Ingredients:
- 1 whole turkey (10-12 lbs)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 lemons, halved
- 2 onions, quartered
- 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs of thyme
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Basting Mixture:
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions:
- Prepare the Turkey:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Remove the giblets from the turkey. Rinse the turkey inside and out, then pat it dry with paper towels.
- Season the cavity generously with salt and pepper. Stuff it with lemons, onions, rosemary, and thyme.
- Prepare the Roasting Pan:
- Place the turkey on a roasting rack inside a large roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the pan to keep the turkey moist during cooking.
- Apply the Basting Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika. Brush the mixture generously over the turkey, covering all sides.
- Roast the Turkey:
- Place the turkey in the oven and roast for approximately 15 minutes per pound (3 to 4 hours for a 12-pound turkey), or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C).
- Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the juices from the pan to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy meat.
Tip: Serve with classic Christmas sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and cranberry sauce for a festive feast!
Enjoy your delicious holiday turkey!