Easy Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe (Grandma’s Family Favorite)
This easy Thanksgiving turkey recipe has been a family favorite for years. It was one of the first whole turkeys I learned to prepare for family gatherings, and it remains one of my go-to holiday recipes today.
With a simple herb butter, fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage, this oven-roasted turkey turns out flavorful, juicy, and beautifully golden brown. Best of all, it doesn’t require complicated techniques, making it perfect for both first-time turkey cooks and experienced home cooks preparing a holiday feast.
Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe
Easy enough for beginners
Simple ingredients
Juicy and flavorful
Perfect for Thanksgiving dinner
Uses fresh herbs for flavor
Ingredients you will need
- 1 16 pound turkey
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup softened butter or margarine
- 3 rosemary sprigs
- ¼ cup thyme
- ¼ cup sage
Easy Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe
Equipment
- 1 large roasting pan
- 1 large carving knife
- kitchen twine
- aluminum foil
- 1 meat thermometer
- 1 large serving platter
- paper towel
Ingredients
- 1 16 pound turkey
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup softened butter or margarine
- 3 rosemary sprigs
- ¼ cup thyme
- ¼ cup sage
Instructions
- First make sure to preheat the oven to about 325 degrees
- Remove the giblets and neck
- Now you want to wash the turkey inside and outside, and pat the outside of the turkey dry with some paper towel.
- Season the cavity or inside with salt and pepper.
- Fill the cavity of the turkey with half of the herbs
- Rub the butter all over the turkey, including under the skin of the turkey. Then season with some salt and pepper.
- Now, place the turkey breast side up in the roasting pan. Also tuck the wings underneath the turkey, and tie the end of the legs together with the kitchen twine.
- This is when you can place the turkey into the oven, and let it roast for about 15 minutes per pound. (So a larger turkey will require additional cooking time).
- Don't forget to check the turkey several times during cooking, to be sure the skin is not getting too brown. If it is then you can loosely cover the turkey with the aluminum foil.
- Check the turkey for doneness, by inserting the thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey breast and thigh. The turkey should register about 165 degrees fahrenheit.
- Then cover the turkey with aluminum foil and let it stand for about 15 minutes before carving it. This allows the juices to redistribute and not escape when it is carved.
Notes
Nutrition
How to Add Flavor to Your Thanksgiving Turkey
One simple, easy way to add flavor to a bird is by stuffing the cavity or roasting pan full of aromatics. Think fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage, or oregano), onion, shallots, garlic, and citrus halves. They’ll gently perfume the meat and pan drippings with flavor.
Tips for a Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey
Use a meat thermometer.
Rub butter under the skin.
Don’t overcook the turkey.
Let the turkey rest before carving.
Cover loosely with foil if browning too quickly.
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Turkey
A Thanksgiving turkey pairs well with corn pudding, green beans, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, dressing, and homemade desserts.
How to Store Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey
Allow the turkey to cool completely before storing. Place leftover turkey in airtight containers or resealable storage bags and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze leftover turkey in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Label and date the containers so you can easily keep track of storage times.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to cook a Thanksgiving turkey?
A turkey typically requires about 15 minutes of cooking time per pound when roasted at 325°F. Always verify doneness using a meat thermometer.
What temperature should a turkey be cooked to?
The thickest part of the breast and thigh should reach 165°F before serving.
Should I cover my turkey with foil while cooking?
If the skin begins browning too quickly, loosely cover the turkey with aluminum foil during the remaining cooking time.
How long should a turkey rest before carving?
Allow the turkey to rest for at least 15 to 20 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
A Family Thanksgiving Tradition
This easy Thanksgiving turkey recipe has been part of many holiday meals shared with family and friends over the years. I love that it uses simple ingredients while still creating a flavorful and beautiful turkey that looks right at home on any Thanksgiving table.
Whether you’re preparing your very first holiday turkey or continuing a family tradition of your own, I hope this recipe helps make your Thanksgiving meal a little easier and a lot more delicious.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out.
Share Your Thanksgiving Memories
One of my favorite things about holiday cooking is hearing the stories that go along with family recipes. Did your grandmother have a special way of preparing turkey? Do you have a favorite Thanksgiving side dish that always makes an appearance on your table?
Share your memories and traditions in the comments below. I’d love to hear how your family celebrates Thanksgiving.