the recipe

  1053. This will be my first year making a turkey myself too. I’m going to do a dry run first. Can you give some instructions on how to make the gravy? I plan to use a disposable pan and put the vegetables at the bottom. I liked the other commenters idea about using the lemons and apples, but I’m not sure what to do with all of it? Throw it in a blender? Seems like something would need to be added for thickening. Much appreciated!

  1054. I haven’t done much research yet on what recipe I will be going with for this Thanksgivings turkey dinner.. honestly this is my first Thanksgiving where I will be cooking it myself! No help. I know how to make apple pie.. well that’s about it Lol! My husband is a truck driver and we will be celebrating our first Thanksgiving with this new truck driving job around Halloween since that is when he will be home, and I’m excited to do this on my own! But also very terrified I will ruin it all and it all just get wasted.. but your recipe seems so easy and I really hope that this comes out as planned. THANK YOU! I will hopefully update on how it all went for my family. Wish me luck!

    1. It’s honestly easier than you’d ever believe! Just prepare it properly and get the timing right. I can’t wait to hear how it goes! Best of luck!

  1055. 5 stars
    Stunningly delicious! I included quartered apples along with the veggies under the turkey and made gravy from the pan juices. BEST GRAVY EVER. Rave reviews from even picky children!

  1056. I’m planning on cooking a turkey tomorrow. We grew up using turkey bags. Can i use it with this recipe or should i avoid it? Thank you!

  1057. 5 stars
    I have cooked many turkeys over the years, some more successfully than others, my first one was even upside down! But this one was the best by far! No basting is awesome too. I fallowed the recipe but omitted the sage and used lemon thyme. It was just perfect! Thank you kindly!

  1058. 5 stars
    Thank u so much for this recipe! Really easy and no fuss. First time I tried roasting a turkey and it came out so good. Thanks for the helpful tip of using an Al roasting rack with a bed of vegetables underneath which is what I did.

  1059. Is it necessary to put veggies under the turkey if you’re using an aluminum pan? If so, why? Thank you!!

    1. The veggies act as a “rack” to lift the turkey up so it browns more evenly. You don’t have to use them.

  1060. 5 stars
    I’ll be honest I never had to prepare a turkey or be responsible for a full Thanksgiving dinner until much later in life….. Sadly when it came to be my responsibility my mom had already passed away and you don’t always realize how much you should have paid attention to your mom’s cooking until after you no longer have the opportunity… so I was scouring the internet for how to fix a turkey and I came across this recipe…. and I fixed it the first time at Thanksgiving this year and then again at Christmas…let me tell y’all I was totally turkey ignorant…. If it wasn’t for this recipe I would have cooked giblet bag inside the neck compartment because I had no idea it was there LOL and for some reason I thought it was in the cavity of the bird….yup it was Tuekey 101 at my house…. anyway…. My turkey came out perfect both times the second time was a little tastier because I had a better idea of how long to cook it and I watched it with a thermometer better than I did the first time but it was so moist that even when I warmed it up the next day in the microwave it was still juicy and the flavor is perfect…I got excellent feedback about my bird… So thank you from a lady in Memphis who now officially knows how to cook a turkey… Happy New Year Lauren to you and your family and thank you from the bottom of my heart!

    1. That is just amazing and WAY TO GO!! I’m so thrilled you made it for both holidays with great success. Thanks for sharing your story with me! XOX

  1061. 5 stars
    Made my first roast turkey yesterday and it came out great! I should’ve covered it sooner, the Brest skin came out darker than I like, but the meat was delicious! Felt like a success! I had been afraid of having to baste it, so I was glad to learn that it was unnecessary. Didn’t have fresh herbs or a lemon on hand, so I used herbs de Provence in the butter. Thanks so much for this turkey tutorial.

  1062. After 30+ years of cooking turkeys a much more laborious way, we decided to give your recipe a try. A smash hit! Truly is stress-free and absolutely delicious. We made it exactly to your recipe, right down to putting the bird on a bed of chopped veggies because we couldn’t find the roasting rack.

    We will be making this again! Thank you for all the helpful tips too.

  1063. Do you have a recommendation for dried herb measurements in place of fresh? Just went to the grocery store and they were sold out. Excited to try this recipe for Christmas!

  1064. Have you made a turkey(s) the day before? And if so, how do you keep it moist and delicious? I usually have between 25-30 for sit down dinner and am always trying to do as much as possible ahead of time. Thanks.

    1. 5 stars
      I’ve been researching this question and everything says yes you can. Just cook, slice, place in roasting pan, cover with broth or gravy, wrap tightly. Place in refrigerator. Reheat day of for 45+/- mins in 325°f oven. I’m cooking mine today for serving tomorrow.

  1065. 5 stars
    This was by far the juiciest turkey, I have ever done and the skin just beautiful!!! I have been doing turkeys, since 1966, ant you can teach an old dog new tricks!!!

  1066. 5 stars
    First time baking a Turkey using this recipe . It was for me the best Turkey I ever had. thank you very much for posting!

  1067. 5 stars
    I made turkey for the very first time and omg It turned out to be superb! Im so thankful to you for sharing this recipe. May God Bless you.
    Lots of love.

  1068. 5 stars
    This recipe is amazing. I did not have any fresh herbs and by the time i made it to the grocery store everything was sold out. So for the spread on the turkey i used tony’s creole, onion powder, salt, dry oregano, dry basil and i minced garlic up. And i just added onions to my cavity feeling. This was my first thanksgiving turkey i made and it was delicious!

  1069. Hi! I’m making the turkey for our upcoming Friendsgiving this weekend. Can I prep the turkey the day before so it can soak in the butter and herbs before I bake it?

  1070. I’m going to prepare this turkey for our company Christmas meal. Would it be best to put the turkey in a crock pot to keep it warm and add some of the broth?

  1071. 5 stars
    This was my first time making a turkey. It was 22 lbs and I was worried about overcooking it and it being dry. It was nice and juicy. It turned out great and was the best turkey I have ever tasted!

  1072. 5 stars
    I meant to leave you a comment Thanksgiving day! Grama is 78 and said she was not making the turkey this year and it was up to me. I have never made a turkey before or even a chicken for that matter. I stumbled upon your recipe while googling how to make a Turkey lol. It was one of the best decisions I made. The turkey was an absolute hit! I did not tell anyone I was made it, just in case it didn’t turn out good, lol. Everyone loved it and complimented on the taste and how juicy it was! Grama told everyone it was me who cooked it after we were all sitting down and I was extremely happy with the results and it wouldnt have happened without you! So grom the bottom of my heart thank you for sharing your wonderful recipe! I will be using this year after year!

  1073. 5 stars
    This year was our first year hosting Thanksgiving and being in charge of the turkey! I knew I could trust this recipe since all of your recipes I have made have been a hit. Sure enough, I impressed my husband, my mother-in-law, and everyone that came! We cooked the turkey in a roaster and my husband said it was the most tender turkey he’s ever had. Thank you for helping me make our Thanksgiving a success!!

  1074. The one thing that is never mentioned in any recipes I see on the is something my grandmother and mother always did, and now me too. We always dust the turkey with flour after the seasoning and basting with butter. It would go into the oven at 400 uncovered so it would brown up and create a seal so all the juices stay inside. After an hour, it would get covered with foil. The last hour it was finished uncovered. When you carve into the breast, the crispy skin would crack and all the juices run out….always a moist turkey

  1075. 4 stars
    my turkey came out undercooked. It cooked for 3 hours (12lb turkey) and the underside was still very undone. I ended up carving the breasts out to eat for thanksgiving- since they were done, and throwing it back in the oven. Then I got impatient and just tore off all the uncooked pieces and finished it off on the show, boiling in the juices. I did brine the turkey and then followed this recipe and it was quite delicious! aside from the turkey not cooking all the way, I’d say the taste was yummy.

  1076. 5 stars
    I used this recipe this year on my first turkey!! I was so nervous cooking it, because both of my parents are self taught amazing cooks.
    But it turned out PERFECT! It was so juicy and the flavor was awesome. My husband and I had an hour drive with my aunt and uncle to my parents house (which neither actually LOVE turkey) and the smell filled that car and we were all in heaven! And as soon as we took the foil off in the house that was the only thing anyone could think about.
    They were all bragging on me to the rest of the family and all over facebook and I was ecstatic! They said I have to cook it every year for now on!
    It was also perfect as leftovers. This was so easy and super cheap! We got our turkey for free from my husbands work and the ONLY things I had that it called for was salt, pepper, and thermometer.. I didn’t have a pan, foil, or anything. So I went to Wal-mart and got EVERYTHING I needed for only $17.60
    Thank you so much for helping out the less experienced and busy ones of us out here! I don’t know what I would of done without you! ?

    1. That is such a fantastic story! Thank you for sharing with me–I’m thrilled it turned out so well! Happy Holidays! <3

  1077. 5 stars
    My family kept making comments about how I was making my turkey, why I wasn’t basting it, why I would put apples and lemon inside a turkey, etc…this was my first turkey and everyone ate their words because it was the best one any of us had ever had! So juicy and flavorful! Definitely saving this recipe for next thanksgiving!

  1078. 5 stars
    I wanted to try something different this year, and came across your recipe. Thank you so much for sharing such a great recipe. My turkey was so moist, tasty and it looked Amazing on the table. I got a lot of compliments from my guest. This was the best Turkey I ever made. THANK YOU,!!

  1079. 5 stars
    I used this recipe this year for my thanksgiving turkey, and I will use it forever! It was so easy, and it smelled so good while it was baking. The turkey was so juicy and delicious and BEAUTIFUL coming out of the oven. I felt so fancy! 🙂

  1080. 5 stars
    I’m 45 and never cooked a turkey before and I know since the turkey is the staple of the meal this could go really good or quickly horribly wrong. The title was what peaked my interest and the step by step video and pictures where just perfect! Thank you Lauren for assisting me in making my first of many successful and flavorful Thanksgivings!!!

  1081. 5 stars
    Tried it and it was awesome. My only complaint is that the recipe should be specific about the type of salt and the size of the herbs and vegetables to fill the turkey with. My turkey was 13 lbs and I only used 2x .75 of the herbs combined and it was enough. The salt I used was kodher and the teaspoon was not enough. Maybe regular table salt would have done the trick. My apple was regular size and my onion large, but I wish they were a bit smaller for the size of turkey. Had to push hard to fill the cavity. I also added a splash of white wine to the bed of veggies (did not have a pan with rack) and it made it so aromatic and moist, it was great. Should mention to season those as well. Thank you for the recipe. No brining needed!!! Hurray!

  1082. 5 stars
    Lauren,
    I usually make a turkey breast because of the inconsistencies I have had with a whole turkey in the past. I gave your recipe a try and followed all of your tips. They were right on point! My biggest mistake was constantly opening the oven to baste and losing heat in the process. No basting this time. Half way through the cooking time, viola, it was a golden brown. I covered It with foil and didn’t open the oven again until the end. It was the moistest, most delicious turkey EVER! Everyone loved it. Thank you for this recipe.

  1083. 5 stars
    The most moist Turkey I ever made and so easy to prepare and make. It was so flavorful. This is my go to recipe from now on for Turkey. Everyone commented on how delicious it was. ?

  1084. 5 stars
    I made your turkey recipe yesterday and IT WAS A HIT! I’ve been trying a different recipe every year and I finally found the one! It was so simple and easy and it came out delicious! Thank you so much ?

  1085. 5 stars
    I had never made a Turkey before. This recipe literally saved my life. The directions were so easy to follow and gave me the confidence to try it. My Turkey turned out amazing. Everyone was so impressed.

  1086. 5 stars
    Made this for thanksgiving this year, my first time ever making a turkey and it wasn’t simple and sooo good! I’ll be making this again next year. Thank you!

  1087. 5 stars
    My mom is currently living in australia and my family had no where to go for Thanksgiving this year so I had to cook thanksgiving for everyone for the first time in my life! I was really scared about the turkey and chose this recipe because everything I’ve made from Tastes Better From Scratch has turned out well. This was so easy to do, instructions were clear, and the turkey turned out AMAZING! I was proud of myself and my family loved it. Such good flavor, so moist and perfectly cooked. Give yourself an extra day for thawing like this recipe says—you’ll need it. I also cooked mine in a plastic turkey bag because that’s how my grandma always did it. The turkey was so good!!!

  1088. 5 stars
    I made my turkey yesterday using your recipe and it was a total hit. My family loved it! This is how I will be making my turkey for Thanksgiving from now on. Thanks so much for sharing!!

  1089. 5 stars
    WOW. Dont tell Mom and Dad. This was the best turkey we ever tasted ,let alone made we made it. Thankyou sooo much . I will tell others and revisit for more great suggestions.

  1090. 5 stars
    We made this turkey for thanksgiving yesterday, and EVERYONE said it was the best turkey they’d ever had! It was delicious and juicy, even the breat. I’m so glad I decided to try it.

  1091. 5 stars
    I made this turkey recipe for Thanksgiving this year and it was great. The recipe was easily to make and follow and the turkey turned out delicious!

    Thank you for an easy-to-follow, hassle free recipe. Hosting Thanksgiving can be a bit chaotic, so it was great just prepping the bird, throwing it in the oven, and being able to forget about it for a few hours.

  1092. 5 stars
    My Turkey came out so juicy with lots of flavor and was a big hit for the family. I recommend this recipe for everyone.

  1093. 5 stars
    This year was the first time I have attempted cooking a turkey. I have never tried before because it seemed like too much of a hassle and too much could go wrong. Well after reading your recipe I actually thought that I might be able to pull it off. All I can say is it was amazing and easy! Thanks for a wonderful recipe. The turkey was very flavorful and all of the tips you give in the recipe helped out tremendously. My wife actually wants me to cook it again next year because of how good it turned out.

  1094. Thank you so much Lauren. My turkey came out beautiful. I wish I could post a picture. You rock lady!!! I appreciate you for this.

  1095. 5 stars
    This was my first year to make the turkey, my dad used to do it every year but he passed away in April. My dad would have been so proud! My turkey was over 25lbs, and apparently the biggest disposable pan didn’t hold all the liquid because when I went to cover it half way through cooking, it made a huge mess in the bottom of the oven. Aside from that, everyone LOVED the turkey, and even people who said they prefer the dark meat because the white meat tends to get dry thought it was moist and delishous! Thanks for the recipe!

  1096. 5 stars
    I made this turkey tonight and it was delicious!! Thank you so much for the recipe!! Now I’m just afraid I’ll have to make the turkey every year!!

  1097. I tried this recipe today for the first time and my turkey turned out great. It was very flavorful and moist.
    I would definitely recommend this to anyone.

  1098. 5 stars
    Thanks for sharing this recipe! My 12.5 lb turkey turned out beautifully and it was delicious. (Too bad I didn’t get a picture before we carved it.) I will definitely use this recipe from now on!

  1099. 5 stars
    This year I decided I would make my first turkey. I choose this recipe because the ingredients were to my taste and the recipe seemed easy to follow. I enjoyed making it a lot! I seasoned the turkey the night before, just so I could start roasting early morning to have it ready for lunch. I made a bed of onions, potatoes and carrots, it released a lot of liquid and did not get burned on the bottom. My turkey was almost 20 lbs and it took me 4 hours to roast. After about 1,5 hours, I put foil on the chest and legs. It tasted really good and it looked very nice on the table. I highly recommend this recipe. I wish I could post some pictures here.

  1100. 5 stars
    Hi Lauren!

    As I am typing this 1 hour and 10 minutes left for my turkey to be done! I am excited to see how it’s going to turn out. It is the first time ever I am cooking turkey. Thanks for this recipe!!!!

  1101. If I don’t add the apple will it make that much of a difference? Or could I substitute it with something else? My little sister is allergic to apples! Thank you.

    1. I’m a little confused what you mean…. The turkey wont get golden brown on the bottom side that touches the pan….only the top of the turkey will get golden brown.

  1102. 5 stars
    PERFECT! Made this as my first Thanksgiving Turkey (with lots of trepidation). It was so easy I was sure I missed something but it came out perfect and everyone loved it. People who have had 50+ thanksgiving meals said it was one of the best turkeys they have had!

  1103. 5 stars
    Thanks for such a start forward approach. Our turkey turned out great. There was so much flavor and the meat was juicy. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed it. We look forward to eating it again tomorrow as well.

  1104. 5 stars
    My turkey is in the oven now and smells sooo good. When you cover the breasts halfway, do you put the foil directly on the breasts or just tent that part? I don’t tent the entire bird until I take it out at the end, right? My mom is so worried about the timing. She said it sounds too little time and is scared it will be pink. Then again, she is notorious for overcooking meat because of fear of it being undercooked. It’s why I never liked steak growing up – burnt and tough! I told her thermometer will ensure it’s safe, but I hope it doesn’t look pink at 160, or she will say, “I told you so.” lol Thanks for the recipe, and Happy Thanksgiving!

    1. Hi Janet–You are so right, the thermometer takes all of the guess work out, and there’s nothing worse than overcooked and dry turkey meat 🙂 . When I cover it while cooking I just stick a little piece over the breasts and then when it’s finished cooking I cover the entire bird while it rests. I hope it turned out great and got your mom’s stamp of approval!

  1105. I made this turkey and we loved it. I thought it was the tastiest, moistest turkey we have made in 20 years (compared to basting, deep frying, brining or straight roasting). I replaced lemons with limes since we have a tree full and it gave a more southwestern flavor, which we love here in Phoenix. The butter rub is delicious and placing it under the skin is brilliant as the skin acts as a blanket for the flavor. Stuffing the cavity also seem s to aspdd flavor and lead to more even cooking. Thank you for a great recipe!

  1106. 5 stars
    I followed this recipe and the tips – best turkey I ever made. So juicy! I can’t stop telling my family how good it was! ?. I will make this again next year!

  1107. Hi…I’m making this right now. The turkey has been in the oven for an hour and is already turning brown in some areas. So put foil over the breast then? There is just a little over two hours left. I followed everything else exactly as the recipe said, so I’m hoping this turns out fine as it is my first turkey ever.

    1. Sorry I think I’m seeing this too late, but yes you can put a piece of tinfoil over the breasts as soon as they get brown. I’d love to hear how it turned out 🙂

    1. I put a piece of foil over the breast meat when the turkey is cooking. When the turkey is done cooking and you take it out of the oven, tent the whole thing in foil while it rests. 🙂

  1108. 4 stars
    Will the vegetables I place under the turkey be okay to eat or are they just to raise it? It’s my first Thanksgiving and I don’t really know what I’m doing. Also I’m allergic to lemon so I left it out. Will it make a difference?

    1. That’s fine to leave the lemon out. The veggies under the turkey will get really greasy and soggy–I don’t think you’d want to eat them…. Hope that helps 🙂

  1109. I’m trying your recipe right now. The turkey is already turning golden brown in some areas and has only been in for 1 hr. Is it going to look burnt by the 1/2 way cook time? Have a 23.22 turkey, going to cook it 51/2 to 6 hrs.. Package says 41/4 but everyone is telling me to cook it for at least 51/2 hrs.

    1. At this point I would tent it with foil for most of the cooking and take the foil off during the last 30-45 minutes 🙂 Cook it for 13-15 minutes per hour, just until it reaches about 160 degrees. Then tent it with foil when it comes out of the oven.

  1110. Turkey is in the oven and smelling great! I am a little concerned with the 8 cloves of garlic – the video (which I watched after I prepared my turkey) looks like you put much less than 8 cloves in the butter mixture. Good thing I love garlic. Hopefully everyone else eating it does as well!

  1111. I have a 22lb turkey. Just wondering if I should turn on the convection or cook the turkey without the convection. Also, should I remove the plastic thing that holds the legs together or can I leave that on and after stuffing tuck it back in there?

    Thank you!

    1. Hi Char, I don’t use a convection oven. I’m not sure what plastic thing you’re referring to. I would remove it and stuff the bird. If it’s oven safe you could put it back on? Or just tie them with kitchen string (or it’s not even a big deal if you don’t tie them together at all).

  1112. I accidentally put 1 tbsp of sage in my herb mix instead of 1/2! I don’t have enough herbs to remake. Did I ruin the herb mixture?

  1113. Hi Lauren, I ended up adding sliced carrots with celery, onions, apples and oranges instead of lemon. Do you think this would be okay for filling the cavity for flavoring?

  1114. 5 stars
    Honestly I never ever make comments, but I am so grateful to this blog. I’m quickly becoming a superfan! Love this recipe and cant wait to try it tomorrow by the way I am also super excited for the Rolls on your site too! Woo Hoo! Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

    May the cooking begin!

    Thanks so much for this recipe!

    1. Alex, Thank you so much for the SWEETEST comment! I’m so happy you found me <3 I would love to hear how the turkey and rolls come out! Hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

  1115. Hi Lauren, this is my first time cookng a turkey and I’m excited to try your recipe. This might be a silly question but in regards to the foil-what side faces down? Shiny or dull? Thanks!

    1. Hi Tanya, a thermometer is best, but if you can’t access on then make sure to cook it for about 14 minutes per pound and you can poke the meat gently with a fork or a knife and if the juicess run clear, it’s probably done. If the juices are pink or red at all, keep cooking 🙂

  1116. I’m just reading this, at 11:20 pm the night before Thanksgiving. All I have in my cabinet in the way of seasoning is salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and garlic salt with little bits of dried parsley mixed in. I just moved a long distance and just haven’t had a change to stock up my cabinets. Is my turkey going to be boring and tasteless since I only have the salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic salt? It’s too late to get to the store for herbs, lemons, and apples…boo

    1. Honestly I still think it will taste great! I would use the garlic powder, and not the garlic salt, if you plan on adding salt as a separate ingredient. Enjoy, and Happy Thanksgiving!

  1117. 5 stars
    Tomorrow I’m hosting Thanksgiving/making my FIRST turkey (and very nervous). Two questions: this is 15 lbs, following your recipe to a tee how long do you think I would need to cook it for in FL? The second: I mentioned to my mom I won’t be basting the turkey and she made it seem like its 100% necessary. Can you please reassure me that it’ll be ok without basting and turn out golden brown? Many thank you’s in advance and Happy Thanksgiving to you & your family!

  1118. 5 stars
    Tomorrow I’m hosting Thanksgiving/making my FIRST turkey (and very nervous). One thing that I had a question about is basting the turkey: I mentioned to my mom I wouldn’t be doing that based on your recipe and she made it seem like it’s 100% necessary. Can you please reassure me that it’ll be ok without basting and turn out golden brown? Many thank you’s in advance and Happy Thanksgiving to you & your family!

    1. Hi Lauren! You are ABSOLUTELY ok NOT to baste your bird :). That is the purpose of the herb butter going underneath the skin of the turkey and all over the top of the turkey! Those two things will help to keep your turkey moist and it will DEFINITELY be golden brown. Cook it until it’s golden brown (about half way through cook time) and then cover it with tin-foil. Best of luck! I hope you will share how it turns out!

  1119. The quarters didn’t fit on a 11 pound turkey so I cut everything up into smaller squares, however when the turkey is done I would need to remove it correct?

    1. That’s totally fine! You don’t have to take anything out of the cavity after it cooks–Just carve the turkey meat off the bones 🙂

  1120. Hello, one last question. I bought a plant that had all 3 herbs, how would you measure it.. I try to weight but it barely weights anything when I do it separately so I kind of guess for the inside of the turkey.

  1121. How long do I cook a 18 lb turkey for?

    Mine has been in the fridge for 3 days but isn’t thawed and I’m freaking out! What do I do if it isn’t thawed by tomorrow?

    1. Hi Kelly, You will probably need to do thaw it in an ice water bath in your sink, and it’s recommended that if you use this method you cook the turkey right afterwards (which would mean an early morning for you). The water must be cold and you should change it (add fresh water) about every 30 minutes. Here’s a good resource for this method: https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-safely-thaw-a-turkey-225724
      An 18lb turkey takes between 4 hours-4 1/2 hours to cook (13-15 minutes per pound at 325 degrees.) Hope this helps!

  1122. I really want to use this recipe but my mom insists on stuffing the turkey with classic stuffing. Can I still follow all aspects of the recipe while adding classic stuffing to the cavity?

    1. Yes, absolutely, however I would tent the turkey with foil during the majority of the cooking time (you could uncover it around the last hour to allow the skin to get golden). Enjoy!

  1123. Hi! This is my first time cooking a Turkey and having Thanksgiving at my house. I’m excited to try your recipe. Do you inject your turkey? Also, should I increase the ingredients for a 20 lb Turkey?

    1. I don’t think its necessary to still achieve a moist turkey (since this method has herb butter stuffed under the skin), but you can if you’d like 🙂

  1124. 5 stars
    Can you put foil on the Turkey for the first 3 hours and take off to brown for the last hour? Your way says opposite. Does it matter which way you do it?

  1125. Hi Lauren!

    I’m going to try your recipe for this Thursday! I’m in charge of the turkey. I dont know if it’s a stupid question, I’m just confuse by what .75 oz container of the herbs mean? I have a large container of the three fresh herbs, just not sure what .75oz container of it means?

    Can I stuff the turkey and marinate it overnight in the fridge? Will it be too salty?

    What is the recommended cooking time and temp for a ten pound turkey?

    1. Hi Tee, if you bought your herbs from the store it will say what size of container on the box they are in. It’s not super necessary that you use that information though–just chop the recommended amount for the butter and add a few extra springs of each herb to the cavity of the turkey and that will be perfect.
      Yes you can prepare the turkey the night before, just make sure it has adequate time to come to room temperature before putting it in the oven (take it out of the fridge about 1 hour before cooking). A ten pound turkey will cook the same as this recipe states: 325 degrees for 13-15 minutes per pound (so about 2- 2 1/2 hours).
      Happy Thanksgiving! I’d love to hear how it turns out 🙂

  1126. Hello,

    My mother recommend I put the turkey in white wine the night before cooking for a more moist turkey, will that help?

  1127. Hello! Can I cook this in a roaster oven and still get crispy brown skin? if so, how do I do that? I’ve never cooked a turkey before! Thank you!

    1. I’m not super experienced with cooking in roaster ovens but I think it will work great – that’s how my grandmother always prepared the turkey (just cook the same according to recipe instructions here)

    1. Yes, just make sure to give it adequate time to come to room temperature before putting it in the oven (an hour or so, depending on size). Happy Thanksgiving! I’d love to hear how it turns out.

  1128. I’m assuming I can use a rack under the turkey in a throw away pan instead of using the vegetables. Is that okay? Also, when putting the foil on after it gets golden brown, should it be loose or tight against the turkey? And should it only be on the breast?

    1. Hi Jon, that should work fine as long as your disposable pan is sturdy enough for it. 🙂 For the foil, either way will work (I would make that judgment based off of how golden and crispy your turkey gets in certain areas while it’s cooking). It’s mostly just important to cover the breast meat since it cooks and dries out faster and easier than the dark meat.

  1129. Hey! I’ve always, ALWAYS been told to never leave poultry at room temperature to continue thawing. Do I put the turkey in cold water to thaw for that hour you mentioned in the recipe?

    Thanks, Lindsey

    1. To THAW the turkey it should be in the fridge or in an ice water bath. If the turkey is already thaw (And cold) you can leave it on your counter for up to one hour while you “prepare” it, before it goes in the oven. A cold turkey straight from the fridge wont cook evenly and will take longer to cook, making the meat dry out.

    1. The vegetables on the bottom of a disposable pan just help to elevate the turkey to make sure it cooks and browns evenly (just like the rack in a roasting pan). They are not required. The vegetables will add flavor to the drippings from the turkey if you want to use the drippings to make gravy 🙂

  1130. I’m in charge of the turkey this year. My grandma is insistent that I only cook the turkey in those “bags” or it wont come out moist enough. Is that necessary if I do it your way? None of the recipes online seem to recommend or suggest using one…

    Also, it will be cooked in a roaster oven for turkey’s because the main oven is needed for pies. Does that make a difference?

    1. Hi Derek, the oven bag definitely will not hurt, and can be used with this recipe. They do help to keep the turkey moist, but they’re not essential (I never use them because I like the way the skin gets golden and crispy better in the oven without it, and then I cover the white meat with tinfoil half way through cooking to protect it, just like a bag does).

    2. I use a probe thermometer inserted to the thickest part of the breast. When it gets to temp I pull it out regardless of time. It’s been a life saver and keeps my turkeys juicy every year!

  1131. I’m going to cook two 14.5 lb turkeys at the same time in the same oven, side by side in different pans. How does that affect cooking time?

    1. Hi Lauren, the baking time shouldn’t change too much. I would still cook it aiming for 13-minutes per pound but it may take closer to 15 minutes or a little longer.

  1132. 5 stars
    Hi I will try this method this year. Can you confirm if I make a 20lb turkey it will take about 4 hours and I will cover in foil after 2 hours and that’s all I need to do?

    1. Hi there, a 20 lb turkey will cook somewhere around 4 hours and 20 minutes to 5 hours. Cover it with foil when it gets golden brown on top, to your liking. The foil over the breast meat will help to keep it from drying out.

      1. Hello, I also have a 20lb turkey, do you also double the ingredients? and do you cover when it brown and keep it in the oven until cooked? or take it out.

        1. This is enough ingredients for a 20lb turkey. You can either cover it with tinfoil while it cooks and take the tinfoil off the last hour to let it get brown, of you can cook it uncovered at the beginning until the skin is golden and then cover it with foil until it’s done cooking. 🙂

      2. 4 stars
        (11) and 12 are conflicting… do you cover with foil half way thru or after taking it out for resting ?
        Thx
        steven

        1. Both. I cover the breast meat half way through cooking. Once the turkey is done cooking I tent it with foil when I take it out of the oven to rest.

  1133. 5 stars
    Hi Lauren,

    Would using a dairy free “butter” substitute work (Like Earth Balance Margarine) instead of real butter? I am trying to make a dairy free version. Let me know!

    Thank you!

    1. Hi Natalie, I think that should work fine. You may want to add a little olive oil to the outside of the bird to help it brown nicely 🙂 Happy Thanksgiving!

    2. Yes! Earth Balance Dairy Free is all we have used for years, and no difference whatsoever from regular butter. You won’t notice any difference.

  1134. Will this method work for a 22 pound turkey? Also, how far ahead of cooking do you keep the turkey out of he refrigerator?

      1. I’m doing a 22 pounder also! How long do you estimate it will take to cook one that weighs that much? 4.5-5 hours?

          1. Everyone was so happy with how it turned out! I didnt Use sage bc my SIL just had her baby 9 days ago and it reduces milk production, but besides that I pretty Much followed the recipe and for my first turkey I would say it was a success!!! Thanks!

  1135. 5 stars
    Hello, you recipe calls for fresh herbs, but I just wondering if I could use dry herbs instead, and if I can, how much quantity can I use for this recipe?
    Thanks in advance!

    1. Yes, you could substitute dried if you need to. Use 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary and 1/2 teaspoons dried sage. I’d love to hear how it turns out 🙂

      1. I’m really excited about this recipe! I’ve done the same think with a whole chicken and it came out fantastic. I only have dried herbs on hand today, so we will see if the meat takes up all those flavors. Happy Thanksgiving!

  1136. So I’m a little skeptical about not washing the turkey because I wash every meat I eat. Is it really a good idea not to do so??

    1. I know it seems strange but it actually makes a lot of sense if you read the research behind it. For example, here’s one article from Food Safety—https://www.foodsafety.gov/blog/2016/11/wash.html Washing it is actually more likely to spread bacteria then to get anything “clean”. Your oven will kill any germs there could be, and washing them in your sink will only spread them.

      1. I am sorry, but just wiping the turkey is not going to do it. You will not flush the interior cavity that way. I have been cooking turkey for over 30 years. Just wash your sink down promptly. And I wear gloves when handling poultry. Also, poultry should not be left out to come to room temperature. If there are any bacteria they will just grow like crazy at room temp. Beef yes, it can warm up before roasting or grilling but not poultry. There are more recent strains of E. Coli that can survive at 170 F.

        1. Thanks for your input. However, I would really do your research for current recommendations on washing the turkey–it’s not recommended. Of course you can flush out the inside if you want to. Also, from the research I’ve done a turkey is safe to sit on the counter before cooking for up to 2 hours–I would never let mine sit more than 1 hour.

  1137. I haven’t cooked a turkey in over 30 years. I don’t want to mess this up. If I don’t add broth to the pan, won’t the vegetables under the turkey burn? And really, 8 cloves of garlic for the butter recipe? How about a few whole cloves in the cavity or the vegetables under the turkey?

    1. The turkey will release plenty of juices as it cooks so there is no need for extra broth in the pan (the vegetables won’t burn 🙂 ). If you feel that’s too much garlic, feel free to cut down on it. Adding some to the cavity would be delicious too.

  1138. 5 stars
    Hi I would be making my first turkey this year and just wondering if i can leave a turkey inside the fridge since Friday to thaw ? Is it to early on to thaw? And also how many hours do i cook the turkey for 10lbs?

    1. Hi Amy, you need to give the turkey several days in the fridge to thaw. The recommendation is 1 days for every 5 lbs. of turkey (but I’ve found it takes even longer than this). A 10lb turkey will take between 2 to 2 and 1/2 hours to cook. Good luck!

  1139. 5 stars
    Do you feel strongly about cooking the turkey breast down to ensure moistness?

    Thanks and look forward to testing the recipe!!

    Steve

    1. I always bake my turkey breast down. All the juices enter the breast and keeps it absolutely moist and flavorful. The last hour I flip it over so breast can turn to a golden brown.
      Haven’t tried your recipe, but I will tomorrow.

    1. There are not too many people that know what .75 oz. is so this should say 1 tsp or 1 TLSP. Not too many people have a scale that can convert oz. to measurements they are used to.

      1. I don’t measure the herbs on a scale, I’m just going off the typical package size you would buy from the store. If I say TBSP or tsp measurements, that doesn’t account for the full spring leaves that you want to go inside the cavity of the turkey.

  1140. This is my first year hosting and making a turkey! I’m totally nervous but super excited to use this recipe! However, I’m hosting about 25-30 people— how big of a turkey should I get?? I’m also going to check out the turkey gravy recipe in hopes of using that, too! Thank you so much for this recipe! I cannot wait to try it!

    1. That’s so exciting! You’ll want at least a 25-30 lb turkey (a minimum of 1 lb per person). I’d buy it ASAP and get it thawing–at this point you will definitely have to thaw it in an ice water bath since it’s so close to Thanksgiving (it will take too long to thaw in the fridge, and especially for a turkey that size you need to make sure it’s completely thaw before cooking it 🙂 ) A 25 lb turkey will take around 5 1/2 – 6 1/2 hours to cook! Good luck, I’d love to hear how it goes!

      1. I got a 20 lb bird, believing that my guest count is on the lower end, and it’s been in the fridge since Monday morning. Should I take it out sooner than the alotted 1-hour before cooking, or will that still be okay?
        A family member suggested using a cooking bag, and that I needed to start by cooking the bird upside down, then flip it halfway through. I read in a previous reply that you said the skin doesn’t get as crispy, which is my favorite part! So, should I not use a cooking bag for more crisp?
        Also, if I do use it, how do I flip a hot bird?? LOL!

        1. Also, I should mention that my feast isn’t until Friday night.
          I have a few other questions though..
          If I do early prep, is it okay to put the onion, apple, and lemon inside the turkey to sit in the fridge overnight? And I want to cook it on top of veggies (carrots, onion, celery); is it okay to prep this, too, and let sit in the fridge overnight? (Then, I would only have to take it out of the fridge when ready and let it come to room temperature, right?)
          Sorry for all of the questions, I can be overly precise when I’m doing something new, especially when cooking. My downfall is probably time management because of it! Hence, wanting to early prep.

          1. Hi Taylor, I welcome the questions–I want to make sure it turns out great for you 🙂
            Yes you can prepare the entire turkey the night before if you’d like–just make sure you give it lots of time to come to room temperature (at least 1 hour) before it goes in the oven 🙂

  1141. This is my first year cooking a turkey and I followed these directions to a T. Mine did not turn out well. Turkey was still pink and didn’t brown on the outside. I’m so frustrated because I want to impress the family but this is hard. I cooked it at 325 for about 4 hours or more. I don’t know what I did wrong.

    1. Hi Jeremy, the most important question I have to ask is what size was your turkey? If it was still pink on the outside after four hours that makes me wonder if your oven is really calibrated to 325 degrees F. or could be off? That’s very unlikely that it could still be pink on the outside after 4 hours in the oven. Is it a regular oven or convection oven?

  1142. Hi! I’m cooking my first thanksgiving turkey this year and I’m quite nervous lol. Your recipe looks delicious and simple so I’m really excited to try it. My question is, if I’m just using the throw away roasting pans from the store, is it absolutely necessary to add the vegetables below it? Thanks so much!

  1143. I have always cooked the Turkey in a cooking bag, should I NOT cook it in the bag? Thanks I cant wait to make this turkey.

    1. You can still cook it in the bag if you want! I don’t (I don’t like how the skin doesn’t get as golden brown and crispy), but it definitely doesn’t hurt 🙂

  1144. Hi Lauren,

    Thanks so much for the recipe! I have a 22 lb Butterball that I plan to cook in my electric roasting oven. Do you think 5.5 hours is enough time to cook? I guess I’ll be getting up at 6 am that day! Also, I am assuming that I don’t need to tent with foil?

    1. Hi Kristen, you are welcome, I would love to hear how it turns out! For a 22lb turkey I would check it around 4 hours and 45 minutes, and it may take as long as 5 1/2 hours. As long as it is completely thaw and allowed to come to room temperature for at least an hour before it goes in the oven I would err on the lower end of the cook time.
      Also, If you want to save time you could prepare the entire turkey (stuff it and do the herb butter) the night before, and then just set an alarm to take it out of the fridge at least 1 hours before you want it to go in the oven to allow it to come to room temperature, and then it will be ready to go right in the oven.
      I do tent mine with foil (see step 12) about half-way through cooking. OR you can start with it tented in foil and remove the foil during the last bit of cooking to allow the skin to get golden brown. Good luck, I hope that helps! Happy Thanksgiving!

  1145. Every year i get so nervous about cooking thanksgiving dinner. We’ve had Thanksgiving at my place for 4 or 5 years now and every year i get good comments about my Turkeys but I’m always looking for ways to improve. This year i have a 27 pnd Turkey (its been in the fridge thawing since i bought it 4 days ago) and I’m going to be trying your recipe. I’m excited to get started and cant wait to see how it turns out! Thank you for the recipe and tips, hopefully it will make things a little easier on me this year!

    1. Thanks for commenting–I’m flattered you’re trying this method this year! I hope everyone loves it, and I hope it makes things less stressful this year! Happy Thanksgiving!

  1146. 5 stars
    I used this recipe for my first Thanksgiving turkey. Everyone kept coming back for more! Even my finicky 7 year old wanted seconds. Thanks for giving our family turkey recipe!!

  1147. 5 stars
    Hello,
    Thank you for sharing this recipe! I am cooking my first Turkey this year anbd I am a bit nervous. Its a 20 lb turkey, so fingers crossed!!
    If I dont have fresh herbs, can I use dried ones?

    1. SO exciting! I’d love to hear how it goes!To substitute dry herbs for the fresh, sse 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary and 1/2 teaspoons dried sage.

    1. I don’t disagree with that method at all–I do think it would help keep the meat moist, but I don’t feel that it’s essential to achieve a juicy turkey. 🙂

    1. Hi Diana, You could, but you’ll want to use less since dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh. Use 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary and 1/2 teaspoons dried sage. I’d love to hear how it turns out 🙂

    1. Hi Missy, they should last about 4-5 days as long as they are FRESH in the store when you buy them. (Sometimes they are not that fresh at the store because they’ve been sitting there for a while, but these type of herbs last longer than more fragile herbs like basil.) I hope that helps, and way to be on top of it! I’d love to hear how it turns out!

      1. So the herbs that I had to get are from a jar b/c they had no fresh herbs. Does this change the amount I need to use?

  1148. This is my second attempt at cooking a turkey. Two years ago I made one for our annual “friendsgiving” and I actually managed to cook it upside down… tasted ok but man was it ugly. My question is about using oven roasting bags. I used one last time and it kept the turkey moist. Should I skip it this time?

    1. Hi Ally, I’m excited for you to try this method! You can still use an oven bag if you want (wont hurt), but it’s not necessary 🙂

  1149. 5 stars
    I have never and my entire life have I ever cooked a turkey and I hope it goes very well for me with your EZ turkey recipe I like the way your turkey turned out I like the color of the skin of your turkey..Happy Thanksgiving to you & yours..Have A God Bless Holiday. (11/17/2018.)

  1150. Looking forward to using this recipe, but can this recipe work with an electric roasting oven? Also, is a oven bag recommended?

    1. Yes, you can use an oven roasting bag! You can use an oven bag as well if you want to, but not necessary :-). Enjoy!

  1151. Hi Lauren! I am going to try this on Thursday! Question for you, does the cooking time or temperature change if I have a gas oven? Also I have a 17 lb turkey. Thanks! Wish me luck!

    1. Hi Samantha, as long as you heat it to 325 degrees it should be the same 🙂 A 17lb turkey should cook anywhere from 3 1/2 to 4 hours and 15 minutes. Id love to hear how it goes!

  1152. HI there,
    I am having a stuffing debate with my mom for my first turkey. I say do not stuff like you based on everything I have read, and she is insisting everyone will want it to be stuffed. Will it be as tasty if I stuff at the start?
    Thanks!

    1. Hi Gabby, the stuffing will taste great and still give great flavor to the bird, the worry is just overcooking the bird, especially if it’s a really big one. It would work well with a smaller turkey that doesn’t take as long to cook.

  1153. I just have a quick concern. I just cooked a whole chicken like this recently and it didn’t yeild very much liquid for the gravy. Do the veggies soak it up? Or is covering it at the last half where the magic happens? I’m so excited to try this!

    1. Hi Stacy, the veggies will soak up a little of the drippings (but if it’s a big turkey you should still have plenty! I usually always do the veggies on the bottom and still have plenty of drippings. I just made this this week using a 14 lb turkey and had a lot of drippings). Otherwise you can just use a roasting pan with a wire rack and you should have plenty of it for the gravy. 🙂 Enjoy! I’d love to hear how it turns out.

    1. Hi Antonio, That’s exciting! You can find all of the ingredients you’ll need down in the recipe card. The fresh herbs include fresh thyme, rosemary and sage.

  1154. this looks too simple to be true! thanks for posting.
    Ater cooking, what do you do with the herbs and “stuff” that you stuffed in the turkey?

    1. Thanks–hope you get to try it! I usually just carve the meat off the turkey and throw the carcass and stuffing away, or you can boil all of the bones to make turkey broth 🙂

  1155. Hi Lauren,

    I am excited to try this recipe this year. I am always confused about the specific placement of the thermometer and at what point do you check it? Should both the thigh and breast read 160 before pulling out of the oven and tenting with foil? And to confirm if we have a 14 lb turkey that’s at least a three hour cook time, correct? Can’t wait to try this.

    Thanks

    1. Hi Maria! I’m excited for you and I would love to hear how it goes! Hope this clarification helps you:
      Take the turkey completely out of the oven when you start to approach your recommended cooking time–Yes, for your 14lb turkey that will be about 3 hours. (and close the oven door so you don’t loose heat). Stick the thermometer into the thigh meat (right under the drumstick), parallel to the body of the turkey to avoid hitting any bone. If it gets close to 160ish degrees then tent it with foil and let it rest on your counter. You should also notice when you remove the thermometer that the juices in the hole you just made are clear and not pink or red. If not, stick it back in the oven covered with a small piece of tinfoil for longer. In your case it really shouldn’t need more than 30 minutes longer if you first check it at 3 hours, it was properly thawed before you started, and you allowed it to come to room temperature before you put it in the oven. 🙂 Here’s a short video tutorial if you want–I only ever test the thigh, and then the breast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iSutYis2buI Best of luck, and Happy Thanksgiving!

  1156. Hi, I am planning to use this recipe for my first turkey ever! It is a 23 lb turkey and I am confused as people I have spoken to about cooking a turkey tell me I should plan to cook it for 7-9 hours or it will be raw. This recipe says just under 4, is it because with no stuffing inside it will cook faster? Thanks in advance! Also, do you have a recipe for the gravy?

    1. Cooking 13 minutes per pound, your turkey should cook for at least 5 hours. Yes, it does cook faster not stuffed.
      The gravy recipe should be up on my sight on Friday the (16th). Good luck.

  1157. I’ve been charged with preparing the turkey for Thanksgiving this year. I’m definitely nervous, because I’ve never cooked a turkey before. I stumbled across this recipe and it looks absolutely beautiful. I was surprised at how simple the instructions are, so I’ll be trying this one!

  1158. 5 stars
    Hi! I love the recipe so far, cant wait to try it.. the only question I have, most turkeys have a thermometer already in it.. can I follow by that or do you recommend a metal one?

  1159. Never made a turkey before but looks like I may need to this year, so I’m thinking about giving this recipe a try (with no trial run! Luckily I’m the only one that really cares about the turkey anyway). I’m nervous about the foil part. It seems like every time I try a recipe that calls for covering with foil while it’s in the oven, the foil ends up blocking all the heat and the meal doesn’t cook at all, even though I try to make sure it’s loosely tented. I don’t know what I’m doing wrong or if it’s my oven or what. Should I skip the foil part until I take it out of the oven? Or how do I make sure the foil doesn’t block the heat from reaching the turkey?

    1. Hi Krystle, I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! You can skip the foil if you’re nervous. If the turkey starts to get overly browned towards the end, just put a very small piece of foil over the breasts only. When the turkey is done and you take it out of the oven, definitely tent it with foil while it rests. Hope that helps, and I’d love to hear how it turns out!

  1160. 5 stars
    Hi Lauren, Im cooking a 8-10lb turkey for a smaller group of people this year. How would you recommend I adjust the recipe? and Can I place the turkey in an aluminum pan? Thank you!

  1161. Hi Lauren, I was wondering could I add a orange to the cavity of the Turkey with the onion, apple instead of the lemon?

  1162. 5 stars
    Great point about not basting as to not lose heat from the oven! And I’m so glad you mentioned that giblet bag! Every other year or so, my mom would forget that bag and cook the turkey with it inside! LOL ❤️

  1163. Do I need to remove the turkey from the oven to insert the thermometer to check temperature or keep it in the oven?…won’t the heat escape if I keep the oven door open to check turkey temperature?

    1. Hi Angela, I usually open the oven door and quickly stick the thermometer in. Yes, heat will escape but it’s near the end of cooking, so it’s not such a big deal as opening the oven multiple times during the middle of cooking. But you could completely remove the turkey from the oven to check it, if you want 🙂

  1164. I’m thinking of stuffing the turkey and seasoning it with the herb butter the night before thanksgiving. Do you think that’s a good idea?

  1165. Hi! I’m going to try this recipe this year for Thanksgiving. This will be my first time cooking a turkey. Can I use a roaster pan instead of the oven? If so, do I need to do anything different?

  1166. Hi! I’m looking to cook this turkey at one house and then transport it 20 mins to a different house. Have you ever transported this turkey before? Do you think this is possible? The one thing I’m seeing recommended is that you shouldn’t travel with a stuffed turkey. Do you know if it’s fine if it’s stuffed with the fruits and veggies your recipe calls for?

    1. Plan your turkey cooking time to be finished right as you want to leave home. The 20 min. drive time is equivalent to the resting period for turkey. It should work out perfectly, you can leave the veggies and fruit stuffed in the cavity and carve when you arrive.

    1. Any kind will work! Stronger onions like yellow or purple will add a little stronger flavor than a sweet onion.

  1167. Hi!, I’m cooking a trial run turkey today, and I’m putting it on top of vegetables. Do I add some water to the pan?

    Thank you!

  1168. 5 stars
    I made this last month as I’ve never cooked a large turkey. The turkey came out perfect!! Now I am preparing to make it on Thanksgiving. I hope it is a hit!

  1169. Hello! By stuffing the turkey with lemon and apple does that make the turkey or the drippings taste lemony? I made a turkey recently and used a recipe with lemon and the lemon flavor was really dominant in the drippings therefore impacting the flavor of the gravy (lemony gravy..not so good).

    Also-what herbs do you use for your herb butter?

    Thanks!

    1. Hi Lauren, I only use one medium size lemon for stuffing the cavity and I’ve never thought the lemon flavor was overwhelming. You could always just use half a wedge.
      For the herb butter you’ll notice in step 4 the specific amounts of fresh rosemary, thyme and sage that I chop for the herb butter, and the remaining herbs left over from the .74 oz containers gets stuffed in the cavity of the turkey 🙂
      Hope you get to try it 🙂 Enjoy!

  1170. Hi Lauren,
    Came across your turkey recipe and want to “test drive” it before Thanksgiving. Question re thermometer placement. Directions appear that the probe is inserted into the thigh and ends in the breast. Is that correct? I believe that white meat cooks more quickly than dark, and we are white meat lovers so want to ensure moistness there. Thanks!
    Linda

    1. Hi Linda, yes I usually check the thighs and breasts, but you’re right that you really don’t want to overcook the white meat that’s what’s more likely to get dry), so I would take the turkey out when your thermometer in the breasts reaches around 157-160 degrees F. Tent the turkey with foil as it rests and it will continue cooking to reach 165 degrees. Good luck–I’d love to hear what you think!

  1171. 5 stars
    I made this turkey for Thanksgiving this past weekend and it was a hit! It was my first time cooking a turkey and was simple and delicious. Will be using this again!!
    Thank you

  1172. 5 stars
    I just hosted my first Thanksgiving (and cooked my first turkey) and used this recipe…the turkey came out incredible. The recipe was easy, almost fool proof. Lots of positive feed back…will use this recipe again in the future.
    Thank you for helping to make my first Thanksgiving in my new house a success!

    1. Hi Nate, I am thrilled that the recipe was easy to follow and that your turkey turned out great! Thank you so much for taking the time to comment! Happy holidays!

  1173. 5 stars
    This recipe was perfect! This was the first time I have ever roasted a turkey for Thanksgiving, so I was a bit nervous. Your directions were easy to follow with simple ingredients. Everyone at our dinner table said this was the moistest and most flavorable turkey they have ever had! I will definitely be using this recipe for years to come! Thanks!

  1174. Do you need to cover the turkey with foil while cooking it? This is my first year cooking a turkey!
    HELP! lol

    1. Hi Krysta, I usually cook the turkey uncovered until it’s golden brown (about half way through your cooking time), then I cover it with foil for the remainder of the time! Best of luck on your first turkey, that is so fun! I would love to hear how it goes!

  1175. 5 stars
    This was amazing and SOO easy. We are hosting thanksgiving this year and decided to do a pre-thanksgiving dinner…just to make test the recipes. This was amazing! Thanks for the tips.